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Kalantari H, Sabbaghian M, Vogiatzi P, Rambhatla A, Agarwal A, Colpi GM, Sadighi Gilani MA. Bridging the Gap between AZF Microdeletions and Karyotype: Twelve Years' Experience of an Infertility Center. World J Mens Health 2023:41.e7. [PMID: 36593709 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.220089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite all past efforts, the current guidelines are not explicit enough regarding the indications for performing azoospermia factor (AZF) screening and karyotype, burdening clinicians with the decision to assess whether such tests are meaningful for the infertile male patient. These assessments can be costly and it is up to the healthcare practitioner to decide which are necessary and to weigh the benefits against economic/psychological harm. The aim of this study is to address such gaps and provide update on current management options for this group of patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS To address such gaps in male infertility management and to elucidate whether AZF screening is indicated in individuals who concomitantly harbor chromosomal abnormalities we conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of 10,388 consecutive patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) and severe oligozoospermia. RESULTS Previously, it has been suggested that all NOA cases with chromosomal defects, except males with 46,XY/45,X karyotype, have no indication for AZF screening. Our findings revealed that cases carrying the following chromosomal abnormalities inv(Y)(p11.2q12); idic(Y)(q11.2); 46,XY,r(Y); idic(Y)(p11.2) and der(Y;Autosome) (76/169; 44.9%; 95% CI, 37.7-52.5) should also be referred for AZF deletion screening. Here, we also report the correlation between sperm count and AZF deletions as a secondary outcome. In accordance with previously reported data from North America and Europe, our data revealed that only 1% of cases with >1×106 sperm/mL had Y chromosome microdeletions (YCMs). CONCLUSIONS In the era of assisted reproduction, finding cost-minimization strategies in infertility clinics without affecting the quality of diagnosis is becoming one of the top prioritized topics for future research. From a diagnostic viewpoint, the results reflect a need to reconsider the different karyotype presentations and the sperm count thresholds in male infertility guidelines as indicators for YCM screening during an infertility evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Kalantari
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marjan Sabbaghian
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Paraskevi Vogiatzi
- Andromed Health & Reproduction, Reproductive Health Diagnostic Center, Athens, Greece
| | - Amarnath Rambhatla
- Vattikuti Urology Institute, Department of Urology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Giovanni M Colpi
- Andrology and IVF Unit, Next Fertility Procrea, Lugano, Switzerland
| | - Mohammad Ali Sadighi Gilani
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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High incidences of chromosomal aberrations and Y chromosome micro-deletions as prominent causes for recurrent pregnancy losses in highly ethnic and consanguineous population. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2021; 305:1393-1408. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-021-06235-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Seyedin A, Kazeroun MH, Namipashaki A, Qobadi-Nasr S, Zamanian M, Ansari-Pour N. Association of MSY haplotype background with nonobstructive azoospermia is AZF-dependent: A case-control study. Andrologia 2021; 53:e13946. [PMID: 33386637 DOI: 10.1111/and.13946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying causal genes of spermatogenic failure on the male-specific region of Y chromosome (MSY) has been a challenging process. Due to the nonrecombining nature of MSY, haplotype-based approaches have recently been shown to be promising in identifying associated MSY haplogroups. We conducted an MSY analysis of nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) patients in a case-control setting (N = 278 and 105 respectively) to identify modal haplogroups strongly associated with NOA. Patients with AZF deletions (AZF+) and no AZF deletions (AZF-) were compared with the control group. Given the larger sample set of AZF- NOA patients, we further investigated the association based on histopathological severity, namely Sertoli cell-only syndrome and maturation arrest subtypes. We observed no significant enrichment of MSY haplogroups in AZF- azoospermic patients (or its subtypes). However, we observed a strongly significant association between haplogroup J2a* and AZF+ patients (FDR-corrected p = .0056; OR = 7.02, 95%CI 1.89 to 39.20), a haplogroup which also showed significant enrichment for AZFa/b deletions (p = 4x10-4 ). We conclude that unlike AZF+ patients, AZF- NOA are less likely to have an MSY causative factor with large effect size, thus indicating that the aetiology of AZF- NOA, and to some extent AZFc NOA, is more likely to be based on non-MSY factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atieh Seyedin
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Atefeh Namipashaki
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health and the School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Samaneh Qobadi-Nasr
- Department of Life Science Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Zamanian
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Naser Ansari-Pour
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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Levkova M, Chervenkov T, Angelova L. The association of gr/gr deletion in the Y chromosome and impaired spermatogenesis in Bulgarian males: a pilot study. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s43043-020-00020-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The microdeletions of the Y chromosome are associated with a decreased number of sperm cells in the ejaculate and male infertility. One such deletion is the gr/gr, which leads to reduction of the alleles in the DAZ gene. In order to evaluate its role, 30 patients with sperm count below 5 × 106/mL and 30 normal fertile men were genotyped for microdeletions in Azoospermia Factor (AZF) region, including gr/gr deletion.
Results
Twenty-one men (70.00%) from the males with impaired fertility had a normal genotype, seven men (23.33%) were carriers of a gr/gr deletion, and two men (6.67%) demonstrated a deletion of the AZFc region. From the control group, there were 22 men (73.33%) with no deletion, seven (23.33%) carried a gr/gr deletion, and one man (3.33%) carried a possible deletion in the b1-b4 region of the Y chromosome. The gr/gr deletion of the Y chromosome showed a statistically nonsignificant difference (p = 0.94, alpha < 0.05) with the control group (chi-square, degrees of freedom 0.006).
Conclusion
The results from the research show no association between this deletion and male infertility in the studied population. Despite the small sample size, the high frequency of the gr/gr deletion, found in the control group, suggests that this variant may not be associated with impaired spermatogenesis.
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Larmuseau MHD, Ottoni C. Mediterranean Y-chromosome 2.0-why the Y in the Mediterranean is still relevant in the postgenomic era. Ann Hum Biol 2018; 45:20-33. [PMID: 29382278 DOI: 10.1080/03014460.2017.1402956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Due to its unique paternal inheritance, the Y-chromosome has been a highly popular marker among population geneticists for over two decades. Recently, the advent of cost-effective genome-wide methods has unlocked information-rich autosomal genomic data, paving the way to the postgenomic era. This seems to have announced the decreasing popularity of investigating Y-chromosome variation, which provides only the paternal perspective of human ancestries and is strongly influenced by genetic drift and social behaviour. OBJECTIVE For this special issue on population genetics of the Mediterranean, the aim was to demonstrate that the Y-chromosome still provides important insights in the postgenomic era and in a time when ancient genomes are becoming exponentially available. METHODS A systematic literature search on Y-chromosomal studies in the Mediterranean was performed. RESULTS Several applications of Y-chromosomal analysis with future opportunities are formulated and illustrated with studies on Mediterranean populations. CONCLUSIONS There will be no reduced interest in Y-chromosomal studies going from reconstruction of male-specific demographic events to ancient DNA applications, surname history and population-wide estimations of extra-pair paternity rates. Moreover, more initiatives are required to collect population genetic data of Y-chromosomal markers for forensic research, and to include Y-chromosomal data in GWAS investigations and studies on male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maarten H D Larmuseau
- a KU Leuven, Forensic Biomedical Sciences , Department of Imaging & Pathology , Leuven , Belgium.,b KU Leuven, Laboratory of Socioecology and Social Evolution , Department of Biology , Leuven , Belgium
| | - Claudio Ottoni
- c Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department of Biosciences , University of Oslo , Oslo , Norway
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Mokánszki A, Ujfalusi A, Gombos É, Balogh I. Examination of Y-Chromosomal Microdeletions and Partial Microdeletions in Idiopathic Infertility in East Hungarian Patients. J Hum Reprod Sci 2018; 11:329-336. [PMID: 30787516 PMCID: PMC6333031 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_12_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to establish the Y chromosome microdeletion and partial AZFc microdeletion/duplication frequency firstly in East Hungarian population and to gain information about the molecular mechanism of the heterogeneous phenotype identified in males bearing partial AZFc deletions and duplications. Materials and Methods Exactly determined sequences of azoospermia factor (AZF) region were amplified. Lack of amplification was detected for deletion. To determine the copy number of DAZ and CDY1 genes, we performed a quantitative analysis. The primers flank an insertion/deletion difference, which permitted the polymerase chain reaction products to be separated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Statistical Analysis Used Mann-Whitney/Wilcoxon two-sample test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and two-sample t-probe were used for statistical analysis. Results AZFbc deletion was detected only in the azoospermic cases; AZFc deletion occurred significantly more frequently among azoospermic patients, than among oligozoospermic males. The frequency of gr/gr deletions was significantly higher in the oligozoospermic patients than in the normospermic group. The b2/b3 deletion and partial duplications were not different among our groups, while b1/b3 deletion was found only in the azoospermic group. In infertile males and in normozoospermic controls, similar Y haplogroup distribution was detected with the highest frequency of haplogroup P. The gr/gr deletion with P haplogroup was more frequent in the oligozoospermic group than in the normozoospermic males. The b2/b3 deletion with E haplogroup was the most frequent, found only in the normozoospermic group. Conclusions Y microdeletion screening has prognostic value and can affect the clinical therapy. In case of Y chromosome molecular genetic aberrations, genetic counseling makes sense also for other males in the family because these types of aberrations are transmittable (from father to son 100% transmission).
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Affiliation(s)
- Attila Mokánszki
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Anikó Ujfalusi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Éva Gombos
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - István Balogh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Division of Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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Skowronek MF, Velazquez T, Mut P, Figueiro G, Sans M, Bertoni B, Sapiro R. Associations between male infertility and ancestry in South Americans: a case control study. BMC MEDICAL GENETICS 2017; 18:78. [PMID: 28747152 PMCID: PMC5530489 DOI: 10.1186/s12881-017-0438-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tatiana Velazquez
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina UDELAR, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Patricia Mut
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina UDELAR, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Gonzalo Figueiro
- Departamento de Antropología, Facultad de Humanidades y Ciencias de la Educación, UDELAR, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Monica Sans
- Departamento de Antropología, Facultad de Humanidades y Ciencias de la Educación, UDELAR, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Bernardo Bertoni
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina UDELAR, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Rossana Sapiro
- Departamento de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Medicina UDELAR, Montevideo, Uruguay.
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9
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Spermatogenic failure and the Y chromosome. Hum Genet 2017; 136:637-655. [PMID: 28456834 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-017-1793-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The Y chromosome harbors a number of genes essential for testis development and function. Its highly repetitive structure predisposes this chromosome to deletion/duplication events and is responsible for Y-linked copy-number variations (CNVs) with clinical relevance. The AZF deletions remove genes with predicted spermatogenic function en block and are the most frequent known molecular causes of impaired spermatogenesis (5-10% of azoospermic and 2-5% of severe oligozoospermic men). Testing for this deletion has both diagnostic and prognostic value for testicular sperm retrieval in azoospermic men. The most dynamic region on the Yq is the AZFc region, presenting numerous NAHR hotspots leading to partial losses or gains of the AZFc genes. The gr/gr deletion (a partial AZFc deletion) negatively affects spermatogenic efficiency and it is a validated, population-dependent risk factor for oligozoospermia. In certain populations, the Y background may play a role in the phenotypic expression of partial AZFc rearrangements and similarly it may affect the predisposition to specific deletions/duplication events. Also, the Yp contains a gene array, TSPY1, with potential effect on germ cell proliferation. Despite intensive investigations during the last 20 years on the role of this sex chromosome in spermatogenesis, a number of clinical and basic questions remain to be answered. This review is aimed at providing an overview of the role of Y chromosome-linked genes, CNVs, and Y background in spermatogenesis.
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Lu C, Wen Y, Hu W, Lu F, Qin Y, Wang Y, Li S, Yang S, Lin Y, Wang C, Jin L, Shen H, Sha J, Wang X, Hu Z, Xia Y. Y chromosome haplogroups based genome-wide association study pinpoints revelation for interactions on non-obstructive azoospermia. Sci Rep 2016; 6:33363. [PMID: 27628680 PMCID: PMC5024297 DOI: 10.1038/srep33363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The Y chromosome has high genetic variability with low rates of parallel and back mutations, which make up the most informative haplotyping system. To examine whether Y chromosome haplogroups (Y-hgs) could modify the effects of autosomal variants on non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), based on our previous genome-wide association study (GWAS), we conducted a genetic interaction analysis in GWAS subjects. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated a protective effect of Y-hg O3e* on NOA. Then, we explored the potential interaction between Y-hg O3e* and autosomal variants. Our results demonstrated that there was a suggestively significant interaction between Y-hg O3e* and rs11135484 on NOA (Pinter = 9.89 × 10−5). Bioinformatic analysis revealed that genes annotated by significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were mainly enriched in immunological pathways. This is the first study of interactions between Y-hgs and autosomal variants on a genome-wide scale, which addresses the missing heritability in spermatogenic impairment and sheds new light on the pathogenesis of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuncheng Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.,Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Yang Wen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Weiyue Hu
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Feng Lu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yufeng Qin
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Shilin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering and Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Shuping Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering and Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yuan Lin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Li Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering and Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China.,Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Hongbing Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiahao Sha
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Xinru Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.,Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Zhibin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yankai Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China.,Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
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Stuppia L, Franzago M, Ballerini P, Gatta V, Antonucci I. Epigenetics and male reproduction: the consequences of paternal lifestyle on fertility, embryo development, and children lifetime health. Clin Epigenetics 2015; 7:120. [PMID: 26566402 PMCID: PMC4642754 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-015-0155-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The correlation between epigenetics and human reproduction represents a very interesting field of study, mainly due to the possible transgenerational effects related to epigenetic modifications of male and female gametes. In the present review, we focused our attention to the role played by epigenetics on male reproduction, evidencing at least four different levels at which sperm epigenetic modifications could affect reproduction: (1) spermatogenesis failure; (2) embryo development; (3) outcome of assisted reproduction technique (ART) protocols, mainly as concerning genomic imprinting; and (4) long-term effects during the offspring lifetime. The environmental agents responsible for epigenetic modifications are also examined, suggesting that the control of paternal lifestyle prior to conception could represent in the next future a novel hot topic in the management of human reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liborio Stuppia
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio University" Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66013 Chieti, Italy ; Ce.S.I.-MeT, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66013 Chieti, Italy
| | - Marica Franzago
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio University" Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66013 Chieti, Italy
| | - Patrizia Ballerini
- Laboratory of Pharmacogenetics, Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio University" Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66013 Chieti, Italy
| | - Valentina Gatta
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio University" Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66013 Chieti, Italy ; Ce.S.I.-MeT, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66013 Chieti, Italy
| | - Ivana Antonucci
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio University" Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66013 Chieti, Italy ; Ce.S.I.-MeT, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Chieti-Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66013 Chieti, Italy
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12
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Agarwal S, Agarwal A, Khanna A, Singh K. Microdeletion of Y chromosome as a cause of recurrent pregnancy loss. J Hum Reprod Sci 2015; 8:159-64. [PMID: 26538859 PMCID: PMC4601175 DOI: 10.4103/0974-1208.165145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT: In majority of couples experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), etiology is still unknown. Two genetic factors have been suggested to underlie miscarriage in a subset of patients, namely skewed X chromosome inactivation in females and Y chromosome microdeletions in their partners. In males, microdeletions of the Y chromosome are known to cause spermatogenetic failure and male infertility. AIMS: The aim of the study was to find out the role of Y chromosome microdeletion in male partners of couples experiencing RPL. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: University hospital and genetic laboratory. Prospective case–control study. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: 59 couples with a history of RPL and 20 fertile controls (FC) with no miscarriage were included in the study. The study subjects were divided into male partners of RPL couples with abnormal semen parameters (AS) (n = 8), and couples with normal semen parameters (NS) (n = 51). Fertile controls with normal semen parameters were (FC) (n = 20). Y chromosome microdeletion was performed on 40 male partners of RPL and 20 FC. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: Chi-square test. P <0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: 13 of the 40 RPL cases showed deletion in three azoospermia factor loci on the long arm of Y chromosome. The P value was significant with Y chromosome microdeletion in RPL cases as compared to 20 FC where no Y chromosome microdeletion was present. CONCLUSIONS: Y chromosome microdeletion may be an important hidden cause of recurrent pregnancy miscarriage and can be offered to couples with the undiagnosed cause of miscarriage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubhra Agarwal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Teerthanker Mahaveer Medical College and Research Centre, TMU, Moradabad, India
| | - Arjit Agarwal
- Department of Radiology, Teerthanker Mahaveer Medical College and Research Centre, TMU, Moradabad, India
| | - Anuradha Khanna
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Medical Sciences, BHU, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Kiran Singh
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, BHU, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Lu C, Wang Y, Zhang F, Lu F, Xu M, Qin Y, Wu W, Li S, Song L, Yang S, Wu D, Jin L, Shen H, Sha J, Xia Y, Hu Z, Wang X. DAZ duplications confer the predisposition of Y chromosome haplogroup K* to non-obstructive azoospermia in Han Chinese populations. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:2440-9. [PMID: 23696539 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the genetic causes for the predisposition of certain Y chromosome haplogroups (Y-hgs) to spermatogenic impairment? SUMMARY ANSWER The AZFc(azoospermia factor c)/DAZ (deleted in azoospermia) duplications might underlie the susceptibility of Y-hg K* to spermatogenic impairment. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The roles of Y chromosomal genetic background in spermatogenesis are controversial and vary among human populations. Individuals in predisposed Y-hgs may carry some genetic factors, which might be a potential genetic modifier for the Y-hg-specific susceptibility to spermatogenic impairment. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A total of 2444 individuals with azoospermia or oligozoospermia and 2456 healthy controls were recruited to this study from March 2004 and January 2011. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We performed a two-stage association study to investigate the risk and/or protective Y-hgs for spermatogenic impairment. In addition, the genetic causes for the predisposition of certain Y-hg to spermatogenic impairment were investigated. Deletion typing and DAZ gene copy number quantification were performed for individuals in predisposed Y-hgs. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Y-hgs K* and O3e* showed significantly different distribution between cases and controls consistently in two-stage studies. Combined analyses identified significant predisposition to non-obstructive azoospermia in Y-hg K* [odds ratio (OR) 8.58; 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.31-22.28; P = 1.40 × 10⁻⁵], but a protecting effect in Y-hg O3e* (OR 0.64; 95% CI 0.53-0.78; P = 4.20 × 10⁻⁵). Based on the dynamic nature of the Y chromosome, we hypothesized that Y-hgs K* and O3e* may be accompanied by modifying genetic factors for their predisposing or protecting effects in spermatogenesis. Accordingly, we quantified the multi-copy DAZ gene, which has variable copy numbers between individuals and plays an important role in spermatogenesis. In combined analysis, we found that the over-dosage of DAZ was significantly more frequent in Y-hg K* than in O3e* (OR 4.79; 95% CI 1.67-13.70; P = 6 × 10⁻³). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Owing to the inconsistency of genetic background, it remains to be determined whether the results derived from Han Chinese populations are applicable to other ethnic groups. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The findings of this study can advance the etiology of spermatogenic impairment, and also shed new light on Y chromosome evolution in human populations. Y-hg-specific genetic factors of modifying spermatogenic phenotypes deserve further investigation in larger and diverse populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuncheng Lu
- Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Lardone MC, Marengo A, Parada-Bustamante A, Cifuentes L, Piottante A, Ebensperger M, Valdevenito R, Castro A. Greater prevalence of Y chromosome Q1a3a haplogroup in Y-microdeleted Chilean men: a case-control study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2013; 30:531-8. [PMID: 23388839 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-9950-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2012] [Accepted: 01/28/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the prevalence of South Amerindian Y chromosome in Chilean patients with spermatogenic failure and their association with classical and/or AZFc-partial Y chromosome deletions. METHODS We studied 400 men, 218 with secretory azo/oligozoospermia (cases) and 182 controls (116 fertile and/or normozoospermic, and 66 azoospermic with normal spermatogenesis). After a complete testicular characterization (physical evaluation, hormonal and/or biopsy) peripheral blood was drawn to obtain DNA for Y chromosome microdeletions, AZFc-partial deletions and biallelic analysis by allele specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of the M3 (rs3894) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). RESULTS Classical AZF microdeletions were found in 23 cases (Y-microdeleted). AZFc-partial deletions were observed in 10 cases (6 "gr/gr", 3 "b2/b3" and 1 "b1/b3") and 4 controls (4 "gr/gr"). The AZFc-partial deletions were mainly associated with the absence of DAZ1/DAZ2 (64 %). No significant differences in the prevalence of AZFc-partial deletions were observed between cases and controls. We observed a significant higher proportion of the Q1a3a haplogroup in Y-microdeleted men compared to patients with spermatogenic failure without deletions and control men (P<0.01 and P<0.05, respectively by Bonferroni test). Among them, patients with AZFb deletions had an increased prevalence of the Q1a3a haplogroup compared to controls, cases without deletions and to those with complete or partial-AZFc deletions (P<0.01, Bonferroni test). CONCLUSIONS The Q1a3a South Amerindian lineage seems to increase the susceptibility to non AZFc microdeletions. On the other hand, in Chilean population the AZFc-partial deletions ("gr/gr", "b1/b3" and/or "b2/b3") does not seem to predispose to severe spermatogenic impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- María C Lardone
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santa Rosa 1234, Santiago, Chile
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Y chromosome microdeletions in infertile men: prevalence, phenotypes and screening markers for the Indian population. J Assist Reprod Genet 2013; 30:413-22. [PMID: 23344732 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-9933-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 01/13/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Yq microdeletions are the leading genetic cause of male infertility and its detection is clinically relevant for appropriate genetic counseling. We aimed to determine the prevalence and type of Yq microdeletions, the associated seminal phenotypes and the STS markers that are relevant for its testing in Indian population. METHODS Yq microdeletion analysis was carried out in 1,636 infertile cases in our centers. Additional data was collected from published studies in Indian population leading to a total of 3,647 cases. RESULTS In our cohort, 3.4 % (56/1,636) of infertile men had Yq microdeletions. Combining the data from other published studies identified 215/3,647 (5.8 %) infertile individuals to harbor Yq microdeletions; with 6.4 % in azoopsermia, 5.8 % in oligozoospermia and 3.2 % in oligoasthenozoospermia and teratozoospermia cases. No significant differences in the deletion frequencies were observed between idiopathic vs non idiopathic cases (5.8 vs 8.6 % respectively). Deletions of AZFc were at highest frequency (46.6 %) with double deletions most commonly observed in azoospermic subjects. With respect to the STS markers, screening with the six European Academy of Andrology (EAA) markers would miss 3.1 % of cases; additional non EAA markers that would contribute significantly to screening are sY746, sY82, sY121, sY128, sY130, sY143, sY145 & sY160. INTERPRETATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS The frequency of Yq microdeletions is lower in Indian population as compared to Western counterparts. There is no major association of Yq microdeletions with seminal parameters or cause of infertility. Clinically it will be necessary to offer Yq microdeletion testing to all the classes of infertile men. The EAA markers may not be adequate to detect microdeletions in Indian infertile men.
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Wettasinghe TK, Jayasekara RW, Dissanayake VHW. The low frequency of Y chromosome microdeletions in subfertile males in a Sinhalese population of Sri Lanka. INDIAN JOURNAL OF HUMAN GENETICS 2012; 18:320-5. [PMID: 23716940 PMCID: PMC3656521 DOI: 10.4103/0971-6866.107985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study was designed to determine the prevalence of azoospermia factor (AZF) microdeletions on the Y chromosome in Sri Lankan Sinhalese infertile men with azoospermia and severe oligozoospermia. SETTINGS AND DESIGN The patient group was 207 karyotypically normal infertile Sinhalese males. MATERIALS AND METHODS The presence of 13 sequence-tagged site (STS) markers in the AZF region was tested using multiplex polymerase chain reaction (M-PCR). One hundred and twenty unselected men were also studied as a control group. RESULTS Three (1.5%) had classic Y chromosome microdeletions in the AZFc sub-region. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest a much lower Y chromosome microdeletion frequency than previously thought, even among a strictly selected group of sub-fertile males in Sri Lanka.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rohan W. Jayasekara
- Human Genetics Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
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Ghorbel M, Gargouri SB, Zribi N, Abdallah FB, Cherif M, Keskes R, Chakroun N, Sellami A, McElreavey K, Fakhfakh F, Ammar-Keskes L. Partial microdeletions in the Y-chromosome AZFc region are not a significant risk factor for spermatogenic impairment in Tunisian infertile men. Genet Test Mol Biomarkers 2012; 16:775-9. [PMID: 22731643 DOI: 10.1089/gtmb.2012.0024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Azoospermia factor (AZF) subdeletions were reported to be significant risk factors for spermatogenesis. In this study, we screened classical and partial microdeletions of the Y-chromosome AZF region in a group of 261 infertile men. Partial deletions were also screened in a control group of fertile men (n=124). In addition, Y haplogroups were analyzed in 24 gr/gr deleted patients. Among the 261 studied infertile men, seven subjects were found to have classical microdeletions. The most common partial deletion of AZFc (gr/gr) was observed in 13.02% of infertile men and in 12.90% of fertile men. The b1/b3 deletion was identified in 4.98% of infertile men and in 2.41% of fertile men. In addition, the b2/b3 deletion was identified in 1.53% of infertile patients but not in the control group. Our results suggest that partial AZFc deletions are not associated with spermatogenic failure in the Tunisian population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Ghorbel
- Laboratory of Human Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Sfax, Tunisia.
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Navarro-Costa P, Gonçalves J, Plancha CE. The AZFc region of the Y chromosome: at the crossroads between genetic diversity and male infertility. Hum Reprod Update 2010; 16:525-42. [PMID: 20304777 PMCID: PMC2918367 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmq005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The three azoospermia factor (AZF) regions of the Y chromosome represent genomic niches for spermatogenesis genes. Yet, the most distal region, AZFc, is a major generator of large-scale variation in the human genome. Determining to what extent this variability affects spermatogenesis is a highly contentious topic in human reproduction. METHODS In this review, an extensive characterization of the molecular mechanisms responsible for AZFc genotypical variation is undertaken. Such data are complemented with the assessment of the clinical consequences for male fertility imputable to the different AZFc variants. For this, a critical re-evaluation of 23 association studies was performed in order to extract unifying conclusions by curtailing methodological heterogeneities. RESULTS Intrachromosomal homologous recombination mechanisms, either crossover or non-crossover based, are the main drivers for AZFc genetic diversity. In particular, rearrangements affecting gene dosage are the most likely to introduce phenotypical disruptions in the spermatogenic profile. In the specific cases of partial AZFc deletions, both the actual existence and the severity of the spermatogenic defect are dependent on the evolutionary background of the Y chromosome. CONCLUSIONS AZFc is one of the most genetically dynamic regions in the human genome. This property may serve as counter against the genetic degeneracy associated with the lack of a meiotic partner. However, such strategy comes at a price: some rearrangements represent a risk factor or a de-facto causative agent of spermatogenic disruption. Interestingly, this precarious balance is modulated, among other yet unknown factors, by the evolutionary history of the Y chromosome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Navarro-Costa
- Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.
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O'Flynn O'Brien KL, Varghese AC, Agarwal A. The genetic causes of male factor infertility: a review. Fertil Steril 2010; 93:1-12. [PMID: 20103481 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.10.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 316] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2008] [Revised: 10/27/2009] [Accepted: 10/27/2009] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To illustrate the necessity for an enhanced understanding of the genetic basis of male factor infertility, to present a comprehensive synopsis of these genetic elements, and to review techniques being utilized to produce new insights in fertility research. BACKGROUND Male factor infertility is a complex disorder that affects a large sector of the population; however, many of its etiologies are unknown. By elucidating the underlying genetic basis of infertile phenotypes, it may be possible to discover the causes of infertility and determine effective treatments for patients. METHOD(S) The PubMed database was consulted for the most relevant papers published in the last 3 years pertaining to male factor infertility using the keywords "genetics" and "male infertility." RESULT(S) Advances have been made in the characterization of the roles of specific genes, but further research is necessary before these results can be used as guidelines for diagnosing and treating male factor infertility. The accurate transmission of epigenetic information also has considerable influence on fertility in males and on the fertility of their offspring. CONCLUSION(S) Analysis of the genetic factors that impact male factor infertility will provide valuable insights into the creation of targeted treatments for patients and the determination of the causes of idiopathic infertility. Novel technologies that analyze the influence of genetics from a global perspective may lead to further developments in the understanding of the etiology of male factor infertility through the identification of specific infertile phenotype signatures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine L O'Flynn O'Brien
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA
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20
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Reply. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2009.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Shaqalaih AJ, Abu Halima MS, Ashour MJ, Sharif FA. Screening for Y-chromosome microdeletions in a population of infertile males in the Gaza Strip. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL & CLINICAL ASSISTED REPRODUCTION 2009; 6:7. [PMID: 20485582 PMCID: PMC2868306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is an extraordinary public health problem in the Arab world, as it affects about 15% of couples seeking children. The male partner is responsible for infertility in approximately half of these cases. Classic microdeletions of the Y-chromosome involving the azoospermia factor (AZF) regions are known to be associated with spermatogenic impairment, and non-obstructive azoospermia must be differentiated on the basis of endocrine evaluation and testicular biopsy. Partial AZFc deletions remain controversial because there is no clear agreement regarding their role in spermatogenic failure. In the current study, 50 fertile males (controls) and 125 patients with primary idiopathic male infertility were studied in order to describe the frequency of Y-chromosome mirodeletions among male infertility patients in the Gaza Strip-Palestine area. No Y chromosome classical microdeletions could be detected in any of the 125 infertile men, suggesting that ethnic factors, genetic background, and Y chromosome haplogroups are key factors in such deletions. On the other hand, six gr/gr and one b1/b3 AZFc partial deletions were detected in the infertile population. The gr/gr deletion was also noted in relatives of four of the six patients with this deletion, and in one of the fertile controls. In conclusion, our study shows that the incidence of Y-chromosome microdeletions in our population is rare; these data suggest that other genetic, epigenetic, nutritional and/or local factors are responsible for impairments in semen parameters observed in this Gazan population. We further hypothesise that the gr/gr deletion is not associated with male infertility, at least in this sub-group.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Masood S. Abu Halima
- Corresponding Author: Masood Abu Halima,
, P.O.Box 1425, Omar Mukhtar St. Gaza, Palestine, Tel: 00972 8 2820544, Fax: 00972 8 2865317, Cell phone: 00972 599 187785
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Sex chromosome characteristics and recurrent miscarriage. Fertil Steril 2008; 90:2328-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.10.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2007] [Revised: 10/26/2007] [Accepted: 10/26/2007] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Tyler-Smith C. An evolutionary perspective on Y-chromosomal variation and male infertility. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 31:376-82. [PMID: 18399979 PMCID: PMC2628431 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2008.00889.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Genetic variation on the Y chromosome is one of the best-documented causes of male infertility, but the genes responsible have still not been identified. This review discusses how an evolutionary perspective may help with interpretation of the data available and suggest novel approaches to identify key genes. Comparison with the chimpanzee Y chromosome indicates that USP9Y is dispensable in apes, but that multiple copies of TSPY1 may have an important role. Comparisons between infertile and control groups in search of genetic susceptibility factors are more complex for the Y chromosome than for the rest of the genome because of population stratification and require unusual levels of confirmation. But the extreme population stratification exhibited by the Y also allows populations particularly suitable for some studies to be identified, such as the partial AZFc deletions common in Northern European populations where further dissection of this complex structural region would be facilitated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chris Tyler-Smith
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Cambridgeshire, UK.
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Yang Y, Ma M, Li L, Zhang W, Chen P, Ma Y, Liu Y, Tao D, Lin L, Zhang S. Y chromosome haplogroups may confer susceptibility to partial AZFc deletions and deletion effect on spermatogenesis impairment. Hum Reprod 2008; 23:2167-72. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/den229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Simoni M, Tüttelmann F, Gromoll J, Nieschlag E. Clinical consequences of microdeletions of the Y chromosome: the extended Münster experience. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 16:289-303. [PMID: 18284889 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60588-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A total of 3179 patients were screened for Y-chromosome microdeletions and 821 patients for partial AZFc deletions. Thirty-nine Y-chromosomal microdeletions were found (2.4% of men with <1 x 10(6)/ml spermatozoa): two AZFa, two AZFb, one AZFbc, one partial AZFb, one partial AZFb+c and 32 AZFc (b2/b4). Partial AZFc deletions were found in 45 patients (5.5%), mostly gr/gr deletions (n = 28). In patients with AZFc deletion, azoospermia was found in 53.1% and sperm concentrations of mostly <0.1 x 10(6)/ml were found in 46.9%. Semen analyses and FSH measurements showed no trend over time. Elongated spermatids were seen in 6/15 AZFc patients and bilateral Sertoli cell-only was found in 4/15. Testicular sperm extraction (TESE) was attempted in 10 patients and spermatozoa were found in six. Compared with infertile men matched by sperm concentration, no differences in hormonal and seminal parameters could be found in patients with AZFc or gr/gr deletions. It is concluded that: (i) frequency of AZF deletions in Germany is much lower than in other countries; (ii) AZFc deletions are associated with severe disturbances of spermatogenesis and TESE is not possible in half of these patients; (iii) AZFc and gr/ gr deletions are not associated with any clinical diagnostic parameter; (iv) and no trend is apparent over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Simoni
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital, Domagkstr. 11, D-48149 Münster, Germany.
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Underhill PA, Kivisild T. Use of Y Chromosome and Mitochondrial DNA Population Structure in Tracing Human Migrations. Annu Rev Genet 2007; 41:539-64. [PMID: 18076332 DOI: 10.1146/annurev.genet.41.110306.130407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 308] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter A. Underhill
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California 94305-5120;
| | - Toomas Kivisild
- Leverhulme Center of Human Evolutionary Studies, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QH, United Kingdom;
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Ferlin A, Raicu F, Gatta V, Zuccarello D, Palka G, Foresta C. Male infertility: role of genetic background. Reprod Biomed Online 2007; 14:734-45. [PMID: 17579990 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60677-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 297] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Male infertility represents one of the clearest examples of a complex disease with a substantial genetic basis. Numerous male mouse models, mutation screening and association studies reported over the last few years reveal the high prevalence of genetic causes of spermatogenic impairment, accounting for 10-15% of severe male infertility, including chromosomal aberrations and single gene mutations. Natural selection prevents the transmission of mutations causing infertility, but this protective mechanism may be overcome by assisted reproduction techniques. Consequently, the identification of genetic factors is important for appropriate management of the infertile couple. However, a large proportion of infertile males are diagnosed as idiopathic, reflecting poor understanding of the basic mechanisms regulating spermatogenesis and sperm function. Furthermore, the molecular mechanisms underlying spermatogenic damage in cases of genetic infertility (for example Yq microdeletions) are not known. These problems can be addressed only by large scale association studies and testicular or spermatozoal expression studies in well-defined alterations of spermatogenesis. It is conceivable that these studies will have important diagnostic and therapeutic implications in the future. This review discusses the genetic causes of male infertility known to date, the genetic polymorphisms possibly associated with male infertility, and reports novel results of global gene expression profiling of normal human testis by microarray technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Ferlin
- University of Padova, Department of Histology, Microbiology and Medical Biotechnologies, Centre for Male Gamete Cryopreservation, Via Gabelli 63, 35121 Padova, Italy
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Zhang F, Lu C, Li Z, Xie P, Xia Y, Zhu X, Wu B, Cai X, Wang X, Qian J, Wang X, Jin L. Partial deletions are associated with an increased risk of complete deletion in AZFc: a new insight into the role of partial AZFc deletions in male infertility. J Med Genet 2007; 44:437-44. [PMID: 17412880 PMCID: PMC2598009 DOI: 10.1136/jmg.2007.049056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The AZFc region on the human Y chromosome has been found to be functionally important in spermatogenesis. Complete AZFc deletion is one of the most frequent causes of male infertility and the roles of partial AZFc deletions (gr/gr and b2/b3 deletions) in spermatogenesis are controversial. METHODS To further study the roles of partial AZFc deletions in spermatogenic impairment and the relationship between complete and partial AZFc deletions, these deletions were typed and quantitative analysis of DAZ gene copies and Y chromosome haplogrouping were performed for seven pedigrees of complete AZFc deletion carriers, comprising 296 infertile and 280 healthy Chinese men. RESULTS Neither the gr/gr nor the b2/b3 deletion was found to be associated with spermatogenic failure. In one pedigree, a complete AZFc deletion was observed to result from the gr/gr deletion, suggesting that complete deletions of AZFc can be preceded by partial deletions. In addition, a new gr/gr-deleted Y haplogroup Q1 was identified and the reported fixation of the b2/b3 deletion in haplogroup N confirmed. The frequency of complete AZFc deletion in haplogroups Q1 and N was significantly higher than that in the other haplogroupsm with fewer partial deletions. Duplications of DAZ gene copies were also observed in this study. CONCLUSIONS To date, these observations comprise the first evidence showing that partial AZFc deletions can increase the risk of complete AZFc deletion. The susceptibility of partial AZFc deletions to complete AZFc deletion deserves further examination, especially in the populations or Y haplogroups abundant in partial AZFc deletions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology and Center for Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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