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Gruber FS, Richardson A, Johnston ZC, Myles R, Norcross NR, Day DP, Georgiou I, Sesma-Sanz L, Wilson C, Read KD, Martins da Silva S, Barratt CLR, Gilbert IH, Swedlow JR. Sperm Toolbox-A selection of small molecules to study human spermatozoa. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297666. [PMID: 38377053 PMCID: PMC10878532 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Male contraceptive options and infertility treatments are limited, and almost all innovation has been limited to updates to medically assisted reproduction protocols and methods. To accelerate the development of drugs that can either improve or inhibit fertility, we established a small molecule library as a toolbox for assay development and screening campaigns using human spermatozoa. We have profiled all compounds in the Sperm Toolbox in several automated high-throughput assays that measure stimulation or inhibition of sperm motility or the acrosome reaction. We have assayed motility under non-capacitating and capacitating conditions to distinguish between pathways operating under these different physiological states. We also assayed cell viability to ensure any effects on sperm function are specific. A key advantage of our studies is that all compounds are assayed together in the same experimental conditions, which allows quantitative comparisons of their effects in complementary functional assays. We have combined the resulting datasets to generate fingerprints of the Sperm Toolbox compounds on sperm function. The data are included in an on-line R-based app for convenient querying.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franz S. Gruber
- Divisions of Computational Biology and Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, and National Phenotypic Screening Centre, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony Richardson
- Drug Discovery Unit, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Zoe C. Johnston
- Division of Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Myles
- Division of Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Neil R. Norcross
- Drug Discovery Unit, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - David P. Day
- Drug Discovery Unit, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Irene Georgiou
- Drug Discovery Unit, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Sesma-Sanz
- Divisions of Computational Biology and Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, and National Phenotypic Screening Centre, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline Wilson
- Drug Discovery Unit, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin D. Read
- Drug Discovery Unit, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Martins da Silva
- Drug Discovery Unit, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher L. R. Barratt
- Division of Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Ian H. Gilbert
- Drug Discovery Unit, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Jason R. Swedlow
- Divisions of Computational Biology and Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, and National Phenotypic Screening Centre, School of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
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2
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Al Noman MA, Cuellar RAD, Kyzer JL, Chung SSW, Cheryala N, Holth TAD, Maitra S, Naqvi T, Wong HL, Schönbrunn E, Hawkinson JE, Wolgemuth DJ, Georg GI. Strategies for developing retinoic acid receptor alpha-selective antagonists as novel agents for male contraception. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 261:115821. [PMID: 37776573 PMCID: PMC10841505 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115821] [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: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Reported here are the synthesis and in vitro evaluation of a series of 26 retinoic acid analogs based on dihydronaphthalene and chromene scaffolds using a transactivation assay. Chromene amide analog 21 was the most potent and selective retinoic acid receptor α antagonist identified from this series. In vitro evaluation indicated that 21 has favorable physicochemical properties and a favorable pharmacokinetic PK profile in vivo with significant oral bioavailability, metabolic stability, and testes exposure. Compound 21 was evaluated for its effects on spermatogenesis and disruption of fertility in a mouse model. Oral administration of compound 21 at low doses showed reproducibly characteristic albeit modest effects on spermatogenesis, but no effects on fertility were observed in mating studies. The inhibition of spermatogenesis could not be enhanced by raising the dose and lengthening the duration of dosing. Thus, 21 may not be a good candidate to pursue further for effects on male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Abdullah Al Noman
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Rebecca A D Cuellar
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Jillian L Kyzer
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | | | - Narsihmulu Cheryala
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Trinh A D Holth
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Soma Maitra
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Tahmina Naqvi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Henry L Wong
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Ernst Schönbrunn
- Department of Drug Discovery, Moffitt Cancer Center, 12902 USF Magnolia Drive, Tampa, FL, 33612, USA
| | - Jon E Hawkinson
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Debra J Wolgemuth
- Department of Genetics and Development, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, USA; The Institute of Human Nutrition, USA; The Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Medical Center, 1150 St. Nicholas Avenue, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Gunda I Georg
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA.
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3
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Louwagie EJ, Quinn GFL, Pond KL, Hansen KA. Male contraception: narrative review of ongoing research. Basic Clin Androl 2023; 33:30. [PMID: 37940863 PMCID: PMC10634021 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-023-00204-z] [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: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the release of the combined oral contraceptive pill in 1960, women have shouldered the burden of contraception and family planning. Over 60 years later, this is still the case as the only practical, effective contraceptive options available to men are condoms and vasectomy. However, there are now a variety of promising hormonal and non-hormonal male contraceptive options being studied. The purpose of this narrative review is to provide clinicians and laypeople with focused, up-to-date descriptions of novel strategies and targets for male contraception. We include a cautiously optimistic discussion of benefits and potential drawbacks, highlighting several methods in preclinical and clinical stages of development. RESULTS As of June 2023, two hormonal male contraceptive methods are undergoing phase II clinical trials for safety and efficacy. A large-scale, international phase IIb trial investigating efficacy of transdermal segesterone acetate (Nestorone) plus testosterone gel has enrolled over 460 couples with completion estimated for late 2024. A second hormonal method, dimethandrolone undecanoate, is in two clinical trials focusing on safety, pharmacodynamics, suppression of spermatogenesis and hormones; the first of these two is estimated for completion in December 2024. There are also several non-hormonal methods with strong potential in preclinical stages of development. CONCLUSIONS There exist several hurdles to novel male contraception. Therapeutic development takes decades of time, meticulous work, and financial investment, but with so many strong candidates it is our hope that there will soon be several safe, effective, and reversible contraceptive options available to male patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eli J Louwagie
- University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, 1400 W 22nd St, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA.
| | - Garrett F L Quinn
- University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, 1400 W 22nd St, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA
| | - Kristi L Pond
- University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, 1400 W 22nd St, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA
| | - Keith A Hansen
- Chair and Professor, Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine; Reproductive Endocrinologist, Sanford Fertility and Reproductive Medicine, 1500 W 22nd St Suite 102, Sioux Falls, SD, 57105, USA
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4
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Amory JK. Male Contraception. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:279-286. [PMID: 38113922 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1777757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Approximately 40 to 50% of pregnancies are unintended. Contraceptive use significantly reduces the risk of unintended pregnancy. Approximately 70% of couples' contraceptive use is female and 30% is male, attributable to the reliance on condoms and vasectomies. Unfortunately, many women cannot use currently available contraceptives due to medical contraindications or side effects. At the same time, men want additional safe and effective contraceptive methods. Because of this, work to develop novel, safe, and effective male contraceptives is underway. This review will briefly discuss the pros and cons of condoms and vasectomies, and then describe research into the development of novel methods of male contraception, by the mechanism of action of the contraceptive. First, we will discuss male contraceptives that block sperm transmission. Next, we will discuss male contraceptives that impair sperm production. Lastly, we will discuss male contraceptives that impair sperm function.
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Affiliation(s)
- John K Amory
- Department of Medicine, The Center for Research in Reproduction and Contraception, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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5
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Brown G. Deregulation of All- Trans Retinoic Acid Signaling and Development in Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12089. [PMID: 37569466 PMCID: PMC10419198 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512089] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Cancer stem cells are the root cause of cancer, which, in essence, is a developmental disorder. All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) signaling via ligand-activation of the retinoic acid receptors (RARs) plays a crucial role in tissue patterning and development during mammalian embryogenesis. In adults, active RARγ maintains the pool of hematopoietic stem cells, whereas active RARα drives myeloid cell differentiation. Various findings have revealed that ATRA signaling is deregulated in many cancers. The enzymes for ATRA synthesis are downregulated in colorectal, gastric, lung, and oropharyngeal cancers. ATRA levels within breast, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate, and renal cancer cells were lower than within their normal counterpart cells. The importance is that 0.24 nM ATRA activates RARγ (for stem cell stemness), whereas 100 times more is required to activate RARα (for differentiation). Moreover, RARγ is an oncogene regarding overexpression within colorectal, cholangiocarcinoma, hepatocellular, ovarian, pancreatic, and renal cancer cells. The microRNA (miR) 30a-5p downregulates expression of RARγ, and miR-30a/miR-30a-5p is a tumor suppressor for breast, colorectal, gastric, hepatocellular, lung, oropharyngeal, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate, and renal cancer. These complementary findings support the view that perturbations to ATRA signaling play a role in driving the abnormal behavior of cancer stem cells. Targeting ATRA synthesis and RARγ has provided promising approaches to eliminating cancer stem cells because such agents have been shown to drive cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Brown
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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6
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Kyzer JL, Noman MAA, Cuellar RAD, Chung SSW, Maitra S, Naqvi T, Hawkinson JE, Wolgemuth DJ, Georg GI. Investigation of selective retinoic acid receptor alpha antagonist ER-50891 and related analogs for male contraception. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2023:e2300031. [PMID: 37154197 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202300031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARα) antagonist ER-50891 and 15 analogs were prepared and tested in vitro for potency and selectivity at RARα, RARβ, and RARγ using transactivation assays. Minor modifications to the parent molecule such as the introduction of a C4 tolyl group in place of the C4 phenyl group on the quinoline moiety slightly increased the RARα selectivity but larger substituents significantly decreased the potency. Replacement of the pyrrole moiety of ER-50891 with triazole, amides, or a double bond produced inactive compounds. ER-50891 was found to be stable in male mouse liver microsomes and was tested in male mice to assess its effects on spermatogenesis. Characteristic, albeit modest and transient, effects on spermatogenesis were observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian L Kyzer
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Md Abdullah Al Noman
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Rebecca A D Cuellar
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Sanny S W Chung
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Soma Maitra
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Tahmina Naqvi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Jon E Hawkinson
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Debra J Wolgemuth
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- The Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- The Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Gunda I Georg
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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7
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Balbach M, Rossetti T, Ferreira J, Ghanem L, Ritagliati C, Myers RW, Huggins DJ, Steegborn C, Miranda IC, Meinke PT, Buck J, Levin LR. On-demand male contraception via acute inhibition of soluble adenylyl cyclase. Nat Commun 2023; 14:637. [PMID: 36788210 PMCID: PMC9929232 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36119-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Nearly half of all pregnancies are unintended; thus, existing family planning options are inadequate. For men, the only choices are condoms and vasectomy, and most current efforts to develop new contraceptives for men impact sperm development, meaning that contraception requires months of continuous pretreatment. Here, we provide proof-of-concept for an innovative strategy for on-demand contraception, where a man would take a birth control pill shortly before sex, only as needed. Soluble adenylyl cyclase (sAC) is essential for sperm motility and maturation. We show a single dose of a safe, acutely-acting sAC inhibitor with long residence time renders male mice temporarily infertile. Mice exhibit normal mating behavior, and full fertility returns the next day. These studies define sAC inhibitors as leads for on-demand contraceptives for men, and they provide in vivo proof-of-concept for previously untested paradigms in contraception; on-demand contraception after just a single dose and pharmacological contraception for men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Balbach
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Thomas Rossetti
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jacob Ferreira
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lubna Ghanem
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Carla Ritagliati
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Robert W Myers
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - David J Huggins
- Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Clemens Steegborn
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Ileana C Miranda
- Laboratory of Comparative Pathology, Weill Cornell Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Peter T Meinke
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.,Tri-Institutional Therapeutics Discovery Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jochen Buck
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Lonny R Levin
- Department of Pharmacology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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8
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Faber EB, Wang N, John K, Sun L, Wong HL, Burban D, Francis R, Tian D, Hong KH, Yang A, Wang L, Elsaid M, Khalid H, Levinson NM, Schönbrunn E, Hawkinson JE, Georg GI. Screening through Lead Optimization of High Affinity, Allosteric Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 2 (CDK2) Inhibitors as Male Contraceptives That Reduce Sperm Counts in Mice. J Med Chem 2023; 66:1928-1940. [PMID: 36701569 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Although cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) is a validated target for both cancer and contraception, developing a CDK2 inhibitor with exquisite selectivity has been challenging due to the structural similarity of the ATP-binding site, where most kinase inhibitors bind. We previously discovered an allosteric pocket in CDK2 with the potential to bind a selective compound and then discovered and structurally confirmed an anthranilic acid scaffold that binds this pocket with high affinity. These allosteric inhibitors are selective for CDK2 over structurally similar CDK1 and show contraceptive potential. Herein, we describe the screening and optimization that led to compounds like EF-4-177 with nanomolar affinity for CDK2. EF-4-177 is metabolically stable, orally bioavailable, and significantly disrupts spermatogenesis, demonstrating this series' therapeutic potential. This work details the discovery of the highest affinity allosteric CDK inhibitors reported and shows promise for this series to yield an efficacious and selective allosteric CDK2 inhibitor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik B Faber
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55414, United States
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Minnesota Medical School─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55455, United States
| | - Nan Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55414, United States
| | - Kristen John
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55414, United States
| | - Luxin Sun
- Drug Discovery Department, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida33612, United States
| | - Henry L Wong
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55414, United States
| | - David Burban
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55455, United States
| | - Rawle Francis
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55414, United States
| | - Defeng Tian
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55414, United States
| | - Kwon H Hong
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55414, United States
| | - An Yang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55414, United States
| | - Liming Wang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55414, United States
| | - Mazen Elsaid
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55414, United States
| | - Hira Khalid
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55414, United States
| | - Nicholas M Levinson
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota Medical School─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55455, United States
| | - Ernst Schönbrunn
- Drug Discovery Department, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida33612, United States
| | - Jon E Hawkinson
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55414, United States
| | - Gunda I Georg
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy─Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota55414, United States
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9
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Brown G. Targeting the Retinoic Acid Pathway to Eradicate Cancer Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032373. [PMID: 36768694 PMCID: PMC9916838 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
All-trans retinoic acid is a morphogen during embryogenesis and a teratogen. Cancer is an error of development, and the retinoic acid receptors (RAR) for all-trans retinoic acid play a role in cancer. Expression of the cytosolic aldehyde dehydrogenases, which mediate the last step to the synthesis of all-trans retinoic acid, is deregulated in various human cancers. Inhibiting these enzymes using a variety of agents reduced the proliferation of lung cancer cells, reduced the proliferation and induced apoptosis of ovarian, prostate, squamous, and uterine cancer cells, and sensitised breast, colorectal and ovarian cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents. RARγ is an oncogene within some cases of AML, cholangiocarcinoma, colorectal cancer, clear cell renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, prostate cancer, and ovarian cancer. Pan-RAR and RARγ antagonist inhibition of the action of RARγ led to necroptosis of human prostate and pediatric brain tumour cancer stem cells. Treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma cells with the flavenoid acacetin, which interferes with the action of RARγ, decreased cell growth and induced apoptosis. Targeting the retinoic acid pathway is promising regarding the development of new drugs to eradicate cancer stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Brown
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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10
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Service CA, Puri D, Hsieh TC, Patel DP. Emerging concepts in male contraception: a narrative review of novel, hormonal and non-hormonal options. Ther Adv Reprod Health 2023; 17:26334941221138323. [PMID: 36909934 PMCID: PMC9996746 DOI: 10.1177/26334941221138323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Access to reliable contraception is a pillar of modern society. The burden of unintended pregnancy has fallen disproportionately on the mother throughout human history; however, recent legal developments surrounding abortion have sparked a renewed interest in male factor contraceptives beyond surgical sterilization and condoms. Modern efforts to develop reversible male birth control date back nearly a century and initially focused on altering the hypothalamic-pituitary-testes axis. These hormonal contraceptives faced multiple barriers, including systemic side effects, challenging dosing regimens, unfavorable routes of delivery, and the public stigma surrounding steroid use. Novel hormonal agents are seeking to overcome these barriers by limiting the side effects and simplifying use. Non-hormonal contraceptives are agents that target various stages of spermatogenesis; such as inhibitors of retinoic acid, Sertoli cell-germ cell interactions, sperm ion channels, and other small molecular targets. The identification of reproductive tract-specific genes associated with male infertility has led to more targeted drug development, made possible by advances in CRISPR and proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs). Despite multiple human trials, no male birth control agents have garnered regulatory approval in the United States or abroad. This narrative review examines current and emerging male contraceptives, including hormonal and non-hormonal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Austin Service
- Department of Urology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Dhruv Puri
- Department of Urology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Tung-Chin Hsieh
- Department of Urology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Darshan P Patel
- Department of Urology, University of California San Diego, 9333 Genesee Avenue, Suite 320, La Jolla, CA 92121, USA
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11
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Griswold MD. Cellular and molecular basis for the action of retinoic acid in spermatogenesis. J Mol Endocrinol 2022; 69:T51-T57. [PMID: 35670629 DOI: 10.1530/jme-22-0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a highly organized and regulated process that requires the constant production of millions of gametes over the reproductive lifetime of the mammalian male. This is possible because of an active stem cell pool and an ordered entry into the germ cell developmental sequence. The ordered entry is a result of the synthesis and action of retinoic acid allowing for the onset of spermatogonial differentiation and an irreversible commitment to spermatogenesis. The periodic appearance and actions of retinoic acid along the seminiferous tubules is a result of the interactions between germ cells and Sertoli cells that result in the generation and maintenance of the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium and is the subject of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Griswold
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
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12
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Wu S, Li X, Shang L, Wu L, Li T, Li P, Ji Z, Hou J, Yin M, Xu W. The novel BRDT inhibitor NHWD870 shows potential as a male contraceptive in mice. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2022; 54:1789-1800. [PMID: 36239350 PMCID: PMC10157631 DOI: 10.3724/abbs.2022135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Small molecule inhibitors of the bromodomain and extraterminal domain (BET) family proteins have emerged as promising options not only for the treatment of multiple cancers but also for disturbing the process of sperm maturation with potential for use as viable contraceptive targets. In this study, we find that the BET family inhibitor NHWD870 and BRDT can bind well in vitro through bioinformatics software prediction and protein binding inhibition experiments. NHWD870 can produce a good contraceptive effect through animal experiments in vivo, and the fertility can be restored to normal after drug withdrawal. Transcriptomics and proteomics results suggest that NHWD870 affects pathways related to spermatogenesis and maturation, further contributing to the male infertility phenotype. Our results show that NHWD870 can induce a complete and reversible contraceptive effect in mice, which is stronger than that of JQ1 and its synthesized derivatives. This study is expected to eventually lead to clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sixian Wu
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, SCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynaecologic and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xiaoliang Li
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, SCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynaecologic and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.,Reproductive Medical Centre, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Lijun Shang
- School of Human Sciences, London Metropolitan University, London N7 8BD, UK
| | - Lvying Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Tongtong Li
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, SCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynaecologic and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Peiyv Li
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, SCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynaecologic and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Zhiliang Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Jianwen Hou
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, SCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynaecologic and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Mingzhu Yin
- Department of Dermatology, Hunan Engineering Research Center of Skin Heath and Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | - Wenming Xu
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, SCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynaecologic and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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13
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Male contraceptive development: A medicinal chemistry perspective. Eur J Med Chem 2022; 243:114709. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2022.114709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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14
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Function of Retinoic Acid in Development of Male and Female Gametes. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14061293. [PMID: 35334951 PMCID: PMC8951023 DOI: 10.3390/nu14061293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinoic acid, an active metabolite of vitamin A, is necessary for many developmental processes in mammals. Much of the field of reproduction has looked toward retinoic acid as a key transcriptional regulator and catalyst of differentiation events. This review focuses on the effects of retinoic acid on male and female gamete formation and regulation. Within spermatogenesis, it has been well established that retinoic acid is necessary for the proper formation of the blood–testis barrier, spermatogonial differentiation, spermiation, and assisting in meiotic completion. While many of the roles of retinoic acid in male spermatogenesis are known, investigations into female oogenesis have provided differing results.
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15
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Thulabandu V, Ferguson JW, Phung M, Atit RP. EZH2 modulates retinoic acid signaling to ensure myotube formation during development. FEBS Lett 2022; 596:1672-1685. [PMID: 35294045 DOI: 10.1002/1873-3468.14334] [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: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Sequential differentiation of pre-somitic progenitors into myocytes and subsequently into myotubes and myofibers is essential for the myogenic differentiation program (MDP) crucial for muscle development. Signaling factors involved in MDP are Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) targets in various developmental contexts. PRC2 is active in the developing myotomes during MDP, but how it regulates MDP is unclear. Here, we found that myocyte differentiation to myotubes requires Enhancer of Zeste 2 (EZH2), the catalytic component of PRC2. We observed elevated retinoic-acid (RA) signaling in the prospective myocytes in the Ezh2 mutants (E8.5-MusEzh2 ), and its inhibition can partially rescue the myocyte differentiation defect. Together, our data demonstrate a new role for PRC2-EZH2 during myocyte differentiation into myotubes by modulating RA signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkata Thulabandu
- Dept. of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A
| | - James W Ferguson
- Dept. of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A
| | - Melissa Phung
- Dept. of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A
| | - Radhika P Atit
- Dept. of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.,Dept. of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A.,Dept. of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, U.S.A
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16
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Jia Y, Zhang H, Hu W, Wang L, Kang Q, Liu J, Nakanishi T, Hiromori Y, Kimura T, Tao S, Hu J. Discovery of contaminants with antagonistic activity against retinoic acid receptor in house dust. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 426:127847. [PMID: 34836686 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Retinoic acid receptors (RARs) control reproduction and development in vertebrates, but little attention has been paid to anthropogenic chemicals exhibiting RAR agoniztic/antagonistic activity. Here we applied a His-RARα pull-down assay combined with high-resolution mass spectrometry to identify chemicals with RARα activity in house dust. After screening, a total of 540 peaks were retained as potential RARα ligands. The mass spectra of 14 chemicals matched with those in the database, of which triphenyl phosphate, galaxolidone, di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), tris(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate (TEHP), and tris(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate were confirmed by their standards. While one chemical in the sample matched with monophenyl phosphate in the MS/MS database, its retention time was much higher than that of monophenyl phosphate standard, suggesting that it may be an in-source fragment. Its parent ion was finally identified to be m/z 399.2663 using a similarity analysis among chromatographic peaks of hundreds of ions at the same retention time in MS1 spectrum, and bis(2-ethylhexyl) phenyl phosphate (BEHPP) was identified. BEHPP, DEHP, and TEHP were for the first time identified to be RARα antagonists with IC50 values of 6556, 6600, and 2538 nM, respectively. This study improved structural annotation and filled the knowledge gap regarding widespread environmental contaminants with RAR antagonistic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingting Jia
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, China
| | - Wenxin Hu
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, China
| | - Qiyue Kang
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, China
| | - Jiaying Liu
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, China
| | - Tsuyoshi Nakanishi
- Laboratory of Hygienic Chemistry and Molecular Toxicology, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Japan
| | - Youhei Hiromori
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Suzuka University of Medical Science, Japan
| | - Tomoki Kimura
- Department of Life Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Setsunan University, Japan
| | - Shu Tao
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, China
| | - Jianying Hu
- Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, China.
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17
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Thulabandu V, Nehila T, Ferguson JW, Atit RP. Dermal EZH2 orchestrates dermal differentiation and epidermal proliferation during murine skin development. Dev Biol 2021; 478:25-40. [PMID: 34166654 PMCID: PMC8384472 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2021.06.008] [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: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Skin development and patterning is dependent on factors that regulate the stepwise differentiation of dermal fibroblasts concomitant with dermal-epidermal reciprocal signaling, two processes that are poorly understood. Here we show that dermal EZH2, the methyltransferase enzyme of the epigenetic Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2), is a new coordinator of both these processes. Dermal EZH2 activity is present during dermal fibroblast differentiation and is required for spatially restricting Wnt/β-catenin signaling to reinforce dermal fibroblast cell fate. Later in development, dermal EZH2 regulates the expression of reticular dermal markers and initiation of secondary hair follicles. Embryos lacking dermal Ezh2 have elevated epidermal proliferation and differentiation that can be rescued by small molecule inhibition of retinoic acid (RA) signaling. Together, our study reveals that dermal EZH2 is acting like a rheostat to control the levels of Wnt/β-catenin and RA signaling to impact fibroblast differentiation cell autonomously and epidermal keratinocyte development non-cell autonomously, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Timothy Nehila
- Dept. of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - James W Ferguson
- Dept. of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Radhika P Atit
- Dept. of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA; Dept. of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA; Dept. of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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18
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Thirumalai A, Amory JK. Emerging approaches to male contraception. Fertil Steril 2021; 115:1369-1376. [PMID: 33931201 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.03.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Despite significant interests in contraception by men, effective methods of male contraception are limited to vasectomy and condoms. Recently, there have been several promising advances in male contraceptive research. This review will update readers on recent research in both hormonal and nonhormonal approaches to male contraception. Hormonal approaches to male contraception have been stymied by adverse effects, formulations requiring injections or implants, a 5% to10% nonresponse rate, as well as poor understanding of user acceptability. In the last several years, research has focused on novel, orally bioavailable androgens such as dimethandrolone undecanoate and 11β-methyl-19-nor-testosterone. Additionally, combinations of a topical testosterone gel combined with a gel containing segesterone acetate, a potent progestin, have shown promise in clinical trials recently. Simultaneously, significant preclinical progress has been made in several approaches to nonhormonal male contraceptives, including compounds that inhibit sperm motility such as eppin, compounds that inhibit retinoic acid binding or biosynthesis, and reversible approaches to obstruction of the vas deferens. It is imperative for these areas of research to continue making strides so that there is a gamut of contraceptive options for couples to choose from. Some of these approaches will hopefully reach clinical utility soon, greatly improving contraceptive choice for couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthi Thirumalai
- Center for Research in Reproduction and Contraception, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - John K Amory
- Center for Research in Reproduction and Contraception, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
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19
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Male Contraception. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2020; 93:603-613. [PMID: 33005125 PMCID: PMC7513428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Unintended pregnancy is a global public health problem. Despite a variety of female contraceptive options, male contraceptive options are limited to the condom and vasectomy. Condoms have high failure rates and surgical vasectomy is not reliably reversible. There is a global need and desire for novel male contraceptive methods. Hormonal methods have progressed the furthest in clinical development and androgen plus progestin formulations hold promise as a marketable, reversible male contraceptive over the next decade. Investigators have tested androgen plus progestin approaches using oral, transdermal, subdermal, and injectable drug formulations and demonstrated the short-term safety and reversibility of hormonal male contraception. The most commonly reported side effects associated with hormonal male contraception include weight gain, acne, slight suppression of serum high-density cholesterol, mood changes, and changes in libido. Efficacy trials of hormonal male contraceptives have demonstrated contraceptive efficacy rates greater than that of condoms. Although there has been less progression in the development of nonhormonal male contraceptives, potentially reversible vaso-occlusive methods are currently in clinical trials in some countries. Various studies have confirmed both men and women's desire for novel male contraceptives. Barriers to development include an absence of investment from pharmaceutical companies, concerns regarding side effects and spermatogenic rebound with hormonal methods, and lack of clear reversibility and proven effectiveness of nonhormonal methods. The ultimate availability of male contraceptives could have an important impact on decreasing global unintended pregnancy rates (currently 40% of all pregnancies) and will be a step towards reproductive justice and greater equity in family planning.
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20
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Mathiew M, Dennis BM, Bennetts F, Su NNE, Nguyen N, Botteon A, Baell JB, Ventura S. Synthesis of 2-phenyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydroquinoxaline derivatives and screening for P2X1-purinoceptor antagonist activity in isolated preparations of rat vas deferens, for translation into a male contraceptive†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:323-332. [PMID: 32648904 PMCID: PMC7526726 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Sympathetically mediated contractions of smooth muscle cells in the vasa deferentia are mediated by neuronally released adenosine 5′-triphosphate (ATP) and noradrenaline, which stimulate P2X1-purinoceptors and α1A-adrenoceptors, respectively. This process is crucial for sperm transport, as demonstrated in knockout mouse studies where simultaneous genetic deletion of P2X1-purinoceptors and α1A-adrenoceptors resulted in male infertility. We hypothesize that dual pharmacological antagonism of these two receptors could inhibit sperm transport sufficiently to provide a novel nonhormonal method of male contraception. To generate a suitable P2X1-purinoceptor antagonist, substituents were introduced on the phenyl moiety of 2-phenyl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydroquinoxaline to create a series of analogues that were tested for P2X1-purinoceptor antagonism in isolated preparations of rat vas deferens. Novel compounds were initially screened for their ability to attenuate contractile responses to electrical field stimulation (EFS: 60 V, 0.5 ms, 0.2 Hz). The addition of polar substituents to the meta, but not ortho, position markedly increased the inhibition of contractions, as did the addition of both polar and aliphatic substituents to the para position. Di-substituted compounds were also synthesized and tested, resulting in a compound 31 (2-hydroxy, 4-fluoro), which exhibited the greatest potency, with an IC50 of 14 μM (95% confidence limits: 12–16 μM). Additionally, compound 31 noncompetitively antagonized contractions mediated by exogenously administered αß-methylene ATP (10 nM–30 μM) but had no inhibitory effect on contractions mediated by exogenously administered noradrenaline (30 nM–100 μM) or acetylcholine (30 nM–100 μM). These results have contributed to a structure–activity relationship profile for the P2X1-purinoceptor that will inform future designs of more potent antagonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitch Mathiew
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria. Australia
| | - Belinda M Dennis
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria. Australia
| | - Felix Bennetts
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria. Australia
| | - N N Eunice Su
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria. Australia
| | - Nghi Nguyen
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria. Australia
| | - Antony Botteon
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria. Australia
| | - Jonathan B Baell
- Medicinal Chemistry, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria. Australia
| | - Sabatino Ventura
- Drug Discovery Biology, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria. Australia
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21
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Noman MAA, Kyzer JL, Chung SSW, Wolgemuth DJ, Georg GI. Retinoic acid receptor antagonists for male contraception: current status†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:390-399. [PMID: 32671394 PMCID: PMC7401398 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARA), a nuclear receptor protein, has been validated as a target for male contraception by gene knockout studies and also pharmacologically using a pan-retinoic acid receptor antagonist. Retinoic acid receptor alpha activity is indispensable for the spermatogenic process, and therefore its antagonists have potential as male contraceptive agents. This review discusses the effects of systematic dosing regimen modifications of the orally bioavailable and reversible pan-antagonist BMS-189453 as well as studies with the alpha-selective antagonists BMS-189532 and BMS-189614 in a murine model. We also provide an overview of structure-activity studies of retinoic acid receptor alpha antagonists that provide insight for the design of novel alpha-selective ligands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Abdullah Al Noman
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Jillian L Kyzer
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Sanny S W Chung
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Debra J Wolgemuth
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- The Institute of Human Nutrition, The Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gunda I Georg
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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22
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Chung SSW, Vizcarra N, Wolgemuth DJ. Filamentous actin disorganization and absence of apical ectoplasmic specialization disassembly during spermiation upon interference with retinoid signaling†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:378-389. [PMID: 32678439 PMCID: PMC7401411 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermiation is a multiple-step process involving profound cellular changes in both spermatids and Sertoli cells. We have observed spermiation defects, including abnormalities in spermatid orientation, translocation and release, in mice deficient in the retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARA) and upon treatment with a pan-RAR antagonist. To elucidate the role of retinoid signaling in regulating spermiation, we first characterized the time course of appearance of spermiogenic defects in response to treatment with the pan-RAR antagonist. The results revealed that defects in spermiation are indeed among the earliest abnormalities in spermatogenesis observed upon inhibition of retinoid signaling. Using fluorescent dye-conjugated phalloidin to label the ectoplasmic specialization (ES), we showed for the first time that these defects involved improper formation of filamentous actin (F-actin) bundles in step 8–9 spermatids and a failure of the actin-surrounded spermatids to move apically to the lumen and to disassemble the ES. The aberrant F-actin organization is associated with diminished nectin-3 expression in both RARA-deficient and pan-RAR antagonist-treated testes. An abnormal localization of both tyrosinated and detyrosinated tubulins was also observed during spermatid translocation in the seminiferous epithelium in drug-treated testes. These results highlight a crucial role of RAR receptor-mediated retinoid signaling in regulating microtubules and actin dynamics in the cytoskeleton rearrangements, required for proper spermiation. This is critical to understand in light of ongoing efforts to inhibit retinoid signaling as a novel approach for male contraception and may reveal spermiation components that could also be considered as new targets for male contraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanny S W Chung
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nika Vizcarra
- The Institute of Human Nutrition Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Debra J Wolgemuth
- Department of Genetics and Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- The Institute of Human Nutrition Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- The Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Correspondence: Department of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Irving Medical Center , Russ Berrie Pavilion, Room 608, 1150 St. Nicholas Avenue, New York, NY 10032, USA. Tel: (212) 851-4754; E-mail:
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23
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Yu K, Zhang Y, Zhang BL, Wu HY, Jiang WQ, Wang ST, Han DP, Liu YX, Lian ZX, Deng SL. In-vitro differentiation of early pig spermatogenic cells to haploid germ cells. Mol Hum Reprod 2020; 25:507-518. [PMID: 31328782 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaz043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) self-renew and contribute genetic information to the next generation. Pig is wildly used as a model animal for understanding reproduction mechanisms of human being. Inducing directional differentiation of porcine SSCs may be an important strategy in exploring the mechanisms of spermatogenesis and developing better treatment methods for male infertility. Here, we established an in-vitro culture model for porcine small seminiferous tubule segments, to induce SSCs to differentiate into single-tail haploid spermatozoa. The culture model subsequently enabled spermatozoa to express the sperm-specific protein acrosin and oocytes to develop to blastocyst stage after round spermatid injection. The addition of retinoic acid (RA) to the differentiation media promoted the efficiency of haploid differentiation. RT-PCR analysis indicated that RA stimulated the expression of Stra8 but reduced the expression of NANOS2 in spermatogonia. Genes involved in post-meiotic development, transition protein 1 (Tnp1) and protamine 1 (Prm1) were upregulated in the presence of RA. The addition of an RA receptor (RAR) inhibitor, BMS439, showed that RA enhanced the expression of cAMP responsive-element binding protein through RAR and promoted the formation of round spermatids. We established an efficient culture system for in-vitro differentiation of pig SSCs. Our study represents a model for human testis disease and toxicology screening. Molecular regulators of SSC differentiation revealed in this study might provide a therapeutic strategy for male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Yu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Haidian District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Department of Medicine, Panzhihua University, Sichuan, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Bao-Lu Zhang
- Marine Consulting Center of MNR, Oceanic Counseling Center, Ministry of Natural Resources of the People's Republic of China, Feng-tai District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Han-Yu Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Haidian District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wu-Qi Jiang
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Haidian District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Su-Tian Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Xiangfang District, People's Republic of China
| | - De-Ping Han
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Haidian District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi-Xun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheng-Xing Lian
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Haidian District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shou-Long Deng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chaoyang District, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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24
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Amory JK. Development of Novel Male Contraceptives. Clin Transl Sci 2020; 13:228-237. [PMID: 31618525 PMCID: PMC7070810 DOI: 10.1111/cts.12708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Unintended pregnancy is surprisingly common, accounting for 40-50% of pregnancies worldwide. Contraception is the most effective means of preventing unintended pregnancy. Seventy percent of all contraceptives are used by women; however, some women are unable to use contraceptives due to health conditions or side effects. Many men wish to take a more active role family planning, but currently have only two effective male contraceptive options, condoms and vasectomy. Therefore, work to develop novel male contraceptives analogous to popular female methods, such as daily pills or long-acting shots and implants, is underway. This paper will briefly discuss the pros and cons of condoms and vasectomies, and then review the research into novel methods of male contraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- John K. Amory
- Department of MedicineCenter for Research in Reproduction and ContraceptionUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
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Retinoic Acid and Germ Cell Development in the Ovary and Testis. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9120775. [PMID: 31771306 PMCID: PMC6995559 DOI: 10.3390/biom9120775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/23/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Retinoic acid (RA), a derivative of vitamin A, is critical for the production of oocytes and sperm in mammals. These gametes derive from primordial germ cells, which colonize the nascent gonad, and later undertake sexual differentiation to produce oocytes or sperm. During fetal development, germ cells in the ovary initiate meiosis in response to RA, whereas those in the testis do not yet initiate meiosis, as they are insulated from RA, and undergo cell cycle arrest. After birth, male germ cells resume proliferation and undergo a transition to spermatogonia, which are destined to develop into haploid spermatozoa via spermatogenesis. Recent findings indicate that RA levels change periodically in adult testes to direct not only meiotic initiation, but also other key developmental transitions to ensure that spermatogenesis is precisely organized for the prodigious output of sperm. This review focuses on how female and male germ cells develop in the ovary and testis, respectively, and the role of RA in this process.
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Abstract
Unplanned pregnancies are an ongoing global burden, posing health and economic risks for women, children, and families. Advances in male contraception have been historically stymied by concerning failure rates, problematic side effects, and perceived market limitations. However, increased interest in reliable and reversible options for male contraception have resulted in resurgent efforts to introduce novel contraceptives for men. Hormonal male contraception relies on exogenous androgens and progestogens that suppress gonadotropin production, thereby suppressing testicular testosterone and sperm production. In many men, effective suppression of spermatogenesis can be achieved by androgen-progestin combination therapy. Small-scale contraceptive efficacy studies in couples have demonstrated effectiveness and reversibility with male hormonal methods, but side effects related to mood, sexual desire and cholesterol remain concerning. A number of novel androgens have reached clinical testing as potential contraceptive agents; many of these have both androgenic and progestogenic action in a single, modified steroid, thereby holding promise as single-agent contraceptives. Currently, these novel steroids hold promise as both a "male pill" and long-acting injections. Among non-hormonal methods, studies of reversible vaso-occlusive methods (polymers that block transport of sperm through the vas deferens) are ongoing, but reliable reversibility and long-term safety in men have not been established. Proteins involved in sperm maturation and motility are attractive targets, but to date both specificity and biologic redundancy have been challenges for drug development. In this review, we aim to summarize landmark studies on male contraception, highlight the most recent advances and future development in this important field of public health and medicine.
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Abstract
Retinoic acid (RA), a metabolite of retinol (vitamin A), functions as a ligand for nuclear RA receptors (RARs) that regulate development of chordate animals. RA-RARs can activate or repress transcription of key developmental genes. Genetic studies in mouse and zebrafish embryos that are deficient in RA-generating enzymes or RARs have been instrumental in identifying RA functions, revealing that RA signaling regulates development of many organs and tissues, including the body axis, spinal cord, forelimbs, heart, eye and reproductive tract. An understanding of the normal functions of RA signaling during development will guide efforts for use of RA as a therapeutic agent to improve human health. Here, we provide an overview of RA signaling and highlight its key functions during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norbert B Ghyselinck
- Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Département de Génétique Fonctionnelle et Cancer, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS UMR7104), Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM U1258), Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 1 rue Laurent Fries, F-67404 Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Gregg Duester
- Development, Aging, and Regeneration Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, 10901 N. Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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Alfano M, Pederzoli F, Locatelli I, Ippolito S, Longhi E, Zerbi P, Ferrari M, Brendolan A, Montorsi F, Drago D, Andolfo A, Nebuloni M, Salonia A. Impaired testicular signaling of vitamin A and vitamin K contributes to the aberrant composition of the extracellular matrix in idiopathic germ cell aplasia. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:687-698. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Revised: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Research update and opportunity of non-hormonal male contraception: Histone demethylase KDM5B-based targeting. Pharmacol Res 2019; 141:1-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2018] [Revised: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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30
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Gurgul A, Jasielczuk I, Semik-Gurgul E, Szmatoła T, Majewska A, Sosin-Bzducha E, Bugno-Poniewierska M. Diversifying selection signatures among divergently selected subpopulations of Polish Red cattle. J Appl Genet 2019; 60:87-95. [PMID: 30685825 PMCID: PMC6373403 DOI: 10.1007/s13353-019-00484-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Polish Red cattle is one of the few indigenous breeds of European red cattle which is characterized by several desired features, such as high disease resistance, good health, longevity, good fertility, and high nutritional value of milk. Currently, Polish Red cattle population is a subject of two independent breeding programs: (i) improvement program and (ii) genetic resources conservation program. The aim of the improvement program is the genetic progress in terms of milk production and body conformation traits, while the conservation program mainly focuses on protection of the genetic resources of Polish Red cattle and preservation of the existing, original gene pool. By the analysis of FST genetic distances across genome-wide SNP panel, we detected diversifying selection signatures among these two subpopulations and indicated (among others) the significance of DGAT1 and FGF2 genes for milk production traits in these cattle. We also found that among genes being presumably under selection in terms of milk production, there are genes responsible, for example, for mammary gland development (e.g., SOSTDC1, PYGO2, MED1, and CCND1) and immune system response (e.g., IL10RA, IL12B, and IL21). The most important finding of this study is that the most pronounced genetic differences between the analyzed populations were associated with β-defensin genes (e.g., DEFB1, DEFB4A, DEFB5, DEFB7, DEFB10, DEFB13, EBD, BNBD-6, and LAP) located within so-called bovine cluster D on BTA27. The β-defensins are expressed mainly in the mammary gland and are antimicrobial peptides against the Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, viruses, and other unicellular parasites. This suggests that antimicrobial resistance of mammary gland is of high importance during selection towards increased milk production and that genes responsible for this process are selected together with increasing levels of productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Gurgul
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1, 32-083, Balice, Poland.
| | - I Jasielczuk
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1, 32-083, Balice, Poland
| | - E Semik-Gurgul
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1, 32-083, Balice, Poland
| | - T Szmatoła
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1, 32-083, Balice, Poland
| | - A Majewska
- Department of Cattle Breeding, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1, 32-083, Balice, Poland
| | - E Sosin-Bzducha
- Department of Nutrition Physiology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1, 32-083, Balice, Poland
| | - M Bugno-Poniewierska
- Department of Animal Molecular Biology, National Research Institute of Animal Production, Krakowska 1, 32-083, Balice, Poland.,University of Agriculture in Krakow, Institute of Veterinary Sciences, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059, Kraków, Poland
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31
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Ferguson JW, Devarajan M, Atit RP. Stage-specific roles of Ezh2 and Retinoic acid signaling ensure calvarial bone lineage commitment. Dev Biol 2018; 443:173-187. [PMID: 30222957 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2018.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Development of the skull bones requires the coordination of two stem progenitor populations, the cranial neural crest cells (CNCC) and head paraxial mesoderm (PM), to ensure cell fate selection and morphogenesis. The epigenetic methyltransferase, Ezh2, plays a role in skull bone formation, but the spatiotemporal function of Ezh2 between the CNCC- and PM-derived bone formation in vivo remains undefined. Here, using a temporally-inducible conditional deletion of Ezh2 in both the CNCC- and PM- derived cranial mesenchyme between E8.5 and E9.5, we find a reduction of the CNCC-derived calvarial bones and a near complete loss of the PM-derived calvarial bones due to an arrest in calvarial bone fate commitment. In contrast, deletion of Ezh2 after E9.5 permits PM-derived skull bone development, suggesting that Ezh2 is required early to guide calvarial bone progenitor commitment. Furthermore, exposure to all-trans Retinoic acid at E10.0 can mimic the Ezh2 mutant calvarial phenotype, and administration of the pan retinoic acid receptor (RAR) antagonist, BMS-453, to Ezh2 mutants partially restores the commitment to the calvarial bone lineage and PM-derived bone development in vivo. Exogenous RA signaling activation in the Ezh2 mutants leads to synergistic activation of the anti-osteogenic factors in the cranial mesenchyme in vivo. Thus, RA signaling and EZH2 can function in parallel to guide calvarial bone progenitor commitment by balancing the suppression of anti-osteogenic factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- James W Ferguson
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States
| | - Mahima Devarajan
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States
| | - Radhika P Atit
- Department of Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States; Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States; Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH 44106, United States.
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32
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Khourdaji I, Zillioux J, Eisenfrats K, Foley D, Smith R. The future of male contraception: a fertile ground. Transl Androl Urol 2018; 7:S220-S235. [PMID: 29928620 PMCID: PMC5989114 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2018.03.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The continued and rapid expansion of the Earth’s population mandates the need for safe and effective measures of contraception. While a plethora of options exist for women, methods of contraception for the male partner are limited to condoms and vasectomy. The sequela of this discrepancy has led to the family planning burden falling disproportionately on the female partner. For the past several decades, extensive research has been undertaken exploring the feasibility of hormonal male contraception. This proposed method of contraception has focused on suppressing spermatogenesis by exploiting the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Beginning with proof of concept studies in the early nineties, administration of testosterone in healthy male subjects has been shown to be an efficacious method of inducing sterility. Owing to ethnic differences in spermatogenesis suppression and the comparatively low rate of azoospermia in Caucasian men with androgen-only regimens, investigators have explored the addition of progestins to further enhance the efficacy of hormonal contraception. Though studies have revealed promise with androgen-progestin regimens, the lack of long-term studies has precluded the development of a marketable product. Recently, more research has been directed towards identifying non-hormonal alternatives to male contraception. These non-hormonal options have ranged from the development of devices facilitating reversible occlusion of the vas deferens lumen to medications disrupting various pathways in the process of spermatogenesis. Underlying the development of hormonal and non-hormonal strategies is the shared enthusiasm men and women have towards these male directed methods. The willingness of couples to pursue these alternatives combined with the global need to reduce the psychological and socioeconomic implications of unintended pregnancy ensures that research will continue to bring this goal to fruition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iyad Khourdaji
- Department of Urology, University of Virginia Healthcare System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Jacqueline Zillioux
- Department of Urology, University of Virginia Healthcare System, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | | | - Daniel Foley
- University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Ryan Smith
- Department of Urology, University of Virginia Healthcare System, Charlottesville, VA, USA.,Contraline, Inc., Charlottesville, VA, USA.,University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, USA
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Chen Y, Zhu JY, Hong KH, Mikles DC, Georg GI, Goldstein AS, Amory JK, Schönbrunn E. Structural Basis of ALDH1A2 Inhibition by Irreversible and Reversible Small Molecule Inhibitors. ACS Chem Biol 2018; 13:582-590. [PMID: 29240402 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.7b00685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Enzymes of the ALDH1A subfamily of aldehyde dehydrogenases are crucial in regulating retinoic acid (RA) signaling and have received attention as potential drug targets. ALDH1A2 is the primary RA-synthesizing enzyme in mammalian spermatogenesis and is therefore considered a viable drug target for male contraceptive development. However, only a small number of ALDH1A2 inhibitors have been reported, and information on the structure of ALDH1A2 was limited to the NAD-liganded enzyme void of substrate or inhibitors. Herein, we describe the mechanism of action of structurally unrelated reversible and irreversible inhibitors of human ALDH1A2 using direct binding studies and X-ray crystallography. All inhibitors bind to the active sites of tetrameric ALDH1A2. Compound WIN18,446 covalently reacts with the side chain of the catalytic residue Cys320, resulting in a chiral adduct in ( R) configuration. The covalent adduct directly affects the neighboring NAD molecule, which assumes a contracted conformation suboptimal for the dehydrogenase reaction. The reversible inhibitors interact predominantly through direct hydrogen bonding interactions with residues in the vicinity of Cys320 without affecting NAD. Upon interaction with inhibitors, a large flexible loop assumes regular structure, thereby shielding the active site from solvent. The precise knowledge of the binding modes provides a new framework for the rational design of novel inhibitors of ALDH1A2 with improved potency and selectivity profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Chen
- Drug Discovery Department, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida 33612, United States
| | - Jin-Yi Zhu
- Drug Discovery Department, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida 33612, United States
| | - Kwon Ho Hong
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55414, United States
| | - David C. Mikles
- Drug Discovery Department, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida 33612, United States
| | - Gunda I. Georg
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55414, United States
| | | | - John K. Amory
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98195, United States
| | - Ernst Schönbrunn
- Drug Discovery Department, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida 33612, United States
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34
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Periodic production of retinoic acid by meiotic and somatic cells coordinates four transitions in mouse spermatogenesis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017; 114:E10132-E10141. [PMID: 29109271 PMCID: PMC5703301 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1710837114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is an elaborately organized differentiation process, starting with diploid spermatogonia, which include germ-line stem cells, and ending with haploid spermatozoa. The process involves four pivotal transitions occurring in physical proximity: spermatogonial differentiation, meiotic initiation, initiation of spermatid elongation, and release of spermatozoa. We report how the four transitions are coordinated in mice. Two premeiotic transitions, spermatogonial differentiation and meiotic initiation, were known to be coregulated by an extrinsic signal, retinoic acid (RA). Our chemical manipulations of RA levels in mouse testes now reveal that RA also regulates the two postmeiotic transitions: initiation of spermatid elongation and spermatozoa release. We measured RA concentrations and found that they changed periodically, as also reflected in the expression patterns of an RA-responsive gene, STRA8; RA levels were low before the four transitions, increased when the transitions occurred, and remained elevated thereafter. We found that pachytene spermatocytes, which express an RA-synthesizing enzyme, Aldh1a2, contribute directly and significantly to RA production in testes. Indeed, chemical and genetic depletion of pachytene spermatocytes revealed that RA from pachytene spermatocytes was required for the two postmeiotic transitions, but not for the two premeiotic transitions. We conclude that the premeiotic transitions are coordinated by RA from Sertoli (somatic) cells. Once germ cells enter meiosis, pachytene spermatocytes produce RA to coordinate the two postmeiotic transitions. In combination, these elements underpin the spatiotemporal coordination of spermatogenesis and ensure its prodigious output in adult males.
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35
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Chandra V, Wu D, Li S, Potluri N, Kim Y, Rastinejad F. The quaternary architecture of RARβ-RXRα heterodimer facilitates domain-domain signal transmission. Nat Commun 2017; 8:868. [PMID: 29021580 PMCID: PMC5636793 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-00981-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Assessing the physical connections and allosteric communications in multi-domain nuclear receptor (NR) polypeptides has remained challenging, with few crystal structures available to show their overall structural organizations. Here we report the quaternary architecture of multi-domain retinoic acid receptor β-retinoic X receptor α (RARβ-RXRα) heterodimer bound to DNA, ligands and coactivator peptides, examined through crystallographic, hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry, mutagenesis and functional studies. The RARβ ligand-binding domain (LBD) and DNA-binding domain (DBD) are physically connected to foster allosteric signal transmission between them. Direct comparisons among all the multi-domain NRs studied crystallographically to date show significant variations within their quaternary architectures, rather than a common architecture adhering to strict rules. RXR remains flexible and adaptive by maintaining loosely organized domains, while its heterodimerization partners use a surface patch on their LBDs to form domain-domain interactions with DBDs.Nuclear receptors (NR) are multidomain proteins, which makes their crystallization challenging. Here the authors present the crystal structure of the retinoic acid receptor β-retinoic X receptor α (RARβ-RXRα) heterodimer bound to DNA, ligands and coactivator peptides, which shows that NR quaternary architectures are variable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikas Chandra
- Integrative Metabolism Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, Orlando, FL, 32827, USA
| | - Dalei Wu
- Integrative Metabolism Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, Orlando, FL, 32827, USA
- Shandong University-Helmholtz Institute of Biotechnology, State Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, Shandong, 266237, China
| | - Sheng Li
- Department of Medicine and UCSD DXMS Proteomics Resource, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92023, USA
| | - Nalini Potluri
- Integrative Metabolism Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, Orlando, FL, 32827, USA
| | - Youngchang Kim
- Structural Biology Center, Biosciences Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL, 60439, USA
| | - Fraydoon Rastinejad
- Integrative Metabolism Program, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute, Orlando, FL, 32827, USA.
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Amory JK, Ostrowski KA, Gannon JR, Berkseth K, Stevison F, Isoherranen N, Muller CH, Walsh T. Isotretinoin administration improves sperm production in men with infertility from oligoasthenozoospermia: a pilot study. Andrology 2017; 5:1115-1123. [PMID: 28980413 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2017] [Revised: 07/19/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There is currently no effective medical therapy for men with infertility due to oligoasthenozoospermia. As men with abnormal sperm production have lower concentrations of 13-cis-retinoic acid in their testes, we hypothesized that men with infertility from oligoasthenozoospermia might have improved sperm counts when treated with isotretinoin (13-cis-retinoic acid). We conducted a single-site, single-arm, pilot study to determine the effect of therapy with isotretinoin on sperm indices in 19 infertile men with oligoasthenozoospermia. Subjects were men between 21 and 60 years of age with infertility for longer than 12 months associated with sperm concentrations below 15 million sperm/mL. All men received isotretinoin 20 mg by mouth twice daily for 20 weeks. Subjects had semen analyses, physical examinations, and laboratory tests every 4 weeks during treatment. Nineteen men enrolled in the study. Median (25th, 75th) sperm concentration increased from 2.5 (0.1, 5.9) million/mL at baseline to 3.8 (2.1, 13.0) million/mL at the end of treatment (p = 0.006). No significant changes in sperm motility were observed. There was a trend toward improved sperm morphology (p = 0.056). Six pregnancies (three spontaneous and three from intracytoplasmic sperm injection) and five births occurred during the study. Four of the births, including all three of the spontaneous pregnancies, were observed in men with improvements in sperm counts with isotretinoin therapy. Treatment was well tolerated. Isotretinoin therapy improves sperm production in some men with oligoasthenozoospermia. Additional studies of isotretinoin in men with infertility from oligoasthenozoospermia are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- J K Amory
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - K A Ostrowski
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - J R Gannon
- Intermountain Health, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - K Berkseth
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - F Stevison
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - N Isoherranen
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - C H Muller
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - T Walsh
- Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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37
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Meraz-Medina T, Hernández-González M, Bonilla-Jaime H, Guevara MA, Flores-Mancilla L, Vigueras-Villaseñor RM, Arteaga-Silva M. Changes in hormonal levels associated with enforced interval copulation and anxiety in sexually inexperienced and experienced male rats. Physiol Behav 2017; 177:74-81. [PMID: 28385557 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2017.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2016] [Revised: 02/19/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the effect of sexual experience on anxiety and hormonal levels associated with the performance of sexual behavior. Two groups of male rats, one with, the second without, sexual experience, were exposed to four different copulatory conditions: ad libitum copulation until ejaculation (ADC-E); enforced interval copulation until ejaculation (EIC-E); ad libitum copulation up to 3 intromissions (ADC-3I); and enforced interval copulation up to 3 intromissions (EIC-E3I). At the end of each condition the animals were subjected to an open-field test to measure anxiety, before being sacrificed to measure corticosterone (CORT) and testosterone (T) levels. The sexually-inexperienced males showed less hyperactivity, lower sexual motivation, and higher anxiety levels. Only in the ADC-E and EIC-E conditions did both the inexperienced and experienced rats have a higher number of entries to the central squares of the open-field test. Both the sexually-inexperienced and experienced male rats showed an increase in CORT levels, but only the latter had increased T levels under all copulatory conditions. These findings reveal that the anxiolytic effect of mating is dependent on previous sexual experience and the degree of control that the male rats had during sexual interaction. The changes in the levels of both hormones could be part of the physiological process necessary to satisfy the demands involved in sexual performance and open filed. These data provide further insight into the role of sexual experience in mediating the release of CORT and T, as well as the anxiolytic effects of ejaculation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzintli Meraz-Medina
- Coordinación Lic. en Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad de Guadalajara, Centro Universitario del Sur, Enrique Arreola 883, Ciudad Guzmán, CP 4900 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Marisela Hernández-González
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Guadalajara, Francisco de Quevedo 180, Col. Arcos Vallarta, CP 44130 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Herlinda Bonilla-Jaime
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Iztapalapa, P.O. Box 55 535, CP 09340 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Miguel Angel Guevara
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Universidad de Guadalajara, Francisco de Quevedo 180, Col. Arcos Vallarta, CP 44130 Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Leopoldo Flores-Mancilla
- Unidad Académica de Medicina Humana y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecasa, Ejido la Escondid, CP 98160 Zacatecas, Mexico
| | | | - Marcela Arteaga-Silva
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Iztapalapa, P.O. Box 55 535, CP 09340 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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38
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Retinoic acid signaling is dispensable for somatic development and function in the mammalian ovary. Dev Biol 2017; 424:208-220. [PMID: 28274610 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2017.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2016] [Revised: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Retinoic acid (RA) is a potent inducer of cell differentiation and plays an essential role in sex-specific germ cell development in the mammalian gonad. RA is essential for male gametogenesis and hence fertility. However, RA can also disrupt sexual cell fate in somatic cells of the testis, promoting transdifferentiation of male Sertoli cells to female granulosa-like cells when the male sexual regulator Dmrt1 is absent. The feminizing ability of RA in the Dmrt1 mutant somatic testis suggests that RA might normally play a role in somatic cell differentiation or cell fate maintenance in the ovary. To test for this possibility we disrupted RA signaling in somatic cells of the early fetal ovary using three genetic strategies and one pharmaceutical approach. We found that deleting all three RA receptors (RARs) in the XX somatic gonad at the time of sex determination did not significantly affect ovarian differentiation, follicle development, or female fertility. Transcriptome analysis of adult triple mutant ovaries revealed remarkably little effect on gene expression in the absence of somatic RAR function. Likewise, deletion of three RA synthesis enzymes (Aldh1a1-3) at the time of sex determination did not masculinize the ovary. A dominant-negative RAR transgene altered granulosa cell proliferation, likely due to interference with a non-RA signaling pathway, but did not prevent granulosa cell specification and oogenesis or abolish fertility. Finally, culture of fetal XX gonads with an RAR antagonist blocked germ cell meiotic initiation but did not disrupt sex-biased gene expression. We conclude that RA signaling, although crucial in the ovary for meiotic initiation, is not required for granulosa cell specification, differentiation, or reproductive function.
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Abstract
Although female contraceptives are very effective at preventing unintended pregnancy, some women can not use them because of health conditions or side-effects, leaving some couples without effective contraceptive options. In addition, many men wish to take active responsibility for family planning. Thus, there is a great need for male contraceptives to prevent unintended pregnancies, of which 80-90 million occur annually. At present, effective male contraceptive options are condoms and vasectomy, which are not ideal for all men. Therefore, efforts are under way to develop novel male contraceptives. This paper briefly reviews the advantages and disadvantages of condoms and vasectomies and then discusses the research directed toward development of novel methods of male contraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- John K Amory
- Center for Research in Reproduction and Contraception, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington.
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Dumont L, Oblette A, Rondanino C, Jumeau F, Bironneau A, Liot D, Duchesne V, Wils J, Rives N. Vitamin A prevents round spermatid nuclear damage and promotes the production of motile sperm during in vitro maturation of vitrified pre-pubertal mouse testicular tissue. Mol Hum Reprod 2016; 22:819-832. [PMID: 27671755 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Revised: 08/06/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does vitamin A (retinol, Rol) prevent round spermatid nuclear damage and increase the production of motile sperm during in vitro maturation of vitrified pre-pubertal mouse testicular tissue? SUMMARY ANSWER The supplementation of an in vitro culture of ~0.75 mm3 testicular explants from pre-pubertal mice with Rol enhances spermatogenesis progression during the first spermatogenic wave. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The production of functional spermatozoa in vitro has only been achieved in the mouse model and remains a rare event. Establishing an efficient culture medium for vitrified pre-pubertal testicular tissue is now a crucial step to improve the spermatic yield obtained in vitro. The role of Rol in promoting the differentiation of spermatogonia and their entry into meiosis is well established; however, it has been postulated that Rol is also required to support their full development into elongated spermatids. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A total of 60 testes from 6.5 days post-partum (dpp) mice were vitrified/warmed, cut into fragments and cultured for 30 days: 20 testes were used for light microscopy and histological analyses, 20 testes for DNA fragmentation assessment in round spermatids and 20 testes for induced sperm motility assessment. Overall, 16 testes of 6.5 dpp were used as in vitro fresh tissue controls and 12 testes of 36.5 dpp mice as in vivo controls. Testes were vitrified with the optimal solid surface vitrification procedure and cultured with an in vitro organ culture system until Day 30 (D30). Histological analysis, cell death, degenerating round spermatids, DNA fragmentation in round spermatids and induced sperm motility were assessed. Testosterone levels were measured in media throughout the culture by radioimmunoassay. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE At D30, better tissue development together with higher differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells, and higher global cell division ability were observed for vitrified/warmed testicular fragments of ~0.75 mm3 with a culture medium supplemented with Rol compared to controls. During in vitro culture of vitrified pre-pubertal testicular tissue, Rol enhanced and maintained the entry of spermatogonia into meiosis and promoted a higher spermatic yield. Furthermore, decreased round spermatid nuclear alterations and DNA damage combined with induced sperm motility comparable to in vivo highlight the crucial role of Rol in the progression of spermatogenesis during the first wave. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Despite our promising results, the culture media will have to be further improved and adapted within the context of a human application. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The results have potential implications for the handling of human pre-pubertal testicular tissues cryopreserved for fertility preservation. However, because some alterations in round spermatids persist after in vitro culture with Rol, the procedure needs to be optimized before human application, bearing in mind that the murine and human spermatogenic processes differ in many respects. LARGE SCALE DATA None. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTERESTS This study was supported by a Ph.D. grant from the Normandy University and a financial support from 'la Ligue nationale contre le cancer' (both awarded to L.D.), funding from Rouen University Hospital, Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine (IRIB) and Agence de la Biomédecine. The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Dumont
- EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Rouen University Hospital, Institute for Biomedical Research, Pavillon Derocque, Hôpital Charles Nicolle, 1 Rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen Cedex, France.,Normandy University, Ed 497 Normande de Biologie Intégrative, Santé et Environnement (EdNBISE), Bâtiment Principal UFR Sciences, Place Emilie Blondel, 76821 Mont-Saint-Aignan Cedex, France.,Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine (IRIB) , IRIB Normandy, 22 Boulevard Gambetta, 76183 Rouen Cedex, France
| | - A Oblette
- EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Rouen University Hospital, Institute for Biomedical Research, Pavillon Derocque, Hôpital Charles Nicolle, 1 Rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen Cedex, France.,Normandy University, Ed 497 Normande de Biologie Intégrative, Santé et Environnement (EdNBISE), Bâtiment Principal UFR Sciences, Place Emilie Blondel, 76821 Mont-Saint-Aignan Cedex, France.,Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine (IRIB) , IRIB Normandy, 22 Boulevard Gambetta, 76183 Rouen Cedex, France
| | - C Rondanino
- EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Rouen University Hospital, Institute for Biomedical Research, Pavillon Derocque, Hôpital Charles Nicolle, 1 Rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen Cedex, France.,Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine (IRIB) , IRIB Normandy, 22 Boulevard Gambetta, 76183 Rouen Cedex, France
| | - F Jumeau
- EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Rouen University Hospital, Institute for Biomedical Research, Pavillon Derocque, Hôpital Charles Nicolle, 1 Rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen Cedex, France.,Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine (IRIB) , IRIB Normandy, 22 Boulevard Gambetta, 76183 Rouen Cedex, France
| | - A Bironneau
- EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Rouen University Hospital, Institute for Biomedical Research, Pavillon Derocque, Hôpital Charles Nicolle, 1 Rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen Cedex, France
| | - D Liot
- EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Rouen University Hospital, Institute for Biomedical Research, Pavillon Derocque, Hôpital Charles Nicolle, 1 Rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen Cedex, France
| | - V Duchesne
- EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Rouen University Hospital, Institute for Biomedical Research, Pavillon Derocque, Hôpital Charles Nicolle, 1 Rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen Cedex, France
| | - J Wils
- Biochemistry Laboratory, Rouen University Hospital, Institute for Biomedical Research , Pavillon Derocque, Hôpital Charles Nicolle, 1 Rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen Cedex, France
| | - N Rives
- EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Rouen University Hospital, Institute for Biomedical Research, Pavillon Derocque, Hôpital Charles Nicolle, 1 Rue de Germont, 76031 Rouen Cedex, France .,Institute for Research and Innovation in Biomedicine (IRIB) , IRIB Normandy, 22 Boulevard Gambetta, 76183 Rouen Cedex, France
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Affiliation(s)
- C Wang
- Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | | | - D Serfaty
- Francophone Society of Contraception, Paris, France
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Chung SSW, Wang X, Wolgemuth DJ. Prolonged Oral Administration of a Pan-Retinoic Acid Receptor Antagonist Inhibits Spermatogenesis in Mice With a Rapid Recovery and Changes in the Expression of Influx and Efflux Transporters. Endocrinology 2016; 157:1601-12. [PMID: 26812157 PMCID: PMC4816726 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
We have previously shown that oral administration of a pan-retinoic acid receptor antagonist in mice daily at 2.5 mg/kg for 4 weeks reversibly inhibited spermatogenesis, with no detectable side effects. To elucidate the lowest dose and the longest dosing regimen that inhibits spermatogenesis but results in complete restoration of fertility upon cessation of administration of the drug, we examined the effects of daily doses as low as 1.0 mg/kg with dosing periods of 4, 8, and 16 weeks. We observed 100% sterility in all regimens, with restoration of fertility upon cessation of the drug treatment even for as long as 16 weeks. There was no change in testosterone levels in these males and the progeny examined from 2 of the recovered males were healthy and fertile, with normal testicular weight and testicular histology. Strikingly, a more rapid recovery, as assessed by mating studies, was observed at the lower dose and longer dosing periods. Insight into possible mechanisms underlying this rapid recovery was obtained at 2 levels. First, histological examination revealed that spermatogenesis was not as severely disrupted at the lower dose and with the longer treatment regimens. Second, gene expression analysis revealed that the more rapid recovery may involve the interplay of ATP-binding cassette efflux and solute carrier influx transporters in the testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanny S W Chung
- Departments of Genetics and Development (S.S.W.C., X.W., D.J.W.) and Obstetrics and Gynecology (D.J.W.), The Institute of Human Nutrition (D.J.W.), and The Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center (D.J.W.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | - Xiangyuan Wang
- Departments of Genetics and Development (S.S.W.C., X.W., D.J.W.) and Obstetrics and Gynecology (D.J.W.), The Institute of Human Nutrition (D.J.W.), and The Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center (D.J.W.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
| | - Debra J Wolgemuth
- Departments of Genetics and Development (S.S.W.C., X.W., D.J.W.) and Obstetrics and Gynecology (D.J.W.), The Institute of Human Nutrition (D.J.W.), and The Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center (D.J.W.), Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032
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Abstract
Nearly half of all pregnancies worldwide are unplanned, despite numerous contraceptive options available. No new contraceptive method has been developed for men since the invention of condom. Nevertheless, more than 25% of contraception worldwide relies on male methods. Therefore, novel effective methods of male contraception are of interest. Herein we review the physiologic basis for both male hormonal and nonhormonal methods of contraception. We review the history of male hormonal contraception development, current hormonal agents in development, as well as the potential risks and benefits of male hormonal contraception options for men. Nonhormonal methods reviewed will include both pharmacological and mechanical approaches in development, with specific focus on methods which inhibit the testicular retinoic acid synthesis and action. Multiple hormonal and nonhormonal methods of male contraception are in the drug development pathway, with the hope that a reversible, reliable, safe method of male contraception will be available to couples in the not too distant future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Y Roth
- Department of Medicine, Center for Research in Reproduction and Contraception, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - John K Amory
- Department of Medicine, Center for Research in Reproduction and Contraception, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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Li N, Tang EI, Cheng CY. Regulation of blood-testis barrier by actin binding proteins and protein kinases. Reproduction 2015; 151:R29-41. [PMID: 26628556 DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is an important ultrastructure in the testis, since the onset of meiosis and spermiogenesis coincides with the establishment of a functional barrier in rodents and humans. It is also noted that a delay in the assembly of a functional BTB following treatment of neonatal rats with drugs such as diethylstilbestrol or adjudin also delays the first wave of spermiation. While the BTB is one of the tightest blood-tissue barriers, it undergoes extensive remodeling, in particular, at stage VIII of the epithelial cycle to facilitate the transport of preleptotene spermatocytes connected in clones across the immunological barrier. Without this timely transport of preleptotene spermatocytes derived from type B spermatogonia, meiosis will be arrested, causing aspermatogenesis. Yet the biology and regulation of the BTB remains largely unexplored since the morphological studies in the 1970s. Recent studies, however, have shed new light on the biology of the BTB. Herein, we critically evaluate some of these findings, illustrating that the Sertoli cell BTB is regulated by actin-binding proteins (ABPs), likely supported by non-receptor protein kinases, to modulate the organization of actin microfilament bundles at the site. Furthermore, microtubule-based cytoskeleton is also working in concert with the actin-based cytoskeleton to confer BTB dynamics. This timely review provides an update on the unique biology and regulation of the BTB based on the latest findings in the field, focusing on the role of ABPs and non-receptor protein kinases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Li
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive ResearchCenter for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - Elizabeth I Tang
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive ResearchCenter for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, USA
| | - C Yan Cheng
- The Mary M. Wohlford Laboratory for Male Contraceptive ResearchCenter for Biomedical Research, Population Council, 1230 York Avenue, New York, New York 10065, USA
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45
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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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Mining for Candidate Genes Related to Pancreatic Cancer Using Protein-Protein Interactions and a Shortest Path Approach. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:623121. [PMID: 26613085 PMCID: PMC4647023 DOI: 10.1155/2015/623121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a highly malignant tumor derived from pancreas tissue and is one of the leading causes of death from cancer. Its molecular mechanism has been partially revealed by validating its oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes; however, the available data remain insufficient for medical workers to design effective treatments. Large-scale identification of PC-related genes can promote studies on PC. In this study, we propose a computational method for mining new candidate PC-related genes. A large network was constructed using protein-protein interaction information, and a shortest path approach was applied to mine new candidate genes based on validated PC-related genes. In addition, a permutation test was adopted to further select key candidate genes. Finally, for all discovered candidate genes, the likelihood that the genes are novel PC-related genes is discussed based on their currently known functions.
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Role of retinoic acid receptor (RAR) signaling in post-natal male germ cell differentiation. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2015; 1849:84-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2014.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2014] [Revised: 05/12/2014] [Accepted: 05/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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48
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Bernard V, Bouvattier C, Christin-Maitre S. [Therapeutic issues concerning male fertility]. ANNALES D'ENDOCRINOLOGIE 2015; 75 Suppl 1:S13-20. [PMID: 25617918 DOI: 10.1016/s0003-4266(14)70023-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Men reproductive health has long been ignored although it is responsible for 50% of couple's infertility. However, in recent years, the understanding of endocrine physiology underlying testis development and spermatogenesis has enabled the development of new therapeutic strategies. Some concern the management of male infertility. Others are dealing with finding an effective male contraceptive. In this review, we first present the management of infertility, in patients with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. We then describe the major improvements for Klinefelter patient's infertility. Finally, we review the different hormonal and non-hormonal methods for male contraception, currently in development. Efficacy and safety of the some non-hormonal methods remain to be demonstrated so far in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Bernard
- Unité INSERM 693, 63 rue Gabriel-Péri, 94276 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre cedex, France.
| | - C Bouvattier
- Service d'endocrinologie et diabétologie pédiatrique, CHU de Bicêtre, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - S Christin-Maitre
- Service d'endocrinologie et maladies de la reproduction, Hôpital Saint-Antoine, Paris, France
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Zhang F, Das S, Walkinshaw AJ, Casitas A, Taylor M, Suero MG, Gaunt MJ. Cu-Catalyzed Cascades to Carbocycles: Union of Diaryliodonium Salts with Alkenes or Alkynes Exploiting Remote Carbocations. J Am Chem Soc 2014; 136:8851-4. [DOI: 10.1021/ja504361y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fengzhi Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Shoubhik Das
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew J. Walkinshaw
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Alicia Casitas
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Taylor
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Marcos G. Suero
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew J. Gaunt
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge CB2 1EW, United Kingdom
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50
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Male contraception. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2014; 28:845-57. [PMID: 24947599 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2014.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2014] [Revised: 03/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Clear evidence shows that many men and women would welcome new male methods of contraception, but none have become available. The hormonal approach is based on suppression of gonadotropins and thus of testicular function and spermatogenesis, and has been investigated for several decades. This approach can achieve sufficient suppression of spermatogenesis for effective contraception in most men, but not all; the basis for these men responding insufficiently is unclear. Alternatively, the non-hormonal approach is based on identifying specific processes in sperm development, maturation and function. A range of targets has been identified in animal models, and targeted effectively. This approach, however, remains in the pre-clinical domain at present. There are, therefore, grounds for considering that safe, effective and reversible methods of contraception for men can be developed.
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