1
|
Ajayi AF, Oyovwi MO, Olatinwo G, Phillips AO. Unfolding the complexity of epigenetics in male reproductive aging: a review of therapeutic implications. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:881. [PMID: 39085654 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09823-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epigenetics studies gene expression changes influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors, linked to health conditions like reproductive aging. Male reproductive aging causes sperm decline, conceiving difficulties, and increased genetic abnormalities. Recent research focuses on epigenetics' role in male reproductive aging. OBJECTIVES This review explores epigenetics and male reproductive aging, focusing on sperm quality, environmental and lifestyle factors' impact, and potential health implications for offspring. METHODS An extensive search of the literature was performed applying multiple databases, such as PubMed and Google Scholar. The search phrases employed were: epigenetics, male reproductive ageing, sperm quality, sperm quantity, environmental influences, lifestyle factors, and offspring health. This review only included articles that were published in English and had undergone a peer-review process. The literature evaluation uncovered that epigenetic alterations have a substantial influence on the process of male reproductive ageing. RESULT Research has demonstrated that variations in the quality and quantity of sperm that occur with ageing are linked to adjustments in DNA methylation and histone. Moreover, there is evidence linking epigenetic alterations in sperm to environmental and lifestyle factors, including smoking, alcohol intake, and exposure to contaminants. These alterations can have enduring impacts on the well-being of descendants, since they can shape the activation of genes and potentially elevate the likelihood of genetic disorders. In conclusion, epigenetics significantly influences male reproductive aging, with sperm quality and quantity influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors. CONCLUSION This underscores the need for comprehensive approaches to managing male reproductive health, and underscores the importance of considering epigenetics in diagnosis and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayodeji Folorunsho Ajayi
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
- Anchor Biomed Research Institute, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
- Department of Physiology, Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
| | | | - Goodness Olatinwo
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Babcock University, Ilishan Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Akano Oyedayo Phillips
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Babcock University, Ilishan Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Li Y, Wang Y, An T, Tang Y, Shi M, Zhang W, Xue M, Wang X, Zhang J. Non-thermal plasma promotes boar sperm quality through increasing AMPK methylation. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 257:128768. [PMID: 38096931 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.128768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Boar sperm quality, as an important indicator of reproductive efficiency, directly affects the efficiency of livestock production. Here, this study was conducted to improve the boar sperm quality by using a non-thermal dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma. Our results showed that DBD plasma exposure at 2.1 W for 15 s could improve boar sperm quality by increasing exon methylation level of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and thus improving the glycolytic flux, mitochondrial function, and antioxidant capacity without damaging the integrity of sperm DNA and acrosome. In addition, DBD plasma could rescue DNA methyltransferase inhibitor decitabine-caused low sperm quality through reducing the oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage. Therefore, the application of non-thermal plasma provides a new strategy for reducing sperm oxidative damage and improving sperm quality, which shows a great potential in assisted reproduction to solve the problem of male infertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaqi Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing 400715, China; Jianyang Municipal People's Government Shiqiao Street Office Comprehensive Convenience Service Center, Jianyang, Sichuan 641400, China
| | - Yusha Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Tianyi An
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yao Tang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Mei Shi
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Wenyu Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Mengqing Xue
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Xianzhong Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing 400715, China.
| | - Jiaojiao Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage & Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing 400715, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Yoshizaki K, Kimura R, Kobayashi H, Oki S, Kikkawa T, Mai L, Koike K, Mochizuki K, Inada H, Matsui Y, Kono T, Osumi N. Paternal age affects offspring via an epigenetic mechanism involving REST/NRSF. EMBO Rep 2021; 22:e51524. [PMID: 33399271 PMCID: PMC7857438 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202051524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 11/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Advanced paternal age can have deleterious effects on various traits in the next generation. Here, we establish a paternal‐aging model in mice to understand the molecular mechanisms of transgenerational epigenetics. Whole‐genome target DNA methylome analyses of sperm from aged mice reveal more hypo‐methylated genomic regions enriched in REST/NRSF binding motifs. Gene set enrichment analyses also reveal the upregulation of REST/NRSF target genes in the forebrain of embryos from aged fathers. Offspring derived from young mice administrated with a DNA de‐methylation drug phenocopy the abnormal vocal communication of pups derived from aged fathers. In conclusion, hypo‐methylation of sperm DNA can be a key molecular feature modulating neurodevelopmental programs in offspring by causing fluctuations in the expression of REST/NRSF target genes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaichi Yoshizaki
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.,Department of Disease Model, Aichi Developmental Disability Center, Aichi, Japan
| | - Ryuichi Kimura
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.,Department of Drug Discovery Medicine, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hisato Kobayashi
- NODAI Genome Research Center, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Embryology, Nara Medical University, Nara, Japan.,The Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology (AMED-CREST), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinya Oki
- Department of Drug Discovery Medicine, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takako Kikkawa
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Lingling Mai
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Kohei Koike
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.,Department of Physiology, Center for Integrative Physiology and Molecular Medicine, Saarland University School of Medicine, Homburg, Germany
| | - Kentaro Mochizuki
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.,Cell Resource Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Inada
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.,Laboratory of Health and Sports Science, Division of Biomedical Engineering for Health and Welfare, Tohoku University Graduate School of Biomedical Engineering, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yasuhisa Matsui
- The Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology (AMED-CREST), Tokyo, Japan.,Cell Resource Center for Biomedical Research, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Kono
- The Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology (AMED-CREST), Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Bioscience, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Noriko Osumi
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan.,The Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development-Core Research for Evolutional Science and Technology (AMED-CREST), Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Colwell M, Wanner NM, Drown C, Drown M, Dolinoy DC, Faulk C. Paradoxical whole genome DNA methylation dynamics of 5'aza-deoxycytidine in chronic low-dose exposure in mice. Epigenetics 2020; 16:209-227. [PMID: 32619143 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2020.1790951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Decitabine (5-aza-2'deoxycytidine; DAC) is a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor used to hypomethylate the epigenome. Current dosing regimens of DAC for use in mice vary widely and their hypomethylating ability has not been robustly characterized, despite reliable results of hypomethylation of the epigenome with cell lines in vitro and tissue specificity in vivo. We investigated the effects on the DNA methylome and gene expression within mice exposed to chronic low doses of DAC ranging from 0 to 0.35 mg/kg over a period of 7 weeks without causing toxicity. Our dose paradigm resulted in no cytotoxic effects within target tissues, although testes weight and sperm concentration significantly reduced as dose increased (p-value <0.05). By whole genome bisulphite sequencing (WGBS), we identify tissue and dose-specific differentially methylated CpGs (DMCs) and regions (DMRs) in testes and liver. Testes methylation is more sensitive to DAC exposure when compared to liver, cortex, and hippocampus. Gene expression was dysregulated in testes and liver, targeting non-specific pathways as dose increases. Together our data suggest DNA methylation and gene expression are disrupted by in vivo DAC treatment in a non-uniform manner contrary to expectations, and that no dose level or regimen is sufficient to cause systemic hypomethylation in whole mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathia Colwell
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Scientists , St. Paul, MN, USA
| | - Nicole M Wanner
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine , St. Paul, MN, USA
| | - Chelsea Drown
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Scientists , St. Paul, MN, USA
| | - Melissa Drown
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Scientists , St. Paul, MN, USA
| | - Dana C Dolinoy
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan , Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Christopher Faulk
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Scientists , St. Paul, MN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Delessard M, Saulnier J, Rives A, Dumont L, Rondanino C, Rives N. Exposure to Chemotherapy During Childhood or Adulthood and Consequences on Spermatogenesis and Male Fertility. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21041454. [PMID: 32093393 PMCID: PMC7073108 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21041454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Over the last decade, the number of cancer survivors has increased thanks to progress in diagnosis and treatment. Cancer treatments are often accompanied by adverse side effects depending on the age of the patient, the type of cancer, the treatment regimen, and the doses. The testicular tissue is very sensitive to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. This review will summarize the epidemiological and experimental data concerning the consequences of exposure to chemotherapy during the prepubertal period or adulthood on spermatogenic progression, sperm production, sperm nuclear quality, and the health of the offspring. Studies concerning the gonadotoxicity of anticancer drugs in adult survivors of childhood cancer are still limited compared with those concerning the effects of chemotherapy exposure during adulthood. In humans, it is difficult to evaluate exactly the toxicity of chemotherapeutic agents because cancer treatments often combine chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Thus, it is important to undertake experimental studies in animal models in order to define the mechanism involved in the drug gonadotoxicity and to assess the effects of their administration alone or in combination on immature and mature testis. These data will help to better inform cancer patients after recovery about the risks of chemotherapy for their future fertility and to propose fertility preservation options.
Collapse
|
6
|
Jarred EG, Bildsoe H, Western PS. Out of sight, out of mind? Germ cells and the potential impacts of epigenomic drugs. F1000Res 2018; 7. [PMID: 30613387 PMCID: PMC6305226 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.15935.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, determine the way DNA is packaged within the nucleus and regulate cell-specific gene expression. The heritability of these modifications provides a memory of cell identity and function. Common dysregulation of epigenetic modifications in cancer has driven substantial interest in the development of epigenetic modifying drugs. Although these drugs have the potential to be highly beneficial for patients, they act systemically and may have “off-target” effects in other cells such as the patients’ sperm or eggs. This review discusses the potential for epigenomic drugs to impact on the germline epigenome and subsequent offspring and aims to foster further examination into the possible effects of these drugs on gametes. Ultimately, the information gained by further research may improve the clinical guidelines for the use of such drugs in patients of reproductive age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen G Jarred
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Heidi Bildsoe
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Patrick S Western
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testicular germ cell tumor such as seminoma is strongly associated with male reproductive problems commonly associated with the alteration of sperm parameters as described in testicular dysgenesis syndrome. Interestingly, numerous studies have reported that the precursor of germ cell cancer, germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS), present similarities to fetal gonocytes, specifically characterized by global DNA hypomethylation particularly on imprinting sequences. These disorders may have a common origin derived from perturbations of embryonal programming during fetal development. Presently, there is no available information concerning the sperm DNA methylation patterns of testicular cancer patients. For the first time, we evaluated the sperm imprinting of seminoma patients. A total of 92 cryopreserved sperm samples were included, 31 before seminoma treatment (S): 23 normozoospermic (SN) and 8 oligozoospermic (SO) and 61 sperm controls samples: 31 normozoospermic (N) and 30 oligozoospermic (O). DNA methylation levels of seven differentially methylated regions (DMRs) of imprinted genes [H19/IGF2: IG-DMR (CTCF3 and CTCF6 of H19 gene); IGF2-DMRs (DMR0 and DMR2); MEG3/DLK1:IG-DMR; SNURF:TSS-DMR; KCNQ1OT1:TSS-DMR] were assessed by pyrosequencing. All comparative analyses were adjusted for age. RESULTS Comparisons of sperm DNA methylation levels between seminoma (S) and normozoospermic (N) samples showed a significant difference for the SNURF sequence (p = 0.017), but after taking into account the sperm parameters, no difference was observed. However, we confirmed a significant association between oligozoospermia (O) and imprinting defects for H19/IGF2-CTCF6 (p = 0.001), MEG3/DLK1 (p = 0.017), IGF2-DMR2 (p = 0.022), and SNURF (p = 0.032) in comparison with control groups (N). CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the high risk of sperm imprinting defects in cases of oligozoospermia and shows for the first time that seminoma patients with normal spermatogenesis present sperm imprinting integrity. These data suggest a low probability of the involvement of a common imprinting defect in fetal cells leading to both TGCT and subfertility.
Collapse
|
8
|
Western PS. Epigenomic drugs and the germline: Collateral damage in the home of heritability? Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 468:121-133. [PMID: 29471014 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2018.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2018] [Revised: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The testis and ovary provide specialised environments that nurture germ cells and facilitate their maturation, culminating in the production of mature gametes that can found the following generation. The sperm and egg not only transmit genetic information, but also epigenetic modifications that affect the development and physiology of offspring. Importantly, the epigenetic information contained in mature sperm and oocytes can be influenced by a range of environmental factors, such as diet, chemicals and drugs. An increasing range of studies are revealing how gene-environment interactions are mediated through the germline. Outside the germline, altered epigenetic state is common in a range of diseases, including many cancers. As epigenetic modifications are reversible, pharmaceuticals that directly target epigenetic modifying proteins have been developed and are delivering substantial benefits to patients, particularly in oncology. While providing the most effective patient treatment is clearly the primary concern, some patients will want to conceive children after treatment. However, the impacts of epigenomic drugs on the male and female gametes are poorly understood and whether these drugs will have lasting effects on patients' germline epigenome and subsequent offspring remains largely undetermined. Currently, evidence based clinical guidelines for use of epigenomic drugs in patients of reproductive age are limited in this context. Developing a deeper understanding of the epigenetic mechanisms regulating the germline epigenome and its impact on inherited traits and disease susceptibility is required to determine how specific epigenomic drugs might affect the germline and inheritance. Understanding these potential effects will facilitate the development of informed clinical guidelines appropriate for the use of epigenomic drugs in patients of reproductive age, ultimately improving the safety of these therapies in the clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick S Western
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mincheva M, Sandhowe-Klaverkamp R, Wistuba J, Redmann K, Stukenborg JB, Kliesch S, Schlatt S. Reassembly of adult human testicular cells: can testis cord-like structures be created in vitro? Mol Hum Reprod 2017; 24:55-63. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M Mincheva
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - R Sandhowe-Klaverkamp
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - J Wistuba
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - K Redmann
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - J -B Stukenborg
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, NORDFERTIL research lab Stockholm, Pediatric Endocrinology Unit, Q2:08, Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital, SE-17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - S Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - S Schlatt
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 1, 48149 Münster, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Tremblay A, Beaud H, Delbès G. [Transgenerational impact of chemotherapy: Would the father exposure impact the health of future progeny?]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 45:609-618. [PMID: 29111290 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2017.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
The number of cancer survivors is increasing and their quality of life is becoming a major public health issue. Cancer treatments reduce men's reproductive health by targeting spermatogenesis. Ultimately, DNA, chromatin and the epigenome of spermatozoa can be altered in cancer survivors. Knowing whether the history of cancer and the treatments received can have consequences on the health of their offspring is therefore a fundamental question for these patients. This review gathers the experimental and epidemiological evidences of the effects observed on the direct descendants and on several generations, and draws up the state of knowledge on the mechanisms potentially involved. Experimental data describe inter- and transgenerational effects of paternal exposure depending on the type of treatment, dose and time of exposure. In the human population, the analysis of the effects specifically due to chemotherapy is still limited because they are often combined with irradiation treatments. However, it appears that chemotherapy agents affect the birth rate but do not have a significant impact on the health of the children born. Nevertheless, the demonstration of modifications of the sperm epigenome in cancer survivors, even after a period of remission, as well as changes in the sperm of the progeny in animal models, suggests a possible transgenerational transmission that remains to be studied in the human population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Tremblay
- Institut national de la recherche scientifique, centre INRS-institut Armand-Frappier, 531, boulevard des Prairies, H7V 1B7 Laval (Québec), Canada
| | - H Beaud
- Institut national de la recherche scientifique, centre INRS-institut Armand-Frappier, 531, boulevard des Prairies, H7V 1B7 Laval (Québec), Canada
| | - G Delbès
- Institut national de la recherche scientifique, centre INRS-institut Armand-Frappier, 531, boulevard des Prairies, H7V 1B7 Laval (Québec), Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kamstra JH, Sales LB, Aleström P, Legler J. Differential DNA methylation at conserved non-genic elements and evidence for transgenerational inheritance following developmental exposure to mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate and 5-azacytidine in zebrafish. Epigenetics Chromatin 2017; 10:20. [PMID: 28413451 PMCID: PMC5389146 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-017-0126-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to environmental stressors during development may lead to latent and transgenerational adverse health effects. To understand the role of DNA methylation in these effects, we used zebrafish as a vertebrate model to investigate heritable changes in DNA methylation following chemical-induced stress during early development. We exposed zebrafish embryos to non-embryotoxic concentrations of the biologically active phthalate metabolite mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP, 30 µM) and the DNA methyltransferase 1 inhibitor 5-azacytidine (5AC, 10 µM). Direct, latent and transgenerational effects on DNA methylation were assessed using global, genome-wide and locus-specific DNA methylation analyses. RESULTS Following direct exposure in zebrafish embryos from 0 to 6 days post-fertilization, genome-wide analysis revealed a multitude of differentially methylated regions, strongly enriched at conserved non-genic elements for both compounds. Pathways involved in adipogenesis were enriched with the putative obesogenic compound MEHP. Exposure to 5AC resulted in enrichment of pathways involved in embryonic development and transgenerational effects on larval body length. Locus-specific methylation analysis of 10 differentially methylated sites revealed six of these loci differentially methylated in sperm sampled from adult zebrafish exposed during development to 5AC, and in first and second generation larvae. With MEHP, consistent changes were found at 2 specific loci in first and second generation larvae. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest a functional role for DNA methylation on cis-regulatory conserved elements following developmental exposure to compounds. Effects on these regions are potentially transferred to subsequent generations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jorke H. Kamstra
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Basic Sciences and Aquatic Medicine, CoE CERAD, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 8146 Dep., 0033 Oslo, Norway
| | - Liana Bastos Sales
- Institute for Environmental Studies, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Aleström
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Basic Sciences and Aquatic Medicine, CoE CERAD, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 8146 Dep., 0033 Oslo, Norway
| | - Juliette Legler
- Institute for Environmental Studies, VU University Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Institute for Environment, Health and Societies, College of Health and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Laurentino S, Borgmann J, Gromoll J. On the origin of sperm epigenetic heterogeneity. Reproduction 2016; 151:R71-8. [PMID: 26884419 DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The influence of epigenetic modifications on reproduction and on the function of male germ cells has been thoroughly demonstrated. In particular, aberrant DNA methylation levels in sperm have been associated with abnormal sperm parameters, lower fertilization rates and impaired embryo development. Recent reports have indicated that human sperm might be epigenetically heterogeneous and that abnormal DNA methylation levels found in the sperm of infertile men could be due to the presence of sperm populations with different epigenetic quality. However, the origin and the contribution of different germ cell types to this suspected heterogeneity remain unclear. In this review, we focus on sperm epigenetics at the DNA methylation level and its importance in reproduction. We take into account the latest developments and hypotheses concerning the functional significance of epigenetic heterogeneity coming from the field of stem cell and cancer biology and discuss the potential importance and consequences of sperm epigenetic heterogeneity for reproduction, male (in)fertility and assisted reproductive technologies (ART). Based on the current information, we propose a model in which spermatogonial stem cell variability, either intrinsic or due to external factors (such as endocrine action and environmental stimuli), can lead to epigenetic sperm heterogeneity, sperm epimutations and male infertility. The elucidation of the precise causes for epimutations, the conception of adequate therapeutic options and the development of sperm selection technologies based on epigenetic quality should be regarded as crucial to the improvement of ART outcome in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Laurentino
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and AndrologyAlbert-Schweitzer Campus, Münster, Germany
| | - Jennifer Borgmann
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and AndrologyAlbert-Schweitzer Campus, Münster, Germany
| | - Jörg Gromoll
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and AndrologyAlbert-Schweitzer Campus, Münster, Germany
| |
Collapse
|