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De Masi R, Orlando S. GANAB and N-Glycans Substrates Are Relevant in Human Physiology, Polycystic Pathology and Multiple Sclerosis: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:7373. [PMID: 35806376 PMCID: PMC9266668 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycans are one of the four fundamental macromolecular components of living matter, and they are highly regulated in the cell. Their functions are metabolic, structural and modulatory. In particular, ER resident N-glycans participate with the Glc3Man9GlcNAc2 highly conserved sequence, in protein folding process, where the physiological balance between glycosylation/deglycosylation on the innermost glucose residue takes place, according GANAB/UGGT concentration ratio. However, under abnormal conditions, the cell adapts to the glucose availability by adopting an aerobic or anaerobic regimen of glycolysis, or to external stimuli through internal or external recognition patterns, so it responds to pathogenic noxa with unfolded protein response (UPR). UPR can affect Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and several neurological and metabolic diseases via the BiP stress sensor, resulting in ATF6, PERK and IRE1 activation. Furthermore, the abnormal GANAB expression has been observed in MS, systemic lupus erythematous, male germinal epithelium and predisposed highly replicating cells of the kidney tubules and bile ducts. The latter is the case of Polycystic Liver Disease (PCLD) and Polycystic Kidney Disease (PCKD), where genetically induced GANAB loss affects polycystin-1 (PC1) and polycystin-2 (PC2), resulting in altered protein quality control and cyst formation phenomenon. Our topics resume the role of glycans in cell physiology, highlighting the N-glycans one, as a substrate of GANAB, which is an emerging key molecule in MS and other human pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto De Masi
- Complex Operative Unit of Neurology, “F. Ferrari” Hospital, Casarano, 73042 Lecce, Italy;
- Laboratory of Neuroproteomics, Multiple Sclerosis Centre, “F. Ferrari” Hospital, Casarano, 73042 Lecce, Italy
| | - Stefania Orlando
- Laboratory of Neuroproteomics, Multiple Sclerosis Centre, “F. Ferrari” Hospital, Casarano, 73042 Lecce, Italy
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Ansari AS, Hussain M, Khan SR, Badar A, Khilwani B, Lohiya NK. Studies on biochemical, oxidative and genotoxicity alterations following vas blockage with reversible inhibition of sperm under guidance and reversal in rats. Indian J Pharmacol 2022; 54:33-40. [PMID: 35343205 PMCID: PMC9012424 DOI: 10.4103/ijp.ijp_557_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT: Vas obstruction with reversible inhibition of sperm under guidance (RISUG) for contraception and its reversal, may cause oxidative stress or inimical effects on male reproductive functions. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the biochemical and genotoxicity at the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) following vas occlusion with RISUG and its reversal by Dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) and 5% NaHCO3 in Wistar albino rats. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: Animals were divided into seven groups (n = 10), namely sham-operated control, short-term vas occlusion with RISUG for 90 days, reversal with DMSO and 5% NaHCO3, long-term vas occlusion with RISUG for 360 days, reversal with DMSO and 5% NaHCO3. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Biochemical markers in reproductive tissues, hematology, serum biochemistry, serum electrolytes and ROS measuring indicators, e.g., lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione S-transferase were examined. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: One-way analysis of variance test was performed for analyses of data obtained in this study using the SPSS 10.0 software (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). RESULTS: The tissue and clinical chemistry did not show appreciable alterations in RISUG injected and reversal Groups (II-VII) as compared to sham control. The genotoxicity and various ROS markers fluctuated within control limits following short- and long-term vas occlusion and reversal. CONCLUSIONS: The study suggested that the reversal procedures, following RISUG contraception, were not associated with any kind of toxicological manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul S Ansari
- Department of Zoology, Centre for Advanced Studies, University of Rajasthan, Sitapura, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Mubarik Hussain
- Department of Zoology, S. S. Jain Subodh College of Global Excellence, Sitapura, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Sadi Rehan Khan
- Department of Zoology, Centre for Advanced Studies, University of Rajasthan, Sitapura, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Ayesha Badar
- Department of Zoology, Centre for Advanced Studies, University of Rajasthan, Sitapura, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Barkha Khilwani
- Department of Zoology, Centre for Advanced Studies, University of Rajasthan, Sitapura, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Nirmal Kumar Lohiya
- Department of Zoology, Centre for Advanced Studies, University of Rajasthan, Sitapura, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
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Jeyendran RS, Levrant S, Puscheck E. A novel laboratory procedure to validate American Urological Association guideline on vasectomy success and to diagnose obstructive azoospermia. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13766. [PMID: 32833301 DOI: 10.1111/and.13766] [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: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective was to develop a laboratory procedure to validate American Urological Association (AUA) Guideline on vasectomy success when nonmotile spermatozoa are found in the post-vasectomy ejaculate. The neutral α-glucosidase (NAG) an epididymal protein assay modified to determine the activity at 30 and 90 min of incubation from 24 pre- and 47 post-vasectomy ejaculates. The difference between the two points in the relative activity was calculated and if the difference was nonsignificant will confirm vasectomy success. The mean differences in the relative NAG activity were significantly different in pre- and post-vasectomy ejaculates, respectively. The mean differences in the relative NAG activity were similar in post-vasectomy ejaculates with and without nonmotile spermatozoa. No difference in relative NAG activity in post-vasectomy ejaculates between two time points of incubation may be a reliable method to confirm occlusion of the vas deferens. It also validates the recommendation by AUA Guideline on vasectomy success in the presence of few nonmotile spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Seth Levrant
- Partners in Reproductive Health, Tinley Park, IL, USA
| | - Elizabeth Puscheck
- Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA.,InVia Fertility, Hoffman Estates, IL, USA
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Yu Y, Sha SB, Zhang B, Guan Q, Liang M, Zhao LG, Zhang QY, Wen J, Sun W. Effects and mechanism of action of transcutaneous electrical acupuncture point stimulation in patients with abnormal semen parameters. Acupunct Med 2019; 37:25-32. [PMID: 30942613 DOI: 10.1136/acupmed-2017-011365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the effect of transcutaneous electrical acupuncture point stimulation (TEAS) on sperm parameters and the underlying molecular mechanisms. Methods: A total of 121 patients diagnosed with oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia or oligoasthenozoospermia were randomised into four groups (three treatment groups, one control): the TEAS groups were treated with 2 Hz (n=31), 100 Hz (n=31), or mock stimulation (n=29) at acupuncture points BL23, ST36, CV1 and CV4 for 2 months. The control group (n=30) was provided with lifestyle advice only. Results The changes in total sperm count and motility in the 2 Hz TEAS group were significantly greater than those in the mock group and the control group. The change in neutral α-glucosidase (NAG) and zinc levels in the 2 Hz group were significantly greater than those in the mock group and control group, and the changes in fructose levels of the 2 Hz group were significantly greater than those in the control group. Significant increases in calcium and integrin-binding protein 1 (CIB1) and reduction of cyclin-dependent kinase 1 b (CDK1) were also found after 2 Hz TEAS treatment. Conclusions The present findings suggest that 2 Hz TEAS can improve sperm count and motility in patients with abnormal semen parameters, and is associated with increases in seminal plasma zinc, NAG and fructose. The upregulation of CIB1 and downregulation of CDK1 by TEAS may be associated with its positive effects on sperm motility and count. Trial registration: http://www.chictr.org ; registration no. ChiCTR-TRC-11001775.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yu
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Second Hospital affiliated to Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shu-Bin Sha
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Second Hospital affiliated to Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Second Hospital affiliated to Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qun Guan
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Second Hospital affiliated to Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ming Liang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Second Hospital affiliated to Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lu-Gang Zhao
- Reproductive Medicine Research Centre, 6th Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qi-Yao Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Second Hospital affiliated to Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ji Wen
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Second Hospital affiliated to Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Sun
- Reproductive Medical Center, The Second Hospital affiliated to Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, People’s Republic of China
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Zhang MH, Zhai LP, Fang ZY, Li AN, Xiao W, Qiu Y. Effect of scrotal heating on sperm quality, seminal biochemical substances, and reproductive hormones in human fertile men. J Cell Biochem 2018; 119:10228-10238. [PMID: 30171730 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.27365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
At present, male contraceptive methods are only vasectomy and condoms, so it is necessary to research on male contraceptive techniques. The aim of this study is to observe the effects of scrotal heating (SH) on semen parameters, seminal l-carnitine (LC), epidermal growth factor (EGF), macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), reproductive hormones and sperm chromosome numbers of adult healthy men, and to provide the experimental data for male contraception. The scrotums of 30 healthy male volunteers were exposed to the condition of 40 to 43°C SH belt warming 40 minutes each day for successive 2 days per week. The course of SH was continuous for 3 months. Computer-assisted semen analysis and hypo-osmotic swelling test, sperm DNA integrity, l-carnitine, MIF and EGF, and sperm fluorescence in situ hybridization were performed before, during, and after SH. The serum level of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone (T) were measured by chemiluminescent immunoassay. The mean parameters of sperm concentration, vitality, and normal morphological sperm were significantly decreased in groups with sperms being collected during 1, 2, and 3 months of SH when compared with those in groups of pre-SH (P < 0.01). Statistically significant differences of sperm DNA fragmentation, normal sperm membrane functionality, levels of LC and MIF in semen, and LH, FSH, and T in serum were observed between the groups of before SH and after SH 3 months and the groups of during SH 1, 2, and 3 months (P < 0.001). The total rate of chromosome number for 13, 18, 21, X, and Y in the 3 months of SH was 13.7-fold greater (13.72%/1.69%) than before SH (P < 0.001). The constant SH can impact the semen quality, sperm DNA integrity, sperm chromosome, LC and MIF, and LH, FSH, and T in serum. Transient SH may be a new method for male contraception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Hua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health and Family Planning Commission of China, Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Shandong Province, Shandong Provincial Family Planning Institute of Science and Technology, Jinan, China
| | - Li-Ping Zhai
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health and Family Planning Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Institute of Control of Endemic Disease, Jinan, China
| | - Zhen-Ya Fang
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health and Family Planning Commission of China, Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Shandong Province, Shandong Provincial Family Planning Institute of Science and Technology, Jinan, China
| | - An-Na Li
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health and Family Planning Commission of China, Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Shandong Province, Shandong Provincial Family Planning Institute of Science and Technology, Jinan, China
| | - Wei Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health and Family Planning Commission of China, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yi Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health and Family Planning Commission of China, Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Shandong Province, Shandong Provincial Family Planning Institute of Science and Technology, Jinan, China
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Zhang MH, Zhai LP, Fang ZY, Li AN, Qiu Y, Liu YX. Impact of a mild scrotal heating on sperm chromosomal abnormality, acrosin activity and seminal alpha-glucosidase in human fertile males. Andrologia 2018; 50:e12985. [PMID: 29468755 DOI: 10.1111/and.12985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to observe sperm aneuploidy, DNA integrity, seminal alpha-glucosidase (NAG) and acrosin activity (AA) under testicular heat stress (SH). Spermatozoa were obtained from 30 healthy adult volunteers subjected to scrotal warming at 43°C for 30-40 min on two successive days per week for 3 months between February 2012 and September 2016. Aniline blue (AB), acridine orange (AO) staining, TUNEL assay and FISH analysis to evaluate sperm function, sperm DNA integrity and chromosomal abnormalities were carried on before, during and after SH. Sperm AA and NAG was measured by microplate reader. The mean parameters of sperm parameters, AA and NAG were significantly decreased. In contrast, the mean percentage of sperm DNA fragmentation and the proportion of aneuploidy of chromosomes 13, 18, 21, X and Y were significantly increased for spermatozoa collected during SH versus before SH (p < .01-.001). After stopping scrotal heating for 3 months, most parameters were completely restored to pre-SH levels. Sperm parameters, sperm DNA integrity, chromosomes, AA and NAG are affected by scrotal exposure to constant SH temperatures several degrees over normal physiological temperature, and after treatment, these parameters were reversibly restored to the level before SH in adult men.
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Affiliation(s)
- M-H Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health and Family Planning Commission of China, Key Laboratory for Improving Birth Outcome Technique, Shandong Provincial Family Planning Institute of Science and Technology, Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Shandong Province, Jinan, China
| | - L-P Zhai
- Shandong Provincial Institute of Control of Endemic Disease, Jinan, China
| | - Z-Y Fang
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health and Family Planning Commission of China, Key Laboratory for Improving Birth Outcome Technique, Shandong Provincial Family Planning Institute of Science and Technology, Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Shandong Province, Jinan, China
| | - A-N Li
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health and Family Planning Commission of China, Key Laboratory for Improving Birth Outcome Technique, Shandong Provincial Family Planning Institute of Science and Technology, Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Shandong Province, Jinan, China
| | - Y Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Birth Regulation and Control Technology of National Health and Family Planning Commission of China, Key Laboratory for Improving Birth Outcome Technique, Shandong Provincial Family Planning Institute of Science and Technology, Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Shandong Province, Jinan, China
| | - Y-X Liu
- Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Vivas-Acevedo G, Lozano-Hernández R, Camejo MI. Varicocele decreases epididymal neutral α-glucosidase and is associated with alteration of nuclear DNA and plasma membrane in spermatozoa. BJU Int 2014; 113:642-9. [PMID: 24148354 DOI: 10.1111/bju.12523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the relationship between a marker of epididymal function and both the fragmentation of the sperm nucleus and the integrity and maturity of the sperm membrane in patients with or without varicocele. PATIENTS AND METHODS Semen samples were obtained from men with varicocele grades II and III (n = 60) and from a control group with zoospermia defined as normal (n = 30). Samples were evaluated by a spermiogram, a hypoosmotic swelling test (HOST), neutral α-glucosidase (NAG) enzyme activity, sperm hyaluronan-binding assay (HBA) and DNA fragmentation using a sperm chromatin dispersion (SCD) test. RESULTS Seminal plasma NAG levels, percentage of sperm bound to hyaluronic acid, HOST-positive cells and sperm quality were significantly lower in the varicocele compared with the control group. Higher levels of sperm DNA fragmentation, as measured by SCD, were also observed in the varicocele group compared with the control group. Seminal NAG activity levels showed a strong negative correlation with DNA fragmentation and a significant positive correlation with the HBA test and the HOST. CONCLUSIONS Varicocele causes a reduction in NAG activity by the epididymis that is associated with damage to both the membrane and sperm nucleus and a reduction in the seminal parameters. NAG levels were correlated with the quality of the sperm membrane and nucleus. Data suggest that a reduction of fertilization capacity in men during varicocele can result from damage to both the testis and the epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanny Vivas-Acevedo
- Department of Clinical Bioanalysis, Centro Diagnóstico de Infertilidad y Enfermedades Genéticas (CEDIEG), University of Los Andes, Mérida
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Légaré C, Cloutier F, Makosso-Kallyth S, Laflamme N, Jarvi K, Tremblay RR, Sullivan R. Cysteine-rich secretory protein 1 in seminal plasma: potential biomarker for the distinction between obstructive and nonobstructive azoospermia. Fertil Steril 2013; 100:1253-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.07.1984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2013] [Revised: 07/23/2013] [Accepted: 07/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Said L, Saad A, Carreau S. Differential expression of mRNA aromatase in ejaculated spermatozoa from infertile men in relation to either asthenozoospermia or teratozoospermia. Andrologia 2012; 46:136-46. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/24/2012] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- L. Said
- Department of Biochemistry; University of Caen; Caen France
- Laboratory of Cytogenetics and Reproductive Biology; Hospital Farhat Hached; University of Sousse; Sousse Tunisia
| | - A. Saad
- Laboratory of Cytogenetics and Reproductive Biology; Hospital Farhat Hached; University of Sousse; Sousse Tunisia
| | - S. Carreau
- Department of Biochemistry; University of Caen; Caen France
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Jarvi K, Lo K, Fischer A, Grantmyre J, Zini A, Chow V, Mak V. CUA Guideline: The workup of azoospermic males. Can Urol Assoc J 2011; 4:163-7. [PMID: 20514278 DOI: 10.5489/cuaj.10050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A committee was established at the request of the CUA to determine guidelines for the investigation and management of azoospermia. Members of the committee, all of whom have special expertise in the investigation and management of male infertility, were chosen from different communities across Canada. The members represent different practices in different communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith Jarvi
- Keith Jarvi, Director, Murray Koffler Urologic Wellness Centre, Head of Urology, Mount Sinai Hospital, Professor of Surgery, University of Toronto, Director, Male Infertility Program, Toronto, ON
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Levrant S, Watanabe M, Land S, Sauer R, Jeyendran RS. The Relevance of Neutral α-Glucosidase Activity in Andrology. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2009; 55:116-9. [DOI: 10.1080/19396360902801935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Krause W, Bohring C. Why do we determine α-glucosidase activity in human semen during infertility work-up? Andrologia 2009. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.1999.tb01426.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
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Xu HR, Lu JC, Chen F, Huang YF, Yao B, Lu NQ. The effect of chymotrypsin on the determination of total alpha-glucosidase activity in seminal plasma and the correlation between alpha-glucosidase level and semen parameters. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 52:441-6. [PMID: 17050325 DOI: 10.1080/01485010600822689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
To evaluate the effect of chymotrypsin on the examination of alpha-glucosidase activity in seminal plasma, thirty-nine samples of fresh liquefied semen with or without chymotrypsin and forty-eight samples of fresh un-liquefied semen with chymotrypsin were determined for the total alpha-glucosidase activity in seminal plasma. The total alpha-glucosidase level of each sample was assayed by the method of glucose oxidase. The correlations between alpha-glucosidase level and semen parameters, including semen volume, pH, sperm concentration, grade a and b motility and total motility, were analyzed with SPSS 11.0 software. The results showed that chymotrypsin had no effect on seminal alpha-glucosidase activity determination. Chymotrypsin could improve the liquefaction for un-liquefied semen, and there was no significant difference of alpha-glucosidase activity between liquefied and un-liquefied semen samples. There were significantly positive correlations between seminal alpha-glucosidase activity (U/ml) and sperm concentration (r = 0.338, p = 0.015) and between total alpha-glucosidase activity (U/ejaculate) and semen volume (r = 0.677, p = 0.000). However, there was no significant correlation between alpha-glucosidase level (U/ml) and semen volume, pH, sperm motility or grade a and b motility (r = -0.234 approximately 0.077, p = 0.099 approximately 0.993). The data indicated that chymotrypsin could be added into the un-liquefied semen samples for alpha-glucosidase activity determination, and there were different correlations between seminal alpha-glucosidase level and various semen parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- H-R Xu
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, PR China
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Elzanaty S, Rignell-Hydbom A, Jönsson BAG, Pedersen HS, Ludwicki JK, Shevets M, Zvyezday V, Toft G, Bonde JP, Rylander L, Hagmar L, Bonefeld-Jorgensen E, Spano M, Bizzaro D, Manicardi GC, Giwercman A. Association between exposure to persistent organohalogen pollutants and epididymal and accessory sex gland function: multicentre study in Inuit and European populations. Reprod Toxicol 2006; 22:765-73. [PMID: 17008049 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2006.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2006] [Revised: 06/10/2006] [Accepted: 07/18/2006] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to persistent organochlorine pollutants (POPs) may have negative impact on male reproductive function. We, therefore, investigated the association between serum levels of POPs and epididymal and accessory sex gland function. Serum levels of CB-153, p,p'-DDE and seminal markers of epididymal [neutral-alpha glucosidase (NAG)], prostatic [prostate specific-antigen (PSA)] and zinc, and seminal vesicle function (fructose) were measured from 135 Swedish fishermen and fertile men from Greenland (n=163), Warsaw, Poland (n=167) and Kharkiv, Ukraine (n=158). Multiple linear regression analyses, adjusting for potential confounders, were employed using both continuous and categorized exposure variables. Both exposure and outcome variables were log transformed. Considering the consistency between models with either continuous or categorized CB-153 levels, negative associations with the activity of NAG were found among Greenlandic men (mean difference 7.0 mU/ejaculate, 95% CI 3.0, 34), and in the aggregated cohort (mean difference 4.0 mU/ejaculate, 95% CI -0.2, 8.0). A positive association was observed between CB-153 and PSA as well as zinc among Kharkiv men. In the Swedish cohort, a negative association was found between CB-153 and fructose. In conclusion, the negative effects of POP on sperm motility, observed in the same study population might partly be caused by post-testicular mechanisms, involving a decreased epididymal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saad Elzanaty
- Scanian Andrology Centre, Fertility Centre, Malmö University Hospital, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden.
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Elzanaty S, Malm J, Giwercman A. Duration of sexual abstinence: epididymal and accessory sex gland secretions and their relationship to sperm motility. Hum Reprod 2005; 20:221-5. [PMID: 15550495 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deh586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The data on the association between the abstinence period and sperm motility are conflicting. METHODS Ejaculates from 422 men assessed for infertility were analysed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Seminal plasma neutral alpha-glucosidase (NAG), prostate-specific antigen (PSA), zinc and fructose were measured. Three groups were defined according to the length of sexual abstinence: G2-3 (2-3 days), G4-5 (4-5 days) and G6-7 (6-7 days). RESULTS The total percentage of progressively motile spermatozoa was significantly higher in G4-5 compared with G2-3 and G6-7 (medians 55 versus 47 and 42%; P=0.039 and P <0.001, respectively). The percentage of spermatozoa with tail defects was significantly higher in G6-7 compared with G2-3 and G4-5 (medians 14 versus 10 and 10%; P=0.011 and P=0.002, respectively). NAG was significantly lower in G2-3 compared with G4-5 and G6-7 (medians 23 versus 34 and 34 mU/ejaculate; P <0.001 and P=0.001, respectively). The same trend was found regarding zinc (medians 6 versus 8 and 8 mumol/ejaculate; P=0.001 and P=0.005, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Within the time interval recommended by the WHO (2-7 days), the length of the abstinence period is associated with sperm characteristics and should be taken into consideration when interpreting results of semen analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saad Elzanaty
- Fertility Center and Department of Clinical Chemistry, Scanian Andrology Center, Lund University, Malmö University Hospital, SE 205 02 Malmö, Sweden.
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ELzanaty S, Malm J, Giwercman A. Visco-elasticity of seminal fluid in relation to the epididymal and accessory sex gland function and its impact on sperm motility. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ANDROLOGY 2004; 27:94-100. [PMID: 15149467 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2605.2003.00455.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
Seminal viscopathy was shown to be associated with male infertility. However, our knowledge about the regulatory mechanism of this process is still limited. In semen samples from 411 men attending for fertility assessment, traditional semen parameters including visco-elasticity were assessed according to the World Health Organization guidelines. Sperm motility was evaluated by use of computer aided sperm analysis (CASA). Seminal activity of neutral alpha-glucosidase (NAG) and concentrations of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), zinc, and fructose were measured. The activity of NAG, and the concentrations of PSA and zinc were significantly lower in hyper-visco-elastic semen samples (medians: 5 vs. 8 mU/mL; 741 vs. 924 mg/L; 1 vs. 2 mM/L), than in those with normal visco-elasticity (p = 0.004, 0.005 and 0.011, respectively). When comparing the total amounts, only for seminal fructose there was a difference between samples with high visco-elasticity as compared with those of normal visco-elasticity (median: 74 vs. 53 microM/ejaculate, p = 0.007) This seminal marker was the only significant independent parameter in predicting seminal visco-elasticity in a multiple logistic regression analysis (odds ratio for the highest quartile = 4.67). Hyper-visco-elasticity was associated with a lower percentage of motile spermatozoa (43 vs. 50%, p = 0.045). Similar trend was found for the CASA motility characteristics curvilinear velocity (VCL), average path length (VAP), amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH) (p = 0.008, 0.038 and 0.020, respectively). Our study demonstrated the interplay between the regulatory effect of post-testicular organs on semen visco-elasticity. Hyper-visco-elasticity was associated with asthenozoospermia and lower levels of VCL, VAP and ALH.
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Affiliation(s)
- S ELzanaty
- Scanian Andrology Center, Fertility Center, Malmo University Hospital, SE 205 02 Malmo, Sweden.
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Elzanaty S, Richthoff J, Malm J, Giwercman A. The impact of epididymal and accessory sex gland function on sperm motility. Hum Reprod 2002; 17:2904-11. [PMID: 12407047 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/17.11.2904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the regulation of sperm motility, which is an important predictor of male fertility. However, both testicular and post-testicular factors may be involved, although the impact of the latter has been relatively poorly investigated. METHODS In semen samples from 301 young men from the general Swedish population (mean +/- SD age 18.2 +/- 0.4 years), we assessed sperm motility by use of a manual method as well as computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) and correlated these values to seminal levels of neutral alpha-glucosidase (NAG), prostate-specific antigen (PSA), zinc and fructose. RESULTS There were significant positive correlations between seminal levels of NAG, and PSA and CASA percentage motile sperm (r = 0.158, P = 0.009; r = 0.155, P = 0.01 respectively), and significant negative correlations with CASA percentage immotile sperm (r = -0.206, P = 0.001; r = -0.157, P = 0.009 respectively). In a multiple regression analysis it was found that, apart from sperm concentration, the level of PSA was the most significant and independent parameter in predicting percentage motile sperm (beta = 0.220, P = 0.037). CONCLUSION Our study demonstrated the regulatory effect of post-testicular glands on the motility of sperm. This is to our knowledge the first study showing a direct correlation between the seminal PSA levels and sperm motility in a group of men representing the general population. In future investigations and searches for specific treatment modalities in male infertility, more attention should be paid to the epididymis and accessory sex gland function.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Elzanaty
- Scanian Andrology Centre, Fertility Centre, Malmö University Hospital, SE 205 02 Malmö, Sweden.
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Dieudonné O, Godin PA, Van-Langendonckt A, Jamart J, Galanti L. Biochemical analysis of the sperm and infertility. Clin Chem Lab Med 2001; 39:455-7. [PMID: 11434397 DOI: 10.1515/cclm.2001.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The clinical value of biochemical analysis of sperm is still unclear. In this study, we evaluated the potential of several biochemical markers in the seminal plasma (zinc, citrate, acid phosphatase, fructose and neutral alpha-glucosidase) as a screening method in male infertility investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Dieudonné
- Clinical Laboratory, University Hospital UCL Mont-Godinne, Yvoir, Belgium.
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Krause W, Bohring C. Why do we determine alpha-glucosidase activity in human semen during infertility work-up? Andrologia 1999; 31:289-94. [PMID: 10526638 DOI: 10.1046/j.1439-0272.1999.00285.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
alpha-Glucosidase is a normal constituent of human semen, produced mainly in the epididymis. It is significantly correlated to sperm count. Its activity is low in cases of epididymal obstruction. We evaluated alpha-glucosidase activity in 653 semen samples of patients, who attended our department for marital infertility, with respect to associations to clinical and other seminal parameters. The normal range (mean +/- 2 SD) in samples with normal parameter values was 7.2-46.4 mU ml-1. The determination in patients with azoospermia revealed mean values of 7.7 +/- 9.5 mU ml-1 in obstructive azoospermia, and 15.8 +/- 11.5 mU ml-1 in nonobstructive azoospermia. The difference was not statistically significant in that the sensitivity of determination with respect to the presence of obstruction was only 0.66, and the specificity 0.83. A significant correlation (r = 0.34) of alpha-glucosidase activity with log sperm count was observed. The mean alpha-glucosidase activity was not significantly different in groups formed according to sperm motility, according to leucocyte count or according to semen volume. A difference between smokers and nonsmokers with comparable sperm count, as reported in the literature, did not occur. We conclude from our results that the determination of alpha-glucosidase activity does not give additional information of the fertility status exceeding that of other clinical investigations or parameters of semen analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Krause
- Department of Andrology, School of Medicine, Philipps University, Marburg, Germany
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