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Flores-Montero K, Frontini-Lopez YR, Fontecilla-Escobar J, Ruete MC. Sperm proteostasis: Can-nabinoids be chaperone's partners? Life Sci 2023; 333:122167. [PMID: 37827231 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122167] [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: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
The male gamete is a highly differentiated cell that aims to fuse with the oocyte in fertilization. Sperm have silenced the transcription and translational processes, maintaining proteostasis to guarantee male reproductive health. Despite the information about the implication of molecular chaperones as orchestrators of protein folding or aggregation, and the handling of body homeostasis by the endocannabinoid system, there is still a lack of basic investigation and random controlled clinical trials that deliver more evidence on the involvement of cannabinoids in reproductive function. Besides, we noticed that the information regarding whether recreational marijuana affects male fertility is controversial and requires further investigation. In other cell models, it has recently been evidenced that chaperones and cannabinoids are intimately intertwined. Through a literature review, we aim to explore the interaction between chaperones and cannabinoid signaling in sperm development and function. To untangle how or whether this dialogue happens within the sperm proteostasis. We discuss the action of chaperones, the endocannabinoid system and phytocannabinoids in sperm proteostasis. Reports of some heat shock and lipid proteins interacting with cannabinoid receptors prove that chaperones and the endocannabinoid system are in an intimate dialogue. Meanwhile, advancing the evidence to decipher these mechanisms for introducing innovative interventions into routine clinical settings becomes crucial. We highlight the potential interaction between chaperones and cannabinoid signaling in regulating proteostasis in male reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Flores-Montero
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza M5500, Argentina
| | - Yesica Romina Frontini-Lopez
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza M5500, Argentina
| | - Javiera Fontecilla-Escobar
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza M5500, Argentina
| | - María Celeste Ruete
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza M5500, Argentina.
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2
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Marino M, D’Auria R, Mele E, Pastorino GMG, Di Pietro P, D’Angelo S, Della Rocca N, Operto FF, Vecchione C, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Viggiano A, Meccariello R, Santoro A. The interplay between kisspeptin and endocannabinoid systems modulates male hypothalamic and gonadic control of reproduction in vivo. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1269334. [PMID: 37900144 PMCID: PMC10602894 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1269334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Male reproduction is under the control of the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) and the kisspeptin system (KS) are two major signaling systems in the central and peripheral control of reproduction, but their possible interaction has been poorly investigated in mammals. This manuscript analyzes their possible reciprocal modulation in the control of the HPG axis. Materials and methods Adolescent male rats were treated with kisspeptin-10 (Kp10) and endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA), the latter alone or in combination with the type 1 cannabinoid receptor (CB1) antagonist rimonabant (SR141716A). The hypothalamic KS system and GnRH expression, circulating sex steroids and kisspeptin (Kiss1) levels, and intratesticular KS and ECS were evaluated by immunohistochemical and molecular methods. Non-coding RNAs (i.e., miR145-5p, miR-132-3p, let7a-5p, let7b-5p) were also considered. Results Circulating hormonal values were not significantly affected by Kp10 or AEA; in the hypothalamus, Kp10 significantly increased GnRH mRNA and aromatase Cyp19, Kiss1, and Kiss1 receptor (Kiss1R) proteins. By contrast, AEA treatment affected the hypothalamic KS at the protein levels, with opposite effects on the ligand and receptor, and SR141716A was capable of attenuating the AEA effects. Among the considered non-coding RNA, only the expression of miR145-5p was positively affected by AEA but not by Kp10 treatment. Localization of Kiss1+/Kiss1R+ neurons in the arcuate nucleus revealed an increase of Kiss1R-expressing neurons in Kp10- and AEA-treated animals associated with enlargement of the lateral ventricles in Kp10-treated animals. In the brain and testis, the selected non-coding RNA was differently modulated by Kp10 or AEA. Lastly, in the testis, AEA treatment affected the KS at the protein levels, whereas Kp10 affected the intragonadal levels of CB1 and FAAH, the main modulator of the AEA tone. Changes in pubertal transition-related miRNAs and the intratesticular distribution of Kiss1, Kiss1R, CB1, and CB2 following KP and AEA treatment corroborate the KS-ECS crosstalk also showing that the CB1 receptor is involved in this interplay. Conclusion For the first time in mammals, we report the modulation of the KS in both the hypothalamus and testis by AEA and revealed the KP-dependent modulation of CB1 and FAAH in the testis. KP involvement in the progression of spermatogenesis is also suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Marino
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Chirurgia e Odontoiatria “Scuola Medica Salernitana” Università di Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Raffaella D’Auria
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Chirurgia e Odontoiatria “Scuola Medica Salernitana” Università di Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Elena Mele
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere, Università di Napoli Parthenope, Napoli, Italy
| | - Grazia Maria Giovanna Pastorino
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Chirurgia e Odontoiatria “Scuola Medica Salernitana” Università di Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
- Unità Operativa Complessa (U.O.C.) Neuropsichiatria Infantile, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria San Giovanni di Dio Ruggi d’Aragona, “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, Salerno, Italy
| | - Paola Di Pietro
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Chirurgia e Odontoiatria “Scuola Medica Salernitana” Università di Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Stefania D’Angelo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere, Università di Napoli Parthenope, Napoli, Italy
| | - Natalia Della Rocca
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Chirurgia e Odontoiatria “Scuola Medica Salernitana” Università di Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | | | - Carmine Vecchione
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Chirurgia e Odontoiatria “Scuola Medica Salernitana” Università di Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università della Campania L. Vanvitelli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Andrea Viggiano
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Chirurgia e Odontoiatria “Scuola Medica Salernitana” Università di Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Rosaria Meccariello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere, Università di Napoli Parthenope, Napoli, Italy
| | - Antonietta Santoro
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Chirurgia e Odontoiatria “Scuola Medica Salernitana” Università di Salerno, Baronissi, Italy
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3
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da Silva J, Dochez-Arnault J, Desdoits-Lethimonier C, Dejucq-Rainsford N, Gely-Pernot A. The Acute Exposure of Human Adult Testis Tissue to Cannabinoids THC and CBD Does Not Impact Testosterone Production Nor Germ Cell Lineage. World J Mens Health 2023; 41:928-939. [PMID: 37118951 PMCID: PMC10523127 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.220210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE While an increased risk of developing germ cell tumors has been established in regular cannabis consumers, there is conflicting evidence about an association between cannabis use and testosterone levels in those regular consumers. In this context, we aimed to determine whether Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), the two major and best-studied cannabinoids present in cannabis, also the most used for therapeutic applications, can directly impact the steroidogenic function and germ cell lineage of the human adult testis. MATERIALS AND METHODS We used our well-characterized organotypic culture of human testis, in which adult testis explants were exposed to CBD, THC, or CBD/THC [ratio 1:1] from 10-9 to 10-5 M for up to either 48 hours or 9 days of culture. The testes were obtained from multi-organ donors (n=13; mean age: 55.15±5.62 y). RESULTS The testosterone production and the spatial distribution of Leydig cells did not change upon CBD and/or THC exposure versus controls after 48 hours or 9 days. The overall tissue morphology of the cannabinoids-exposed testis explants was similar to their control upon 24 hours or 9 days of exposure, a finding confirmed by morphometric analyses on short-term cultures. In line, the number of apoptotic cells was not affected by either 48 hours or 9 days of cannabinoids treatment versus mock. Cannabinoids had no impact on the number of proliferating cells nor on mRNA expression of genes encoding proteins involved in germ cell differentiation, meiosis, or Sertoli and Leydig functions after 24 hours exposure. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, these findings show an absence of acute direct effects of exposure to cannabis-derived cannabinoids THC and CBD on testicular testosterone production and germ cells ex vivo. Further studies are warranted to explore an indirect impact of cannabinoids on testis functions through the hypothalamic-pituitary-testis axis, as well as the potential effects of long-term exposures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janaina da Silva
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm), Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique (EHESP), Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail (Irset), Université de Rennes, UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Juliette Dochez-Arnault
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm), Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique (EHESP), Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail (Irset), Université de Rennes, UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Chritèle Desdoits-Lethimonier
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm), Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique (EHESP), Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail (Irset), Université de Rennes, UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Nathalie Dejucq-Rainsford
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm), Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique (EHESP), Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail (Irset), Université de Rennes, UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Aurore Gely-Pernot
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (Inserm), Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique (EHESP), Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail (Irset), Université de Rennes, UMR_S1085, Rennes, France.
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Peserico A, Barboni B, Russo V, Nardinocchi D, Turriani M, Cimini C, Bernabò N, Parolini O, Silini AR, Antonucci I, Stuppia L, Berardinelli P, Falanga I, Perruzza D, Valbonetti L, Mauro A. AEC and AFMSC Transplantation Preserves Fertility of Experimentally Induced Rat Varicocele by Expressing Differential Regenerative Mechanisms. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24108737. [PMID: 37240083 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24108737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Amniotic membrane and amniotic fluid derived cells are regarded as a promising stem cell source for developing regenerative medicine techniques, although they have never been tested on male infertility diseases such as varicocele (VAR). The current study aimed to examine the effects of two distinct cell sources, human Amniotic Fluid Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (hAFMSCs) and amniotic epithelial cells (hAECs), on male fertility outcomes in a rat induced VAR model. To explain cell-dependent enhancement of reproductive outcomes in rats transplanted with hAECs and hAFMSCs, insights on testis morphology, endocannabinoid system (ECS) expression and inflammatory tissue response have been carried out alongside cell homing assessment. Both cell types survived 120 days post-transplantation by modulating the ECS main components, promoting proregenerative M2 macrophages (Mφ) recruitment and a favorable anti-inflammatory IL10 expression pattern. Of note, hAECs resulted to be more effective in restoring rat fertility rate by enhancing both structural and immunoresponse mechanisms. Moreover, immunofluorescence analysis revealed that hAECs contributed to CYP11A1 expression after transplantation, whereas hAFMSCs moved towards the expression of Sertoli cell marker, SOX9, confirming a different contribution into the mechanisms leading to testis homeostasis. These findings highlight, for the first time, a distinct role of amniotic membrane and amniotic fluid derived cells in male reproduction, thus proposing innovative targeted stem-based regenerative medicine protocols for remedying high-prevalence male infertility conditions such as VAR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Peserico
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Valentina Russo
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Delia Nardinocchi
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Maura Turriani
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Costanza Cimini
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Nicola Bernabò
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Ornella Parolini
- Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Vito, 1, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "Agostino Gemelli" IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonietta Rosa Silini
- Centro di Ricerca E. Menni, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, 25124 Brescia, Italy
| | - Ivana Antonucci
- Department of Oral Sciences, Nano and Biotechnologies, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Via dei Vestini 31, 66013 Chieti, Italy
| | - Liborio Stuppia
- Department of Oral Sciences, Nano and Biotechnologies, "G. d'Annunzio" University, Via dei Vestini 31, 66013 Chieti, Italy
| | - Paolo Berardinelli
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Ilaria Falanga
- Medline Srl, Via Galileo Ferraris 1, 84018 Scafati, Italy
| | - Davide Perruzza
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, S.I.S.Me.R., Via Mazzini 12, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Luca Valbonetti
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Annunziata Mauro
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
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Mazzeo F, Meccariello R. Cannabis and Paternal Epigenetic Inheritance. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20095663. [PMID: 37174181 PMCID: PMC10177768 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20095663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Cannabis is the most widely used illicit drug in Western counties and its abuse is particularly high in male adolescents and young adults. Its main psychotropic component, the cannabinoid delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), interferes in the endogenous endocannabinoid system. This signaling system is involved in the control of many biological activities, including the formation of high-quality male gametes. Direct adverse effects of Δ9-THC in male reproduction are well known in both animal models and humans. Nevertheless, the possibility of long-term effects due to epigenetic mechanisms has recently been reported. In this review, we summarize the main advances in the field suggesting the need to pay attention to the possible long-term epigenetic risks for the reproductive health of cannabis users and the health of their offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomena Mazzeo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Economiche, Giuridiche, Informatiche e Motorie, Università di Napoli Parthenope, Nola, 80035 Naples, Italy
- Department of Economics, Law, Cybersecurity and Sports Sciences, University of Naples "Parthenope", Nola, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Meccariello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere, Università di Napoli Parthenope, 80133 Napoli, Italy
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University "Parthenope", 80133 Naples, Italy
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6
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Barchi M, Guida E, Dolci S, Rossi P, Grimaldi P. Endocannabinoid system and epigenetics in spermatogenesis and testicular cancer. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 2023; 122:75-106. [PMID: 36863802 DOI: 10.1016/bs.vh.2023.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, male germ cell development starts during fetal life and is carried out in postnatal life with the formation of sperms. Spermatogenesis is the complex and highly orderly process during which a group of germ stem cells is set at birth, starts to differentiate at puberty. It proceeds through several stages: proliferation, differentiation, and morphogenesis and it is strictly regulated by a complex network of hormonal, autocrine and paracrine factors and it is associated with a unique epigenetic program. Altered epigenetic mechanisms or inability to respond to these factors can impair the correct process of germ development leading to reproductive disorders and/or testicular germ cell cancer. Among factors regulating spermatogenesis an emerging role is played by the endocannabinoid system (ECS). ECS is a complex system comprising endogenous cannabinoids (eCBs), their synthetic and degrading enzymes, and cannabinoid receptors. Mammalian male germ cells have a complete and active ECS which is modulated during spermatogenesis and that crucially regulates processes such as germ cell differentiation and sperm functions. Recently, cannabinoid receptor signaling has been reported to induce epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation, histone modifications and miRNA expression. Epigenetic modifications may also affect the expression and function of ECS elements, highlighting the establishment of a complex mutual interaction. Here, we describe the developmental origin and differentiation of male germ cells and testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) focusing on the interplay between ECS and epigenetic mechanisms involved in these processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Barchi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenia Guida
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Susanna Dolci
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Pellegrino Rossi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Grimaldi
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
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Lim J, Squire E, Jung KM. Phytocannabinoids, the Endocannabinoid System and Male Reproduction. World J Mens Health 2023; 41:1-10. [PMID: 36578200 PMCID: PMC9826913 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.220132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is comprised of a set of lipid-derived messengers (the endocannabinoids, ECBs), proteins that control their production and degradation, and cell-surface cannabinoid (CB) receptors that transduce their actions. ECB molecules such as 2-arachidonoyl-sn-glycerol (2-AG) and anandamide (arachidonoyl ethanolamide) are produced on demand and deactivated through enzymatic actions tightly regulated both temporally and spatially, serving homeostatic roles in order to respond to various challenges to the body. Key components of the ECS are present in the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which plays critical roles in the development and regulation of the reproductive system in both males and females. ECB signaling controls the action at each stage of the HPG axis through CB receptors expressed in the hypothalamus, pituitary, and reproductive organs such as the testis and ovary. It regulates the secretion of hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), pituitary follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, testosterone, and affects spermatogenesis in males. Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and other phytocannabinoids from Cannabis sativa affect a variety of physiological processes by altering, or under certain conditions hijacking, the ECB system. Therefore, phytocannabinoids, in particular THC, may modify the homeostasis of the HPG axis by altering CB receptor signaling and cause deficits in reproductive function. While the ability of phytocannabinoids, THC and/or cannabidiol (CBD), to reduce pain and inflammation provides promising opportunities for therapeutic intervention for genitourinary and degenerative disorders, important questions remain regarding their unwanted long-term effects. It is nevertheless clear that the therapeutic potential of modulating the ECS calls for further scientific and clinical investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhwan Lim
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Erica Squire
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Kwang-Mook Jung
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
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8
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Manfrevola F, Potenza N, Chioccarelli T, Di Palo A, Siniscalchi C, Porreca V, Scialla A, Mele VG, Petito G, Russo A, Lanni A, Senese R, Ricci G, Pierantoni R, Chianese R, Cobellis G. Actin remodeling driven by circLIMA1: sperm cell as an intriguing cellular model. Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:5136-5153. [PMID: 35982890 PMCID: PMC9379403 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.76261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
CircRNA cargo in spermatozoa (SPZ) participates in setting cell quality, in terms of morphology and motility. Cannabinoid receptor CB1 activity is correlated with a proper spermatogenesis and epididymal sperm maturation. Despite CB1 promotes endogenous skill to circularize mRNAs in SPZ, few notions are reported regarding the functional link between endocannabinoids and spermatic circRNA cargo. In CB1 knock-out male mice, we performed a complete dataset of spermatic circRNA content by microarray strategy. Differentially expressed (DE)-circRNAs, as a function of genotype, were identified. Within DE-circRNAs, we focused the attention on circLIMA1, as putative actin-cytoskeleton architecture regulator. The validation of circLIMA1 dependent-competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network (ceRNET) in in vitro cell line confirmed its activity in the regulation of the cytoskeletal actin. Interestingly, a dynamic actin regulation in SPZ nuclei was found during their epididymal maturation. In this scenario, we showed for the first time an intriguing sperm nuclear actin remodeling, regulated via a ceRNET-independent pathway, consisting in the nuclear shuttling of circLIMA1-QKI interactome and downstream in Gelsolin regulation. In particular, the increased levels of circLIMA1 in CB1 knock-out SPZ, associated with an inefficient depolymerization of nuclear actin, specifically illustrate how endocannabinoids, by regulating circRNA cargo, may contribute to sperm morpho-cellular maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Manfrevola
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Potenza
- Department of Environmental, Biological, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Teresa Chioccarelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Armando Di Palo
- Department of Environmental, Biological, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Chiara Siniscalchi
- Department of Environmental, Biological, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Veronica Porreca
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Arcangelo Scialla
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenza Grazia Mele
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Petito
- Department of Environmental, Biological, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Aniello Russo
- Department of Environmental, Biological, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Antonia Lanni
- Department of Environmental, Biological, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Rosalba Senese
- Department of Environmental, Biological, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Giulia Ricci
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Rosanna Chianese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Gilda Cobellis
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", 80138 Naples, Italy
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9
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Xiao W, Chen Y. TRPV1 in male reproductive system: focus on sperm function. Mol Cell Biochem 2022; 477:2567-2579. [PMID: 35595954 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04469-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) is a receptor used to perceive external noxious stimuli and participates in the regulation of various pathophysiological mechanisms in vivo by integrating multiple signals. The explosive growth in knowledge of TRPV1 stemmed from research on neuronal pain and heat sensation over the last decades and is being expanded tremendously in peripheral tissue research. The discovery that TRPV1 is functionally active in male animal and human reproductive tissues have attracted increasing attention in recent years. Indeed, many studies have indicated that TRPV1 is an endocannabinoid receptor that mediates Anandamide's regulation of sperm function. Other characteristics of the TRPV1 channel itself, such as calcium penetration and temperature sensitivity, have also been investigated, especially the possibility that TRPV1 could act as a mediator for sperm thermotaxis. In addition, some reproductive diseases appear to be related to the protective effects of TRPV1 on oxidative stress and heat stress. A better understanding of TRPV1 in these areas should provide strategies for tackling male infertility. This paper is the first to review the expression and mechanism of TRPV1 in the male reproductive system from molecular and cellular perspectives. A focus is given on sperm function, including calcium homeostasis, crosstalk with endocannabinoid system, participation in cholesterol-related sperm maturation, and thermotaxis, hoping to capture the current situation of this rapidly developing field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanglong Xiao
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, No. 999 Xuefu Avenue, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Chen
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, No. 999 Xuefu Avenue, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.
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10
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Meccariello R. Central and Local Modulators of Reproduction and Fertility: An Update. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23095285. [PMID: 35563677 PMCID: PMC9102892 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Meccariello
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellness, University of Naples Parthenope, Via Medina 40, 80133 Naples, Italy
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11
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The Endocannabinoid System and Physical Activity—A Robust Duo in the Novel Therapeutic Approach against Metabolic Disorders. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063083. [PMID: 35328503 PMCID: PMC8948925 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Rapidly increasing worldwide prevalence of obesity and related pathologies encompassing coronary heart disease, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, or type 2 diabetes constitute serious threats to global health and are associated with a significantly elevated risk of premature death. Considering the enormous burden of these pathologies, novel therapeutic and preventive patterns are indispensable. Dysregulation of one of the most complex biological systems in the human body namely, the endocannabinoid system (ECS) may result in metabolic imbalance and development of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Furthermore, many studies showed that physical exercises, depending on their type, intensity, and frequency, exert various alterations within the ECS. Emerging evidence suggests that targeting the ECS via physical activity may produce robust beneficial effects on the course of metabolic pathologies. However, the data showing a direct correlation between the ECS and physical activity in the aspect of metabolic health are very scarce. Therefore, the aim of this review was to provide the most up-to-date state of knowledge about the interplay between the ECS activity and physical exercises in the novel therapeutic and preventive approach toward metabolic pathologies. We believe that this paper, at least in part, will fulfill the existing gap in knowledge and encourage researchers to further explore this very complex yet interesting link between the ECS, its action in physical activity, and subsequent positive outcomes for metabolic health.
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12
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Sayed TS, Balasinor NH, Nishi K. Diverse role of endocannabinoid system in mammalian male reproduction. Life Sci 2021; 286:120035. [PMID: 34637799 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.120035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Endocannabinoid system (ECS) is known for its modulatory role in numerous physiological processes in the body. Endocannabinoids (eCBs) are endogenous lipid molecules which function both centrally and peripherally. The ECS is best studied in the central nervous system (CNS), immune system as well as in the metabolic system. The role of ECS in male reproductive system is emerging and the presence of a complete enzymatic machinery to synthesize and metabolize eCBs has been demonstrated in male reproductive tract. Endocannabinoid concentrations and alterations in their levels have been reported to affect the functioning of spermatozoa. A dysfunctional ECS has also been linked to the development of prostate cancer, the leading cause of cancer related mortality among male population. This review is an attempt to provide an insight into the significant role of endocannabinoids in male reproduction and further summarize recent findings that demonstrate the manner in which the endocannabinoid system impacts male sexual behavior and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahseen S Sayed
- Department of Biotechnology, R.D. and S.H. National College and S.W.A Science College, Mumbai 400050, India
| | - Nafisa H Balasinor
- Neuroendocrinology Division, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India.
| | - Kumari Nishi
- Neuroendocrinology Division, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Parel, Mumbai 400012, India.
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13
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Carvalho RK, Rocha TL, Fernandes FH, Gonçalves BB, Souza MR, Araújo AA, Barbosa CC, Silva DM, Campos HM, Tomazett MV, Ghedini PC, Guimarães FS, Andersen ML, Santos FCA, Mazaro-Costa R. Decreasing sperm quality in mice subjected to chronic cannabidiol exposure: New insights of cannabidiol-mediated male reproductive toxicity. Chem Biol Interact 2021; 351:109743. [PMID: 34774840 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2021.109743] [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: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural cannabinoid present in the Cannabis sativa plant, widely prescribed as an anticonvulsant drug, especially for pediatric use. However, its effects on male reproduction are still little investigated. Therefore, the present study assessed the effects of CBD on the spermatogenesis and sperm quality. For this, twenty-one-day-old Swiss mice received CBD for 34 consecutive days by gavage at doses of either 15 or 30 mg/kg. Chronic exposure to CBD decreased the frequency of stages VII-VIII and XII of spermatogenesis and an increase in the frequency of stage IX were noted. Furthermore, the seminiferous epithelium height reduced at stage IX and increased at stage XII in both CBD-treated groups. There was a significant rise of sperm DNA damage, while no genotoxic effects were observed in leukocytes. The activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase decreased, while malondialdehyde levels increased in the sperm of mice treated with a higher dose of CBD. Mice exposed to 30 mg/kg of CBD showed a reduction in the mobile spermatozoa percentage and in curvilinear velocity, while straight line and average path velocity decreased in both treated groups. The number of acrosome-intact spermatozoa declined in the CBD 30 group, and the number of abnormal acrosomes raised in both CBD groups. On the other hand, the weight of reproductive organs, sperm count, and hormone levels were not affected by CBD treatment. These findings show that dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system by CBD can reduce sperm quality. The mechanisms responsible may be associated with disorders during spermatogenesis, especially during the final stages of nuclear remodelling and assembly of acrosome. However, changes in mitochondrial function, as well as the reduction on the antioxidant enzyme activities during epididymal transit, at least partly, may also be involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata K Carvalho
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Physiology and Pharmacology of Reproduction, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Thiago L Rocha
- Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology and Ecotoxicology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Fábio H Fernandes
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory of Toxicogenomic and Nutrigenomic, Medical School, State University of São Paulo, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Bruno B Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology and Ecotoxicology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Maingredy R Souza
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Physiology and Pharmacology of Reproduction, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Amanda A Araújo
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Physiology and Pharmacology of Reproduction, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Caio C Barbosa
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Physiology and Pharmacology of Reproduction, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Daniela M Silva
- Department of Genetics, Laboratory of Mutagenesis, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Hericles M Campos
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Molecular and Biochemistry Pharmacology, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Mariana V Tomazett
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Paulo C Ghedini
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Molecular and Biochemistry Pharmacology, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Francisco S Guimarães
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Monica L Andersen
- Department of Psychobiology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernanda C A Santos
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Cell Biology, Laboratory of Microscopy Applied to Reproduction, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Renata Mazaro-Costa
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Physiology and Pharmacology of Reproduction, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.
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14
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Harlow AF, Wesselink AK, Hatch EE, Rothman KJ, Wise LA. Male Preconception Marijuana Use and Spontaneous Abortion: A Prospective Cohort Study. Epidemiology 2021; 32:239-247. [PMID: 33165011 PMCID: PMC7855868 DOI: 10.1097/ede.0000000000001303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male marijuana use has increased steadily over the last decade, but its effect on risk of spontaneous abortion to our knowledge has not been studied. METHODS We analyzed data from Pregnancy Study Online, a North American prospective cohort study of pregnancy planners (2013-2019). During the preconception period, male and female participants completed baseline questionnaires on demographics, medical history, and behavioral factors, including marijuana use. Female participants identified pregnancy losses on bimonthly follow-up questionnaires and questionnaires completed in early and late pregnancy. We categorized frequency of male marijuana use in the 2 months before baseline as none, <1 time/week, or ≥1 time/week. We estimated the association between preconception male marijuana use and spontaneous abortion, adjusting for male and female confounders. RESULTS Among 1535 couples who conceived during follow-up, 9% of men reported preconceptional marijuana use <1 time/week and 8% ≥1 time/week. Nineteen percent of pregnancies ended in spontaneous abortion. Compared with no use, adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for male marijuana use were 1.1 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.64, 1.7) for <1 time/week and 2.0 (95% CI = 1.2, 3.1) for ≥1 time/week. The association for ≥1 time/week persisted after restricting to couples where the female partner did not use marijuana (HR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.1, 3.3), and was stronger for losses at <8 weeks' gestation (HR = 2.5, 95% CI = 1.4, 4.3) and among males aged ≥35 years (HR = 4.1, 95% CI = 1.54, 11). CONCLUSIONS Couples with male partners who used marijuana ≥1 time/week during preconception had greater risk of spontaneous abortion than couples with males who did not use marijuana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa F. Harlow
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amelia K. Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elizabeth E. Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kenneth J. Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Lauren A. Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
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15
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Microplastics: A Threat for Male Fertility. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18052392. [PMID: 33804513 PMCID: PMC7967748 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18052392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Much of the planet is swimming in discarded plastic, which is harming animal and possibly human health. Once at sea, sunlight, wind, and wave action break down plastic waste into small particles: the microplastics (MPs). Currently, particular attention has been drawn to their effects on aquatic environments but the health risks, especially in mammals, are poorly known. These non-biodegradable materials can act as a vector for environmental pollutants, can be ingested by humans in food and water, and can enter and accumulate in human tissues with a possible risk for heath. Recent studies revealed the deleterious effects of MPs exposure in male reproduction and sperm quality, making them a potential hazard to reproductive success. This manuscript summarizes the main changes in sperm quality along the lifespan and the upcoming studies on the effects of MPs in male fertility in mammals.
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16
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Sirt1 Activity in the Brain: Simultaneous Effects on Energy Homeostasis and Reproduction. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18031243. [PMID: 33573212 PMCID: PMC7908627 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18031243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Diet deeply impacts brain functions like synaptic plasticity and cognitive processes, neuroendocrine functions, reproduction and behaviour, with detrimental or protective effects on neuronal physiology and therefore consequences for health. In this respect, the activity of metabolic sensors within the brain is critical for the maintenance of health status and represents a possible therapeutic target for some diseases. This review summarizes the main activity of Sirtuin1 (Sirt1), a metabolic sensor within the brain with a focus on the link between the central control of energy homeostasis and reproduction. The possible modulation of Sirt1 by natural phytochemical compounds like polyphenols is also discussed.
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17
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The Complex Interplay between Endocannabinoid System and the Estrogen System in Central Nervous System and Periphery. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22020972. [PMID: 33478092 PMCID: PMC7835826 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a lipid cell signaling system involved in the physiology and homeostasis of the brain and peripheral tissues. Synaptic plasticity, neuroendocrine functions, reproduction, and immune response among others all require the activity of functional ECS, with the onset of disease in case of ECS impairment. Estrogens, classically considered as female steroid hormones, regulate growth, differentiation, and many other functions in a broad range of target tissues and both sexes through the activation of nuclear and membrane estrogen receptors (ERs), which leads to genomic and non-genomic cell responses. Since ECS function overlaps or integrates with many other cell signaling systems, this review aims at updating the knowledge about the possible crosstalk between ECS and estrogen system (ES) at both central and peripheral level, with focuses on the central nervous system, reproduction, and cancer.
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18
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D’Angelo S, Motti ML, Meccariello R. ω-3 and ω-6 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids, Obesity and Cancer. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12092751. [PMID: 32927614 PMCID: PMC7551151 DOI: 10.3390/nu12092751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently, nutraceutical bioactive compounds in foods have been discovered for their potential health benefits regarding the prevention of chronic disorders, such as cancer, and inflammatory, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases. Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3PUFAs), including alpha-linolenic acid, docosapentaenoic acid, and eicosapentaenoic acid, are mostly attractive. They are available for the customers worldwide from commonly used foods and/or as components of commercial food supplements. The anti-inflammatory and hypotriglyceridemic effects of these fatty acids are well known, whereas pro-inflammatory properties have been recognized in their dietary counterparts, the ω-6PUFAs. Both ω-3 and ω-6PUFAs contribute to the production of lipid mediators such as endocannabinoids that are notably involved in control of food intake, energy sensing, and food-related disorders. In this review, we present ω-3 and ω-6PUFAs and their derivatives, endocannabinoids; discuss the anti-obesity effects of ω-3PUFAs; their roles in inflammation and colorectal cancer development; and how their action can be co-preventative and co-therapeutic.
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19
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Meccariello R. Endocannabinoid System in Health and Disease: Current Situation and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21103549. [PMID: 32443408 PMCID: PMC7278997 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21103549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Meccariello
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, University of Naples "Parthenope", Via Medina 40, 80133 Naples, Italy
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20
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The Cannabinoid Receptor CB1 Stabilizes Sperm Chromatin Condensation Status During Epididymal Transit by Promoting Disulphide Bond Formation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21093117. [PMID: 32354121 PMCID: PMC7247701 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The cannabinoid receptor CB1 regulates differentiation of spermatids. We recently characterized spermatozoa from caput epididymis of CB1-knock-out mice and identified a considerable number of sperm cells with chromatin abnormality such as elevated histone content and poorly condensed chromatin. In this paper, we extended our findings and studied the role of CB1 in the epididymal phase of chromatin condensation of spermatozoa by analysis of spermatozoa from caput and cauda epididymis of wild-type and CB1-knock-out mouse in both a homozygous or heterozygous condition. Furthermore, we studied the impact of CB1-gene deletion on histone displacement mechanism by taking into account the hyperacetylation of histone H4 and players of displacement such as Chromodomain Y Like protein (CDYL) and Bromodomain testis-specific protein (BRDT). Our results show that CB1, via local and/or endocrine cell-to-cell signaling, modulates chromatin remodeling mechanisms that orchestrate a nuclear condensation extent of mature spermatozoa. We show that CB1-gene deletion affects the epididymal phase of chromatin condensation by interfering with inter-/intra-protamine disulphide bridges formation, and deranges the efficiency of histone removal by reducing the hyper-acetylation of histone H4. This effect is independent by gene expression of Cdyl and Brdt mRNA. Our results reveal a novel and important role for CB1 in sperm chromatin condensation mechanisms.
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Santoro A, Chianese R, Troisi J, Richards S, Nori SL, Fasano S, Guida M, Plunk E, Viggiano A, Pierantoni R, Meccariello R. Neuro-toxic and Reproductive Effects of BPA. Curr Neuropharmacol 2020; 17:1109-1132. [PMID: 31362658 PMCID: PMC7057208 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x17666190726112101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the highest volume chemicals produced worldwide. It has recognized activity as an endocrine-disrupting chemical and has suspected roles as a neurological and reproductive toxicant. It interferes in steroid signaling, induces oxidative stress, and affects gene expression epigenetically. Gestational, perinatal and neonatal exposures to BPA affect developmental processes, including brain development and gametogenesis, with consequences on brain functions, behavior, and fertility. Methods: This review critically analyzes recent findings on the neuro-toxic and reproductive effects of BPA (and its ana-logues), with focus on neuronal differentiation, synaptic plasticity, glia and microglia activity, cognitive functions, and the central and local control of reproduction. Results: BPA has potential human health hazard associated with gestational, peri- and neonatal exposure. Beginning with BPA’s disposition, this review summarizes recent findings on the neurotoxicity of BPA and its analogues, on neuronal dif-ferentiation, synaptic plasticity, neuro-inflammation, neuro-degeneration, and impairment of cognitive abilities. Furthermore, it reports the recent findings on the activity of BPA along the HPG axis, effects on the hypothalamic Gonadotropin Releas-ing Hormone (GnRH), and the associated effects on reproduction in both sexes and successful pregnancy. Conclusion: BPA and its analogues impair neuronal activity, HPG axis function, reproduction, and fertility. Contrasting re-sults have emerged in animal models and human. Thus, further studies are needed to better define their safety levels. This re-view offers new insights on these issues with the aim to find the “fil rouge”, if any, that characterize BPA’s mechanism of action with outcomes on neuronal function and reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonietta Santoro
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy
| | - Rosanna Chianese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Jacopo Troisi
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy.,Theoreo srl - Spin-off company of the University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy.,European Biomedical Research Institute of Salerno (EBRIS), Salerno, Italy
| | - Sean Richards
- University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chattanooga, TN, United States.,Department of Biology, Geology and Environmental Sciences, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Chattanooga, TN, United States
| | - Stefania Lucia Nori
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Maurizio Guida
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy.,Theoreo srl - Spin-off company of the University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy.,European Biomedical Research Institute of Salerno (EBRIS), Salerno, Italy
| | - Elizabeth Plunk
- University of Tennessee College of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chattanooga, TN, United States
| | - Andrea Viggiano
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry "Scuola Medica Salernitana", University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Rosaria Meccariello
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, Parthenope University of Naples, Naples, Italy
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22
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The Epigenetics of the Endocannabinoid System. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21031113. [PMID: 32046164 PMCID: PMC7037698 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21031113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ES) is a cell-signalling system widely distributed in biological tissues that includes endogenous ligands, receptors, and biosynthetic and hydrolysing machineries. The impairment of the ES has been associated to several pathological conditions like behavioural, neurological, or metabolic disorders and infertility, suggesting that the modulation of this system may be critical for the maintenance of health status and disease treatment. Lifestyle and environmental factors can exert long-term effects on gene expression without any change in the nucleotide sequence of DNA, affecting health maintenance and influencing both disease load and resistance. This potentially reversible "epigenetic" modulation of gene expression occurs through the chemical modification of DNA and histone protein tails or the specific production of regulatory non-coding RNA (ncRNA). Recent findings demonstrate the epigenetic modulation of the ES in biological tissues; in the same way, endocannabinoids, phytocannabinoids, and cannabinoid receptor agonists and antagonists induce widespread or gene-specific epigenetic changes with the possibility of trans-generational epigenetic inheritance in the offspring explained by the transmission of deregulated epigenetic marks in the gametes. Therefore, this review provides an update on the epigenetics of the ES, with particular attention on the emerging role in reproduction and fertility.
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Interference with the Cannabinoid Receptor CB1R Results in Miswiring of GnRH3 and AgRP1 Axons in Zebrafish Embryos. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010168. [PMID: 31881740 PMCID: PMC6982252 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The G protein-coupled cannabinoid receptors type 1 (CB1R) and type 2 (CB2R), and their endocannabinoid (eCBs) ligands, have been implicated in several aspects of brain wiring during development. Here we aim to assess whether interfering with CB1R affects development, neuritogenesis and pathfinding of GnRH and AgRP neurons, forebrain neurons that control respectively reproduction and appetite. We pharmacologically and genetically interfered with CB1R in zebrafish strains with fluorescently labeled GnRH3 and the AgRP1 neurons. By applying CB1R antagonists we observed a reduced number of GnRH3 neurons, fiber misrouting and altered fasciculation. Similar phenotypes were observed by CB1R knockdown. Interfering with CB1R also resulted in a reduced number, misrouting and poor fasciculation of the AgRP1 neuron’s axonal projections. Using a bioinformatic approach followed by qPCR validation, we have attempted to link CB1R functions with known guidance and fasciculation proteins. The search identified stathmin-2, a protein controlling microtubule dynamics, previously demonstrated to be coexpressed with CB1R and now shown to be downregulated upon interference with CB1R in zebrafish. Together, these results raise the likely possibility that embryonic exposure to low doses of CB1R-interfering compounds could impact on the development of the neuroendocrine systems controlling sexual maturation, reproduction and food intake.
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Barchi M, Innocenzi E, Giannattasio T, Dolci S, Rossi P, Grimaldi P. Cannabinoid Receptors Signaling in the Development, Epigenetics, and Tumours of Male Germ Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010025. [PMID: 31861494 PMCID: PMC6981618 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids are natural lipid molecules whose levels are regulated by specific biosynthetic and degradative enzymes. They bind to and activate two main cannabinoid receptors type 1 (CB1) and type 2 (CB2), and together with their metabolizing enzymes form the “endocannabinoid system” (ECS). In the last years, the relevance of endocannabinoids (eCBs) as critical modulators in various aspects of male reproduction has been pointed out. Mammalian male germ cells, from mitotic to haploid stage, have a complete ECS which is modulated during spermatogenesis. Compelling evidence indicate that in the testis an appropriate “eCBs tone”, associated to a balanced CB receptors signaling, is critical for spermatogenesis and for the formation of mature and fertilizing spermatozoa. Any alteration of this system negatively affects male reproduction, from germ cell differentiation to sperm functions, and might have also an impact on testicular tumours. Indeed, most of testicular tumours develop during early germ-cell development in which a maturation arrest is thought to be the first key event leading to malignant transformation. Considering the ever-growing number and complexity of the data on ECS, this review focuses on the role of cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 signaling in male germ cells development from gonocyte up to mature spermatozoa and in the induction of epigenetic alterations in these cells which might be transmitted to the progeny. Furthermore, we present new evidence on their relevance in testicular cancer.
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Verhaeghe F, Di Pizio P, Bichara C, Berby B, Rives A, Jumeau F, Sétif V, Sibert L, Rondanino C, Rives N. Cannabis consumption might exert deleterious effects on sperm nuclear quality in infertile men. Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 40:270-280. [PMID: 32001159 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2018] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Can cannabis consumption alter sperm nuclear integrity in infertile men? DESIGN A retrospective cross-sectional study conducted between July 2003 and December 2013, which included 54 men who consulted for male-factor infertility. Twenty-seven infertile men who were regular cannabis users were matched to 27 infertile men who were cannabis non-users. To complement the conventional semen parameter and plasma hormone level assessments, sperm nuclear alterations were explored using fluorescence in-situ hybridization to assess numerical chromosomal abnormalities, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labelling to investigate DNA fragmentation, aniline blue staining to examine chromatin condensation and a motile sperm organelle morphology examination to detect vacuoles in sperm heads. RESULTS The rates of sperm aneuploidy (P = 0.0044), diploidy (P = 0.037), total chromosome abnormalities (P = 0.0027) and DNA fragmentation (P = 0.027) were significantly higher in cannabis users than in non-cannabis users. CONCLUSIONS Cannabis consumption might have deleterious effects on sperm nuclear quality in infertile men by increasing numerical chromosome abnormalities and DNA fragmentation. Cannabis consumption induces these detrimental effects on the progression of spermatogenesis from meiotic stages to spermiogenesis and potentially on post-testicular sperm maturation in infertile men. Any potential findings, however, need to be validated with larger sample size, and our data are only exploratory findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- France Verhaeghe
- Normandie Université, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen Normandy University Hospital, Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Assisted Reproductive Center, Rouen F 76000, France
| | - Pierre Di Pizio
- Normandie Université, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen Normandy University Hospital, Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Assisted Reproductive Center, Rouen F 76000, France
| | - Cynthia Bichara
- Normandie Université, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen Normandy University Hospital, Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Assisted Reproductive Center, Rouen F 76000, France
| | - Benoit Berby
- Normandie Université, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen Normandy University Hospital, Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Assisted Reproductive Center, Rouen F 76000, France
| | - Aurélie Rives
- Normandie Université, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen Normandy University Hospital, Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Assisted Reproductive Center, Rouen F 76000, France
| | - Fanny Jumeau
- Normandie Université, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen Normandy University Hospital, Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Assisted Reproductive Center, Rouen F 76000, France
| | - Véronique Sétif
- Normandie Université, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen Normandy University Hospital, Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Assisted Reproductive Center, Rouen F 76000, France
| | - Louis Sibert
- Normandie Université, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen Normandy University Hospital, Department of Urology, Assisted Reproductive Center, Rouen F 76000, France
| | - Christine Rondanino
- Normandie Université, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen Normandy University Hospital, Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Assisted Reproductive Center, Rouen F 76000, France
| | - Nathalie Rives
- Normandie Université, UNIROUEN, EA 4308 'Gametogenesis and Gamete Quality', Rouen Normandy University Hospital, Reproductive Biology Laboratory-CECOS, Assisted Reproductive Center, Rouen F 76000, France.
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26
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Forner-Piquer I, Fakriadis I, Mylonas CC, Piscitelli F, Di Marzo V, Maradonna F, Calduch-Giner J, Pérez-Sánchez J, Carnevali O. Effects of Dietary Bisphenol A on the Reproductive Function of Gilthead Sea Bream ( Sparus aurata) Testes. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20205003. [PMID: 31658598 PMCID: PMC6835794 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20205003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA), a known endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC), was administered by diet to gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) in order to study its effects on the endocannabinoid system (ECS) and gonadal steroidogenesis. 2-year-old male gilthead sea bream were fed with two different concentrations of BPA (LOW at 4 and HIGH at 4000 µg/kg body weight for 21 days during the reproductive season. Exposure to 4000 µg BPA/kg bw/day (BPA HIGH) reduced sperm motility and altered the straight-line velocity (VSL) and linearity (LIN). Effects on steroidogenesis were evident, with testosterone (T) being up-regulated by both treatments and 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT) down-regulated by BPA HIGH. Plasma levels of 17β-estradiol (E2) were not affected. The Gonadosomatic Index (GSI) increased in the BPA HIGH group. Interestingly, the levels of endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid-like compounds were significantly reduced after both treatments. Unpredictably, a few changes were noticed in the expression of genes coding for ECS enzymes, while the receptors were up-regulated depending on the BPA dose. Reproductive markers in testis (leptin receptor (lepr), estrogen receptors (era, erb), progesterone receptors (pr) and the gonadotropin releasing hormone receptor (gnrhr)) were up-regulated. BPA induced the up-regulation of the hepatic genes involved in oogenesis (vitellogenin (vtg) and zona pellucida 1 (zp1)).
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Forner-Piquer
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Ioannis Fakriadis
- Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Hellenic Center for Marine Research, P.O. Box 2214, Heraklion, 71003 Crete, Greece.
| | - Constantinos C Mylonas
- Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Hellenic Center for Marine Research, P.O. Box 2214, Heraklion, 71003 Crete, Greece.
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy.
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei, 80078 Pozzuoli, Italy.
- Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada.
| | - Francesca Maradonna
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.
| | - Josep Calduch-Giner
- Nutrigenomics and Fish Endocrinology Group, Institute of Aquaculture Torre de la Sal (IATS-CSIC), 12595 Ribera de Cabanes, Castellón, Spain.
| | - Jaume Pérez-Sánchez
- Nutrigenomics and Fish Endocrinology Group, Institute of Aquaculture Torre de la Sal (IATS-CSIC), 12595 Ribera de Cabanes, Castellón, Spain.
| | - Oliana Carnevali
- Dipartimento Scienze della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy.
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Characterisation and localisation of the endocannabinoid system components in the adult human testis. Sci Rep 2019; 9:12866. [PMID: 31537814 PMCID: PMC6753062 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-49177-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Heavy use of cannabis (marijuana) has been associated with decreased semen quality, which may reflect disruption of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the male reproductive tract by exogenous cannabinoids. Components of ECS have been previously described in human spermatozoa and in the rodent testis but there is little information on the ECS expression within the human testis. In this study we characterised the main components of the ECS by immunohistochemistry (IHC) on archived testis tissue samples from 15 patients, and by in silico analysis of existing transcriptome datasets from testicular cell populations. The presence of 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) in the human testis was confirmed by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization imaging analysis. Endocannabinoid-synthesising enzymes; diacylglycerol lipase (DAGL) and N-acyl-phosphatidylethanolamine-specific phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD), were detected in germ cells and somatic cells, respectively. The cannabinoid receptors, CNR1 and CNR2 were detected at a low level in post-meiotic germ cells and Leydig- and peritubular cells. Different transcripts encoding distinct receptor isoforms (CB1, CB1A, CB1B and CB2A) were also differentially distributed, mainly in germ cells. The cannabinoid-metabolising enzymes were abundantly present; the α/β-hydrolase domain-containing protein 2 (ABHD2) in all germ cell types, except early spermatocytes, the monoacylglycerol lipase (MGLL) in Sertoli cells, and the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) in late spermatocytes and post-meiotic germ cells. Our findings are consistent with a direct involvement of the ECS in regulation of human testicular physiology, including spermatogenesis and Leydig cell function. The study provides new evidence supporting observations that recreational cannabis can have possible deleterious effects on human testicular function.
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Ragusa M, Barbagallo D, Chioccarelli T, Manfrevola F, Cobellis G, Di Pietro C, Brex D, Battaglia R, Fasano S, Ferraro B, Sellitto C, Ambrosino C, Roberto L, Purrello M, Pierantoni R, Chianese R. CircNAPEPLD is expressed in human and murine spermatozoa and physically interacts with oocyte miRNAs. RNA Biol 2019; 16:1237-1248. [PMID: 31135264 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2019.1624469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have a critical role in the control of gene expression. Their function in spermatozoa (SPZ) is unknown to date. Twenty-eight genes, involved in SPZ/testicular and epididymal physiology, were given in circBase database to find which of them may generate circular transcripts. We focused on circNAPEPLDiso1, one of the circular RNA isoforms of NAPEPLD transcript, because expressed in human and murine SPZ. In order to functionally characterize circNAPEPLDiso1 as potential microRNA (miRNA) sponge, we performed circNAPEPLDiso1-miR-CATCH and then profiled the expression of 754 miRNAs, by using TaqMan® Low Density Arrays. Among them, miRNAs 146a-5p, 203a-3p, 302c-3p, 766-3p and 1260a (some of them previously shown to be expressed in the oocyte), resulted enriched in circNAPEPLDiso1-miR-CATCHed cell lysate: the network of interactions generated from their validated targets was centred on a core of genes involved in the control of cell cycle. Moreover, computational analysis of circNAPEPLDiso1 sequence also showed its potential translation in a short form of NAPEPLD protein. Interestingly, the expression analysis in murine-unfertilized oocytes revealed low and high levels of circNAPEPLDiso1 and circNAPEPLDiso2, respectively. After fertilization, circNAPEPLDiso1 expression significantly increased, instead circNAPEPLDiso2 expression appeared constant. Based on these data, we suggest that SPZ-derived circNAPEPLDiso1 physically interacts with miRNAs primarily involved in the control of cell cycle; we hypothesize that it may represent a paternal cytoplasmic contribution to the zygote and function as a miRNA decoy inside the fertilized oocytes to regulate the first stages of embryo development. This role is proposed here for the first time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Ragusa
- a Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Biotecnologiche, Università di Catania , Catania , Italy.,b Oasi Research Institute - IRCCS , Troina , Italy
| | - Davide Barbagallo
- a Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Biotecnologiche, Università di Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Teresa Chioccarelli
- c Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, sez "F. Bottazzi", Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Napoli , Italy
| | - Francesco Manfrevola
- c Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, sez "F. Bottazzi", Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Napoli , Italy
| | - Gilda Cobellis
- c Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, sez "F. Bottazzi", Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Napoli , Italy
| | - Cinzia Di Pietro
- a Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Biotecnologiche, Università di Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Duilia Brex
- a Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Biotecnologiche, Università di Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Rosalia Battaglia
- a Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Biotecnologiche, Università di Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Silvia Fasano
- c Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, sez "F. Bottazzi", Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Napoli , Italy
| | - Bruno Ferraro
- d UOSD di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Presidio Ospedaliero di Marcianise , Caserta , Italy
| | - Carolina Sellitto
- d UOSD di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione, Presidio Ospedaliero di Marcianise , Caserta , Italy
| | - Concetta Ambrosino
- e Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie, Università del Sannio , Benevento , Italy
| | - Luca Roberto
- f IRGS, Biogem , Ariano Irpino, Avellino , Italy
| | - Michele Purrello
- a Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Biotecnologiche, Università di Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- c Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, sez "F. Bottazzi", Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Napoli , Italy
| | - Rosanna Chianese
- c Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, sez "F. Bottazzi", Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli" , Napoli , Italy
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Martínez-León E, Osycka-Salut C, Signorelli J, Kong M, Morales P, Pérez-Martínez S, Díaz ES. Fibronectin modulates the endocannabinoid system through the cAMP/PKA pathway during human sperm capacitation. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:224-238. [PMID: 30582781 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Fibronectin (Fn) enhances human sperm capacitation via the cAMP/PKA pathway, and the endocannabinoid system participates in this process. Moreover, Fn has been linked to endocannabinoid system components in different cellular models, even though no evidence of such interactions in human sperm is available. Normal semen samples were evaluated over a 4-year period. Our findings suggest that (a) the capacitating effects of Fn were reversed by preincubating the sperm with a cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) or transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1) antagonist ( p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively); (b) cooperation between CB1 and TRPV1 may exist ( p < 0.01); (c) the activity of specific fatty acid amide hydroxylase (FAAH) decreased after 1 min ( p < 0.01) and increased after 60 min ( p < 0.01) of capacitation in the presence of Fn; (d) the effects of Fn on FAAH activity were prevented by preincubating spermatozoa with a protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor ( p < 0.01); (e) Fn modulated both the cyclic adenosine monophosphate concentration and PKA activity ( p < 0.05) during early capacitation; and (f) FAAH was a PKA substrate modulated by phosphorylation. These findings indicate that Fn stimulates human sperm capacitation via the cAMP/PKA pathway through modulation of the endocannabinoid system. Understanding the functional competence of human spermatozoa is essential for facilitating clinical advances in infertility treatment and for developing novel contraceptive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Martínez-León
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Departamento Biomédico, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Claudia Osycka-Salut
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción en Mamíferos, Centro de estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFyBO-CONICET/UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Janetti Signorelli
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Departamento Biomédico, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Milene Kong
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Departamento Biomédico, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Patricio Morales
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Departamento Biomédico, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile.,Instituto Antofagasta, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Silvina Pérez-Martínez
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción en Mamíferos, Centro de estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFyBO-CONICET/UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Emilce Silvina Díaz
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Departamento Biomédico, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta, Chile
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Forner-Piquer I, Mylonas CC, Fakriadis I, Papadaki M, Piscitelli F, Di Marzo V, Calduch-Giner J, Pérez-Sánchez J, Carnevali O. Effects of diisononyl phthalate (DiNP) on the endocannabinoid and reproductive systems of male gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) during the spawning season. Arch Toxicol 2019; 93:727-741. [PMID: 30600365 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-018-2378-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Diisononyl phthalate (DiNP) is a plasticizer used to improve plastic performance in a large variety of items which has been reported as an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) in several organisms. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a cellular signaling system, whose functionality is tightly involved with reproductive function. The aim of the present study was the assessment of the effects of DiNP on the gonadal ECS and on the reproductive function of male gilthead sea bream Sparus aurata, an important marine aquacultured species in Europe, during the reproductive season. Fish were fed for 21 days with two diets contaminated with different nominal concentrations of DiNP (DiNP LOW at 15 µg DiNP kg-1 bw day-1 and DiNP HIGH at 1500 µg DiNP kg-1 bw day-1), based on the tolerable daily intake (TDI) ruled by the European Food Safety Authority for humans. The transcription of several genes related to the ECS was affected by the DiNP. Specifically, DiNP reduced the levels of endocannabinoids and endocannabinoid-like mediators, concomitant with the increase of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) activity. At the histological level, DiNP LOW induced the highest occurrence of individuals with regressed testes. Steroidogenesis was affected significantly, since plasma 11-ketotestosterone (11-KT), the main active androgen in fish, was significantly decreased by the DiNP HIGH treatment, while plasma 17β-estradiol (E2) levels were raised, associated with an increase of the gonadosomatic index (GSI). Additionally, the level of testosterone (T) was significantly increased in the DiNP LOW group, however, the same DiNP concentration reduced the levels of 17,20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (17,20β-P). The production of sperm was in general not affected, since spermiation index, sperm density, survival and the duration of forward motility did not exhibit any changes compared to controls. However, computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) showed that DiNP reduced the percentage of motile cells. The results clearly suggest a negative effect of DiNP via the diet on the male endocrine system of gilthead sea bream during the reproductive season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Forner-Piquer
- Dipartimento Scienze Della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131, Ancona, Italy
| | - Constantinos C Mylonas
- Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Hellenic Center for Marine Research, P.O. Box 2214, 71003, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Ioannis Fakriadis
- Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Hellenic Center for Marine Research, P.O. Box 2214, 71003, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Maria Papadaki
- Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Hellenic Center for Marine Research, P.O. Box 2214, 71003, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Fabiana Piscitelli
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei, 80078, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Di Marzo
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare, Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche, Via Campi Flegrei, 80078, Pozzuoli, Italy.,Canada Excellence Research Chair on the Microbiome-Endocannabinoidome Axis in Metabolic Health, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Josep Calduch-Giner
- Nutrigenomics and Fish Endocrinology Group, Institute of Aquaculture Torre de la Sal (IATS-CSIC), 12595, Ribera de Cabanes, Castellón, Spain
| | - Jaume Pérez-Sánchez
- Nutrigenomics and Fish Endocrinology Group, Institute of Aquaculture Torre de la Sal (IATS-CSIC), 12595, Ribera de Cabanes, Castellón, Spain
| | - Oliana Carnevali
- Dipartimento Scienze Della Vita e dell'Ambiente, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131, Ancona, Italy.
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Perruzza D, Bernabò N, Rapino C, Valbonetti L, Falanga I, Russo V, Mauro A, Berardinelli P, Stuppia L, Maccarrone M, Barboni B. Artificial Neural Network to Predict Varicocele Impact on Male Fertility through Testicular Endocannabinoid Gene Expression Profiles. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:3591086. [PMID: 30539009 PMCID: PMC6258097 DOI: 10.1155/2018/3591086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between varicocele and fertility has always been a matter of debate because of the absence of predictive clinical indicators or molecular markers able to define the severity of this disease. Even though accumulated evidence demonstrated that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a central role in male reproductive biology, particularly in the testicular compartment, to date no data point to a role for ECS in the etiopathogenesis of varicocele. Therefore, the present research has been designed to investigate the relationship between testicular ECS gene expression and fertility, using a validated animal model of experimental varicocele (VAR), taking advantage of traditional statistical approaches and artificial neural network (ANN). Experimental induction of VAR led to a clear reduction of spermatogenesis in left testes ranging from a mild (Johnsen score 7: 21%) to a severe (Johnsen score 4: 58%) damage of the germinal epithelium. However, the mean number of new-borns recorded after two sequential matings was quite variable and independent of the Johnsen score. While the gene expression of biosynthetic and degrading enzymes of AEA (NAPE-PLD and FAAH, respectively) and of 2-AG (DAGLα and MAGL, respectively), as well as their binding cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), did not change between testes and among groups, a significant downregulation of vanilloid (TRPV1) expression was recorded in left testes of VAR rats and positively correlated with animal fertility. Interestingly, an ANN trained by inserting the left and right testicular ECS gene expression profiles (inputs) was able to predict varicocele impact on male fertility in terms of mean number of new-borns delivered (outputs), with a very high accuracy (average prediction error of 1%). The present study provides unprecedented information on testicular ECS gene expression patterns during varicocele, by developing a freely available predictive ANN model that may open new perspectives in the diagnosis of varicocele-associated infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Perruzza
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Nicola Bernabò
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Cinzia Rapino
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Luca Valbonetti
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Ilaria Falanga
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Valentina Russo
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Annunziata Mauro
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Paolo Berardinelli
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Liborio Stuppia
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University “G. d'Annunzio” of Chieti and Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, 00128 Rome, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00164 Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
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Chianese R, Coccurello R, Viggiano A, Scafuro M, Fiore M, Coppola G, Operto FF, Fasano S, Laye S, Pierantoni R, Meccariello R. Impact of Dietary Fats on Brain Functions. Curr Neuropharmacol 2018; 16:1059-1085. [PMID: 29046155 PMCID: PMC6120115 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x15666171017102547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adequate dietary intake and nutritional status have important effects on brain functions and on brain health. Energy intake and specific nutrients excess or deficiency from diet differently affect cognitive processes, emotions, behaviour, neuroendocrine functions and synaptic plasticity with possible protective or detrimental effects on neuronal physiology. Lipids, in particular, play structural and functional roles in neurons. Here the importance of dietary fats and the need to understand the brain mechanisms activated by peripheral and central metabolic sensors. Thus, the manipulation of lifestyle factors such as dietary interventions may represent a successful therapeutic approach to maintain and preserve brain health along lifespan. METHODS This review aims at summarizing the impact of dietary fats on brain functions. RESULTS Starting from fat consumption, nutrient sensing and food-related reward, the impact of gut-brain communications will be discussed in brain health and disease. A specific focus will be on the impact of fats on the molecular pathways within the hypothalamus involved in the control of reproduction via the expression and the release of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone. Lastly, the effects of specific lipid classes such as polyunsaturated fatty acids and of the "fattest" of all diets, commonly known as "ketogenic diets", on brain functions will also be discussed. CONCLUSION Despite the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms is still a work in progress, the clinical relevance of the manipulation of dietary fats is well acknowledged and such manipulations are in fact currently in use for the treatment of brain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Chianese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Coccurello
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, National Research Council (C.N.R.), Rome, Italy.,Fondazione S. Lucia (FSL) IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Andrea Viggiano
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Scuola Medica Salernitana, University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy
| | - Marika Scafuro
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Fiore
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, National Research Council (C.N.R.), Rome, Italy.,Fondazione S. Lucia (FSL) IRCCS, Roma, Italy
| | - Giangennaro Coppola
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Scuola Medica Salernitana, University of Salerno, Baronissi, SA, Italy.,UO Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Medical School, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | | | - Silvia Fasano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Sophie Laye
- INRA, Bordeaux University, Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology, UMR, Bordeaux, France
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Rosaria Meccariello
- Department of Movement and Wellness Sciences, Parthenope University of Naples, Naples, Italy
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Migliaccio M, Ricci G, Suglia A, Manfrevola F, Mackie K, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Chioccarelli T, Cobellis G. Analysis of Endocannabinoid System in Rat Testis During the First Spermatogenetic Wave. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:269. [PMID: 29896156 PMCID: PMC5986923 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids are lipid mediators, enzymatically synthesized and hydrolyzed, that bind cannabinoid receptors. Together with their receptors and metabolic enzymes, they form the "endocannabinoid system" (ECS). Anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) are the main endocannabinoids studied in testis. In this study, using the first wave of spermatogenesis as an in vivo model to verify the progressive appearance of germ cells in seminiferous tubules [i.e., spermatogonia, spermatocytes, and spermatids], we analyzed the expression of the main enzymes and receptors of ECS in rat testis. In particular, the expression profile of the main enzymes metabolizing AEA and 2-AG as well as the expression of cannabinoid receptors, such as CB1 and CB2, and specific markers of mitotic, meiotic, and post-meiotic germ cell appearance or activities have been analyzed by RT-PCR and appropriately correlated. Our aim was to envisage a relationship between expression of ECS components and temporal profile of germ cell appearance or activity as well as among ECS components. Results show that expression of ECS components is related to germ cell progression. In particular, CB2 and 2-AG appear to be related to mitotic/meiotic stages, while CB1 and AEA appear to be related to spermatogonia stem cells activity and spermatids appearance, respectively. Our data also suggest that a functional interaction among ECS components occurs in the testis. Indeed, in vitro-incubated testis show that AEA-CB2 activity affects negatively monoacylglycerol-lipase levels via upregulation of CB1 suggesting a CB1/CB2-mediated relationship between AEA and 2-AG. Finally, we provide the first evidence that CB1 is present in fetal gonocytes, during mitotic arrest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Migliaccio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sez. Bottazzi, Università degli Studi della Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Giulia Ricci
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Laboratorio di Istologia ed Embriologia, Università degli Studi della Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Suglia
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sez. Bottazzi, Università degli Studi della Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Manfrevola
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sez. Bottazzi, Università degli Studi della Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Ken Mackie
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sez. Bottazzi, Università degli Studi della Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sez. Bottazzi, Università degli Studi della Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Teresa Chioccarelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sez. Bottazzi, Università degli Studi della Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Gilda Cobellis
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sez. Bottazzi, Università degli Studi della Campania “L. Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Gilda Cobellis,
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Suglia A, Chianese R, Migliaccio M, Ambrosino C, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Cobellis G, Chioccarelli T. Bisphenol A induces hypothalamic down-regulation of the the cannabinoid receptor 1 and anorexigenic effects in male mice. Pharmacol Res 2016; 113:376-383. [PMID: 27641926 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2016.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2016] [Revised: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Bisphenol A is an environment-polluting industrial chemical able to interfere with the endocrine system. An obesogenic effect in perinatally exposed rodents has been described as estrogenic activity. We exposed male mice to Bisphenol A during fetal-perinatal period (from 10 days post coitum to 31 days post partum) and investigated the effects of this early-life exposure at 78 days of age. Body weight, food intake, fat mass, and hypothalamic signals related to anorexigenic control of food intake were analyzed. Results show that Bisphenol A exposure reduced body weight and food intake. In addition, the exposure decreased epididymal fat mass and adiposity, acting negatively on adipocyte volume. At hypothalamic level, Bisphenol A exposure reduced the expression of the cannabinoid receptor 1 and induced gene expression of cocaine and amphetamine-regulated transcript-1. This observation suggests that Bisphenol A induces activation of anorexigenic signals via down-regulation of the hypothalamic cannabinoid receptor 1 with negative impact on food intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Suglia
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sez. Bottazzi, II University of Naples, 80138, Napoli, Italy
| | - Rosanna Chianese
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sez. Bottazzi, II University of Naples, 80138, Napoli, Italy
| | - Marina Migliaccio
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sez. Bottazzi, II University of Naples, 80138, Napoli, Italy
| | - Concetta Ambrosino
- Department of Science and Technology University of Sannio, Via Port'Arsa 11, 82100, Benevento, Italy; IRGS, Biogem, Via Camporeale, 83031, Ariano Irpino, Avellino, Italy
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sez. Bottazzi, II University of Naples, 80138, Napoli, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sez. Bottazzi, II University of Naples, 80138, Napoli, Italy.
| | - Gilda Cobellis
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sez. Bottazzi, II University of Naples, 80138, Napoli, Italy
| | - Teresa Chioccarelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sez. Bottazzi, II University of Naples, 80138, Napoli, Italy
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Cobellis G, Meccariello R, Chianese R, Chioccarelli T, Fasano S, Pierantoni R. Effects of Neuroendocrine CB1 Activity on Adult Leydig Cells. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2016; 7:47. [PMID: 27375550 PMCID: PMC4891325 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2016.00047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocannabinoids control male reproduction acting at central and local level via cannabinoid receptors. The cannabinoid receptor CB1 has been characterized in the testis, in somatic and germ cells of mammalian and non-mammalian animal models, and its activity related to Leydig cell differentiation, steroidogenesis, spermiogenesis, sperm quality, and maturation. In this short review, we provide a summary of the insights concerning neuroendocrine CB1 activity in male reproduction focusing on adult Leydig cell ontogenesis and steroid biosynthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilda Cobellis
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Seconda Università di Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Rosaria Meccariello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere, Università di Napoli Parthenope, Napoli, Italy
| | - Rosanna Chianese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Seconda Università di Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Teresa Chioccarelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Seconda Università di Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Seconda Università di Napoli, Napoli, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Seconda Università di Napoli, Napoli, Italy
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Ciaramella V, Meccariello R, Chioccarelli T, Sirleto M, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Chianese R. Anandamide acts via kisspeptin in the regulation of testicular activity of the frog, Pelophylax esculentus. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 420:75-84. [PMID: 26586207 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2015.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2015] [Revised: 10/12/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In the frog Pelophylax esculentus, the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA) modulates Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH) system in vitro and down-regulates steroidogenic enzymes in vivo. Thus, male frogs were injected with AEA ± SR141716A, a cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) antagonist, to evaluate possible effects on GnRH and Kiss1/Gpr54 systems, gonadotropin receptors and steroid levels. In frog diencephalons, AEA negatively affected both GnRH and Kiss1/Gpr54 systems. In testis, AEA induced the expression of gonadotropin receptors, cb1, gnrh2 and gnrhr3 meanwhile reducing gnrhr2 mRNA and Kiss1/Gpr54 proteins. Furthermore, aromatase (Cyp19) expression increased in parallel to testosterone decrease and estradiol increase. In vitro treatment of testis with AEA revealed direct effects on Cyp19 and induced the expression of the AEA-degrading enzyme Faah. Lastly, AEA effects on Faah were counteracted by the antiestrogen ICI182780, indicating estradiol mediated effect. In conclusion, for the first time we show in a vertebrate that AEA regulates testicular activity through kisspeptin system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincenza Ciaramella
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale sez "F. Bottazzi", Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Rosaria Meccariello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere, Università di Napoli Parthenope, Via Medina 40, 80133 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Teresa Chioccarelli
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale sez "F. Bottazzi", Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Monica Sirleto
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere, Università di Napoli Parthenope, Via Medina 40, 80133 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale sez "F. Bottazzi", Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale sez "F. Bottazzi", Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Rosanna Chianese
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale sez "F. Bottazzi", Seconda Università di Napoli, Via Costantinopoli 16, 80138 Napoli, Italy.
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ORELLANA-SERRADELL O, POBLETE C, SANCHEZ C, CASTELLÓN E, GALLEGOS I, HUIDOBRO C, LLANOS M, CONTRERAS H. Proapoptotic effect of endocannabinoids in prostate cancer cells. Oncol Rep 2015; 33:1599-608. [PMID: 25606819 PMCID: PMC4358087 DOI: 10.3892/or.2015.3746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2014] [Accepted: 12/29/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the early stages, prostate cancer is androgen‑ dependent; therefore, medical castration has shown significant results during the initial stages of this pathology. Despite this early effect, advanced prostate cancer is resilient to such treatment. Recent evidence shows that derivatives of Cannabis sativa and its analogs may exert a protective effect against different types of oncologic pathologies. The purpose of the present study was to detect the presence of cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) on cancer cells with a prostatic origin and to evaluate the effect of the in vitro use of synthetic analogs. In order to do this, we used a commercial cell line and primary cultures derived from prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia. The presence of the CB1 and CB2 receptors was determined by immunohistochemistry where we showed a higher expression of these receptors in later stages of the disease (samples with a high Gleason score). Later, treatments were conducted using anandamide, 2-arachidonoyl glycerol and a synthetic analog of anandamide, methanandamide. Using the MTT assay, we proved that the treatments produced a cell growth inhibitory effect on all the different prostate cancer cultures. This effect was demonstrated to be dose-dependent. The use of a specific CB1 receptor blocker (SR141716) confirmed that this effect was produced primarily from the activation of the CB1 receptor. In order to understand the MTT assay results, we determined cell cycle distribution by flow cytometry, which showed no variation at the different cell cycle stages in all the cultures after treatment. Treatment with endocannabinoids resulted in an increase in the percentage of apoptotic cells as determined by Annexin V assays and caused an increase in the levels of activated caspase-3 and a reduction in the levels of Bcl-2 confirming that the reduction in cell viability noted in the MTT assay was caused by the activation of the apoptotic pathway. Finally, we observed that endocannabinoid treatment activated the Erk pathway and at the same time, produced a decrease in the activation levels of the Akt pathway. Based on these results, we suggest that endocannabinoids may be a beneficial option for the treatment of prostate cancer that has become nonresponsive to common therapies.
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MESH Headings
- Adenocarcinoma/pathology
- Apoptosis/drug effects
- Arachidonic Acids/pharmacology
- Cell Cycle/drug effects
- Drug Screening Assays, Antitumor
- Endocannabinoids/pharmacology
- Glycerides/pharmacology
- Humans
- MAP Kinase Signaling System/drug effects
- Male
- Neoplasm Proteins/analysis
- Neoplasm Proteins/antagonists & inhibitors
- Neoplasm Proteins/drug effects
- Piperidines/pharmacology
- Polyunsaturated Alkamides/pharmacology
- Prostatic Hyperplasia/pathology
- Prostatic Neoplasms/pathology
- Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-akt/antagonists & inhibitors
- Pyrazoles/pharmacology
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/analysis
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB1/drug effects
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/analysis
- Receptor, Cannabinoid, CB2/drug effects
- Rimonabant
- Signal Transduction/drug effects
- Tumor Cells, Cultured
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Affiliation(s)
- O. ORELLANA-SERRADELL
- Physiology and Biophysics Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago 8389100, Chile
| | - C.E. POBLETE
- Physiology and Biophysics Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago 8389100, Chile
| | - C. SANCHEZ
- Physiology and Biophysics Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago 8389100, Chile
| | - E.A. CASTELLÓN
- Physiology and Biophysics Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago 8389100, Chile
| | - I. GALLEGOS
- Pathological Anatomy Service, Clinic Hospital of the University of Chile, University of Chile, Santiago 8389100, Chile
| | - C. HUIDOBRO
- Urology Service, Clinic Hospital of the University of Chile, University of Chile, Santiago 8389100, Chile
| | - M.N. LLANOS
- Laboratory of Nutrition and Metabolic Regulation, INTA, University of Chile, Santiago 8389100, Chile
| | - H.R. CONTRERAS
- Physiology and Biophysics Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago 8389100, Chile
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Vastagh C, Rodolosse A, Solymosi N, Farkas I, Auer H, Sárvári M, Liposits Z. Differential Gene Expression in Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Neurons of Male and Metestrous Female Mice. Neuroendocrinology 2015; 102:44-59. [PMID: 25925152 DOI: 10.1159/000430818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons play a pivotal role in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary gonadal axis in a sex-specific manner. We hypothesized that the differences seen in reproductive functions of males and females are associated with a sexually dimorphic gene expression profile of GnRH neurons. METHODS AND RESULTS We compared the transcriptome of GnRH neurons obtained from intact metestrous female and male GnRH-green fluorescent protein transgenic mice. About 1,500 individual GnRH neurons from each sex were sampled with laser capture microdissection followed by whole-transcriptome amplification for gene expression profiling. Under stringent selection criteria (fold change >1.6, adjusted p value 0.01), Affymetrix Mouse Genome 430 PM array analysis identified 543 differentially expressed genes. Sexual dimorphism was most apparent in gene clusters associated with synaptic communication, signal transduction, cell adhesion, vesicular transport and cell metabolism. To validate microarray results, 57 genes were selected, and 91% of their differential expression was confirmed by real-time PCR. Similarly, 88% of microarray results were confirmed with PCR from independent samples obtained by patch pipette harvesting and pooling of 30 GnRH neurons from each sex. We found significant differences in the expression of genes involved in vesicle priming and docking (Syt1, Cplx1), GABAergic (Gabra3, Gabrb3, Gabrg2) and glutamatergic (Gria1, Grin1, Slc17a6) neurotransmission, peptide signaling (Sstr3, Npr2, Cxcr4) and the regulation of intracellular ion homeostasis (Cacna1, Cacnb1, Cacng5, Kcnq2, Kcnc1). CONCLUSION The striking sexual dimorphism of the GnRH neuron transcriptome we report here contributes to a better understanding of the differences in cellular mechanisms of GnRH neurons in the two sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Vastagh
- Laboratory of Endocrine Neurobiology, Institute of Experimental Medicine, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
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Meccariello R, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Cobellis G. Modulators of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis for the control of spermatogenesis and sperm quality in vertebrates. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2014; 5:135. [PMID: 25183961 PMCID: PMC4135230 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2014.00135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2014] [Accepted: 08/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Meccariello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere (DiSMEB), Parthenope University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence:
| | - Gilda Cobellis
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
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