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Qi Q, Yang J, Li S, Liu J, Xu D, Wang G, Feng L, Pan X. Melatonin alleviates oxidative stress damage in mouse testes induced by bisphenol A. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1338828. [PMID: 38440074 PMCID: PMC10910031 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1338828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
We investigated the effect of melatonin on bisphenol A (BPA)-induced oxidative stress damage in testicular tissue and Leydig cells. Mice were gavaged with 50 mg/kg BPA for 30 days, and concurrently, were injected with melatonin (10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg). Leydig cells were treated with 10 μmol/L of BPA and melatonin. The morphology and organ index of the testis and epididymis were observed and calculated. The sperm viability and density were determined. The expressions of melatonin receptor 1A and luteinizing hormone receptor, and the levels of malonaldehyde, antioxidant enzymes, glutathione, steroid hormone synthases, aromatase, luteinizing hormone, testosterone, and estradiol were measured. TUNEL assay was utilized to detect testicular cell apoptosis. The administration of melatonin at 20 mg/kg significantly improved the testicular index and epididymis index in mice treated with BPA. Additionally, melatonin promoted the development of seminiferous tubules in the testes. Furthermore, the treatment with 20 mg/kg melatonin significantly increased sperm viability and sperm density in mice, while also promoting the expressions of melatonin receptor 1A and luteinizing hormone receptor in Leydig cells of BPA-treated mice. Significantly, melatonin reduced the level of malonaldehyde in testicular tissue and increased the expression of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase 1, superoxide dismutase 2, and catalase) as well as the content of glutathione. Moreover, melatonin also reduced the number of apoptotic Leydig cells and spermatogonia, aromatase expression, and estradiol level, while increasing the expression of steroid hormone synthases (steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, cytochrome P450 family 17a1, cytochrome P450 17α-hydroxylase/20-lyase, and, 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase) and the level of testosterone. Melatonin exhibited significant potential in alleviating testicular oxidative stress damage caused by BPA. These beneficial effects may be attributed to melatonin's ability to enhance the antioxidant capacity of testicular tissue, promote testosterone synthesis, and reduce testicular cell apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Qi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
- School of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Jiaxin Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
| | - Shuang Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
- School of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Jingjing Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
- School of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Da Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
| | - Guoqing Wang
- School of Medical Technology, Beihua University, Jilin, China
| | - Lei Feng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
| | - Xiaoyan Pan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin, China
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Minas A, de Oliveira Rodrigues L, Camargo M, Bertolla RP. Insight into inflammation involvement in varicocele: A narrative review. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13786. [PMID: 37881120 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Varicocele is one of the main causes of male infertility. Although the pathophysiology mechanism of varicocele is very well described and understood, there are some unanswered questions that remains unknown. Some studies have previously described the state of testicular inflammation and sperm in animal models, especially the mouse model, and the seminal plasma of men with varicocele, with or without changes in semen parameters. METHODS OF STUDY This review intended to verify the role of inflammatory mechanism in varicocele, using clinical studies as well as animal model studies on the effect of inflammation caused by varicocele on the function of testicular somatic and germ cells. RESULTS In-vivo studies confirmed whether anti-inflammatory molecules could treat the semen of men with varicocele and rats with varicocele. The use of different anti-inflammatory agents in mouse model studies provided a new perspective for future clinical studies to investigate the effect of concurrent treatment with surgery to improve surgical outcomes. CONCLUSION Similar to animal model studies, previously conducted clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory therapy in varicocele patients. However, clinical trials using anti-inflammatory are needed to be conducted agents to evaluate different aspects of this therapeutical approach in varicocele patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aram Minas
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Human Reproduction Section, São Paulo Federal University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Larissa de Oliveira Rodrigues
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Human Reproduction Section, São Paulo Federal University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana Camargo
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Human Reproduction Section, São Paulo Federal University, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Pimenta Bertolla
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Human Reproduction Section, São Paulo Federal University, São Paulo, Brazil
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Freni J, Pallio G, Marini HR, Micali A, Irrera N, Romeo C, Puzzolo D, Mannino F, Minutoli L, Pirrotta I, Scarfone A, Antonuccio P. Positive Effects of the Nutraceutical Association of Lycopene and Selenium in Experimental Varicocele. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13526. [PMID: 37686330 PMCID: PMC10488142 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Many natural substances commonly found in healthy diets have been studied for their potential to reduce male infertility associated with varicocele. A positive role of selenium (Se) or lycopene alone was demonstrated in experimental varicocele, while no data are available on their association. One group of male Sprague-Dawley rats was sham operated and daily treated with Se (3 mg/kg, i.p.), lycopene (1 mg/kg, i.p.), or their association. A second group underwent surgery to induce varicocele. Sham and half of the varicocele animals were sacrificed after twenty-eight days, while the residual animals were treated for one more month and then sacrificed. In varicocele animals, testosterone levels and testes weight were reduced, Hypoxia Inducible Factor-1α (HIF-1α) expression was absent in the tubules and increased in Leydig cells, caspare-3 was increased, seminiferous epithelium showed evident structural changes, and many apoptotic germ cells were demonstrated with TUNEL assay. The treatment with lycopene or Se alone significantly increased testis weight and testosterone levels, reduced apoptosis and caspase-3 expression, improved the tubular organization, decreased HIF-1α positivity of Leydig cells, and restored its tubular positivity. Lycopene or Se association showed a better influence on all biochemical and morphological parameters. Therefore, the nutraceutical association of lycopene plus Se might be considered a possible therapeutic tool, together with surgery, in the treatment of male infertility. However, long-term experimental and clinical studies are necessary to evaluate sperm quantity and quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose Freni
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (J.F.); (D.P.)
| | - Giovanni Pallio
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.P.); (H.R.M.); (N.I.); (F.M.); (I.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Herbert Ryan Marini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.P.); (H.R.M.); (N.I.); (F.M.); (I.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Antonio Micali
- Department of Human Adult and Childhood Pathology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (A.M.); (C.R.); (P.A.)
| | - Natasha Irrera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.P.); (H.R.M.); (N.I.); (F.M.); (I.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Carmelo Romeo
- Department of Human Adult and Childhood Pathology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (A.M.); (C.R.); (P.A.)
| | - Domenico Puzzolo
- Department of Biomedical, Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (J.F.); (D.P.)
| | - Federica Mannino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.P.); (H.R.M.); (N.I.); (F.M.); (I.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Letteria Minutoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.P.); (H.R.M.); (N.I.); (F.M.); (I.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Igor Pirrotta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.P.); (H.R.M.); (N.I.); (F.M.); (I.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Alessandro Scarfone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy; (G.P.); (H.R.M.); (N.I.); (F.M.); (I.P.); (A.S.)
| | - Pietro Antonuccio
- Department of Human Adult and Childhood Pathology, University of Messina, 98122 Messina, Italy; (A.M.); (C.R.); (P.A.)
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Huang N, Wei Y, Liu M, Yang Z, Yuan K, Chen J, Wu Z, Zheng F, Lei K, He M. Dachaihu decoction ameliorates septic intestinal injury via modulating the gut microbiota and glutathione metabolism as revealed by multi-omics. J Ethnopharmacol 2023; 312:116505. [PMID: 37080366 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Dachaihu decoction (DCH), a classic formula for Yangming and Shaoyang Syndrome Complex recorded in "Treatise on Cold Damage", has been widely used in treating intestinal disorders and inflammatory diseases with few side effects in China. However, the mechanism of DCH on septic intestinal injury (SII) remains to be explored. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to clarify the mechanism of DCH on SII. MATERIALS AND METHODS SII model of rat, established by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), was used to study the effect of DCH on SII. 24 h mortality was recorded. Histological changes were observed by H&E staining. The expression of tight junction protein ZO-1 (ZO-1) and mucin2 (MUC2) was determined by immunohistochemical analysis. Secretory IgA (sIgA), diamine oxidase (DAO) and intestinal fatty acid binding protein (iFABP) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were measured by ELISA and quantitative Real-time PCR (RT-qPCR). The gut microbiota was analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing. The potential targets and pathways of DCH in treating SII were analyzed by integrative analysis of transcriptomic and metabolomic methods. Total glutathione (T-GSH), GSH, GSSG (reduced form of GSH), GSH peroxidase (GPX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malonaldehyde (MDA) and indicators of hepatic and renal function were measured by biochemical kits. RESULTS Medium dose of DCH improved 24 h mortality of SII rats, reduced the pathological changes of ileum, and increased the expression levels of ZO-1, MUC2 and sIgA. DCH decreased DAO, iFABP of serum and IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α of ileum. DCH improved α- and β-diversity and modulated the structure of gut microbiota, with Escherichia_Shigella decreased and Bacteroides and Ruminococcus increased. GSH metabolism was identified as the key pathway of DCH on SII by integrative analysis of transcriptome and metabolome. GSH/GSSG and the most common indicators of oxidative stress, were validated. Antioxidative T-GSH, GSH, GPX and SOD were increased, while MDA, the mark of lipid peroxidation was downregulated by DCH. Eventually, DCH was proved to be safe and hepato- and nephro-protective. CONCLUSION DCH ameliorated septic intestinal injury possibly by modulating the gut microbiota and enhancing glutathione metabolism of SII rats, without hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Huang
- The Eighth School of Clinical Medicine (Foshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Foshan, 528000, China
| | - Yu Wei
- Basic Medical College Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Meng Liu
- Basic Medical College Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510000, China
| | - Zhen Yang
- The Eighth School of Clinical Medicine (Foshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Foshan, 528000, China
| | - Kang Yuan
- Foshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Foshan, 528000, China
| | - Jingli Chen
- Foshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Foshan, 528000, China
| | - Zhixin Wu
- Foshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Foshan, 528000, China
| | - Fanghao Zheng
- Foshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Foshan, 528000, China
| | - Kaijun Lei
- Foshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Foshan, 528000, China.
| | - Mingfeng He
- Foshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Foshan, 528000, China.
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Marini HR, Micali A, Puzzolo D, Minutoli L, Antonuccio P. Varicocele, Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals: From Mechanisms of Action in Animal Models to Therapeutic Application. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416118. [PMID: 36555779 PMCID: PMC9784674 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is one of the main causes of infertility in men, thus representing an important clinical problem worldwide. Inflammation contributes mainly to its pathogenesis, even if the exact pathophysiological mechanisms that correlate varicocele and infertility are still unknown. In addition, oxidative stress, apoptosis, hypoxia, and scrotal hyperthermia seem to play important roles. So far, the treatment of varicocele and the care of the fertility-associated problems still represent an area of interest for researchers, although many advances have occurred over the past few years. Recent experimental animal studies, as well as the current epidemiological evidence in humans, demonstrated that many functional foods of natural origin and nutraceuticals that are particularly abundant in the Mediterranean diet showed anti-inflammatory effects in varicocele. The aim of the present narrative review is to mainly evaluate recent experimental animal studies regarding the molecular mechanisms of varicocele and the state of the art about possible therapeutic approaches. As the current literature demonstrates convincing associations between diet, food components and fertility, the rational intake of nutraceuticals, which are particularly abundant in foods typical of plant-based eating patterns, may be a reliable therapeutic supportive care against varicocele and, consequently, could be very useful in the cure of fertility-associated problems in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Herbert Ryan Marini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Antonio Micali
- Department of Human Pathology of Adult and Childhood, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Domenico Puzzolo
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Letteria Minutoli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-090-221-3652
| | - Pietro Antonuccio
- Department of Human Pathology of Adult and Childhood, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
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Chi YN, Ye RJ, Yang JM, Hai DM, Liu N, Ren JW, Du J, Lan XB, Yu JQ, Ma L. Geniposide attenuates spermatogenic dysfunction via inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress in male mice. Chem Biol Interact 2022; 366:110144. [PMID: 36063855 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2022.110144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenesis dysfunction is common in clinically infertile patients. Geniposide (GP) is one of the important active ingredients extracted from Eucommia ulmoides. However, the protective effect and mechanism of GP in the treatment of spermatogenic dysfunction is not known yet. METHODS After cyclophosphamide-induced spermatogenic dysfunction was established in male mice, we gavaged GP for 4 weeks to evaluate spermatogenic function and anti-apoptotic effects by fertility, testicular weight, sperm quality, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress), comet assay and serum testosterone level. RESULTS GP can improve the damage of fertility and reproductive organs induced by cyclophosphamide and increase the number and activity of sperm. In comet assay, it was found that GP administration could alleviate sperm DNA damage induced by cyclophosphamide. In addition, GP treatment can significantly reduce ThT fluorescence intensity and improve endoplasmic reticulum stress induced by cyclophosphamide. Besides, TUNEL staining and WB showed that GP could inhibit the excessive apoptosis of cells and protect testis. (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION The protective effect of Geniposide on cyclophosphamide-induced spermatogenic dysfunction in mice is related to the inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Nan Chi
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Rui-Juan Ye
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Jia-Mei Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Dong-Mei Hai
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, The Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Jia-Wei Ren
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Juan Du
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Xiao-Bing Lan
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Jian-Qiang Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China; Ningxia Hui Medicine Modern Engineering Research Center and Collaborative Innovation Center, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China.
| | - Lin Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China.
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Tang S, Yang P, Ding Y, Chen Q, Huang H, Chen X, Zhou H. Silencing CAMK2D Promotes the Proliferation of Spermatogonia in the Testis of Experimental Varicocele Rats. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2022; 2022:7121245. [PMID: 35911132 PMCID: PMC9325628 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7121245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Varicocele is regarded as the main factor that contributes to male infertility. This study aimed to explore the effect of CAMK2D on spermatogonia in the testis of experimental varicocele rats. The experimental varicocele model was established in rats and treated using different ligation methods. mRNA expression profile analysis was performed on the left testicular tissue isolated from different groups, and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analysed by bioinformatics methods and identified by qRT-PCR. The effect of CAMK2D, the screened DEG, on the proliferation of spermatogonia was evaluated by CCK-8 assay. The expression level of the c-kit was measured by the immunofluorescence assay and the expression levels of CAMKII, FOXO1, and β-catenin were detected by qRT-PCR and western blotting. Five DEGs (i.e., TMCC3, FLNB, CAMK2D, OPLAH, and EGR1) were screened using the comprehensive analysis of mRNA high-throughput sequencing data. TMCC3 and FLNB were significantly downregulated, and CAMK2D, OPLAH, and EGR1 were dramatically upregulated in the testicular tissue of varicocele rats. The target DEG CAMK2D was obtained through identification by using qRT-PCR. In vitro assays revealed that the proliferation of spermatogonia was significantly facilitated by the silencing of CAMK2D, which resulted in the downregulation of CAMKII, FOXO1, and β-catenin. In conclusion, silencing CAMK2D facilitated the proliferation of spermatogonia in the testis of experimental varicocele rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Songxi Tang
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, China
| | - Peng Yang
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, China
| | - Yilang Ding
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, China
| | - Qiang Chen
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, China
| | - Hailin Huang
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, China
| | - Huiliang Zhou
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350005, China
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Tavalaee M, Rahmani M, Drevet JR, Nasr-Esfahani MH. The NLRP3 inflammasome: molecular activation and regulation in spermatogenesis and male infertility; a systematic review. Basic Clin Androl 2022; 32:8. [PMID: 35637440 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-022-00157-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Infertility related to varicocele, infections, metabolic dysfunctions, oxidative stress and environmental toxicants is also associated with inflammatory processes that ultimately lead to the activation of the inflammasome pathway (IP). IP is classically activated by DAMPs, MAMPs or LAMPs, which stand for Damage-, Microbe- or Lifestyle-Associated Molecular Patterns, respectively. The most important player in IP activation is the NLRP3 (NOD[Nuclear oligomerization domain]-, LRR[Leucine rich repeat]- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3) which functions as an intracellular sensor of D/M/L-AMPs resulting in activation of caspase-1, promotion of apoptosis, pyroptosis and generation of inflammatory cytokines. This review addresses the question of whether IP activation might be associated with male infertility situations. Results & conclusions We conducted a systematic review of articles published in the Google Scholar, and PubMed databases through October 2021. It turns out that inflammasome activation and its consequences including cytokine storms, apoptosis and pyroptosis could be associated with the reduced sperm count as well as the structural and functional sperm defects recorded in several situations associated with male infertility suggesting that anti-inflammatory therapeutic strategies could be possibly considered to restore male fertility in future research.
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Zhuang Y, Yang D, Shi S, Wang L, Yu M, Meng X, Fan Y, Zhou R, Wang F. MiR-375-3p Promotes Cardiac Fibrosis by Regulating the Ferroptosis Mediated by GPX4. Comput Intell Neurosci 2022; 2022:9629158. [PMID: 35498204 PMCID: PMC9054412 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9629158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Although coronary artery recanalization after myocardial infarction improves patient outcomes, inadequate ventricular remodeling following ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury and secondary cardiac fibrosis (CF) are common and can lead to heart failure. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in cardiovascular disorders. However, the underlying molecular mechanism of miRNAs in the occurrence and progression of CF has not been fully elucidated. Herein, through the construction of an I/R rat model and an angiotensin II-induced CF cell model, we evaluated the role of miR-375-3p in the progression of CF. In the I/R rat model and CF cell model, miR-375-3p promoted fibrosis by accelerating the ferroptosis of cardiomyocytes through mediating glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4). Furthermore, we treated the rats or cell model with miR-375-3p antagomir (or inhibitor) and ferroptosis inhibitor Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1). The results showed that miR-375-3p antagomir (or inhibitor) and Fer-1 promoted the antioxidant capacity of cardiac fibroblasts, reduced GPX4-mediated ferroptosis process and alleviated I/R-induced CF. In conclusion, this study revealed that miR-375-3p directly targeted GPX4-an inhibitor of the ferroptosis pathway. Meanwhile, miR-375-3p can be a new potential biomarker for the prevention and treatment of CF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhuang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Dicheng Yang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Sheng Shi
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Limin Wang
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Min Yu
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Xiangdong Meng
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Yongliang Fan
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Ren Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Shanghai Ninth Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, China
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Wang S, Kang J, Song Y, Zhang A, Pan Y, Zhang Z, Li Y, Niu S, Liu L, Liu X. Long noncoding RNAs regulated spermatogenesis in varicocele-induced spermatogenic dysfunction. Cell Prolif 2022; 55:e13220. [PMID: 35297519 PMCID: PMC9136499 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.13220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To evaluate the expression, potential functions and mechanisms of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the pathogenesis of varicocele (VC)‐induced spermatogenic dysfunction. Materials and Methods We established a rat model with left experimental VC and divided rats into the sham group, the VC group, and the surgical treatment group (each group, n = 10). Haematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and sperm quality were analysed to evaluate spermatogenesis function. LncRNA expression profiles were analysed using lncRNA‐Seq (each group n = 3) and validated using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (each group n = 10). Correlation analysis and gene target miRNA prediction were used to construct competing endogenous RNA network. The regulated signalling pathway and spermatogenic dysfunction of differentially expressed lncRNAs (DE lncRNAs) were validated by Western blot. Results HE detection and sperm quality analysis showed that VC could induce spermatogenic dysfunction. Eight lncRNAs were upregulated and three lncRNAs were downregulated in the VC group compared with the sham group and surgical treatment group. The lncRNA of NONRATG002949.2, NONRATG001060.2, NONRATG013271.2, NONRATG022879.2, NONRATG023424.2, NONRATG005667.2 and NONRATG010686.2 were significantly negatively related to sperm quality, while NONRATG027523.1, NONRATG017183.2 and NONRATG023747.2 were positively related to sperm quality. The lncRNAs promote spermatogenic cell apoptosis and inhibit spermatogonia and spermatocyte proliferation and meiotic spermatocytes by regulating the PI3K–Akt signalling pathway. Conclusion DE lncRNAs may be potential biomarkers for predicting the risk of spermatogenic dysfunction in VC and the effect of surgical repair. These DE lncRNAs promote spermatogenic dysfunction by regulating the PI3K–Akt signalling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangren Wang
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiaqi Kang
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuxuan Song
- Department of Urology, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing, China.,Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center (BIOPIC), School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Aiqiao Zhang
- Department of Neonatology, First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Department of Neonatology, National Clinical Research Center for Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Yang Pan
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Zhexin Zhang
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Yuezheng Li
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Shuai Niu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Liu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
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Kemsawasd V, Inthachat W, Suttisansanee U, Temviriyanukul P. Road to The Red Carpet of Edible Crickets through Integration into the Human Food Chain with Biofunctions and Sustainability: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031801. [PMID: 35163720 PMCID: PMC8836810 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) estimates that more than 500 million people, especially in Asia and Africa, are suffering from malnutrition. Recently, livestock farming has increased to supply high-quality protein, with consequent impact on the global environment. Alternative food sources with high nutritive values that can substitute livestock demands are urgently required. Recently, edible crickets have been promoted by the FAO to ameliorate the food crisis. In this review, the distribution, nutritive values, health-promoting properties (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and anti-obesity), safety, allergenicity as well as the potential hazards and risks for human consumption are summarized. Cricket farming may help to realize the United Nations sustainable development goal No. 2 Zero Hunger. The sustainability of cricket farming is also discussed in comparison with other livestock. The findings imply that edible crickets are safe for daily intake as a healthy alternative diet due to their high protein content and health-promoting properties. Appropriate use of edible crickets in the food and nutraceutical industries represents a global business potential. However, people who are allergic to shellfish should pay attention on cricket allergy. Thus, the objective of this review was to present in-depth and up-to-date information on edible crickets to advocate and enhance public perception of cricket-based food.
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Zheng W, Xia N, Zhang J, Chen N, Meurens F, Liu Z, Zhu J. How the Innate Immune DNA Sensing cGAS-STING Pathway Is Involved in Autophagy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:13232. [PMID: 34948027 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The cGAS–STING pathway is a key component of the innate immune system and exerts crucial roles in the detection of cytosolic DNA and invading pathogens. Accumulating evidence suggests that the intrinsic cGAS–STING pathway not only facilitates the production of type I interferons (IFN-I) and inflammatory responses but also triggers autophagy. Autophagy is a homeostatic process that exerts multiple effects on innate immunity. However, systematic evidence linking the cGAS–STING pathway and autophagy is still lacking. Therefore, one goal of this review is to summarize the known mechanisms of autophagy induced by the cGAS–STING pathway and their consequences. The cGAS–STING pathway can trigger canonical autophagy through liquid-phase separation of the cGAS–DNA complex, interaction of cGAS and Beclin-1, and STING-triggered ER stress–mTOR signaling. Furthermore, both cGAS and STING can induce non-canonical autophagy via LC3-interacting regions and binding with LC3. Subsequently, autophagy induced by the cGAS–STING pathway plays crucial roles in balancing innate immune responses, maintaining intracellular environmental homeostasis, alleviating liver injury, and limiting tumor growth and transformation.
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Abstract
Consumption of edible insects has been widely suggested as an environmentally sustainable substitute for meat to reduce GHG emissions. However, the novel research field for edible insects rely on the content of bioactive ingredients and on the ability to induce a functional effect in humans. The goal of this manuscript was to review the available body of evidence on the properties of edible insects in modulating oxidative and inflammatory stress, platelet aggregation, lipid and glucose metabolism and weight control. A search for literature investigating the functional role of edible insects was carried out in the PUBMED database using specific keywords. A total of 55 studies, meeting inclusion criteria after screening, were divided on the basis of the experimental approach: in vitro studies, cellular models/ex vivo studies or in vivo studies. In the majority of the studies, insects demonstrated the ability to reduce oxidative stress, modulate antioxidant status, restore the impaired activity of antioxidant enzymes and reduce markers of oxidative damage. Edible insects displayed anti-inflammatory activity reducing cytokines and modulating specific transcription factors. Results from animal studies suggest that edible insects can modulate lipid and glucose metabolism. The limited number of studies focused on the assessment of anticoagulation activity of edible insects make it difficult to draw conclusions. More evidence from dietary intervention studies in humans is needed to support the promising evidence from in vitro and animal models about the functional role of edible insects consumption.
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Cao J, Jin Q, Kuang J, Wang Y, Xu Y. Regulation of Flowering Timing by ABA-NnSnRK1 Signaling Pathway in Lotus. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:3932. [PMID: 33920313 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22083932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The lotus produces flower buds at each node, yet most of them are aborted because of unfavorable environmental changes and the mechanism remains unclear. In this work, we proposed a potential novel pathway for ABA-mediated flower timing control in the lotus, which was explored by combining molecular, genetic, transcriptomic, biochemical, and pharmacologic approaches. We found that the aborting flower buds experienced extensive programmed cell death (PCD). The hormonal changes between the normal and aborting flower buds were dominated by abscisic acid (ABA). Seedlings treated with increasing concentrations of ABA exhibited a differential alleviating effect on flower bud abortion, with a maximal response at 80 μM. Transcriptome analysis further confirmed the changes of ABA content and the occurrence of PCD, and indicated the importance of PCD-related SNF1-related protein kinase 1 (NnSnRK1). The NnSnRK1-silenced lotus seedlings showed stronger flowering ability, with their flower:leaf ratio increased by 40%. When seedlings were treated with ABA, the expression level and protein kinase activity of NnSnRK1 significantly decreased. The phenotype of NnSnRK1-silenced seedlings could also be enhanced by ABA treatment and reversed by tungstate treatment. These results suggested that the decline of ABA content in lotus flower buds released its repression of NnSnRK1, which then initiated flower bud abortion.
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D'Antonio V, Serafini M, Battista N. Dietary Modulation of Oxidative Stress From Edible Insects: A Mini-Review. Front Nutr 2021; 8:642551. [PMID: 33718423 PMCID: PMC7952304 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2021.642551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Edible insects are proposed as a nutritious and environmentally sustainable alternative source to animal proteins, due to their numerous advantages in terms of reduced ecological impact and high nutritional value. However, the novelty for edible insects relies on the content of bioactive ingredients potentially able to induce a functional effect in the body. The present review summarizes the main findings on the antioxidant properties of edible insects available in the literature. A total of 30 studies involving animals, cell cultures, or in vitro experimental studies evaluating the antioxidant effect of edible insects are presented in this work. When the antioxidant activity was investigated, using a wide variety of in vitro tests and in cellular models, positive results were shown. Dietary supplementation with edible insects was also able to counteract dietary oxidative stress in animal models, restoring the balance of antioxidant enzymes and reducing the formation of oxidation damage markers. On the basis of the reviewed evidences, edible insects might represent a source of novel redox ingredients at low ecological impact able to modulate oxidative stress. However, due to the fact that majority of these evidences have been obtained in vitro and in cellular and animal models, dietary intervention trials are needed to assess the efficacy of edible insect consumption to modulate redox status in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica D'Antonio
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technologies for Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Mauro Serafini
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technologies for Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
| | - Natalia Battista
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technologies for Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Teramo, Teramo, Italy
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