[Safety and efficacy analysis of endovascular thrombectomy in patients with large vascular occlusion with low Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score]

Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) in acute anterior circulation large vessel occlusive stroke (ALVOS) and explore the related influencing factors for prognoses in patients with low Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score (ASPECT). Methods: Patients with acute ALVOS who underwent EVT in Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical College from January 2019 to June 2022 were sequentially enrolled. (1) Patients were divided into a low ASPECT group (0-5) and a non-low ASPECT group (6-10), and the differences between the two groups were compared with respect to incidence of perioperative complications and good prognosis rate [modified Rankin scale (mRS) score≤2] 90 days after onset. (2) According to the prognoses 90 days after onset, the low ASPECT group was divided into the good prognosis (mRS score≤2) and poor prognosis (mRS score>2) subgroup. Univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to investigate the independent risk factors for prognoses of the low ASPECT patients after EVT. Results: A total of 582 patients [age 26-94(69±11) years, 345 male patients (59.3%)] were enrolled for analysis. The baseline ASPECT score was 8 (7, 10), and the baseline NIHSS score was 14 (11, 18). Among them, 102 (17.5%) patients were in the low ASPECT score group and 480 (82.5%) patients were in the non-low ASPECT score group. In the total cohort, patients in the low ASPECT score group had a higher incidence of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, lower 90-day good prognosis rate, and higher 90-day mortality rate. Further, propensity score matching statistical analysis showed that patients in the low ASPECT score group had a significantly higher incidence of malignant brain edema after EVT treatment (40.0% vs. 17.6%, χ2=9.13, P=0.003), and a significantly lower 90-day good prognosis rate (24.7% vs. 41.6%, χ2=4.96, P=0.026), but there was no significant difference in the incidence of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage and 90-day mortality between the two groups (40.3% vs. 26.0%, χ2=3.55, P=0.060). Among 102 patients with low ASPECT score, 22 (21.6%) patients had good prognosis and 80 (78.4%) had poor prognosis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that history of atrial fibrillation (OR=4.478, 95%CI 1.186-16.913, P=0.027) was an independent risk factor for poor prognosis of EVT in patients with low ASPECT score, while good collateral circulation (grade 2 vs. grade 0: OR=0.206, 95%CI 0.051-0.842, P=0.028) was a protective factor for good prognosis of EVT in patients with low ASPECT score. Conclusions: Although the 90-day good prognosis rate of EVT treatment for patients with low ASPECT score was lower than that of the non-low ASPECT group, 21.6% patients still benefitted from EVT treatment, especially patients with non-atrial fibrillation and good collateral circulation. Future studies involving more patients are needed to validate our observations.

[Long-term outcomes and failure patterns of definitive radiotherapy for cervical esophageal carcinoma]

Objective: To evaluate the long-term outcomes, failure patterns and prognostic factors of definitive radiotherapy in patients with cervical esophageal carcinoma (CEC). Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of 148 CEC patients who treated with definitive radiotherapy in Cancer Hospital of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences from January 2001 to December 2017. The median radiation dose was 66 Gy (59.4-70 Gy) and 33.1% of patients received concurrent chemotherapy. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate survival rates. The log rank test was used for survival comparison and univariate prognostic analysis. The Cox model was used for multivariate prognostic analysis. Results: The median follow-up time was 102.6 months. The median survival time, 2- and 5-year overall survival (OS) were 22.7 months, 49.9% and 28.3%. The median, 2- and 5-year progression-free survival were 12.6 months, 35.8% and 25.8%. The 2- and 5-year locoregional recurrence-free survival were 59.1% and 50.8%. The 2- and 5-year distant metastases-free survival were 74.6% and 65.9%. Multivariate analysis showed that EQD(2)>66 Gy was the only independent prognostic indicator for OS (P=0.040). The median survival time and 5-year OS rate significantly improved in patients who received EQD(2)>66 Gy than those who received≤66 Gy (31.2 months vs. 19.2 months, 40.1% vs. 19.1%, P=0.027). A total of 87 patients (58.8%) developed tumor progression. There were 50 (33.8%), 23 (15.5%) and 39 (26.4%) patients developed local, regional recurrence and distant metastases, respectively. Eleven patients (7.4%) underwent salvage surgery, and the laryngeal preservation rate for entire group was 93.9%. Conclusions: Definitive radiotherapy is an effective treatment for cervical esophageal carcinoma with the advantage of larynx preservation. Local recurrence is the major failure pattern. EQD(2)>66 Gy is associated with the improved overall survival.

[Long-term efficacy and safety of simultaneous integrated boost radiotherapy in non-operative esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a multicenter retrospective data analysis (3JECROG R-05)]

Objective: To analyze the survival benefits and treatment related toxic effects of simultaneous integrated boost intensity-modulated radiotherapy (SIB-RT) for non-operative esophageal squamous cell carcinoma patients. Methods: The data of 2 132 ESCC patients who were not suitable for surgery or rejected operation, and underwent radical radiotherapy from 2002 to 2016 in 10 hospitals of Jing-Jin-Ji Esophageal and Esophagogastric Cancer Radiotherapy Oncology Group (3JECROG) were analyzed. Among them, 518 (24.3%) cases underwent SIB (SIB group) and 1 614 (75.7%) cases did not receive SIB (No-SIB group). The two groups were matched with 1∶2 according to propensity score matching (PSM) method (caliper value=0.02). After PSM, 515 patients in SIB group and 977 patients in No-SIB group were enrolled. Prognosis and treatment related adverse effects of these two groups were compared and the independent prognostic factor were analyzed. Results: The median follow-up time was 61.7 months. Prior to PSM, the 1-, 3-, and 5-years overall survival (OS) rates of SIB group were 72.2%, 42.8%, 35.5%, while of No-SIB group were 74.3%, 41.4%, 31.9%, respectively (P=0.549). After PSM, the 1-, 3-, and 5-years OS rates of the two groups were 72.5%, 43.4%, 36.4% and 75.3%, 41.7%, 31.6%, respectively (P=0.690). The univariate survival analysis of samples after PSM showed that the lesion location, length, T stage, N stage, TNM stage, simultaneous chemoradiotherapy, gross tumor volume (GTV) and underwent SIB-RT or not were significantly associated with the prognosis of advanced esophageal carcinoma patients who underwent radical radiotherapy (P<0.05). Cox model multivariate regression analysis showed lesion location, TNM stage, GTV and simultaneous chemoradiotherapy were independent prognostic factors of advanced esophageal carcinoma patients who underwent radical radiotherapy (P<0.05). Stratified analysis showed that, in the patients whose GTV volume≤50 cm(3), the median survival time of SIB and No-SIB group was 34.7 and 30.3 months (P=0.155), respectively. In the patients whose GTV volume>50 cm(3), the median survival time of SIB and No-SIB group was 16.1 and 20.1 months (P=0.218). The incidence of radiation esophagitis and radiation pneumonitis above Grade 3 in SIB group were 4.3% and 2.5%, significantly lower than 13.1% and 11% of No-SIB group (P<0.001). Conclusions: The survival benefit of SIB-RT in patients with locally advanced esophageal carcinoma is not inferior to non-SIB-RT, but without more adverse reactions, and shortens the treatment time. SIB-RT can be used as one option of the radical radiotherapy for locally advanced esophageal cancer.

Calcium propionate supplementation alters the ruminal bacterial and archaeal communities in pre- and postweaning calves

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of calcium propionate (CaP) on rumen microbiota, fermentation indicators, and weight gain in calves both pre- and postweaning. Twenty-four newborn calves were randomly divided into 4 groups (2 × 2 factorial treatment arrangement): either pre- (90 d) or postweaning (160 d), and either without or with dietary CaP supplementation (5% dry matter). The CaP supplementation increased the body weight and rumen weight of the calves and lowered NH₃-N concentration in the rumen. Microbiota composition was characterized by sequencing the amplicons of the bacterial and archaeal 16S rRNA genes. The CaP supplementation decreased the relative abundance of the phylum Bacteroidetes but tended to increase that of Proteobacteria. In addition, CaP supplementation decreased the diversity of bacteria and archaea in the rumen compared with the calves fed the control diet. Linear discriminant analysis of the rumen microbiota revealed that Succinivibrionaceae and Methanobrevibacter were enriched in the CaP group postweaning. A correlation was also present between the acetate to propionate ratio and the species that acted as co-occurrence network hubs, including Succiniclasticum, Treponema, and Megasphaera. In conclusion, CaP supplementation can improve body weight gain and rumen growth and alter the ruminal microbiota in calves both pre- and postweaning.

[Survey on Toxoplasma gondii infections among three types of populations in Wuxi City]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infections among patients with rheumatoid arthritis, malignant tumors and schizophrenia in Wuxi City, so as to provide data support for the control of toxoplasmosis in these patients.

METHODS

A total of 205 cases with definitive diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, 257 cases with definitive diagnosis of malignant tumors and 235 cases with definitive diagnosis of schizophrenia were recruited, while 250 healthy volunteers served as controls. The demographic features were captured from the study subjects and serum samples were collected. The serum IgG and IgM antibodies against T. gondii were detected using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in all study subjects, and the positive rates of anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies were compared between the patients and controls.

RESULTS

The seroprevalence of the anti-T. gondii IgG antibody was 20.98%, 24.12% and 24.68% in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, malignant tumors and schizophrenia, which were all significantly greater than in healthy controls (χ² = 31.54, 42.12 and 42.98, all P values < 0.01), and the seroprevalence of the anti - T. gondii IgM antibody was 1.46%, 2.72% and 1.70% among patients with rheumatoid arthritis, malignant tumors and schizophrenia, which were all significantly higher than in healthy controls (χ² = 0.06, 1.52 and 0.21, all P values > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The patients with rheumatoid arthritis, malignant tumors and schizophrenia present with higher seroprevalence of the anti-T. gondii IgG antibody than healthy controls in Wuxi regions. Screening of T. gondii infections among the patients with rheumatoid arthritis, malignant tumors and schizophrenia should be intensified to prevent the damages caused by T. gondii infections.

[Study on safety of adjuvant radiotherapy concurrent with weekly chemotherapy for stage ⅡB-ⅣA esophageal carcinoma after radical resection]

Objective: To evaluate the tolerability and short-term efficacy of chemo-radiotherapy in 125 patients with stage ⅡB-ⅣA esophageal carcinoma after radical resection. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated the rate of completion, toxicity and survival of patients undergoing adjuvant concurrent chemo-radiotherapy after radical resection of esophageal carcinoma from January 2004 to December 2014 in our institution. The survival rate was determined by the Kaplan-Meier method and analyzed using the log-rank test. Multivariate prognostic analysis was performed using the Cox proportional hazard model. Results: 122 patients received more than 50 Gy dose (97.6%). A total of 52 patients received more than 5 weeks chemo-radiotherapy (41.6%), while 73 patients underwent only 1-4 weeks (58.4%). The median following up was 48.4 months. 8 patients lost follow up (6.4%). The 1-year and 3-year overall survival rate were 91.6% and 57.0%, respectively, with a median survival time of 64.4 months. The 1-year and 3-year disease free survival rate were 73.2% and 54.3%, respectively, with a median disease free survival time of 59.1 months. The most common acute complications associated with chemo-radiotherapy were myelosuppression, radiation esophagitis and radiation dermatitis, the majority of which were Grade 1-2. Of the 125 patients, there were 59 cases of recurrence, including 23 cases with local regional recurrence, 26 cases with hematogenous metastasis, and 8 cases with mixed recurrence. Univariate analysis showed that the numbers of concurrent chemotherapy was associated with the overall survival (P=0.006). But receiving more than 5 weeks was not the prognostic factor compared to 1 to 4 weeks chemotherapy (P=0.231). Multivariate analysis showed that only the numbers of concurrent chemotherapy was an independent prognostic factor (P=0.010). Conclusions: Postoperative radiotherapy concurrent with weekly chemotherapy could improve the overall survival and decrease the recurrence for stage ⅡB-ⅣA esophageal carcinoma after radical resection. However, the completion rate of chemotherapy was low, so it was necessary to explore reasonable regimens to improve the completion rate and carry out prospective randomized controlled trial.

[The value of the planned neoadjuvant radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy for the non-radical resection of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma]

Objective: The role of planned neoadjuvant radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy in the non-radical resection of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma was unclear. The study aimed to evaluate their therapeutic effect and analyze the prognostic factors. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma who received neoadjuvant radio therapy (33 patients) and concurrent chemoradiotherapy (119 patients) from January 2004 to December 2016 in our single-institution database.The survival rates were calculated by Kaplan-Meier method. The prognostic factors were analyzed by using Log rank test and Cox proportional hazards model. Results: The median follow-up was 29.8 months. One hundred and one patients survived more than 3 years. The rates of overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) at 3 years were 63.9% and 55.6%, respectively.The rates of complete, partial and minimal pathological response of the primary tumor were 50.3%, 38.4%, 11.3%, the corresponding 3-year OS were 75.5%, 57.4%, 27.3% (P<0.001) and 3-year DFS were 72.0%, 44.7%, 17.6% (P<0.001), respectively.The postoperative lymph node metastasis rate was 27.0%. The 3-year OS and DFS of the lymph node positive group was 45.6% and 32.8%, significantly lower than 70.8% and 63.7% of the negative group (both P<0.001). The 3-year OS and DFS of pathologic stage Ⅰ, Ⅱ, ⅢA, ⅢB and Ⅵ A were 76.2%, 57.4%, 64.7%, 35.0%, 33.3% (P<0.001) and 70.1%, 49.3%, 41.2%, 22.1%, 33.3% (P<0.001), respectively.The operation-related mortality was 3.3%. Multivariate analysis showed that chest pain, postoperative respiratory failure, pathological differentiation, more than 15 lymph node dissection and ypTNM stage were the independent prognostic factors of OS (P<0.05 for all). Conclusions: The planned neoadjuvant radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy for the non-radical resection of advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma could result in favorable survival. The chest pain, postoperative respiratory failure, pathological differentiation, the number of lymph node resection and ypTNM stage are the independent prognostic factors of the prognosis of these patients.

Effects of chemotherapeutic agent bendamustine for non-hodgkin lymphoma on spermatogenesis in mice

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is one of the most common cancers affecting men of reproductive age. The high response rate of bendamustine as first-line treatment for NHL, coupled with young age of patients, makes elucidation of the impact of treatment on male reproduction important. Our aim was to determine the effects of bendamustine on male reproduction by animal model. Male mice were treated with bendamustine (40 mg/kg) through tail vein injection while cisplatin was given as a standard (3 mg/kg) through intraperitoneal injection. After 3 weeks, bendamustine induced weight loss and sperm morphology abnormalities were compared to the control. Additionally, sperm with folded tails were the most frequent abnormality in bendamustine-treated mice. But the mechanism of sperm abnormality induced by bendamustine remains to be elucidated. These results indicate bendamustine may affect spermatozoa of patients who have been treated for NHL.

[Prognostic value of pretreatment neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer patients treated with thoracic radiation]

Objective: The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the prognostic significance of pretreatment Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio(NLR) in locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer(NSCLC) patients treated with thoracic radiotherapy. Methods: We retrospectively analyze 420 patients who received thoracic radiotherapy alone, sequential chemoraiotherapy or concurrent chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced stage NSCLC from January 2007 to December 2010 of our hospital. The patients were divided into two groups (high NLR group and low NLR group) with appropriate cutoff point using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve method. The survival curve was established by Kaplan-Meier method. The Log-rank test was used to compare the survival of the two NLR groups and the multivariate analysis was carried out by Cox regression model. Results: Among the 420 patients, 99 received radiotherapy alone, 139 received sequential chemoradiotherapy and 182 received concurrent chemoradiotherapy. 345 patients died and 75 were still alive. The median follow-up time was 5.2 years and the median overall survival was 22 months. The cut-off value of pretreatment NLR was 2.1. The 5-year PFS and OS rates in high NLR group and low NLR group were 10.6% vs 15.7% (P=0.033) and 15.5% vs 22.7% (P=0.012). Multivariate analysis confirmed that pretreatment NLR (hazard ratio 1.06, P=0.041) was independent prognostic factor of OS. Conclusions: Our study revealed that the pretreatment NLR is the independent prognostic factor of OS in patients with locally advanced stage NSCLC treated with thoracic radiotherapy. However, NLR is still greatly influenced by patient's condition and treatment which needs further research.

[The impact of cigarette cessation intervention on mental state of patients with coronary heart disease]

Objective: This study was designed to observe the impact of cigarette cessation on anxiety and depression in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). Methods: A total of 690 cigarette smoking patients with CHD identified by coronary angiography (CAG) were included and analyzed in the study.The mental state were scored with Hamilton anxiety (HAMA) and depression (HAMD) scale both on admission and at 6-month follow-up.The patients were divided into two groups based on the cigarette cessation.The score of mental state between the two groups were compared.The patients were treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), or medicine therapy (MT). Results: The clinic data and score of mental state were similar at the time of admission (HAMA: 10.66±5.53 vs 11.09±5.61, P=0.311; HAMD: 29.81±10.13 vs 28.94±10.22, P=0.266 4) between the two groups.After 6 months, the proportions of subjects in smoking cession group with anxiety (24.2% vs 32.3%, P<0.05), depression (18.0% vs 27.5%, P<0.05), and anxiety and depression (7.0% vs 16.2%, P<0.001) decreased significantly compared with those in smoking group irrespective of the treatment strategy.Both the HAMA and HAMD scores were lower in smoking cessation group (HAMA: 9.83±3.40; HAMD: 24.91±7.90) than in smoking group (HAMA: 10.98±4.87; HAMD: 27.70±11.16) (all P<0.001). Conclusions: Smoking cessation is good for the relief of anxiety and depression in CHD patient.

[IMRT-based preoperative neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC): an analysis of outcome and prognosis]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the outcome and prognostic factors of IMRT-based preoperative neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in patients with thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC).

METHODS

Clinical data of 62 patients with thoracic ESCC who received IMRT-based neoajuvant chemoradiotherapy from January 2009 to January 2015 were retrospectively analyzed. The radiation therapy was given 1.8-2 Gy/fraction per day over 5 days per week with 6 MV X-rays, and then all patients underwent esophagectomy and lymphadenectomy.

RESULTS

Among the 62 patients, the R0 resection rate was 96.8%. Twenty (32.3%) patients achieved pCR and 56 (90.3%) cases got down-staging. Grade Ⅲ marrow suppression and esophagitis were seen in 8 (12.9%) and 2 (3.2%) patients, respectively. Eleven (17.7%) patients experienced postoperative complications and three died. The median follow-up was 27 months. The 1-, 3- and 5-year overall survival rates were 88.0%, 63.3% and 44.2%, respectively, with a corresponding disease-free survival rate of 68.1%, 54.8%, and 43.9%, respectively.The univariate analysis showed that pre-treatment stage Ⅱ, down-staging, T/N pCR, good tumor response to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, pN0 and R0 resection were favorable prognostic factors (P<0.05). The multivariate analyses indicated that pre-treatment stage was an independent prognostic factor.

CONCLUSIONS

For patients with thoracic ESCC, IMRT-based neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy followed by surgery can achieve a higher R0 resection rate, down-staging rate, higher pCR rate, and a better tolerance. The incidence of postoperative complications is low. Pre-treatment stage, down-staging, pathological tumor response, lymph node status and R0 resection results are prognostic factors, and the pre-treatment stage is an independent prognostic factor.

[Technical advancement improves survival in patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (LA-NSCLC) receiving definitive radiotherapy]

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of technical advancement of radiation therapy in patients with LA-NSCLC receiving definitive radiotherapy (RT).

METHODS

Patients treated with definitive RT (≥50 Gy) between 2000 and 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. Overall survival (OS), cancer specific survival (CSS), locoregional progression-free survival (LRPFS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were calculated and compared among patients irradiated with different techniques. Radiation-induced lung injury (RILI) and esophageal injury (RIEI) were assessed according to the National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events 3.0 (NCI-CTCAE 3.0).

RESULTS

A total of 946 patients were eligible for analysis, including 288 treated with two-dimensional radiotherapy (2D-RT), 209 with three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) and 449 with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) respectively. The median follow-up time for the whole population was 84.1 months. The median OS of 2D-RT, 3D-CRT and IMRT groups were 15.8, 19.7 and 23.3 months, respectively, with the corresponding 5-year survival rate of 8.7%, 13.0% and 18.8%, respectively (P<0.001). The univariate analysis demonstrated significantly inferior OS, LRPFS, DMFS and PFS of 2D-RT than those provided by 3D-CRT or IMRT. The univariate analysis also revealed that the IMRT group had significantly loger LRPFS and a trend toward better OS and DMFS compared with 3D-CRT. Multivariate analysis showed that TNM stage, RT technique and KPS were independent factors correlated with all survival indexes. Compared with 2D-RT, the utilization of IMRT was associated with significantly improved OS, LRPFS, DMFS as well as PFS. Compared with 3D-CRT, IMRT provided superior DMFS (P=0.035), a trend approaching significance with regard to LRPFS (P=0.073) but no statistically significant improvement on OS, CSS and PFS in multivariate analysis. The incidence rates of RILI were significantly decreased in the IMRT group (29.3% vs. 26.6% vs.14.0%, P<0.001) whereas that of RIET rates were similar (34.7% vs. 29.7% vs. 35.3%, P=0.342) among the three groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Radiation therapy technique is a factor affecting prognosis of LA-NSCLC patients. Advanced radiation therapy technique is associated with improved tumor control and survival, and decreased radiation-induced lung toxicity.

[Molecular cloning, structural analysis, and expression of zona pellucida glycoprotein ZP3 gene from Chinese zokor, Myospalax fontanierii]

The zona pellucida 3 (ZP3) plays a crucial role in reproductive immunology. We obtained a full-length cDNA encoding Chinese Zokor zp3, using rapid amplification of cDNA ends-polymerase chain reaction (RACE-PCR). The cDNA contains an open reading frame of 1269 nucleotides encoding a polypeptide of 422 amino acid residues. The amino acid sequence has a high degree of homology with hamster (78%), mouse (76%), and rat (74%). XhoI and SacI sites restricted 1158 bp fragment of zokor ZP3 cDNA, excluding the signal sequence and transmembrane-like domain was cloned under the phage T7 promoterlac operator control in the pET-28a(+) vector. Recombinant pET-zokorZP3 (r-ZP3) was expressed as a poly-histidine fusion protein in E. coli strain BL21 (DE3). Optimum expression of r-ZP3 was observed at 28 degrees C, 1 mM IPTG and 2 h of inducing. The purified protein was tested by Western blot.

Effects of bedding material composition in deep litter systems on bedding characteristics and growth performance of limousin calves

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different litter mixture compositions on bedding system temperature, pH and volatile fatty acid and ammonia-N (NH₃-N) content, and the serum physico-chemical parameters and growth indices of calves. Thirty-two Limousin calves (280±20 kg) were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 8 for each group) according to the bedding system used: i) control with soil only (CTR); ii) mixture with 50% paddy hulls (PH), 30% saw dusts (SD), 10% peat moss (PM) and 10% corn cobs (CC) (TRT1); iii) mixture with 15% PH, 15% SD, 10% PM, 40% CC, and 20% corn stover (CS) (TRT2); iv) mixture with 30% PH, 10% PM, 40% CC, and 20% CS (TRT3). The litter material combinations of different treatments were based on the cost of bedding system materials in China. The cost of four treatments from low to high: Control<TRT1<TRT2<TRT3. The control was no-cost treatment. The diet consisted of 60.8% silage and 39.2% concentrate (dry matter [DM] basis). The NH₃-N level (271.83 to 894.72 mg/kg) was lowest for TRT1 (p<0.0001) and highest for TRT2 (p<0.0001). The acetate, propionate and butyrate levels were highest for the control group (p<0.0001). In all the groups, the pH value (6.90 to 9.09) increased at the beginning and later remained stable at below 9.09. The temperature of deep litter increased at the first week and reached the maximum (42.1°C) on day 38. 3,5,3′-Triiodothyronine (T₃) levels in the TRT1 group animals (p<0.0001) were lower than those in the control and TRT2 animals. 3,5,3′,5′-Tetraiodothyronine (T₄) in the TRT1 group (p = 0.006) was lower than that in the other treatment groups. Cortisol (COR) in the control and TRT1 group was lower (p<0.0001) than that in the TRT2 and TRT3 groups. Corticosterone (CORt) in the control group was higher (p<0.0001) than that in the treatment groups. The findings indicate that the deep litter bedding systems provided better conditions for animal health and growth performance compared with the control system. Furthermore, the litter composition of TRT1 was found to be optimal among the three treatment groups.

Effects of partial or total replacement of maize with alternative feed source on digestibility, growth performance, blood metabolites and economics in limousin crossbred cattle

Increasing cost and scarcity of maize has stimulated the use of alternative feed sources (AFS) in the diets of cattle. In this study, we investigated the effects of partial or total replacement of maize on nutrient digestibility, growth performance, blood metabolites, and economics in Limousin crossbred feedlot cattle. Forty-five Limousin×Luxi crossbred bulls were randomly assigned to the three treatment groups, orthodox diet (OD; 45.0% maize), partial replacement diet (PRD; 15% maize, 67% AFS), total replacement diet (TRD; 0% maize, 100% AFS). The growth feeding trial lasted for 98 days. Dry matter intake (DMI) and average daily gain (ADG) were recorded. The digestion trial was carried out after the end of the growth trial. Total faeces and feed samples were measured daily. Digestibilities of dry matter (DM) and organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) were calculated. After the feeding trial, blood metabolites were measured in 12 animals from each group. Initial and final body weights did not differ significantly among treatment groups (p>0.05). The ADG and DMI were 1.72 and 8.66, 1.60 and 9.10, and 1.40 and 9.11 kg/d for OD, PRD, and TRD, respectively. The PRD and TRD exhibited lower ADG (p<0.01) and higher DMI (p<0.01) than OD. The DMI (%body weight) was comparable between groups (p>0.5). Feed efficiency of PRD and TRD were lower than OD (p<0.01). The DM digestibility decreased with reduced level of maize (p = 0.10), OM digestibility was higher in OD (p<0.05), and CP, NDF and ADF digestibilities were similar for all groups (p>0.05). Blood urea nitrogen (mg/dL) in PRD and TRD was higher than OD (p<0.01), while other blood parameters did not differ significantly. Feed costs ($/head/d) were 1.49, 0.98, and 0.72 for OD, PRD, and TRD, respectively (p<0.01). Feed costs per kg gain ($) were significantly lower for PRD (0.63) and TRD (0.54) than OD (0.89; p<0.01). Overall profit ($/head) and daily profit ($/head/d) did not differ significantly between treatments (p>0.05), although TRD showed the highest economic benefits overall (p<0.01). While a traditional diet maximized the growth rate, partial or total replacement of dietary maize with AFS proved economically feasible due to their lower costs and comparable nutrient digestibilities of DM, CP, NDF, and ADF. Partial replacement may prove economically competitive in the current situation of China.

Different effects of androgen on the expression of Fut1, Fut2, Fut4 and Fut9 in male mouse reproductive tract

The α-(1,2) fucosyltransferases (Fut1 and Fut2) and α-(1,3) fucosyltransferases (Fut4, Fut9) are responsible for the synthesis of Lewis X (LeX) and Lewis Y (LeY) conjugated to glycoproteins. We recently reported that these fucosyltransferases were differentially expressed in the reproductive tract of male mouse. Here, we studied the effect of androgen on fucosyltransferase expression through the use of mouse castration models. We found that Fut1 mRNA and Fut4 mRNA were upregulated, while Fut2 mRNA and Fut9 mRNA were downregulated by androgen in the caput epididymis. However, in the vas deferens and prostate, only Fut4 mRNA and Fut2 mRNA were respectively upregulated following exposure to androgen. In the seminal vesicle, all fucosyltransferases, with the exception of Fut9, were upregulated. We identified the androgen receptor binding sites (ARBSs) of Fut2, Fut4 and Fut9 in the caput epididymis. Luciferase assay for these ARBSs is able to provide an indication as to why Fut4 and Fut9 are differently expressed and regulated by androgen, although they catalyze the same α-(1,3) fucose linkage. Our study showed that androgen could differentially regulate the expression of these fucosyltransferases and provided an insight into the characteristic distribution of each fucosyltransferase responsible for LeX/LeY biosynthesis in the male reproductive tract.

Integrity of the blood-testis barrier in healthy men after suppression of spermatogenesis with testosterone and levonorgestrel

STUDY QUESTION

Do exogenous male hormonal contraceptives that suppress intratesticular testosterone and spermatogenesis interfere with the blood-testis barrier integrity in men?

SUMMARY ANSWER

When spermatogenesis was suppressed by testosterone alone or combined with levonorgestrel (LNG) treatment in men, the structural appearance of Sertoli cell tight junctions remained intact in the human testis.

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN

Testosterone promotes the integrity of the blood-testis barrier. Intratesticular androgen deprivation induced by exogenous testosterone plus a progestin to suppress spermatogenesis in a contraceptive regimen may disturb the structural and functional integrity of the blood-testis barrier.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE AND DURATION

Testicular biopsies were obtained from a sub-study of a randomized clinical trial of 36 healthy Chinese men who were treated for 18 weeks and followed for at least a 12-week recovery period.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIAL, SETTING, METHODS

Healthy Chinese male volunteers (27-48 years) were randomized to two treatment groups (n = 18/group) for 18 weeks: (1) testosterone undecanoate (TU) 1000 mg i.m. injection followed by a 500 mg injection every 6 weeks and (2) TU + LNG 250 μg orally daily. Blood samples were obtained from all participants before and during treatment and at the end of the recovery phase. Open testicular biopsies for this study were obtained from four men before treatment and from four men in each of the TU and TU + LNG groups at 2 and 9 weeks of treatment. The presence of antisperm antibodies was checked in the archived serum samples of the subjects at baseline, during treatment and at the end of the recovery period. Stored testicular biopsy samples from cynomolgus monkeys treated with either sub-cutaneous testosterone or placebo for 12 weeks were used for additional protein expression studies.

MAIN RESULTS AND ROLE OF THE CHANCE

Expression of blood-testis barrier associated proteins quantified by immunohistochemistry (claudin 3, claudin 11, junctional adhesion molecule-A, zonula occludens-1) remained unchanged despite a significant decrease in the numbers of pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids in the seminiferous tubules at 9 weeks in the TU + LNG group. This was confirmed by immunoblots showing a lack of quantitative change in these tight junction proteins in monkeys after testosterone treatment. There were no increases in serum antisperm antibodies in the volunteers during the study.

LIMITATIONS/REASONS FOR CAUTION

The duration of the study was short and the long-term effects of male hormonal contraceptive treatments on the integrity of the blood-testis barrier remain to be determined.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

This study supports the safety of male hormonal contraceptive treatment and does not corroborate the previous findings of disturbed immunological integrity of the blood-testis barrier from animal studies such as androgen receptor knockout mice and exogenous hormonal treatment in rats.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST

The study was supported by grants from the Contraceptive Research and Development Program and the Mellon Foundation (MFG-02-64, MFG-03-67), Endocrine, Metabolism and Nutrition Training Grant (T32 DK007571), the Clinical and Translational Science Institute at Los Angeles Biomedical and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center (UL1RR033176 and UL1TR000124) and the Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute Summer High School Student Program.

[Location of Dctn1 in the mouse testis and sperm and its role in spermiogenesis]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the role of dynactin 1 (Dctn1) in the process of mouse spermiogenesis.

METHODS

Western blot and indirect immunofluorescence were used to analyze the expression and location of Dctn1 in the mouse testis and spermatozoa. The highest efficiency of small interference RNA (siRNA) was verified by GC2-spd cell line in vitro and in vivo studies, respectively. Dctn1 siRNA mixed with the indicator (0.4% trypan blue) was injected into the seminiferous tubules of 3-week-old ICR mice through rete testis microinjection, and negative control siRNA injected into the control testes. The normal group included 3-week-old ICR mice that did not receive any treatment. Spermatozoa were collected from the cauda epididymis 3 weeks after siRNA injection for morphological analysis.

RESULTS

Dctn1 was mainly localized in the tail of spermatozoa. After interference, the sperm tail abnormality in the Dctn1 siRNA group was (23.57 +/- 0.55)%, significantly higher than (12.35 +/- 2.29)% in the control (P < 0.01, n = 3), and it was (3.37 +/- 0.69)% in the normal group.

CONCLUSION

Dctn1 plays an important role in mouse spermiogenesis, and mainly affects the formation of the tail of spermatozoa.

Effects of di-n-butyl phthalate on male rat reproduction following pubertal exposure

Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) is an endocrine-disrupting chemical that has the potential to affect male reproduction. However, the reproductive effects of low-dose DBP are still not well known, especially at the molecular level. In the present study, pubertal male Sprague-Dawley rats were orally administered DBP at a wide range of doses (0.1, 1.0, 10, 100 and 500 mg kg⁻¹ day⁻¹) for 30 days. The selected end points included reproductive organ weights, testicular histopathology and serum hormonal levels. Additionally, proteomic analysis was performed to identify proteins that are differentially expressed as a result of exposure to DBP at low doses (0.1, 1.0 and 10 mg kg⁻¹ day⁻¹). Toxic effects were observed in the high-dose groups, including anomalous development of testes and epididymides, severe atrophy of seminiferous tubules, loss of spermatogenesis and abnormal levels of serum hormones. Treatment with low doses of DBP seemed to exert a 'stimulative effect' on the serum hormones. Proteomics analysis of rat testes showed 20 differentially expressed proteins. Among these proteins, alterations in the expression of HnRNPA2/B1, vimentin and superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) were further confirmed by Western blot and immunohistochemistry. Taken together, we conclude that high doses of DBP led to testicular toxicity, and low doses of DBP led to changes in the expression of proteins involved in spermatogenesis as well as changes in the number and function of Sertoli and Leydig cells, although no obvious morphological changes appeared. The identification of these differentially expressed proteins provides important information about the mechanisms underlying the effects of DBP on male rat reproduction.

[Expression of annexin A7 in spermatogonial stem cells]

OBJECTIVE

To study the expression of Annexin A7 in the mouse testis, especially in different types of spermatogonia.

METHODS

We prepared Annexin A7 recombinant protein using prokaryotic expression, adsorbed the Annexin A7 antibody with it after identified by mass spectrometry, and detected the expression of Annexin A7 by Western-blot and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Annexin A7 was expressed in a development-dependent manner in the spermatogonia of the prepubertal mice and in the type-A single (As) and type-A paired (Apr) spermatogonia of adult mice. These results were confirmed by the co-localization of Annexin A7 and Stra8, a known determinant of differentiated spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs).

CONCLUSION

Annexin A7 is the internal factor of As and Apr spermatogonia, which might be involved in the biological functions of SSCs.

[Expression of carbonic anhydrase II in human testes and spermatozoa and its clinical significance]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression of carbonic anhydrase II (CA2) in human testes and spermatozoa, and to compare the expressions of CA2 in ejaculated spermatozoa between normozoospermic and asthenozoospermic men.

METHODS

The localization of CA2 in human testes was observed by immunohistochemistry, and that in human sperm by immunofluorescence. Western blot was used to detect the expression of CA2 in the semen samples obtained from 16 normozoospermic and 16 asthenozoospermic volunteers.

RESULTS

The CA2 protein was shown to be localized in the tail of elongating spermatids by immunohistochemistry and in the flagellum of human sperm by immunofluorescence. Western blot revealed an obviously increased expression of CA2 in the spermatozoa of asthenozoospermic patients, with statistically significant difference from the normozoospermic group (1.84 +/- 0.32 vs 1.41 +/- 0.26, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The CA2 protein is expressed in the spermatogenic stage of elongating spermatids in human testes and localized in the sperm tail. The expression of CA2 is significantly increased in the spermatozoa of asthenozoospermic men, which might be responsible for low sperm motility.

The role of ezrin-associated protein network in human sperm capacitation

Membrane modifications in sperm cells represent a key step in sperm capacitation; however, the molecular basis of these modifications is not fully understood. Ezrin is the best-studied member of the ezrin/radixin/merlin family. As a cross-linker between the cortical cytoskeleton and plasma membrane proteins, ezrin contributes to remodeling of the membrane surface structure. Furthermore, activated ezrin and the Rho dissociation inhibitor, RhoGDI, promote the formation of cortical cytoskeleton-polymerized actin through Rho activation. Thus, ezrin, actin, RhoGDI, Rho and plasma membrane proteins form a complicated network in vivo, which contributes to the assembly of the structure of the membrane surface. Previously, we showed that ezrin and RhoGDI1 are expressed in human testes. Thus, we sought to determine whether the ezrin-RhoGDI1-actin-membrane protein network has a role in human sperm capacitation. Our results by Western blot indicate that ezrin is activated by phosphorylation of the threonine567 residue during capacitation. Co-immunoprecipitation studies revealed that, during sperm capacitation, the interaction between ezrin and RhoGDI1 increases, and phosphostaining of two dimensional electrophoresis gels showed that RhoGDI1 is phosphorylated, suggesting that RhoGDI1 dissociates from RhoA and leads to actin polymerization on the sperm head. We speculate that activated ezrin interacts with polymerized actin and the glycosylated membrane protein cd44 after capacitation. Blocking sperm capacitation using ezrin- or actin-specific monoclonal antibodies decreases their acrosome reaction (AR) rate, but has no effect on the AR alone. Taken together, our results show that a network consisting of ezrin, RhoGDI1, RhoA, F-actin and membrane proteins functions to influence the modifications that occur on the membrane of the sperm head during human sperm capacitation.

AF-2364 is a prospective spermicide candidate

AbstractInhibition of sperm motility has recently become a promising target for male contraceptive development. AF-2364, an analogue of Lonidamine (LND), had a contraceptive effect when orally administered to adult Sprague-Dawley rats. LND can also target mitochondria to inhibit oxygen consumption and block energy metabolism in tumour cells. However, there are no reports of the effects of AF-2364 on human sperm function. Herein we describe the action of AF-2364 on human sperm in vitro, as well as the mechanisms involved. AF-2364 specifically blocked human sperm motility in vitro. Further experiments revealed that AF-2364 can target sperm mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) pores to induce the loss of sperm mitochondrial membrane potential (DeltaPsim) and decrease ATP generation; however, no significant changes in the cytoskeletal network or the human sperm proteome were detected after exposure to AF-2364. Incubation of AF-2364 with other human or mouse cell lines indicated that the spermicidal effect at the lower concentration was specific. In summary, the spermicidal effect of AF-2364 involves direct action on sperm MPT pores, and this compound should be further investigated as a new spermicide candidate.

[46, XX testicular disorder of sex development: report of 2 cases and review of the literature]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the phenotype, pathogenesis and molecular biological features of 46, XX testicular disorder of sex development.

METHODS

We obtained the history of 2 patients with 46, XX testicular disorder of sex development, examined the cavitas pelvis by type-B ultrasonography, analyzed the karyotype of the chromosome, and detected the genes SRY, YRRM1, DYS240 and DAZ by PCR amplification.

RESULTS

Microrchidia, azoospermia and maldevelopment of secondary sex characteristics were observed in both of the patients, but ultrasonography revealed no female internal genitals. Their chromosome gender was karyotyped as 46, XX, with the SRY gene positive in both, but the YRRM1 gene positive in only one of the cases.

CONCLUSION

Chromosome karyotyping and detection of the SRY gene for patients with abnormal sex development can give us an insight into the genetic pathogenesis and provide us with scientific evidence for the diagnosis and treatment of the condition.

NYD-SP27, a novel intrinsic decapacitation factor in sperm

Prior to fertilization sperm has to undergo an activation process known as capaciation, leading to the acrosome reaction. Till now, little is known about the mechanism for preventing premature capacitation in sperm although decapacitation factors from various sources have been thought to be involved. In this study, we report that NYD-SP27, an isoform of phospholipase C Zeta 1 (PLCZ1), is localized to the sperm acrosome in mouse and human spermatozoa by immunofluorescence using a specific antibody. Western blot and double staining analyses show NYD-SP27 becomes detached from sperm, as they undergo capacitation and acrosome reaction. The absence of HCO3-, a key factor in activating capacitation, from the capacitation-inducing medium prevents the loss of NYD-SP27 from sperm. The anti-NYD-SP27 antibody also prevents the loss of NYD-SP27 from sperm, reduced the number of capacitated sperm, inhibited the acrosome reaction induced by ATP and progesterone, and inhibited agonist-induced PLC-coupled Ca2+ mobilization in sperm, which can be mimicked by the PLC inhibitor, U73122. These data strongly suggest that NYD-SP27 is a physiological inhibitor of PLC that acts as an intrinsic decapacitation factor in sperm to prevent premature capacitation and acrosome reaction.

Role of translation by mitochondrial-type ribosomes during sperm capacitation: an analysis based on a proteomic approach

Mammalian spermatozoa contain a complex population of mRNAs, some of which have been demonstrated to be translated de novo by mitochondrial-type ribosomes using D-chloramphenicol (CP), a specific inhibitor of mitochondrial translation. However, little is known about the functions of these mRNAs in mature sperm. In the present study, differential proteomic approaches were applied to study sperm protein profiles translated by mitochondrial-type ribosomes using the inhibitor CP and 44 proteins were identified with lower expression in CP-treated sperm in comparison to capacitated sperm (ratio >or= 1.5, p<0.05). Results of Western blot and real-time PCR suggest that four proteins were translated by mitochondrial-type ribosomes. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that 26 of 44 proteins were involved in some critical processes correlated to sperm-egg interaction event. In addition, Mups, whose functions in reproduction have never been studied, were chosen for further study. Our results showed that Mups proteins were localized to the acrosome and flagellum of precapacitated sperm, and were also expressed in the equatorial segment of capacitated sperm. The depletion of Mups using neutralizing antibodies significantly inhibited capacitation in a dose-dependent manner, subsequently inhibited acrosome reaction and sperm-egg fusion. In summary, mitochondrial translation during capacitation can store proteins beneficial for sperm-egg interaction.

Levonorgestrel enhances spermatogenesis suppression by testosterone with greater alteration in testicular gene expression in men

Prior studies have demonstrated that combined treatment of testosterone with a progestin induces a more rapid and greater suppression of spermatogenesis than testosterone treatment alone. We hypothesized that the suppressive effects of the combination of testosterone undecanoate (TU) injections plus oral levonorgestrel (LNG) on spermatogenesis may be mediated through a greater perturbation of testicular gene expression than TU alone. To test this hypothesis, we performed open testicular biopsy on 12 different adult healthy subjects: 1) four healthy men as controls; 2) four men 2 wk after TU treatment; and 3) four men 2 wk after TU + LNG administration. RNA isolated from biopsies was used for DNA microarray using the Affymetrix Human Genome U133 Plus 2.0 oligonucleotide microarrays. Gene expression with >or=2-fold changes (P < 0.05) compared with control was analyzed using the National Institutes of Health Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery 2008 resource. The TU treatment altered the gene expression in 109 transcripts, whereas TU + LNG altered the gene expression in 207 transcripts compared with control. Both TU and TU + LNG administration suppressed gene expression of insulin-like 3; cytochrome P450, family 17, subfamily A1 in Leydig cells; and inhibin alpha in Sertoli cells; they increased proapoptotic transcripts BCL2-like 14, insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3; and they decreased X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein. In comparison with TU treatment alone, TU + LNG treatment upregulated insulin-like 6 and relaxin 1, and downregulated RNA-binding protein transcripts. We conclude that TU + LNG administration induces more changes in testicular gene expression than TU alone. This exploratory study provided a novel and valuable database to study the mechanisms of action of hormonal regulation of spermatogenesis in men and identified testicular-specific molecules that may serve as potential targets for male contraceptive development.

Characterization of Spindlin1 isoform2 in mouse testis

AIM

To investigate the expression of Spindlin 1 (Spin 1) isoform2 and assess its function in mouse testis.

METHODS

First, reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to determine whether Spin1 isoform2 is present in mouse testis. Then the expression patterns of the isoform between newborn and adult mice testes were compared by immunoblot analysis. Finally, the diversity of its localization in mice testes at different ages (days 0, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 60) was observed by immunohistochemistry. The localization of the protein in mouse sperm was also investigated by immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

The RT-PCR results show that Spin1 isoform2 is present in mouse testis. As shown by immunoblot analysis, the isoform was more highly expressed in adult testes compared with newborn testes. Interestingly, Spin1 isoform2 did not show up in the cytoplasm of primary spermatocytes until day 14. Also, the protein exists at the tail of the mouse sperm.

CONCLUSION

Spin1 isoform2 is a protein expressed highly in adult testis, which might be involved in spermatogenesis and could be necessary for normal sperm motility.

Construction of a proteome profile and functional analysis of the proteins involved in the initiation of mouse spermatogenesis

Spermatogenesis is a complex process of terminal differentiation wherein mature sperm are produced. In the first wave of mouse spermatogenesis, different spermatogenic cells appear at specific time points, and their appearance is expected to be accompanied by changes in specific protein expression patterns. In this study, we used 2D-PAGE and MALDI-TOF/TOF technology to construct a comparative proteome profile for mouse testis at specific time points (days 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 60 postpartum). We identified 362 differential protein spots corresponding to 257 different proteins. Further cluster analysis revealed 6 expression patterns, and bioinformatics analysis revealed that each pattern was related to many specific cell processes. Among them, 28 novel proteins with unknown functions neither in somatic cells nor germ cells were identified, 8 of which were found to be uniquely or highly expressed in mouse testes via comparison with the GNF SymAtlas database. Further, we randomly selected 7 protein spots and the above 8 novel proteins to verify the expression pattern via Western blotting and RT-PCR, and 6 proteins with little information in testis were further investigated to explore their cellular localization during spermatogenesis by performing immunohistochemistry for the mouse testis tissue. Taken together, the above results reveal an important proteome profile that is functional during the first wave of mouse spermatogenesis, and they provide a strong basis for further research.

transient scrotal hyperthermia and levonorgestrel enhance testosterone-induced spermatogenesis suppression in men through increased germ cell apoptosis

CONTEXT

In rodents and monkeys, a combination of hormonal and physical agents accelerates germ cell death.

OBJECTIVE

A "proof of concept" study was performed to investigate whether addition of heat exposure or a progestin to an androgen induces germ cell death and more complete and rapid spermatogenesis suppression.

DESIGN AND SETTINGS

A randomized clinical trial was performed at academic medical centers.

PARTICIPANTS

We treated four groups of healthy male volunteers (18 per group) for 18 wk: 1) testosterone undecanoate (TU) 1000 mg im (first dose), followed by 500 mg im every 6 wk; 2) submersion of scrota at 43 C in water for 30 min/d for 6 consecutive days; 3) TU plus heat; and 4) TU plus oral levonorgestrel (LNG) 250 microg/d.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Semen parameters, testicular histology, and germ cell apoptosis were the main outcome measures.

RESULTS

Heat alone and TU plus heat suppressed sperm counts more than TU alone by wk 6. By wk 9, recovery began in the heat only group, whereas spermatogenesis remained suppressed in the TU plus heat group. Oral LNG plus TU suppressed spermatogenesis earlier and more severely than TU alone. At wk 2, significantly greater germ cell apoptosis occurred in heat and heat plus TU subjects, but not in subjects without heat treatment, compared with pretreatment subjects. By 9 wk, markedly smaller seminiferous tubule diameters and fewer spermatocytes and spermatids were noted in all 12 biopsies from men receiving TU, TU plus LNG, with most dramatic differences for the TU plus heat group, whereas no differences from pretreatment biopsies were observed in men who received heat treatment only.

CONCLUSIONS

Heat causes a rapid and transient suppression of spermatogenesis. TU plus heat resulted in low-sperm output that was maintained by continuous treatment with TU. Addition of an oral progestin accelerated spermatogenesis suppression by TU alone. Increased germ cell apoptosis contributed to suppression of spermatogenesis.

Identification of several proteins involved in regulation of sperm motility by proteomic analysis

Proteomic technology was used to compare sperm protein expression profiles in asthenozoospermic patients with that of normozoospermic donors and 10 differentially expressed proteins were identified. These proteins may play roles in the regulation of sperm motility, and their characterization could merit further investigation on sperm motility-related male factor infertility.

Three dimensional reconstruction of the pancreas based on the virtual Chinese human--female number 1

OBJECTIVE

To study the three dimensional (3D) reconstruction and 3D visualisation of the pancreas and create anatomy of the digitalised visual pancreas so as to construct a concrete basis for virtual operation and surgical operation on pancreas.

METHODS

The digital imaging data of pancreas, duodenum, common bile duct, arteries, and veins were obtained from the virtual Chinese human--female 1 (VCH-F1). The image data were investigated and 380 images ascertained of pancreas picked up from images numbers 2617 to 2996. Finally, the images from number 2574 to 3017 were adopted to segment and processed using ACDSee and Photoshop so as to reconstruct 3D pancreas digitally. The data of pancreatic surfaces were transformed into Visualization Toolkit (VTK). The GUI program written with VC+ was used to display this VTK file and realise 3D visualisation of the pancreas.

RESULTS

3D reconstruction and visualisation of the pancreas and the peri-pancreatic structures (the duodenum, the common bile duct,the inferior vena cava, the portal vein vessels, the aorta, the coeliac trunk vessels) was successful. The 3D and visualised pancreas manifested itself with its complete structure as well as its adjacency to other tissues.

CONCLUSION

The 3D reconstruction and 3D visualisation of the pancreas based on the digital data of VCH-F1 produces a digitally visualised pancreas, which promises a novel method for virtual operation on the pancreas, clinical operation on the pancreas, and anatomy of 3D visualised pancreas.

Proteomic Analysis of Effect of Hyperthermia on Spermatogenesis in Adult Male Mice

We characterized cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in spermatogenesis following short-term heat exposure of murine testis. For these studies, we utilized a proteomic approach with two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DE) analyses and mass spectroscopic identification of proteins with altered expression in mouse testes at different times after heat shock. We established a proteome reference map from 7-wk-old mouse testis linked to a federated proteome database. We used these tools to analyze quantitative variations in the tissue over a time course of 0.5, 2, 6, and 12 h following heat exposure. We separated 108 protein spots expressed differentially between the heat shock tissues and the control mouse testes. Of these spots, we identified 36 by comparing with the control reference map. We then focused on the heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs) and the chaperonins containing t-complex polypeptide-1 (CCT). Further analysis in this heat-shocked model suggests numerous potential mechanisms for heat shock-induced spermatogenic disorder.

Gene functional research using polyethylenimine-mediated in vivo gene transfection into mouse spermatogenic cells

AIM

To study polyethylenimine (PEI)-mediated in vivo gene transfection into testis cells and preliminary functional research of spermatogenic cell-specific gene NYD-SP12 using this method.

METHODS

PEI/DNA complexes were introduced into the seminiferous tubules of mouse testes using intratesticular injection. Transfection efficiency and speciality were analyzed on the third day of transfection with fluorescent microscopy and hematoxylin staining. The long-lasting expression of the GFP-NYD-SP12 fusion protein and its subcellular localization in spermatogenic cells at different stages were analyzed with fluorescent microscopy and propidium iodide staining.

RESULTS

With the mediation of PEI, the GFP-NYD-SP12 fusion gene was efficiently transferred and expressed in the germ cells (especially in primary spermatocytes). Transfection into Sertoli cells was not observed. The subcellular localization of the GFP-NYD-SP2 fusion protein showed dynamic shifts in spermatogenic cells at different stages during spermatogenesis.

CONCLUSION

PEI can efficiently mediate gene transfer into spermatocytes. Thus, it might be useful for the functional research of spermatogenic-cell specific genes such as the NYD-SP12 gene. In our study, the NYD-SP12 protein was visualized and was involved in the formation of acrosome during spermatogenesis. Our research will continue into the detailed function of NYD-SP12 in spermatocytes.

Expression of a novel beta adaptin subunit mRNA splice variant in human testes

AIM

To identify a novel isoform of adaptin 2 beta subunit (named Ap2beta-NY) and to investigate its relationship with testicular development and spermatogenesis.

METHODS

Using a human testis cDNA microarray, a clone (Ap2beta-NY), which was strongly expressed in adult testes but weakly expressed in embryo testes, was sequenced and analyzed. Using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the tissue distribution and expression time pattern of Ap2beta-NY were determined.

RESULTS

Ap2beta-NY was identified and has been deposited in the GenBank (AY341427). The expression level of Ap2beta-NY in the adult testis was about 3-fold higher than that in the embryo testis. PCR analysis using multi-tissue cDNA indicated that Ap2beta-NY was highly expressed in the testis, spleen, thymus, prostate, ovary, blood leukocyte and brain, but not in the heart, placenta, lung, liver, skeletal muscle, kidney and pancreas. In addition, Ap2beta-NY was variably expressed in the testes of patients with spermatogenesis-disturbance and spermatogenesis-arrest but not expressed in those of Sertoli-cell-only syndrome, which implied that, in the testis, Ap2beta-NY was restrictively expressed in germ cells.

CONCLUSION

Ap2beta-NY is an isoform of Ap2beta and may be involved in regulating the process of spermatogenesis and testis development.

Expression of a novel alternative transcript of the novel retinal pigment epithelial cell gene NORPEG in human testes

AIM

To identify a novel alternative transcript of the novel retinal pigment epithelial cell gene (NORPEG) expressed in the human testis.

METHODS

A human testis cDNA microarray was established and hybridized with cDNA probes from human fetal testes, adult testes and human spermatozoa. Differentially expressed clones were sequenced and analyzed. One of these clones was a short transcript of NORPEG which we proceeded to analyze by RT-PCR.

RESULTS

The novel short alternative transcript of NORPEG was isolated and named sNORPEG. It was 3486 bp in length and contained a 2952-bp open reading frame, encoding a 110.4-kDa protein of 983 amino acids. Amino acid sequence analysis showed that the sNORPEG protein contains six ankyrin repeats and two coiled-coil domains. It shares a high homology with the NORPEG and ankycorbin proteins in both its sequence and motifs. Blasting the human genome database localized sNORPEG to human chromosome 5p13.2-13.3. Expression profiles showed that sNORPEG was expressed in human fetal testes, adult testes and spermatozoa. Moreover, sNORPEG was found to be ubiquitously expressed in human tissues.

CONCLUSION

sNORPEG is expressed in different developmental stages of the testis and encodes a protein that may have roles in human testis development and spermatogenesis.

Expression of a novel dipeptidyl peptidase 8 (DPP8) transcript variant, DPP8-v3, in human testis

AIM

To investigate the role of a novel dipeptidyl peptidase 8 transcript variant (DPP8-v3) gene in testis development and/or spermatogenesis.

METHODS

A human testis cDNA microarray was hybridized with mRNA of human adult and fetal testes. Differentially expressed clones were sequenced and characterized and their expression was analyzed by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Southern-blot analysis.

RESULTS

A new transcript variant of the human dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP8), exhibiting a 5-fold higher expression level in human adult than that in fetal testes, was cloned and was named DPP8 variant 3 (DPP8-v3). The full-length sequence of DPP8-v3 was 3,030 bp, encoding a protein of 898 amino acids.

CONCLUSION

DPP8-v3 is a novel human DPP8 transcript variant highly expressed in the adult testis. Similar to DPPIV, DPP8-v3 may play a key role in the immunoregulation of testes and accordingly may influence spermatogenesis and male fertility.

A two-dimensional electrophoresis reference map of human ovary

The ovary plays a central role in oogenesis and gonadal hormone secretion. Proteomic analysis is a valuable approach for gaining an increased understanding of the molecular nature of the ovary. In this work, two-dimensional electrophoresis for protein separation followed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry and database searches, identified 231 protein spots corresponding to 138 individual proteins that were found in gels representing both the follicular and luteal phases. The data were used to construct a database online (http://reprod.njmu.edu.cn/2d). The identified proteins were functionally classified into seven groups: (1) cell signaling/communication, (2) cell division, (3) gene/protein expression, (4) metabolism, (5) cell structure and motility, (6) cell/organism defense, and (7) unclassified. Among the proteins identified, 47% had not been previously reported in the human ovary. In addition, a number of disease-related proteins were identified in this protein map, including some cancer- and polycystic ovarian syndrome-related proteins. Two proteins with phosphorylation were verified by Western blot analysis. Comparison of protein abundance between follicular and luteal stages produced seven protein spots that had been identified in our database. This study provides a preliminary reference map of normal human ovary that will form a basis for comparative studies on normal and pathological conditions of the human ovary and may serve as a potential tool for clinical diagnosis, therapeutics, and prognosis.

Identification and characterization of the BGR-like gene with a potential role in human testicular development/spermatogenesis

AIM

To investigate the roles of the BGR-like gene in testicular development/spermatogenesis.

METHODS

A human testis cDNA microarray was hybridized with probes from human adult testes and embryo testes. The differentially expressed clones were sequenced and analyzed. Expression of the BGR-like gene was analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

RESULTS

A new gene exhibiting 50-fold difference in expression level between adult and fetal human testes was cloned and named the BGR-like gene. The cDNA consisted of 2500 nucleotides and had an open reading frame of 1437 nucleotides encoding a putative protein of 497 amino acid residues. Homologous comparison showed that the BGR-like gene was a new alternative splicing variant of the BGR gene and had sequence homology with the bubblegum gene of human, mouse, rat and Drosophila. Protein motif analysis of the BGR-like gene revealed that it contained a conserved adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-binding domain and a fatty acyl-CoA synthetase signature motif which existed in all acyl-CoA synthetases. The BGR-like gene transcript was imperceptibly expressed in human fetal testes, highly in human adult testes and moderately in elderly testes and human Leydig cells. RT-PCR-based tissue distribution experiments showed that the BGR-like gene was exclusively expressed in testes and was a testes-specific isoform of the BGR gene. A BGR-like gene transcript was not detected in some azoospermic testes.

CONCLUSION

The BGR-like gene may play an important role in spermatogenesis/testicular development and may be correlated with male infertility.

Identification of a novel testis-specific gene and its potential roles in testis development/spermatogenesis

AIM

To identify and characterize a novel gene with potential roles in testis development and spermatogenesis.

METHODS

A cDNA microarray was constructed from a human testis large insert cDNA library and hybridized with probes of human or mouse adult and fetal testes. Differentially expressed genes were isolated and sequenced. RT-PCR was used to test the tissue distribution of the genes of interest and in situ hybridization was performed to localize the gene expression in the mouse testis. A range of bioinformatical programs including Gene Runner, SMART, NCBI Blast and Emboss CpGPlot were used to characterize the new gene's feature.

RESULTS

A novel testis-specific gene, NYD-SP5, was differentially expressed in fetal and adult testes. The deduced protein structure of NYD-SP5 was found to contain an IQ motif (a short calmodulin-binding motif containing conserved Ile and Gln residues), a Carbamate kinase-like domain, a Zn-dependent exopeptidase domain and a lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) C-terminal-like domain. RT-PCR analysis revealed that NYD-SP5 was predominantly expressed in the testis but not in other 15 tissues examined. In situ hybridization and RT-PCR examinations revealed that the expression of NYD-SP5 was confined in the male germ cell but not present in the somatic cell in the testes.

CONCLUSION

NYD-SP5 is a newly found testis-specific gene with potential roles in testis development and spermatogenesis through a calmodulin-activated enzyme.

Molecular cloning and characterization of a novel splicing variant of PIASx

AIM

To investigate molecular mechanism of testis development and spermatogenesis.

METHODS

A human testis cDNA microarray was hybridized with probes from human adult testis, embryo testis and human sperm, and the differential expressed clones were sequenced and analyzed. Expression of PIAS-NY gene was analyzed by RT-PCR.

RESULT

A new isoform of PIAS family, named PIAS-NY, was isolated from human testis cDNA library. It was strongly expressed in adult testis and weakly expressed in both embryo testis and human sperm. Analysis of the open reading frame of PIAS-NY indicated that PIAS-NY was a polypeptide of 405 amino acid residues, and the sequence from the 15th amino acid to the end of PIAS-NY protein was the same as the N-terminal amino acids of PIASx-alpha and PIASx-beta protein. PIAS-NY protein contained two conserved putative LXXLL signature motifs and a zinc binding motif. Tissue distribution analysis revealed that PIAS-NY was predominantly expressed in testis, weakly in the pancreas, and almost imperceptibly in the other organs.

CONCLUSION

PIAS-NY may play important role in testis development and/or spermatogenesis.

Expression of a novel pyridoxal kinase mRNA splice variant, PKH-T, in human testis

AIM

To identify the genes specifically expressed in human adult and fetal testes and spermatozoa.

METHODS

A human testis cDNA microarray was established. Then mRNAs of human adult and fetal testis and spermatozoa were purified and probes were prepared by a reverse transcription reaction with mRNA as the template. The microarray was hybridized with probes of adult and fetal testes and spermatozoa. The nucleic acid sequences of differentially expressed genes were determined and homologies were searched in the databases of GenBank.

RESULTS

A novel human testis-specific gene, PKH-T, was identified by hybridizing adult and fetal testis and spermatozoa probes with a human testis cDNA microarray. The cDNA of PKH-T was 1 069 bp in length. The cDNA sequence of this clone was deposited in the Genbank (AY303972) and PKH-T was also determined as Interim GenSymbol (Unigene, HS.38041). PKH-T contained most PKH conserved motif. The 239 amino acid sequences deduced from the 719 bp open reading frame (ORF) had a homology with the gene PKH (U89606). PKH-T was specifically and strongly expressed in the testis. Comparison of the differential expressions of PKH and PKH-T in testes of different developmental stages indicated that PKH-T was expressed in the adult testis and spermatozoa, while PKH, in the adult, fetal and aged testes. PKH-T had no expression in the testis of Sertoli cell only and partially spermatogenic arrest patients.

CONCLUSION

PKH-T is a gene highly expressed in adult human testis and spermatozoa. It may play an important role in spermatogenesis and could be related to male infertility.

Differential expression of glucose-regulated protein 78 during spermatogenesis

The aim of the present study was to isolate and identify proteins involved in the process of spermatogenesis. To achieve this goal we used the technique of proteomic analysis. Comparison of testis protein patterns obtained by high-resolution two-dimensional gel electrophoresis from 1-week- and 7-week-old mice showed significant differences in protein spot intensities. Subsequently several of these variant protein spots were identified by mass spectrometry. Glucose-regulated protein (GRP) 78 (Bip) was one of them. GRP78, expressed at a lower level in 1-week-old mouse testes compared to 7-week-old mouse testes, is a member of the heat shock 70 protein family. It has recently been shown to be important for protecting cells from apoptosis in somatic cells, especially in progressively growing tumor cells. Further, immunohistochemical (IHC) analyses of mouse and human testes sections were performed to determine the cellular distribution of this protein. A strong GRP78 staining was seen beginning with pachytene spermatocytes. These findings suggested that GRP78 might perform an important function in the process of spermatogenesis.

Identification and characteristics of a novel E1 like gene nUBE1L in human testis

A gene, presumably involved in spermatogenesis, was identified and characterized by using cDNA microarray. Hybridization intensity was 2.13 fold higher in adult testis than that in fetal testis. The full length of this gene was 4288 bp and it encoded a 578 amino acid protein. Conserved structure and amino acid sequence analysis revealed that the protein contained 1 Thif-domain, 2 UBACT-domains, and a functional active site cysteine lay upstream of UBACT domain, all of them also existed in ubiquitin-activating enzyme E1 and E1 like proteins. So we named this gene as a novel ubiquitin-activating enzyme E1 like gene (nUBE1L). Expression profile showed that nUBE1L was predominantly expressed in testis. Comparison of the expression of nUBE1L in different developmental stages of testis indicated that it was highly expressed in adult testis. In conclusion, nUBE1L is a novel human E1 like gene highly expressed in adult testis, which plays key role in ubiquitin system, and accordingly influences spermatogenesis and male fertility.

Level set based auto segmentation of the tagged left ventricle MR images

To facilitate automatic segmentation, we adopt SVM (Support Vector Machine) to localize the left ventricle, and the segmentation is then carried out with narrow band level set. The method of generating the narrow band is improved such that the time used is reduced. Based on the imaging characteristics of the tagged left ventricle MR images, BPV (block-pixel variation) and intensity comparability are introduced to improve the speed term of level set and to increase the precision of segmentation. Our method can perform the segmentation of the tagged left ventricle MR images accurately and automatically.

Expression of a novel bHLH-Zip gene in human testis

AIM

To identify specifically expressed genes in the adult and fetal testes.

METHODS

A human testis cDNA microarray was established. Then the mRNA of adult and fetal testis was purified and probes were prepared by a reverse transcription reaction with the testis mRNA as template. The microarray was hybridized with probes of adult and fetal testes. The nucleic sequences of differentially expressed genes were determined and homologies were searched in the databases of the GenBank.

RESULTS

When hybridized with adult or fetal testis probes, the positive clones were 96.8 % and 95.4 %, respectively. Among these genes, one was a new testis-specific gene, which was named TSP1. TSP1 was highly expressed in human adult testis. The cDNA of TSP1 was 1,484 bp in length. The cDNA sequence of this clone was deposited in the Genbank (AF333098). TSP1 was also determined as Interim Gen Symbol (Unigene, No. Hs.98266). Protein analysis showed that TSP1 contained two functional domains: an N-terminal basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) and a C-terminal leucine zipper (Zip). Homologous analysis showed that the 430 amino acid sequences deduced from the 1293 bp open reading frame (ORF) had a homology with the human gene FLJ2509 (AK098575). TSP1 had also a sequence homology with Spz 1 protein of mouse. Expression profiles showed that TSP1 was specifically and strongly expressed in the testis.

CONCLUSION

TSP1 is a gene highly expressed in adult testis. It may play an important role in spermatogenesis in the humans.

[Application of two-dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectrometry in the research of testicular proteins]

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the application of two-dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectrometry in the research of proteins expressed in testis.

METHODS

Protein from adult ICR mouse testes was extracted by two-dimensional electrophoresis. Two protein spots were cut from the gel, then the proteins were digested in-gel by enzyme and the generated peptides were measured by matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry. The proteins were identified through database searching.

RESULTS

Two spots in Commasie Brilliant Blue-stained gel were identified as serum albumin and protein disulfide isomerase by database searching.

CONCLUSIONS

This rapid high resolution and efficient method is a very powerful way to analyze testicular proteins.