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Lv S, Huang J, Luo Y, Wen Y, Chen B, Qiu H, Chen H, Yue T, He L, Feng B, Yu Z, Zhao M, Yang Q, He M, Xiao W, Zou X, Gu C, Lu R. Gut microbiota is involved in male reproductive function: a review. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1371667. [PMID: 38765683 PMCID: PMC11099273 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1371667] [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: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Globally, ~8%-12% of couples confront infertility issues, male-related issues being accountable for 50%. This review focuses on the influence of gut microbiota and their metabolites on the male reproductive system from five perspectives: sperm quality, testicular structure, sex hormones, sexual behavior, and probiotic supplementation. To improve sperm quality, gut microbiota can secrete metabolites by themselves or regulate host metabolites. Endotoxemia is a key factor in testicular structure damage that causes orchitis and disrupts the blood-testis barrier (BTB). In addition, the gut microbiota can regulate sex hormone levels by participating in the synthesis of sex hormone-related enzymes directly and participating in the enterohepatic circulation of sex hormones, and affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-testis (HPT) axis. They can also activate areas of the brain that control sexual arousal and behavior through metabolites. Probiotic supplementation can improve male reproductive function. Therefore, the gut microbiota may affect male reproductive function and behavior; however, further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms underlying microbiota-mediated male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuya Lv
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Jingrong Huang
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yadan Luo
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yuhang Wen
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Baoting Chen
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Hao Qiu
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Huanxin Chen
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, Suining First People's Hospital, Suining, China
| | - Tianhao Yue
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Lvqin He
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Baochun Feng
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, Suining First People's Hospital, Suining, China
| | - Zehui Yu
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Mingde Zhao
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Manli He
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Wudian Xiao
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxia Zou
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, Suining First People's Hospital, Suining, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Congwei Gu
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruilin Lu
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, Suining First People's Hospital, Suining, China
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Lauritsen MP, Kristensen TL, Hansen CB, Schneider UV, Talbot AL, Skytte AB, Petersen JH, Johannsen TH, Zedeler A, Albrethsen J, Juul A, Priskorn L, Jørgensen N, Westh H, Freiesleben NLC, Nielsen HS. The impact of acute SARS-CoV-2 on testicular function including insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) in men with mild COVID-19: A longitudinal study. Andrology 2024; 12:437-446. [PMID: 37421657 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13494] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) may affect the male reproductive system as it uses angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)2, which is expressed in testicular tissue, as an entry point into the cell. Few studies have evaluated the long-term effects of mild coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on testicular function, and insulin-like factor 3 (INSL3) levels have not previously been assessed during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to assess the impact of acute SARS-CoV-2 infection on testicular function including INSL3 and the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in semen in non-hospitalised men with mild COVID-19. MATERIALS AND METHODS This longitudinal study included 36 non-hospitalised SARS-CoV-2-positive men (median age 29 years). Inclusion was within seven days following a positive SARS-CoV-2 reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction test. Reproductive hormone levels, semen parameters, and the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in oropharyngeal and semen samples were assessed during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection (baseline) and at three- and six-month follow-up. Wilcoxon matched-pair signed-rank (two samples) test was used to assess time-related alterations in reproductive hormone levels and semen parameters. RESULTS Lower plasma testosterone (T) (total and calculated free (c-fT)) and higher luteinising hormone (LH) concentrations were observed during acute SARS-CoV-2 infection (baseline) compared to three- and six-month follow-up. Consequently, ratios of c-fT/LH were lower at baseline compared to three- and six-month follow-up (p < 0.001 and p = 0.003, respectively). Concomitantly, lower INSL3 concentrations were observed at baseline compared to three-month follow-up (p = 0.01). The total number of motile spermatozoa was also lower at baseline compared to six-month follow-up (p = 0.02). The alterations were detected irrespective of whether the men had experienced SARS-CoV-2-related fever episodes or not. No SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in semen at any time point. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION This study showed a reduction in testicular function, which was for the first time confirmed by INSL3, in men mildly affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection. The risk of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 RNA via semen seems to be low. Febrile episodes may impact testicular function, but a direct effect of SARS-CoV-2 cannot be excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Petri Lauritsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Christine Bo Hansen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Uffe Vest Schneider
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Anna Lando Talbot
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | | | | | - Trine Holm Johannsen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Zedeler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Jakob Albrethsen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Laerke Priskorn
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henrik Westh
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Nina la Cour Freiesleben
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Henriette Svarre Nielsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Hvidovre, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Walke G, Gaurkar SS, Prasad R, Lohakare T, Wanjari M. The Impact of Oxidative Stress on Male Reproductive Function: Exploring the Role of Antioxidant Supplementation. Cureus 2023; 15:e42583. [PMID: 37641770 PMCID: PMC10460465 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.42583] [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: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Male reproductive function is highly susceptible to oxidative stress, which arises from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant defense mechanisms. Oxidative stress can significantly impair sperm quality, including count, motility, morphology, and DNA integrity, leading to male infertility. Antioxidants play a crucial role in maintaining reproductive health by neutralizing ROS and protecting sperm cells from oxidative damage. This review article explores the impact of oxidative stress on male reproductive function and investigates the potential benefits of antioxidant supplementation in mitigating its detrimental effects. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to gather relevant studies examining the effects of oxidative stress on male fertility and the outcomes of antioxidant supplementation. The findings reveal that antioxidant supplementation can improve sperm quality, DNA integrity, and fertility outcomes in some individuals. However, conflicting research findings and limitations in study design highlight the need for further investigation. Factors such as individual variations, underlying causes of infertility, dosage, and duration of supplementation should be carefully considered. Lifestyle modifications, including a healthy diet and exercise, are crucial in reducing oxidative stress and optimizing male reproductive health. This review article provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between oxidative stress and male reproductive function, emphasizing the potential role of antioxidant supplementation as a supportive strategy. Further research is warranted to establish optimal protocols, identify specific subgroups that may benefit the most, and explore advancements in antioxidant therapies to improve male fertility outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gireeja Walke
- Department of Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Sagar S Gaurkar
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Roshan Prasad
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Tejaswee Lohakare
- Department of Child Health Nursing, Smt. Radhikabai Meghe Memorial College of Nursing, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Mayur Wanjari
- Department of Research and Development, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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Yang X, Chen Y, Song W, Huang T, Wang Y, Chen Z, Chen F, Liu Y, Wang X, Jiang Y, Zhang C. Review of the Role of Ferroptosis in Testicular Function. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14245268. [PMID: 36558426 PMCID: PMC9785324 DOI: 10.3390/nu14245268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [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: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron is an important metal element involved in the regulation of male reproductive functions and has dual effects on testicular tissue. A moderate iron content is necessary to maintain testosterone synthesis and spermatogenesis. Iron overload can lead to male reproductive dysfunction by triggering testicular oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, and even testicular ferroptosis. Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of cell death that is characterized by iron overload, lipid peroxidation, mitochondrial damage, and glutathione peroxidase depletion. This review summarizes the regulatory mechanism of ferroptosis and the research progress on testicular ferroptosis caused by endogenous and exogenous toxicants. The purpose of the present review is to provide a theoretical basis for the relationship between ferroptosis and male reproductive function. Some toxic substances or danger signals can cause male reproductive dysfunction by inducing testicular ferroptosis. It is crucial to deeply explore the testicular ferroptosis mechanism, which will help further elucidate the molecular mechanism of male reproductive dysfunction. It is worth noting that ferroptosis does not exist alone but rather coexists with other forms of cell death (such as apoptosis, necrosis, and autophagic death). Alleviating ferroptosis alone may not completely reverse male reproductive dysfunction caused by various risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Yunhe Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Wenxi Song
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Tingyu Huang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Youshuang Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Zhong Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Fengjuan Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Yu Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Xuebing Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Yibao Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
| | - Cong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450002, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-371-56990161 or +86-15765540919; Fax: +86-371-56990161
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Joung JY, Lim W, Seo YJ, Ham J, Oh NS, Kim SH. A Synbiotic Combination of Lactobacillus gasseri 505 and Cudrania tricuspidata Leaf Extract Prevents Stress-Induced Testicular Dysfunction in Mice. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:835033. [PMID: 35518925 PMCID: PMC9066698 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.835033] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of a synbiotic combination (Syn) of Lactobacillus gasseri 505 (505) and Cudrania tricuspidata leaf extract (CT) on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in mice under chronic stress. Unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) significantly increased the serum levels of corticosterone, however, treatment with Syn suppressed UCMS-induced increases. Histopathological analysis of the testes showed that these organs experienced some damage during UCMS, but this was repaired following treatment with Syn. Similarly, the transcription levels of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), GnRH receptor, and gonadotropins, moreover, testicular development (i.e., Adam5, Adam29, and Spam1) - and steroidogenesis (i.e., Lhr, Egfr, and StAR) -related genes were significantly downregulated by UCMS. These UCMS-induced changes were inhibited by the administration of Syn, which was confirmed by the results of in situ hybridization analysis. These results suggest that the administration of Syn could attenuate the testicular dysfunctions induced by UCMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Yeon Joung
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Whasun Lim
- Department of Biological Sciences, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Yeon Jeong Seo
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jiyeon Ham
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Animal Molecular Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Nam Su Oh
- Department of Food and Biotechnology, Korea University, Sejong, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Nam Su Oh, ; Sae Hun Kim,
| | - Sae Hun Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Nam Su Oh, ; Sae Hun Kim,
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Tkachenko OY, Shayakhmetova GM, Matvienko AV, Kovalenko VM. Reproductive disorders in male rats induced by high-fructose consumption from juvenile age to puberty. Arh Hig Rada Toksikol 2020; 71:78-86. [PMID: 32597133 DOI: 10.2478/aiht-2020-71-3303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 06/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
There is compelling evidence that a hypercaloric, high-fructose diet can cause metabolic syndrome (MetS) and a whole range of other metabolic changes. In the context of androgen deficiency, MetS in boys merits special attention, but the effects of fructose-rich diet in youth on future male reproductive function are still poorly evidenced. The aim of this study was to address this issue and analyse the effects of high-fructose intake starting from weaning to puberty (postnatal day 23 up to 83) on the reproductive function of male rats. For this purpose juvenile male Wistar rats were divided in two groups: control and the group receiving 10 % fructose solution instead of drinking water. Reproductive function was evaluated in terms of fertility, sperm count, testes/epididymis morphology, and serum sex hormones. The fructose-treated group showed a decrease in testosterone and twofold increase in luteinising and follicle-stimulating hormone levels in the serum. This was accompanied with lower testis/epididymis weights, sperm count, and changed testis/epididymis morphology. Their fertility remained unchanged, but the fertility of females mating with these males diminished. In addition, pre-implantation and post-implantation embryonic death rate rose in these females. Our results have confirmed that high fructose consumption from early age until puberty can impair the reproductive function of male rats, and call for further animal and epidemiological investigation.
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Tavares RS, Escada-Rebelo S, Sousa MI, Silva A, Ramalho-Santos J, Amaral S. Can Antidiabetic Drugs Improve Male Reproductive (Dys)Function Associated with Diabetes? Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:4191-4222. [PMID: 30381064 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666181101111404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [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: 12/26/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The alarming increase in the number of diabetic patients worldwide raises concerns regarding the impact of the disease on global health, not to mention on social and economic aspects. Furthermore, the association of this complex metabolic disorder with male reproductive impairment is worrying, mainly due to the increasing chances that young individuals, at the apex of their reproductive window, could be affected by the disease, further contributing to the disturbing decline in male fertility worldwide. The cornerstone of diabetes management is glycemic control, proven to be effective in avoiding, minimizing or preventing the appearance or development of disease-related complications. Nonetheless, the possible impact of these therapeutic interventions on male reproductive function is essentially unexplored. To address this issue, we have made a critical assessment of the literature on the effects of several antidiabetic drugs on male reproductive function. While the crucial role of insulin is clear, as shown by the recovery of reproductive impairments in insulin-deficient individuals after treatment, the same clearly does not apply to other antidiabetic strategies. In fact, there is an abundance of controversial reports, possibly related to the various study designs, experimental models and compounds used, which include biguanides, sulfonylureas, meglitinides, thiazolidinediones/glitazones, bile acid sequestrants, amylin mimetics, as well as sodiumglucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP1), α-glucosidase inhibitors and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) inhibitors. These aspects constitute the focus of the current review.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Tavares
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - S Escada-Rebelo
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M I Sousa
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A Silva
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - J Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - S Amaral
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC- Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
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Abiad F, Awwad J, Abbas HA, Zebian D, Ghazeeri G. Management of weight loss in obesity-associated male infertility: a spotlight on bariatric surgery. HUM FERTIL 2017; 20:227-235. [PMID: 28460579 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2017.1317369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a paralleled increase between male obesity and infertility rates. Obesity is associated with impaired hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, aberrant semen parameters, and subfertility or infertility. Weight loss is strongly recommended for the management of obesity-associated infertility. Lifestyle modifications that include caloric restriction and increased physical activity have a short-lived impact. Bariatric surgery is a better and more durable weight loss alternative. Comprehensive information about the benefits of weight loss on obesity-associated male infertility following bariatric surgery is still emerging. In this review, we discuss the hormonal, physical and environmental mechanism contributing to obesity-associated infertility. We then assess weight loss approaches, which include lifestyle modification, medical and surgical approaches, that can improve fertility in obese men. This review focuses also on bariatric surgery for the management of obese men seeking fertility treatment. Anecdotal evidence suggesting that bariatric surgery can impair fertility is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firass Abiad
- a Department of General Surgery , American University of Beirut Medical Center , Beirut , Lebanon
| | - Johnny Awwad
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , American University of Beirut Medical Center , Beirut , Lebanon
| | - Hussein A Abbas
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , American University of Beirut Medical Center , Beirut , Lebanon
| | - Dina Zebian
- c Department of Emergency Medicine , American University of Beirut , Beirut , Lebanon
| | - Ghina Ghazeeri
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , American University of Beirut Medical Center , Beirut , Lebanon
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Alves MG, Martins AD, Vaz CV, Correia S, Moreira PI, Oliveira PF, Socorro S. Metformin and male reproduction: effects on Sertoli cell metabolism. Br J Pharmacol 2014; 171:1033-42. [PMID: 24261663 DOI: 10.1111/bph.12522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [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: 06/13/2013] [Revised: 11/04/2013] [Accepted: 11/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Metformin is commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes (T2D). While new clinical applications have been ascribed to metformin, including treatment of anovulatory infertility, its effects on male reproduction have not been investigated. The Sertoli cell (SC) is crucial for germ cell development, exerting metabolic control of spermatogenesis, therefore, we investigated the effects of metformin on SC metabolism. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Rat SCs were cultured in the absence and presence of metformin (5, 50 and 500 μM). mRNA and protein levels of glucose transporters (GLUT1 and GLUT3), phosphofructokinase 1 (PFK 1), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and monocarboxylate transporter 4 (MCT4) were determined by quantitative PCR and Western blot respectively. LDH activity was assessed and metabolite production/consumption determined by (1) H-NMR. KEY RESULTS Metformin (50 μM) decreased mRNA and protein levels of GLUT1, GLUT3, MCT4 and PFK 1 but did not affect LDH mRNA or protein levels. However, although glucose consumption was maintained in metformin-treated cells, LDH activity, lactate and alanine production were increased, indicating an enhanced glycolytic flux. No metabolic cytotoxicity was detected in SCs exposed to supra-pharmacological concentration of metformin. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our results indicate that metformin: (i) decreases mRNA and protein levels of glycolysis-related transporters in SCs but increases their activity; and (ii) stimulates alanine production, which induces antioxidant activity and maintains the NADH/NAD(+) equilibrium. The increased lactate in metformin-treated SCs provides nutritional support and has an anti-apoptotic effect in developing germ cells. Thus, metformin can be considered as a suitable antidiabetic drug for male patients of reproductive age with T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G Alves
- CICS-UBI - Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, Covilhã, Portugal
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Rocha CS, Martins AD, Rato L, Silva BM, Oliveira PF, Alves MG. Melatonin alters the glycolytic profile of Sertoli cells: implications for male fertility. Mol Hum Reprod 2014; 20:1067-76. [PMID: 25205674 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gau080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin co-operates with insulin in the regulation of glucose homeostasis. Within the testis, glucose metabolism in the somatic Sertoli cells (SCs) is pivotal for spermatogenesis. Since the effects of melatonin on male reproductive physiology remain largely unknown, we hypothesized that melatonin may affect spermatogenesis by modulating SC metabolism, interacting with insulin. To test our hypothesis, rat SCs were maintained in culture for 24 h in the presence of insulin, melatonin or both and metabolite production/consumption was determined by proton nuclear magnetic resonance ((1)H-NMR). Protein levels of glucose transporters (GLUT1 and GLUT3), phosphofructokinase 1, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and monocarboxylate transporter 4 were determined by western blot. LDH activity was also assessed. SCs treated with melatonin showed an increase in glucose consumption via modulation of GLUT1 levels, but decreased LDH protein expression and activity, which resulted in lower lactate production. Moreover, SCs exposed to melatonin produced and accumulated less acetate than insulin-exposed cells. The combined treatment (insulin plus melatonin) increased acetate production by SCs, but intracellular acetate content remained lower than in insulin exposed cells. Finally, the intracellular redox state, as reflected by intracellular lactate/alanine ratio, was maintained at control levels in SCs by melatonin exposure (i.e. melatonin, alone or with insulin, increased the lactate/alanine ratio versus cells treated with insulin). Furthermore, SCs exposed to insulin plus melatonin produced more lactate and maintained the protein levels of some glycolysis-related enzymes and transporters at control levels. These findings illustrate that melatonin regulates SCs metabolism, and thus may affect spermatogenesis. Since lactate produced by SCs provides nutritional support and has an anti-apoptotic effect in developing germ cells, melatonin supplementation may be an effective therapy for diabetic male individuals facing subfertility/infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cátia S Rocha
- CICS-UBI, Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Ana D Martins
- CICS-UBI, Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Luís Rato
- CICS-UBI, Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Branca M Silva
- CICS-UBI, Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- CICS-UBI, Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- CICS-UBI, Health Sciences Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Av. Infante D. Henrique, 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
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Yuan XX, Zhang B, Li LL, Xiao CW, Fan JX, Geng MM, Yin YL. Effects of soybean isoflavones on reproductive parameters in Chinese mini-pig boars. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2012; 3:31. [PMID: 23107449 PMCID: PMC3503841 DOI: 10.1186/2049-1891-3-31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2012] [Accepted: 10/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED BACKGROUND Soybean isoflavones are structurally similar to mammalian estrogens and therefore may act as estrogen agonists or antagonists. However, it has not been determined if they have any negative effects on reproductive parameters in male livestock. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of soybean isoflavones on male reproduction using Chinese mini-pig boars as a model. Fifty Xiang boars were randomly divided into five groups and fed diets containing 0, 125, 250, or 500 ppm soybean isoflavones or 0.5 ppm diethylstilbestrol for 60 days. RESULTS Dietary supplementation with 250 ppm of soy isoflavones markedly increased the testis index (P < 0.05), fructose content (P < 0.05), and α-glycosidase content in testicular tissue (P < 0.01), as well as increased the number of viable germ cells (P < 0.01) and the level of Bcl-2 protein (P < 0.01). However, 500 ppm of soybean isoflavones significantly reduced both testis and epididymis indexes (P < 0.05) and lactate dehydrogenase levels (P < 0.01), as well as reduced serum LH and testosterone levels (P < 0.05). High levels of soybean isoflavones also increased malondialdehyde levels (P < 0.05), as well as increased the numbers of early and late apoptotic germ cells (P < 0.01) and the level of Bax proteins (P < 0.05) in the testis. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study indicate that consumption of soy isoflavones at dietary levels up to 250 ppm did not adversely affect reproductive parameters in Chinese mini-pig boars whereas higher levels of soy isoflavones may adversely affect male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-xue Yuan
- Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Lab of Process of Subtropical Agriculture, Changsha, 410125, China
- Graduate University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Li-li Li
- Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Lab of Process of Subtropical Agriculture, Changsha, 410125, China
| | - Chao-wu Xiao
- Nutrition Research Division, Food Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario, K1A0K9, Canada
| | - Jue-xin Fan
- Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, 410128, China
| | - Mei-mei Geng
- Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Lab of Process of Subtropical Agriculture, Changsha, 410125, China
| | - Yu-long Yin
- Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Key Lab of Process of Subtropical Agriculture, Changsha, 410125, China
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Abstract
After the controversial report by Carlsen et al. in 1992 showing a possible decline in human semen quality over the past 50 years, many laboratories investigated their own records of semen findings that had been kept for the past decades, and a significant decrease in sperm quality was reported from some laboratories, but not others. At the beginning of the 21st century, a definitive interpretation of this issue has not yet been offered; however, it seems plausible that there are large regional differences in semen quality. Decreases in semen quality have been reported from various regions around the world, and a concurrent rise in the incidence of other reproductive problems, such as testicular cancer and genital abnormalities, has been observed in many regions. However, most of the reports showing regional differences were from Western or Western-derived countries, despite the fact that Asia is the region with the highest population on earth. Recently we undertook a cross-sectional study on fertile men in Japan to describe the current status of semen quality of Japanese men. We took confounders into consideration to allow a comparison with a previous European study. Japanese fertile men proved to have a semen quality at the level of Danish men, who were reported to have the lowest level among the men examined in the European study. This low level of sperm concentration in fertile Japanese men may result from differences in lifestyle or other environmental factors, but we cannot rule out the possibility of ethnic differences caused by different genetic variation or combination. To address this issue we need more information on the reproductive function in Asian men, who have been reported to have certain differences in reproductive characteristics from Caucasian men. This article is an attempt to review our present knowledge concerning the current status of semen quality in healthy Asian men on the basis of the limited publications from Asia. (Reprod Med Biol 2007; 6: 185-193).
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Affiliation(s)
- Teruaki Iwamoto
- Department of Urology, St Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, and
- Center for Infertility and IVF, International University of Health and Welfare Hospital, Nasushiobara, Japan
| | - Shiari Nozawa
- Department of Urology, St Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, and
| | - Miki Yoshiike
- Department of Urology, St Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, and
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