De novo design of a nanoregulator for the dynamic restoration of ovarian tissue in cryopreservation and transplantation

The cryopreservation and transplantation of ovarian tissue underscore its paramount importance in safeguarding reproductive capacity and ameliorating reproductive disorders. However, challenges persist in ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation (OTC-T), including the risk of tissue damage and dysfunction. Consequently, there has been a compelling exploration into the realm of nanoregulators to refine and enhance these procedures. This review embarks on a meticulous examination of the intricate anatomical structure of the ovary and its microenvironment, thereby establishing a robust groundwork for the development of nanomodulators. It systematically categorizes nanoregulators and delves deeply into their functions and mechanisms, meticulously tailored for optimizing ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation. Furthermore, the review imparts valuable insights into the practical applications and obstacles encountered in clinical settings associated with OTC-T. Moreover, the review advocates for the utilization of microbially derived nanomodulators as a potent therapeutic intervention in ovarian tissue cryopreservation. The progression of these approaches holds the promise of seamlessly integrating nanoregulators into OTC-T practices, thereby heralding a new era of expansive applications and auspicious prospects in this pivotal domain.

The organisation of the digestive, excretory and reproductive systems in cysts of the freshwater tardigrade Thulinius ruffoi (Parachela, Isohypsibioidea: Doryphoribiidae)

Tardigrades are invertebrates known to science for over 250 years. Although the ability of some species of tardigrades to form cysts has been reported, little is known about the encystment and internal organisation of the cysts. During cyst formation, contraction of the body affects the internal organs' morphology. The organs are compressed and have a compact appearance. The organisation of the digestive system, associated structures, and the reproductive system are analysed in cysts on indefinite and well-defined encystment periods - up to eleven months. The digestive system of encysted animals was organised into three main parts - a foregut, a midgut, and a hindgut. The presence of digestive system-associated structures, such as buccal glands or muscles, was noted and described. The excretory organs, called Malpighian tubules, open into the zone between the midgut and the hindgut. Furthermore, the oviduct opens into the hindgut. The first analysis of the reproductive system of cysts at the ultrastructural level is presented here, revealing interesting and undescribed aspects related to the physiology. Besides the anatomical and histological examination, the morphology and changes that occur during cyst formation are described.

Understanding the impact of nanoplastics on reproductive health: Exposure pathways, mechanisms, and implications

Microplastic pollution is a pressing global environmental concern with particular urgency surrounding the issue of nanoplastic particles. Plastic products exhibit a remarkable persistence in natural ecosystems, resisting easy degradation. Nanoplastics, characterized by their diminutive size, possess distinct properties when compared to their larger counterparts, which could potentially render them more ecologically detrimental. Microplastics themselves serve as carriers for toxic and hazardous substances, such as plastic additives, that enter and persist in the environmental cycle. Importantly, nanoplastics exhibit enhanced bioavailability upon entering the food chain. Notably, studies have demonstrated the adverse effects of nanoplastics on the reproductive function of aquatic organisms, and evidence of micro- and nanoplastics have emerged within human reproductive organs, including the placenta. However, a knowledge gap persists regarding the impacts of nanoplastics on the reproductive systems of mammals and, indeed, humans. This paper aims to elucidate the less frequently discussed sources and distribution of nanoplastics in the environment, along with the pathways of human exposure. We also emphasize the extent to which nanoplastics accumulate within the reproductive systems of organisms. Subsequently, we present an in-depth analysis of the effects of nanoplastics and their associated contaminants on mammalian and human reproductive health. The mechanisms through which nanoplastics contribute to reproductive disorders are comprehensively explored, highlighting their potential to disrupt endocrine levels in mammals and humans. Additionally, we scrutinize and discuss studies on biotoxicity of nanoplastics, offering insights into potential areas for future research.

Enhanced glutathione production protects against zearalenone-induced oxidative stress and ferroptosis in female reproductive system

Zearalenone (ZEN, a widespread fusarium mycotoxin) causes evoked oxidative stress in reproductive system, but little is known about whether this is involved in ferroptosis. Melatonin, a well-known antioxidant, has demonstrated unique anti-antioxidant properties in several studies. Here, this study was aimed to investigate whether ZEN-induced oxidative stress in female pig's reproductive system was involved in ferroptosis, and melatonin was then supplemented to protect against ZEN-induced abnormalities in vitro cell models [human granulosa cell (KGN) and mouse endometrial stromal cell (mEC)] and in vivo mouse model. According to the results from female pig's reproductive organs, ZEN-induced abnormalities in vulvar swelling, inflammatory invasion and pathological mitochondria, were closely linked with evoked oxidative stress. Using RNA-seq analysis, we further revealed that ZEN-induced reproductive toxicity was due to activated ferroptosis. Mechanistically, by using in vitro cell models (KGN and mEC) and in vivo mouse model, we observed that ZEN exposure resulted in oxidative stress and ferroptosis in a glutathione-dependent manner. Notably, these ZEN-induced abnormalities above were alleviated by melatonin supplementation through enhanced productions of glutathione peroxidase 4 and glutathione. Herein, the present results suggest that potential strategies to improve glutathione production protect against ZEN-induced reproductive toxicity, including oxidative stress and ferroptosis.

Research progress on reproductive system damage caused by high altitude hypoxia

PURPOSE

The high altitude area is characterized by low pressure and hypoxia, and rapidly entering the high altitude area will cause a series of damage to the body. Some studies have shown that hypoxia can cause damage to the reproductive system. In recent years, researchers have been paying attention to the effects of hypoxia on hormone level, ovarian reserve, embryonic development, testicular development, sperm motility level, and have begun to explore its injury mechanism, but its mechanism is not clear. In this paper, the mechanism of hypoxia on the reproductive system is reviewed, which is expected to provide a new idea for solving the problem of the low fertility rate of humans and animals at high altitudes.

METHODS

A comprehensive PubMed search was conducted, selecting all relevant peer-reviewed English papers published before January 2022. Other relevant papers were selected from the list of references.

RESULTS

Studies have shown that the complete fertility rate of people living at low altitudes is 7.7, and the complete fertility rate of people living at high altitudes is 4.77, and the hypoxic environment at high altitudes reduces fertility. At the same time, high-altitude, low-oxygen environments are associated with increased infant mortality and post-neonatal mortality. To date, most studies seem to point to a correlation between anoxic exposure at high altitudes and low fertility in humans and animals.

CONCLUSION

Although the molecular mechanisms are not fully understood, the effects of hypoxia at high altitude on hormonal level, ovarian reserve, embryonic development, testicular development, and sperm motility and levels require further research to investigate this complex topic.

Unraveling the threat: Microplastics and nano-plastics' impact on reproductive viability across ecosystems

Plastic pollution pervades both marine and terrestrial ecosystems, fragmenting over time into microplastics (MPs) and nano-plastics (NPs). These particles infiltrate organisms via ingestion, inhalation, and dermal absorption, predominantly through the trophic interactions. This review elucidated the impacts of MPs/NPs on the reproductive viability of various species. MPs/NPs lead to reduced reproduction rates, abnormal larval development and increased mortality in aquatic invertebrates. Microplastics cause hormone secretion disorders and gonadal tissue damage in fish. In addition, the fertilization rate of eggs is reduced, and the larval deformity rate and mortality rate are increased. Male mammals exposed to MPs/NPs exhibit testicular anomalies, compromised sperm health, endocrine disturbances, oxidative stress, inflammation, and granulocyte apoptosis. In female mammals, including humans, exposure culminates in ovarian and uterine deformities, endocrine imbalances, oxidative stress, inflammation, granulosa cell apoptosis, and tissue fibrogenesis. Rodent offspring exposed to MPs experience increased mortality rates, while survivors display metabolic perturbations, reproductive anomalies, and weakened immunity. These challenges are intrinsically linked to the transgenerational conveyance of MPs. The ubiquity of MPs/NPs threatens biodiversity and, crucially, jeopardizes human reproductive health. The current findings underscore the exigency for comprehensive research and proactive interventions to ameliorate the implications of these pollutants.

Scutellarin targets Wnt5a against zearalenone-induced apoptosis in mouse granulosa cells in vitro and in vivo

Zearalenone (ZEA) poses severe reproductive toxicity to both humans and animals. Scutellarin has been demonstrated to rescue ZEA-induced apoptosis in mouse ovarian granulosa cells (GCs), but its specific targets remain unclear. In the present study, the potential targets of scutellarin were determined to clarify the mechanisms of scutellarin against ZEA-induced ovarian damage. 287 targets of scutellarin in mouse ovarian GCs were obtained by magnetic nano-probe-based fishing assay and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Wnt5a had the lowest binding free energy with scutellarin at - 8.3 kcal/mol. QRT-PCR and western blot showed that scutellarin significantly increased the Wnt5a and β-catenin expression compared with the ZEA-treated group, and cleaved-caspase-3 expression was significantly increased in the scutellarin-treated group after interfering with the expression of Wnt5a. The affinity constant (KD) of Wnt5a and scutellarin was 1.7 × 10-5 M. The pull-down assay also demonstrated that scutellarin could specifically bind to Wnt5a protein. Molecular docking results showed that scutellarin could form hydrogen bonds with TRY52, GLN56, and SER90 on Wnt5a protein, and western blot assay confirmed SER90 was an important site for the binding. Scutellarin significantly increased Wnt5a and β-catenin expression and decreased cleaved-caspase-3 expression in ovarian tissues of mice. In conclusion, scutellarin exerted anti-apoptotic effects on ZEA-induced mouse ovarian GCs by targeting Wnt5a.

Interaction effect of mutations in the genes (piwi and aub) of the Argonaute family and hobo transposons on the integral survival parameters of Drosophila melanogaster

The Argonaute family genes (piwi and aub) involved in the production of small RNAs are responsible for the regulation of many cellular processes, including the suppression of genome instability, modulation of gene activity, and transposable elements. Dysfunction of these genes and the associated activation of transposable elements adversely affect reproductive development and quality of life. The role of transposons in contrast to retrotransposons and their interaction with genes of the Argonaute family in aging processes have not been studied. This study considers a scenario in which the piwi and aub genes in the presence of functional hobo transposons can modify the effects from the level of DNA damage to lifespan. The simultaneous presence of mutation (piwi or aub) and hobo (regardless of size) in the genome has practically no effect or (less often) leads to a decrease in the level of DNA damage in ovarian cells. A high level of sterility and low ovarian reserve were noted mainly with a combination of mutations and full-sized hobo elements. The combination of these two genetic factors negatively affects the fertility of young females and embryonic survival. Isolated cases of restoration of reproductive functions with age were noted but only in females that had low fertility in the early period of life. The presence of hobo transposons contributed to an increase in the lifespan of both mutant and non-mutant females. Dysfunction of the piwi and aub genes (without hobo) can reduce the lifespan of both sexes. Together, each mutation and hobo transposons act antagonistically/additively (in females) and synergistically/antagonistically (in males) to change the lifespan. In parameters of locus-specific instability, hobo activation was more pronounced in piwi gene dysfunction. The results obtained complement data on the study of new functions of Argonaute family genes and their interactions with transposable elements in the aging process.

Regulatory effects of hydrogen sulfide on the female reproductive system

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a colorless exhaust gas, has been traditionally considered an air pollutant. However, recent studies have revealed that H2S functions as a novel gas signaling molecule, exerting diverse biological effects on various systems, including the cardiovascular, digestive, and nervous systems. Thus, H2S is involved in various pathophysiological processes. As H2S affects reproductive function, it has potential therapeutic implications in reproductive system diseases. This review examined the role of H2S in various female reproductive organs, including the ovary, fallopian tube, vagina, uterus, and placenta. Additionally, the regulatory function of H2S in the female reproductive system has been discussed to provide useful insights for developing clinical therapeutic strategies for reproductive diseases.

Application of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the diagnosis of tuberous vas deferens tuberculosis

BACKGROUND

To assess the value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in the diagnosis of tuberous vas deferens tuberculosis (VD TB) and improve the positive diagnostic rate of VD TB.

METHODS

CEUS and routine ultrasound (US) images of 17 patients with tuberous VD TB confirmed by surgery, pathology, or laboratory semen examination were retrospectively analyzed and summarized, and the positive rates of both imaging techniques were compared.

RESULTS

The 19 VD lesions of the 17 patients were divided into two types according to the CEUS findings: Type I and Type II, and type II was divided into Types IIa, IIb, and IIc. Of the nodules with transverse diameters > 1 cm, 100% presented as type II. Of the nodules with transverse diameters < 1 cm, 37.5% (3/8) presented as type I and 62.5% (5/8) presented as type II. The sonographic manifestations of tuberous VD TB were hypoechoic and mixed echoic. The positive diagnostic rate was 89.5% for CEUS and 68.4% for US, but the difference was not significant (χ2 = 2.533; P = 0.111).

CONCLUSIONS

CEUS was able to show the blood supply characteristics of tuberous VD TB, the internal necrosis of nodules was more easily observed by CEUS than by routine US, which is helpful for the diagnosis of tuberous VD TB.

Multi-omics Investigations in Endocrine Systems and Their Clinical Implications

Innovative techniques such as the "omics" can be a powerful tool for the understanding of intracellular pathways involved in homeostasis maintenance and identification of new potential therapeutic targets against endocrine-metabolic disorders. Over the last decades, proteomics has been extensively applied in the study of a wide variety of human diseases, including those involving the endocrine system. Among the most endocrine-related disorders investigated by proteomics in humans are diabetes mellitus and thyroid, pituitary, and reproductive system disorders. In diabetes, proteins implicated in insulin signaling, glucose metabolism, and β-cell activity have been investigated. In thyroid diseases, protein expression alterations were described in thyroid malignancies and autoimmune thyroid illnesses. Additionally, proteomics has been used to investigate the variations in protein expression in adrenal cancers and conditions, including Cushing's syndrome and Addison's disease. Pituitary tumors and disorders including acromegaly and hypopituitarism have been studied using proteomics to examine changes in protein expression. Reproductive problems such as polycystic ovarian syndrome and endometriosis are two examples of conditions where alterations in protein expression have been studied using proteomics. Proteomics has, in general, shed light on the molecular underpinnings of many endocrine-related illnesses and revealed promising biomarkers for both their detection and treatment. The capacity of proteomics to thoroughly and objectively examine complex protein mixtures is one of its main benefits. Mass spectrometry (MS) is a widely used method that identifies and measures proteins based on their mass-to-charge ratio and their fragmentation pattern. MS can perform the separation of proteins according to their physicochemical characteristics, such as hydrophobicity, charge, and size, in combination with liquid chromatography. Other proteomics techniques include protein arrays, which enable the simultaneous identification of several proteins in a single assay, and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE), which divides proteins depending on their isoelectric point and molecular weight. This chapter aims to summarize the most relevant proteomics data from targeted tissues, as well as the daily rhythmic variation of relevant biomarkers in both physiological and pathophysiological conditions within the involved endocrine system, especially because the actual modern lifestyle constantly imposes a chronic unentrained condition, which virtually affects all the circadian clock systems within human's body, being also correlated with innumerous endocrine-metabolic diseases.

Ovary organization and ultrastructure in six species of Amynthas and Metaphire earthworms (Annelida, Crassiclitellata, Megascolecidae)

Ovaries in earthworms belonging to the family Megascolecidae are paired structures attached to the septum in the anterior part of the XIII segment. They are fan to rosette shaped with numerous rows of growing oocytes, known as egg strings, radiating from the ovary center towards the segmental cavity. The histological and ultrastructural ovary organization in megascolecids and the course of oogenesis remain unknown. The paper presents the results of light and electron microscopy analyses of ovaries in six megascolecid species, three from the genus Amynthas and three from Metaphire. Both parthenogenetic and sexually reproducing species were included in the study. The organization and ultrastructure of ovaries in all studied species are broadly similar. Considering the histological organization of ovaries, they could be divided into two zones. Zone I (proximal, close to the connection with the septum) is tightly packed with germline and somatic cells. Germ cells are interconnected via intercellular bridges and thin strands of the central cytoplasm (known as cytophore) and form syncytial cysts. Cysts unite oogonia, early meiotic cells (till diplotene), and clustering cells develop synchronously. During diplotene, interconnected cells lose developmental synchrony; most probably, one cell per cyst grows faster than others, detaches from the cysts, and becomes an oocyte. The remaining cells grow slightly and are still interconnected via the thin and reticular cytophore; these cells are considered nurse cells. Zone II has a form of egg strings where growing oocytes are isolated one from another by thin somatic cells and form short cords. We present the ultrastructural details of germline and somatic cells. We propose the term "Amynthas" type of ovaries for this ovary organization. We suppose that such ovaries are characteristic of other megascolecids and related families.

Effect of N-acetyl-L-cysteine on Testicular Tissue in Busulfan-Induced Dysfunction in the Male Reproductive System

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) as an antioxidant on busulfan-induced testicular dysfunction in mice and elucidate its possible mechanism of action.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-two C57BL/6 male mice were randomly divided into four groups (n=8/group) as follows: (1) control group (oral administration of saline [0.1 mL daily] for 35 days); (2) NAC group (oral administration of NAC [10 mg/kg daily] for 35 days); (3) busulfan group (double intraperitoneal injections of 20 mg/kg; total dose of 40 mg/kg); and (4) busulfan+NAC group (after double intraperitoneal injections of 20 mg/kg; total dose of 40 mg/kg, NAC administration [10 mg/kg daily] for 35 days). The testes were removed, weighed, and subjected to sperm parameter analysis and morphology assessment. Reproductive hormone, serum/testicular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, oxidative stress and antioxidant markers were evaluated. The testicular expression of Nrf2 and HO-1 was examined using RT-qPCR.

RESULTS

Busulfan treatment significantly decreased testicular weight, sperm count, and serum testosterone levels. Atrophy and degeneration of germinal epithelium were observed in the busulfan group. NAC administration after busulfan treatment partially attenuated the deterioration of testis weight, sperm quality, serum hormones, histomorphometric changes, and oxidative and antioxidative status. NAC treatment resulted in a considerable improvement in Nrf2 and HO-1 mRNA expression levels.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides compelling evidence that NAC as a potent antioxidant has significant protective effects against busulfan-induced male reproductive impairment possibly through modification of the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.

The Effects of Clove and Its Constituents on Reproductive System: a Comprehensive Review

Clove with the scientific name of Syzygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & L.M. Perry is an evergreen tree in which its buds are used for medicinal purposes. Traditional medicine manuscripts as well as recent studies reported its effects on male and female reproductive systems. The aim of this study is to investigate the reported contradictory effects of clove and its phytochemicals on the reproductive system of both males and females. All types of in vitro, animal, and human studies of clove and its main constituents in the field of reproductive systems were collected via searching electronic databases including PubMed and Scopus from the onset till 2021. In this review, 76 articles were included, of which 25 were related to male reproduction, 32 were related to female reproduction, and 19 were related to reproductive malignancies. Analysis of the literature indicates the effects of clove and its constituents especially eugenol and β-caryophyllene on the level of sex hormones, fertility, sperm abnormalities, endometriosis, menstrual cycle, as well as gynecological infections, and reproductive tumors. The main mechanism of clove has not been understood yet but it seems that different parameters affect its pharmacological activity including the type of extract, dose, and duration of administration as well as the primary cause of the disorder. According to the effects of clove on different parts of the reproductive system, it seems that it can be a suitable candidate for related disorders, provided that more and more detailed studies are done on it.

Detection and characterization of microplastics in the human testis and semen

The health risk of microplastics (MPs) is a growing global concern. Evidence of reproductive health damage caused by the accumulation of MPs in males is still lacking. In the present study, 6 testis and 30 semen samples were collected, and MPs were detected using both pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) and laser direct infrared spectroscopy (LD-IR). The results showed that MPs were detected in both testis and semen, with an average abundance of 0.23 ± 0.45 particles/mL in semen and 11.60 ± 15.52 particles/g in testis. Microplastics in the testis were composed of polystyrene (PS) with 67.7 %, while polyethylene (PE) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) were the predominant polymers in semen. Compared to fragments, fiber, and film detected in semen, the fragment was the main shape the in testis. The sizes of these microplastics ranged from 21.76 μm to 286.71 μm, and most (67 % and 80.6 %) were 20-100 μm in semen and testis. In summary, this study revealed for the first time that MPs pollute the human male reproductive system and that various MP characteristics appear in different regions, which provides critical information and basic data for the risk assessment of MPs to human health.

Effect of long-term hypoxia on the reproductive systems of female and male yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco)

This study investigated the effects of different levels of hypoxia on the reproductive system of yellow catfish. Yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco) were exposed to three dissolved oxygen concentration levels: normoxia (6.5 ± 0.2 mg/L), moderate hypoxia (MH, 3.8 ± 0.3 mg/L) and severe hypoxia (SH, 1.9 ± 0.2 mg/L) for 30 days. The gonadosomatic index of males, not females, significantly decreased in the SH group. In the SH group, for the females, the ratio of vitellogenic follicles significantly decreased, whereas the number of atretic follicles significantly increased. In male fish, a significantly reduced number of spermatozoa was observed in both the MH and SH groups. Elevated apoptosis levels in the testes and ovaries were observed only in the SH group. Serum 17β-estradiol and vitellogenin levels in females and testosterone levels in males significantly decreased in the SH group. The concentration of 11-ketotestosterone in males significantly decreased in both the MH and SH groups. In female fish, dysregulated expression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, steroidogenesis genes, and hepatic genes related to vitellogenesis were observed only in the SH group. However, in male fish, moderate hypoxia altered the expression of HPG genes, including gnrh1, lhcgr, and amh. Moreover, the MH group significantly altered the expression of steroidogenesis genes like star, 17β-hsd, and cyp17a1. The results of this study suggest that severe hypoxia can cause reproductive defects in female and male yellow catfish. Moreover, the reproductive system of male yellow catfish is more sensitive to moderate hypoxia than that of female catfish. Our findings contribute to our understanding of the response of the teleost reproductive system to long-term hypoxia.

Review: Role and regulatory mechanism of inhibin in animal reproductive system

Inhibin (INH) is a glycoprotein hormone secreted by the gonads that inhibit the synthesis and secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Increasing evidence indicates that INH plays a significant role in the development of the reproductive system including follicle development, ovulation rate, corpus luteum formation and ablation, steroid hormone synthesis and spermatogenesis, subsequently affecting the reproductive capacity of animals such as litter size and egg production. There are currently three main views on how INH inhibits FSH synthesis and secretion: influencing the activity of adenylate cyclase, the expression of follicle-stimulating hormone receptor or gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor, and the competition system of inhibin-activin. This review discusses the current findings on the structure, function, and mechanism of action of INH in the reproductive system of animals.

Is lactational sertraline exposure safe for maternal health and the reproductive/neurobehavioral development of the descendants? A study in rats

Although sertraline is considered one of the safest antidepressants in the lactation period, there are still few studies that assess its impact on child development. Therefore, this experimental study aimed to clarify the effect of sertraline on the neurobehavioral and reproductive development of male rats. Thus, 30 lactating rats were divided into 3 experimental groups (n = 10/group): CO- received filtered water, S10 and S20 groups that received, respectively, 10 and 20 mg/kg/day of sertraline. Treatment was performed by gavage, from postnatal days (PND) 1-20. During this period, the reflex and somatic development of rats were observed, as well as maternal behavior. On PND 21, mothers were euthanized and the organs were weighed. On PND 21, 45, and 100, one male from each litter was euthanized for histological and immunohistochemical (PCNA and WT1) analysis of the reproductive organs. The growth of body weight, the anogenital distance (AGD), the time to puberty, sperm quality, sexual behavior, neurobehavior, and natural fertility were also verified. Statistical analysis: One-way ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis test (p ≤ 0.05). The results showed that mothers in the S20 group had an increase in thyroid weight. The male offspring exposed to sertraline had lower body weight (PND 7), lower AGD (PND 7 and 14), and delay in reflex development, in addition to histological alterations in the testis (PND 21). In adulthood, sperm quality was altered, without compromising natural fertility. Therefore, the present study found important alterations in the reflex and reproductive development of male rats exposed to sertraline during lactation.

Inhibition of alternative oxidase disrupts the development and oviposition of Biomphalaria glabrata snails

BACKGROUND

Biomphalaria glabrata is one of the main intermediate hosts of Schistosoma mansoni, the most widespread species of Schistosoma. Our previous studies proved that alternative oxidase (AOX), the terminal oxidase in the mitochondrial respiratory chain, widely exists in several species of intermediate host snails of Schistosoma. Meanwhile, inhibition of AOX activity in Oncomelania hupensis snails could dramatically enhance the molluscicidal effect of niclosamide. As a hermaphroditic aquatic mollusc, the high fecundity and population density of B. glabrata increase the difficulty of snail control, which is one of the critical strategies for schistosomiasis elimination. The present study aimed to investigate the possible role of AOX in the development and fecundity of B. glabrata snail, which could be manipulated more manageable than other species of intermediate host snails of Schistosoma.

METHODS

The dynamic expression of the AOX gene was investigated in different developmental stages and tissues of B. glabrata, with morphological change and oviposition behaviour observed from juvenile to adult snails. Furtherly, dsRNA-mediated knockdown of BgAOX mRNA and the AOX protein activity inhibiting was performed to investigate the effect of AOX on the development and oviposition of snails.

RESULTS

The BgAOX gene expression profile is highly related to the development from late juveniles to adults, especially to the reproductive system of snails, with a positive correlation of 0.975 between egg production and BgAOX relative expression in ovotestis of snails. The inhibition of BgAOX at the transcriptional level and AOX activity could efficiently inhibit snail growth. However, the interference at the BgAOX protein activity level led to more severe tissue damage and more significant inhibition of oviposition than at the transcriptional level. This inhibition of growth and oviposition decreased gradually with the increase in the snail size.

CONCLUSIONS

The inhibition of AOX could efficiently disrupt the development and oviposition of B. glabrata snails, and the intervention targeting AOX at the juvenile stage is more effective for snails. This investigation explored the role of AOX in the growth and development of snails. It would benefit snail control in the future by providing a potential target while using molluscicides more efficiently.

Wild fish responses to wastewater treatment plant upgrades in the Grand River, Ontario

Municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent is one of several point sources of contaminants (nutrients, pharmaceuticals, estrogens, etc.) which can lead to adverse responses in aquatic life. Studies of WWTP effluent impacts on rainbow darter (Etheostoma caeruleum) collected downstream of WWTPs in the Grand River, Ontario have reported disruption at multiple levels of biological organization, including altered vitellogenin gene expression, lower levels of in vitro steroid production, and high frequency of intersex. However, major upgrades have occurred at treatment plants in the central Grand River over the last decade. Treatment upgrades to the Waterloo WWTP were initiated in 2009 but due to construction delays, the upgrades came fully on-line in 2017/2018. Responses in rainbow darter have been followed at sites associated with the outfall consistently over this entire time period. The treatment plant upgrade resulted in nitrification of effluent, and once complete there was a major reduction in effluent ammonia, selected pharmaceuticals, and estrogenicity. This study compared several key responses in rainbow darter associated with the Waterloo WWTP outfall prior to and post upgrades. Stable isotopes signatures in fish were used to track exposure to effluent and changed dramatically over time, corresponding to the effluent quality. Disruptions in in vitro steroid production and intersex in the darters that had been identified prior to the upgrades were no longer statistically different from the upstream reference sites after the upgrades. Although annual variations in water temperature and flow can potentially mask or exacerbate the effects of the WWTP effluent, major capital investments in wastewater treatment targeted at improving effluent quality have corresponded with the reduction of adverse responses in fish in the receiving environment.

Aquaporins in Reproductive System

AQP0-12, a total of 13 aquaporins are expressed in the mammalian reproductive system. These aquaporins mediate the transport of water and small solutes across biofilms for maintaining reproductive tract water balance and germ cell water homeostasis. These aquaporins play important roles in the regulation of sperm and egg cell production, maturation, and fertilization processes. Impaired AQP function may lead to diminished male and female fertility. This review focuses on the distribution, function, and regulation of AQPs throughout the male and female reproductive organs and tracts. Their correlation with reproductive success, revealing recent advances in the physiological and pathophysiological roles of aquaporins in the reproductive system.

Zearalenone disturbs the reproductive-immune axis in pigs: the role of gut microbial metabolites

BACKGROUND

Exposure to zearalenone (ZEN, a widespread Fusarium mycotoxin) causes reproductive toxicity and immunotoxicity in farm animals, and it then poses potential threats to human health through the food chain. A systematic understanding of underlying mechanisms on mycotoxin-induced toxicity is necessary for overcoming potential threats to farm animals and humans. The gastrointestinal tract is a first-line defense against harmful mycotoxins; however, it remains unknown whether mycotoxin (e.g., ZEN)-induced toxicity on the reproductive-immune axis is linked to altered gut microbial metabolites. In this study, using pigs (during the three phases) as an important large animal model, we investigated whether ZEN-induced toxicity on immune defense in the reproductive-immune axis was involved in altered gut microbial-derived metabolites. Moreover, we observed whether the regulation of gut microbial-derived metabolites through engineering ZEN-degrading enzymes counteracted ZEN-induced toxicity on the gut-reproductive-immune axis.

RESULTS

Here, we showed ZEN exposure impaired immune defense in the reproductive-immune axis of pigs during phase 1/2. This impairment was accompanied by altered gut microbial-derived metabolites [e.g., decreased butyrate production, and increased lipopolysaccharides (LPS) production]. Reduction of butyrate production impaired the intestinal barrier via a GPR109A-dependent manner, and together with increased LPS in plasma then aggravated the systemic inflammation, thus directly and/or indirectly disturbing immune defense in the reproductive-immune axis. To validate these findings, we further generated recombinant Bacillus subtilis 168-expressing ZEN-degrading enzyme ZLHY-6 (the Bs-Z6 strain) as a tool to test the feasibility of enzymatic removal of ZEN from mycotoxin-contaminated food. Notably, modified gut microbial metabolites (e.g., butyrate, LPS) through the recombinant Bs-Z6 strain counteracted ZEN-induced toxicity on the intestinal barrier, thus enhancing immune defense in the reproductive-immune axis of pigs during phase-3. Also, butyrate supplementation restored ZEN-induced abnormalities in the porcine small intestinal epithelial cell.

CONCLUSIONS

Altogether, these results highlight the role of gut microbial-derived metabolites in ZEN-induced toxicity on the gut-reproductive-immune axis. Importantly, targeting these gut microbial-derived metabolites opens a new window for novel preventative strategies or therapeutic interventions for mycotoxicosis associated to ZEN.

Lactobacillus spp. in the reproductive system of female moths and mating induced changes and possible transmission

BACKGROUND

The microbiome in the insect reproductive tract is poorly understood. Our previous study demonstrated the presence of Lactobacillus spp. in female moths, but their distribution and function remain unclear. Lactobacillus spp. are known as the 'healthy' vaginal microbiome in humans.

RESULTS

Here, we studied the microbiome in the reproductive system (RS) and gut of Spodoptera frugiperda using 16S rDNA sequences. The obtained 4315 bacterial OTUs were classified into 61 phyla and 642 genera, with Proteobacteria, Firmicutes and Bacteroidota being the top three dominant phyla and Enterococcus and Asaia being dominant genera in most samples. Mating dramatically increased the abundance of pathogens or pathogenic functions in the gut, while in the RS, the change range was trivial. Taxonomy assignment identified thirteen Lactobacillus spp. in S. frugiperda, with Lactobacillus crustorum and Lactobacillus murinus showing high abundance. Three species found in S. frugiperda, namely L. reuteri, L. plantarum and L. brevis, have also been identified as human 'healthy' vaginal bacterial species. Lactobacillus spp. showed higher abundance in the RS of virgin females and lower abundance in the RS of virgin males and the gut of virgin females. Mating reduced their abundance in the RS of females but increased their abundance in the RS of males, especially in males mated with multiple females. The RS of virgin females and of multiple mated males were very similar in terms of composition and abundance of Lactobacillus species, with Lactobacillus crustorum showing much higher abundance in both tissues, potentially due to sexual transmission.

CONCLUSIONS

Lactobacillus spp. showed high abundance and diversity in the RS of female moths. The higher abundance of Lactobacillus spp. in the RS of female moths and the similarity of Lactobacillus species in female moths with human 'healthy' vaginal Lactobacillus spp. suggest that these bacterial strains are also an important microbiome in the RS of female moths.

Gonadulin: A newly discovered insulin-like peptide involved in ovulation and oviposition in Rhodnius prolixus, a vector of Chagas disease

Insulin-like peptides (ILPs) are vital hormones involved in a wide range of physiological processes in all organisms. In insects, insulin signaling has a key role in detecting and interpreting nutrient levels for egg production. Based on publicly available transcriptomes, a new ILP named gonadulin has been reported and suggested to be expressed by the gonads (hence its name). Although the identification of gonadulin establishes its existence, its physiological relevance remains poorly understood. Rhodnius prolixus is an obligate hematophagous insect and a primary vector of Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas disease. In this study, we report for the first time the participation of gonadulin in reproductive performance of an hemipteran. By quantitative PCR and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), we find that the R. prolixus gonadulin transcript is highly expressed in the reproductive system, particularly in the calyx, a structure through which eggs move into the lumen of the lateral oviducts during ovulation. The putative gonadulin receptor, a member of the leucine-rich repeat-containing G protein-coupled receptor subfamily (LGR3), is most highly expressed in the central nervous system with lower levels in the reproductive tissue and other tissues. Interestingly, when the gonadulin signaling cascade is impaired using RNA interference (RNAi), eggs are retained primarily in the ovarioles and calyx, indicating that ovulation and oviposition are inhibited. Understanding the physiological processes involved in reproduction in R. prolixus will shed light on potential targets for effective production of biopesticides by translational research, thereby controlling insect populations and transmission of the disease.

Modulatory role of Bovine serum albumin conjugated manganese dioxide nanoparticle on microwave radiation induced alterations in reproductive parameters of rat

In recent decades, microwave (MW) radiations are being used extensively for various applications such as Wi-Fi, telecommunication, etc. due to which there have been grave concerns regarding the adverse effects of MW exposure on human health, particularly the reproductive system. MW cause damage to the reproductive system by generating free radicals, decreasing antioxidant defence, and inducing oxidative stress. Hence, the present study was aimed to counteract the harmful effect by using antioxidant enzymes mimicking nanoparticle, Bovine serum albumin (BSA) conjugated manganese dioxide nanoparticle (MNP*). Male Wistar rats were exposed to MW and treated with MNP*, and their individual, as well as combined effect on reproductive parameters was investigated. Results showed that MW exposed rats had significantly reduced testosterone levels along with alterations in the testicular morphology. The antioxidant status decreased, and lipid peroxidation increased significantly in testis. MW exposure also showed altered sperm parameters such as a significant decrease in sperm count, viability, membrane integrity and mitochondrial activity with a significant increase in morphological abnormality and lipid peroxidation. As a result, the changes induced by MW may affect male fertility. However, upon combined exposure of MNP* and MW, these alterations were reduced significantly. Hence, it may be concluded that MNP* could reduce oxidative stress mediated damages in the reproductive system of rats owing to its antioxidant activity, and thus have a potential to act as a radioprotectant.