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Irani D, Tandon D, Bansal V, Patil A, Balasinor N, Singh D. Correlation between sperm DNA fragmentation and methylation in male partners of couples with idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2024; 70:164-173. [PMID: 38913941 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2024.2363209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
With ∼50% recurrent pregnancy loss cases being termed idiopathic (iRPL), understanding of contribution of male factors to iRPL is still lacking. Higher prevalence of sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) and lower sperm 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) levels have been previously reported in male partners of iRPL couples and shed light on importance of the male gamete in maintenance of a successful pregnancy. The present study aimed to determine the serum sex steroid hormone levels, sperm DFI and 5-mC and correlation between them in male partners of fertile and iRPL couples. Further, correlation between sperm DFI and 5-mC with semen parameters and paternal age in both groups were determined. 36 male partners of fertile couples and 45 male partners of women experiencing iRPL were enrolled for this study and semen and blood samples were collected. Serum testosterone and estradiol levels were measured by ELISA; sperm DFI and global 5-mC were determined by TUNEL assay and ELISA respectively. Significantly higher serum testosterone levels were noted in the iRPL group (p = 0.028). Incidence of sperm DNA fragmentation was found to be higher in the iRPL study group but with no significance difference. No significant differences in sperm 5-mC values were noted. Upon correlation analysis within both groups, strong significant negative correlation of sperm DFI % and 5-mC % was observed in the control group (p < 0.001) but not the iRPL group (p = 0.249). Hence, we infer that with lower 5-mC levels in sperm genome, there is a higher incidence of sperm DFI in fertile men. However, this trend is not noted in men of iRPL group which could possibly be due to other underlying epigenetic alterations in genomic regions probably unsusceptible to fragmentation. On the other hand, no significant correlations of semen parameters, testosterone, estradiol and paternal age with sperm DFI and 5-mC were noted in both groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delna Irani
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, ICMR - National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Mumbai, India
| | - Deepti Tandon
- Department of Clinical Research, ICMR - National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Mumbai, India
| | - Vandana Bansal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Nowrosjee Wadia Maternity Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Anushree Patil
- Department of Clinical Research, ICMR - National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Mumbai, India
| | - Nafisa Balasinor
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, ICMR - National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Mumbai, India
| | - Dipty Singh
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, ICMR - National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health, Mumbai, India
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2
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Zhang XD, Sun J, Zheng XM, Zhang J, Tan LL, Fan LL, Luo YX, Hu YF, Xu SD, Zhou H, Zhang YF, Li H, Yuan Z, Wei T, Zhu HL, Xu DX, Xiong YW, Wang H. Plin4 exacerbates cadmium-decreased testosterone level via inducing ferroptosis in testicular Leydig cells. Redox Biol 2024; 76:103312. [PMID: 39173539 PMCID: PMC11387904 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2024] [Revised: 08/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Strong evidence indicates that environmental stressors are the risk factors for male testosterone deficiency (TD). However, the mechanisms of environmental stress-induced TD remain unclear. Based on our all-cause male reproductive cohort, we found that serum ferrous iron (Fe2⁺) levels were elevated in TD donors. Then, we explored the role and mechanism of ferroptosis in environmental stress-reduced testosterone levels through in vivo and in vitro models. Data demonstrated that ferroptosis and lipid droplet deposition were observed in environmental stress-exposed testicular Leydig cells. Pretreatment with ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1), a specific ferroptosis inhibitor, markedly mitigated environmental stress-reduced testosterone levels. Through screening of core genes involved in lipid droplets formation, it was found that environmental stress significantly increased the levels of perilipins 4 (PLIN4) protein and mRNA in testicular Leydig cells. Further experiments showed that Plin4 siRNA reversed environmental stress-induced lipid droplet deposition and ferroptosis in Leydig cells. Additionally, environmental stress increased the levels of METTL3, METTL14, and total RNA m6A in testicular Leydig cells. Mechanistically, S-adenosylhomocysteine, an inhibitor of METTL3 and METTL14 heterodimer activity, restored the abnormal levels of Plin4, Fe2⁺ and testosterone in environmental stress-treated Leydig cells. Collectively, these results suggest that Plin4 exacerbates environmental stress-decreased testosterone level via inducing ferroptosis in testicular Leydig cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu-Dong Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Jian Sun
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Xin-Mei Zheng
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Lu-Lu Tan
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Long-Long Fan
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Ye-Xin Luo
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Yi-Fan Hu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Shen-Dong Xu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Huan Zhou
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Yu-Feng Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Zhi Yuan
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Tian Wei
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hua-Long Zhu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, China
| | - De-Xiang Xu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, China
| | - Yong-Wei Xiong
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, China.
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, and Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, China.
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3
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Sarkar S, Dontham A, Revand R, Kandpal A, Dasgupta D, Ray B, Kumar M, Patil A. Whole-body exposure to filtered fraction of diesel exhaust induced localized testicular damage through attenuated functional response of glutathione-s-transferase in adult male Wistar rats. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 129:108682. [PMID: 39117124 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
The possible vulnerability of the male reproductive system to environmental pollutants such as air pollution necessitates a thorough investigation of the underlying mechanisms involved in the dysregulation of male reproductive function. The present study was designed to investigate the influence of the filtered fraction of diesel exhaust (predominantly comprising gases) on male reproductive function in Wistar rat model. Adult male rats were randomly assigned into three groups (n=8/group): Control (unexposed) group (CG-A), the Clean air group in WBE chamber (CAG-A), and Filtered diesel exhaust group in WBE chamber (FDG-A). The exposure protocol for CAG-A and FDG-A was 6 h/day x 5d/week x 6 weeks,evaluation of sperm parameters, testicular histopathology, quantification of hormones (testosterone, LH, FSH, 17β-Estradiol, and prolactin), and GST levels were performed. Results showed that WBE to FDE leads to a significant decline in sperm concentration (p=0.008, CG-A vs FDG-A; p=0.014, CAG-A vs FDG-A), motility (p=0.008, CG-A vs FDG-A; p=0.029, CAG-A vs FDG-A), serum testosterone (p=0.024, CG-A vs FDG-A; p=0.007, CAG-A vs FDG-A), testicular testosterone (p=0.008, CG-A vs FDG-A; p=0.028, CAG-A vs FDG-A), 17β-Estradiol (p=0.007, CG-A vs FDG-A), and GST levels (p=0.0002, CG-A vs FDG-A; p=0.0019, CAG-A vs FDG-A). These findings demonstrate the disruption of testosterone-estradiol balance in the intratesticular milieu without significant alterations in other principal pituitary hormones in adult rats exposed to FDE. The predominant presence of gaseous components in FDE can cause testicular damage due to oxidative imbalance. This underscores the causality of FDE exposure and impaired male reproductive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swarnabha Sarkar
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Aditya Dontham
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Ravindran Revand
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Abhishek Kandpal
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi, India
| | - Debabrata Dasgupta
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi, India
| | - Bahni Ray
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi, India
| | - Mayank Kumar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi, India
| | - Asmita Patil
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
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4
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Zheng XM, Zhang XD, Tan LL, Zhang J, Wang TT, Ling Q, Wang H, Ouyang KW, Wang KW, Chang W, Li H, Zhu HL, Xiong YW, Wang H. Sirt1 m6A modification-evoked Leydig cell senescence promotes Cd-induced testosterone decline. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 284:116884. [PMID: 39153281 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 07/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Diminished testosterone levels have been documented as a key factor in numerous male health disorders. Both human and animal studies have consistently demonstrated that cadmium (Cd), a pervasive environmental heavy metal, results in decreased testosterone levels. However, the exact mechanism through which Cd interferes with testosterone synthesis remains incompletely elucidated. This research sought to examine the impact of cellular senescence on Cd-suppressed testosterone synthesis. We also investigated the related m6A modification mechanism. The results demonstrated that Cd (100 mg/L) led to a decrease in testosterone levels, along with downregulated expression of testosterone synthase in C57BL/6 N male mice. Furthermore, Cd significantly increased β-galactosidase staining intensity, senescence-related proteins, and senescence-related secretory phenotypes in mouse testicular Leydig cells. Subsequent investigations revealed that Cd decreased the mRNA and protein levels of NAD-dependent deacetylase Sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) in Leydig cells. Mechanistically, mice treated with resveratrol (50 mg/kg), a specific SIRT1 activator, mitigated Leydig cell senescence and reversed Cd-reduced testosterone levels in mouse testes. These effects were also restored by SIRT1 overexpression in Leydig cells. Additionally, we found that Cd increased the level of methyltransferase enzyme METTL3 and Sirt1 m6A modification in Leydig cells. Mettl3 siRNA effectively restored Cd-enhanced Sirt1 m6A level and reversed Cd-downregulated Sirt1 mRNA expression in Leydig cells. Overall, our findings suggest that Cd exposure inhibits testosterone synthesis via Sirt1 m6A modification-mediated senescence in mouse testes. These results offer an experimental basis for investigating the causes and potential treatments of hypotestosteronemia induced by environmental factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Mei Zheng
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, China
| | - Xu-Dong Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Lu-Lu Tan
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Tian-Tian Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Qing Ling
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Kong-Wen Ouyang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Kai-Wen Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Wei Chang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hua-Long Zhu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Yong-Wei Xiong
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China.
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, China.
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Sahoo P, Sarkar D, Sharma S, Verma A, Naik SK, Prashar V, Parkash J, Singh SK. Knockdown of type 2 orexin receptor in adult mouse testis potentiates testosterone production and germ cell proliferation. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2024; 592:112312. [PMID: 38866320 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2024.112312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 06/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Orexins (OXs) are neuropeptides which regulate various physiological processes. OXs exist in two different forms, mainly orexin A (OXA) and orexin B (OXB) and their effects are mediated via OX1R and OX2R. Presence of OXB and OX2R in mouse testis is also reported. However, the role of OXB/OX2R in the male gonad remains unexplored. Herein we investigated the role of OXB/OX2R system in testicular physiology under in vivo and ex vivo conditions. Adult mice were given a single dose of bilateral intratesticular injection of siRNA targeting OX2R and were sacrificed 96 h post-injection. OX2R-knockdown potentiated serum and intratesticular testosterone levels with up-regulation in the expressions of major steroidogenic proteins. Germ cell proliferation also increased in siRNA-treated mice. Results of the ex vivo experiment also supported the findings of the in vivo study. In conclusion, OX2R may regulate testosterone production and thereby control the fine-tuning between steroidogenesis and germ cell dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratikshya Sahoo
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO-Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Debarshi Sarkar
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO-Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, India.
| | - Shubhangi Sharma
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO-Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Arpit Verma
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO-Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Suraj Kumar Naik
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO-Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Vikash Prashar
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO-Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Jyoti Parkash
- Department of Zoology, School of Basic Sciences, Central University of Punjab, VPO-Ghudda, Bathinda, 151401, India
| | - Shio Kumar Singh
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221005, India
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Rotimi DE, Acho MA, Falana BM, Olaolu TD, Mgbojikwe I, Ojo OA, Adeyemi OS. Oxidative Stress-induced Hormonal Disruption in Male Reproduction. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:2943-2956. [PMID: 39090335 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01662-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Research into the impacts of oxidative stress (OS), and hormonal balance on reproductive potential has increased over the last 40 years possibly due to rising male infertility. Decreased antioxidant levels and increased OS in tissues result from hormonal imbalance, which in turn leads to male infertility. Increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in seminal plasma has been linked to many lifestyle factors such as alcohol and tobacco use, toxicant exposure, obesity, varicocele, stress, and aging. This article provides an overview of the crosslink between OS and gonadal hormone disruption, as well as a potential mode of action in male infertility. Disrupting the equilibrium between ROS generation and the antioxidant defense mechanism in the male reproductive system may affect key hormonal regulators of male reproductive activities. Unchecked ROS production may cause direct injury on reproductive tissues or could disrupt normal regulatory mechanisms of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and its interaction with other endocrine axes, both of which have negative effects on male reproductive health and can lead to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damilare Emmanuel Rotimi
- SDG 03 Group-Good Health & Well-Being, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, 251101, Kwara State, Nigeria.
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran-251101, Nigeria.
| | - Marvellous A Acho
- SDG 03 Group-Good Health & Well-Being, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, 251101, Kwara State, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran-251101, Nigeria
| | - Babatunde Michael Falana
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agricultural Sciences, Landmark University, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran-251101, Nigeria
| | - Tomilola Debby Olaolu
- SDG 03 Group-Good Health & Well-Being, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, 251101, Kwara State, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, Landmark University, PMB 1001, Omu-Aran-251101, Nigeria
| | - Ifunaya Mgbojikwe
- Department of Biochemistry, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Oluwafemi Adeleke Ojo
- SDG 03 Group-Good Health & Well-Being, Bowen University, Iwo, 223101, Osun State, Nigeria.
- Biochemistry Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 223101, Osun State, Nigeria.
| | - Oluyomi Stephen Adeyemi
- SDG 03 Group-Good Health & Well-Being, Bowen University, Iwo, 223101, Osun State, Nigeria
- Biochemistry Programme, Bowen University, Iwo, 223101, Osun State, Nigeria
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7
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Tripathi S, Maurya S, Singh A. Adropin promotes testicular functions by modulating redox homeostasis in adult mouse. Endocrine 2024; 86:428-440. [PMID: 38878191 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-024-03921-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 10/02/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Adropin is an emerging metabolic hormone that has a role in regulating energy homeostasis. The present study aimed to explore the impact of adropin on redox homeostasis and its possible role in testicular functions in adult mouse testis. METHODS Western blot, flow-cytometry, and TUNEL assay were performed to explore the impact of intra-testicular treatment of adropin (0.5 μg/testis) on testicular functions of adult mice. Hormonal assay was done by ELISA. Further, antioxidant enzyme activities were measured. RESULTS Adropin treatment significantly increased the sperm count and testicular testosterone by increasing the expression of GPR19 and steroidogenic proteins. Also, adropin treatment reduced the oxidative/nitrosative stress by facilitating the translocation of NRF2 and inhibiting NF-κB into the nucleus of germ cells. Enhanced nuclear translocation of NRF2 leads to elevated biosynthesis of antioxidant enzymes, evident by increased HO-1, SOD, and catalase activity that ultimately resulted into declined LPO levels in adropin-treated mice testes. Furthermore, adropin decreased nuclear translocation of NF-κB in germ cells, that resulted into decreased NO production leading to decreased nitrosative stress. Adropin/GPR19 signaling significantly increased its differentiation, proliferation, and survival of germ cells by elevating the expression of PCNA and declining caspase 3, cleaved caspase 3 expression, Bax/Bcl2 ratio, and TUNEL-positive cells. FACS analysis revealed that adropin treatment enhances overall turnover of testicular cells leading to rise in production of advanced germ cells, notably spermatids. CONCLUSION The present study indicated that adropin improves testicular steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis via modulating redox potential and could be a promising target for treating testicular dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashank Tripathi
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Shweta Maurya
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Ajit Singh
- Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India.
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8
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Tian M, Cao H, Gao H, Zhu L, Wu Y, Li G. Rotenone-induced cell apoptosis via endoplasmic reticulum stress and PERK-eIF2α-CHOP signalling pathways in TM3 cells. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 284:116972. [PMID: 39232300 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/06/2024]
Abstract
Rotenone (ROT), a widely used natural pesticide, has an uncertain effect on reproductive toxicity. In this study, we used 20 mice distributed randomly into four groups, with each group receiving ROT doses of 0, 2, 4, and 8 mg/kg/day for 28 days. The results demonstrated that ROT induced significant testicular damage, including impaired spermatogenesis, inhibition of testosterone synthesis, and apoptosis of Leydig cells. Additionally, ROT disrupted the normal ultrastructure of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in testicular tissue, leading to ER stress in Leydig cells. To further explore whether ROT-induced apoptosis in Leydig cells is related to ER stress, the mouse Leydig cell line (TM3 cells) was treated with ROT at 0, 250, 500, and 1000 nM. ROT inhibited TM3 cell viability, induced cytotoxicity, and reduced testosterone content in the culture supernatants. Furthermore, ROT treatment triggered apoptosis in TM3 cells by activating ER stress and the PERK-eIF2α-CHOP signalling pathway. Pre-treatment of TM3 cells exposed to ROT with the ER stress inhibitor 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA) alleviated these effects, decreasing apoptosis and preserving testosterone levels. Further intervention with the PERK inhibitor GSK2606414 reduced ROT-induced apoptosis and testosterone reduction by inhibiting PERK activity. In summary, ROT-induced male reproductive toxicity is specifically driven by apoptosis, with the PERK-eIF2α-CHOP signalling pathway activated by ER stress playing a crucial role in the apoptosis of Leydig cells triggered by ROT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mi Tian
- School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Hongting Cao
- School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Haoxuan Gao
- School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Lingqin Zhu
- School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China
| | - Yang Wu
- Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Ningxia Women and Children's Hospital, Peking University First Hospital, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China.
| | - Guanghua Li
- School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China; School of Basic Medicine, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia 750004, China.
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9
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Zhou H, Yin Z, Ni B, Lin J, Luo S, Xie W. Whole exome sequencing analysis of 167 men with primary infertility. BMC Med Genomics 2024; 17:230. [PMID: 39267058 PMCID: PMC11391607 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-024-02005-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenic failure is one of the leading causes of male infertility and its genetic etiology has not yet been fully understood. METHODS The study screened a cohort of patients (n = 167) with primary male infertility in contrast to 210 normally fertile men using whole exome sequencing (WES). The expression analysis of the candidate genes based on public single cell sequencing data was performed using the R language Seurat package. RESULTS No pathogenic copy number variations (CNVs) related to male infertility were identified using the the GATK-gCNV tool. Accordingly, variants of 17 known causative (five X-linked and twelve autosomal) genes, including ACTRT1, ADAD2, AR, BCORL1, CFAP47, CFAP54, DNAH17, DNAH6, DNAH7, DNAH8, DNAH9, FSIP2, MSH4, SLC9C1, TDRD9, TTC21A, and WNK3, were identified in 23 patients. Variants of 12 candidate (seven X-linked and five autosomal) genes were identified, among which CHTF18, DDB1, DNAH12, FANCB, GALNT3, OPHN1, SCML2, UPF3A, and ZMYM3 had altered fertility and semen characteristics in previously described knockout mouse models, whereas MAGEC1,RBMXL3, and ZNF185 were recurrently detected in patients with male factor infertility. The human testis single cell-sequencing database reveals that CHTF18, DDB1 and MAGEC1 are preferentially expressed in spermatogonial stem cells. DNAH12 and GALNT3 are found primarily in spermatocytes and early spermatids. UPF3A is present at a high level throughout spermatogenesis except in elongating spermatids. The testicular expression profiles of these candidate genes underlie their potential roles in spermatogenesis and the pathogenesis of male infertility. CONCLUSION WES is an effective tool in the genetic diagnosis of primary male infertility. Our findings provide useful information on precise treatment, genetic counseling, and birth defect prevention for male factor infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Zhou
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Research and Prevention, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Zhaochu Yin
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Research and Prevention, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Bin Ni
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Research and Prevention, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Jiwu Lin
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Research and Prevention, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China
| | - Shuwei Luo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
- Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, No. 53 Xiangchun Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
| | - Wanqin Xie
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Birth Defects for Research and Prevention, Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
- Hunan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, No. 53 Xiangchun Road, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, China.
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Zhou Y, Wei Z, Tan J, Sun H, Jiang H, Gao Y, Zhang H, Schroyen M. Alginate oligosaccharide supplementation improves boar semen quality under heat stress. STRESS BIOLOGY 2024; 4:37. [PMID: 39251532 PMCID: PMC11383898 DOI: 10.1007/s44154-024-00177-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Heat stress is a serious problem that affects animal husbandry by reducing growth and reproductive performance of animals. Adding plant extracts to the diet is an effective way to help overcome this problem. Alginate oligosaccharide (AOS) is a natural non-toxic antioxidant with multiple biological activities. This study analyzed the potential mechanism of AOS in alleviating heat stress and improving semen quality in boars through a combination of multiple omics tools. The results indicated that AOS could significantly increase sperm motility (P < 0.001) and sperm concentration (P < 0.05). At the same time, AOS improved the antioxidant capacity of blood and semen, and increased blood testosterone (P < 0.05) level. AOS could improve the metabolites in sperm, change the composition of gut microbiota, increase the relative abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Pseudomonas (P < 0.01), Escherichia-Shigella (P < 0.05), Bifidobacterium (P < 0.01), reduce the relative abundance of harmful bacteria such as Prevotella_9 (P < 0.05), Prevotellaceae_UCG-001 (P < 0.01), and increase the content of short chain fatty acids. Proteomic results showed that AOS increased proteins related to spermatogenesis, while decreasing heat shock protein 70 (P < 0.05) and heat shock protein 90 (P < 0.01). These results were verified using immunofluorescence staining technology. There was a good correlation among sperm quality, sperm metabolome, sperm proteome, and gut microbiota. In conclusion, AOS can be used as a feed additive to increase the semen quality of boars to enhance reproductive performance under heat stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yexun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
- Precision Livestock and Nutrition Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Zeou Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfeld, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Jiajian Tan
- YangXiang Joint Stock Company, Guigang, 53700, China
| | - Haiqing Sun
- YangXiang Joint Stock Company, Guigang, 53700, China
| | - Haidi Jiang
- YangXiang Joint Stock Company, Guigang, 53700, China
| | - Yang Gao
- College of Life Science, Baicheng Normal University, Baicheng, 137000, Jilin, China.
| | - Hongfu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100193, P. R. China.
| | - Martine Schroyen
- Precision Livestock and Nutrition Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
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11
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Altinbasak F, Unal MS, Tan S, Yildirim G. The effects of testicular stromal stem cells on surgically injured testicular tissue in rats. Anat Histol Embryol 2024; 53:e13100. [PMID: 39137161 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.13100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 08/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of transplanted testicular stromal stem cells (tSSCs) on surgically damaged testis tissue. Ten-week-old male Wistar albino rats were divided into three groups: control (n = 6), damage (DG) (n = 6) and testicular stromal stem cell (TSSC) (n = 6) groups. Surgically induced damage was inflicted on the left testes of both the DG and TSSC groups, with no intervention on the right testes. In the TSSC group, damaged testes were treated with transplanted tSSCs, followed by orchiectomy after 15 days. Testes tissues were stained with haematoxylin-eosin (H&E), and recovery rates of functional structures were assessed by modified Johnsen scoring. The effects of tSSCs on testicular tissue were demonstrated by immunohistochemistry using BAX, BCL-2 and caspase 3. Serum testosterone levels were analysed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Surgical damage caused germ cell degeneration in some seminiferous tubules and a decrease in interstitial areas. With tSSC treatment, improvements in testicular architecture were identified through spermatogenesis in the seminiferous tubules and normal histological structures in the interstitial areas. Correspondingly, in the modified Johnsen score, the DG group showed a significant difference compared to the other groups (p = 0.001). High expressions of BAX, BCL-2 and caspase-3 in the DG group revealed prominent features of apoptosis. With the injection of tSSCs, these expressions significantly normalized according to H score analysis (all p = 0.004). Although serum testosterone levels in the tSSC group were higher compared to the control and DG groups, this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.119). This study suggests transplanting tSSCs could accelerate tissue healing after testicular sperm extraction (TESE) surgery for azoospermia patients, potentially paving the way for a new and important clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faruk Altinbasak
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Hitit University, Corum, Turkey
| | - Murat Serkant Unal
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Semih Tan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ordu University, Ordu, Turkey
| | - Gul Yildirim
- Department of Stem Cell, Faculty of Medicine, Pamukkale University, Denizli, Turkey
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Ansari M. Recent strategies to mitigate reproductive aging in male broiler breeders: A review. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 268:107570. [PMID: 39068813 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
The continued improvement of genetics, nutrition, and management has resulted in rapid growth, better feed efficiency, and higher meat yield with competitive prices in the broiler industry. Nowadays, however, it is well-documented that productive traits and fertility are negatively correlated, and male broiler breeders are exposed to a fertility decline after 45 wk of age. Considering a low male-to-female ratio in breeder flocks, roosters have a prominent impact on flock fertility. Consequently, strategies to maintain the fertility of male broiler breeders could guarantee the reproductive performance of commercial herds. Understanding reproductive aging demands deep insights into its molecular and physiological mechanisms. Over-weighting, Sertoli and Leydig cell dysfunctions, compromised antioxidant capacity, imbalance in sexual hormones, and epididymal lithiasis are among candidate culprits associated with reproductive aging in roosters. Nutritional and managing strategies have been successfully applied to modulate body weight, improve sperm fatty acid profile and antioxidant status, and boost spermatogenic and steroidogenic pathways. The current review characterizes the physiology and biochemistry of reproductive aging in male broiler breeders and then highlights strategies and their underlying mechanisms to mitigate this failure. In summary, applying one or more of the abovementioned strategies might result in consistent post-peak reproduction and benefit producers in the poultry industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Ansari
- Department of Animal and Poultry Physiology, Faculty of Animal Sciences, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan 49138-15739, Iran.
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13
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Anastácio BM, Monteiro PB, Capelo MF. The impact of COVID-19 on male reproductive health: a Systematic Review. JBRA Assist Reprod 2024; 28:483-488. [PMID: 38712833 PMCID: PMC11349263 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20240028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This systematic literature review aims to assess the impact of COVID-19 on male fertility. DATA SOURCES The study draws upon data extracted from PubMed, SciELO, and LILACS databases. STUDY SELECTION The review incorporates cross-sectional studies, cohort studies, and clinical trials, encompassing investigations related to the subject matter. The studies included were published between June 2020 and March 2023, and encompassed content in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. Exclusion criteria encompassed review articles, case reports, abstracts, studies involving animal models, duplicate articles, and letters to the editor. DATA COLLECTION Data extracted included the author's name and publication year, the number of patients studied, patient age, the presence of COVID-19 in semen, observed hormonal changes, and alterations in seminal quality. CONCLUSIONS While hormonal changes and a decline in seminal quality were observed in COVID-19 patients, the virus itself was not detected in semen in the analyzed articles, which contradicts certain findings in the existing literature. It is essential to note that methodologies in the studies were diverse, and, due to the novelty of this infection, it is premature to definitively ascertain its long-term effects on male fertility or whether fertility can recover after a period of convalescence. This underscores the necessity for further research, utilizing more robust methodologies such as cohort studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paula Bruno Monteiro
- Christus University Center (UNICHRISTUS), Biomedicine Department.
Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
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14
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Sitruk-Ware R, Soule L, Jarow JP, Odlind V. Regulatory challenges of new male contraceptive methods. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 39092874 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Progress in male contraception development faces the challenge of a lack of regulatory precedent and guidelines on the evidence (trial design and primary endpoint) required for marketing approval. Moreover, the development of a male contraceptive is complicated by the fact that the clinical treatment effect; prevention of pregnancy, is not measured in the patient receiving the intervention. DISCUSSION Regulatory precedent and guidelines exist for female hormonal contraceptives but their applicability to male contraceptive products likely varies based on the mode of action and the anticipated pharmacodynamic effects of the product. The unique attributes of male contraceptives, including the frequent delay between the intervention (e.g., vasectomy and hormonal methods) and ultimate contraceptive effect, sperm suppression near azoospermia, and pregnancy prevention need to be addressed. CONCLUSION This article describes the regulatory challenges faced by developers of male contraceptive products and offers proposals, paving the way for the development of both hormonal methods and non-hormonal approaches. Our article intends to suggest the directions but cannot substitute for the advice of regulatory agencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Regine Sitruk-Ware
- Center for Biomedical Research, Population Council, New York, New York, USA
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15
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Ahmed HA, Gatea FK, Hussein ZA. Azilsartan as a preventive agent against cyclophosphamide-induced testicular injury in male rats. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03339-6. [PMID: 39093466 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03339-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/26/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CP) is a popular cancer treatment; however, despite its efficacy, it is known to cause harm to the testicles. To mitigate the reproductive damage caused by CP in male rats, we examined the protective effect of azilsartan (AZ) on CP-induced testicular damage. Thirty Sprague-Dawley male rats were equally divided into three groups: normal control group: received 0.5% CMC suspension for 13 days; induction group: received a single dose of 200 mg/kg of CP on day 6 by intraperitoneal (IP) injection, azilsartan group: received azilsartan (4 mg/kg) orally for 5 days followed by a single dose of 200 mg/kg of (CP) on day 6 by IP injection, then azilsartan administered again for 7 days. Animals were sacrificed on day 14, and sperm characteristics, testosterone levels, and testicular histopathology were evaluated. Induction with CP caused a significant reduction in median value compared to normal control in sperm count (12.0 vs. 22.0 × 106/mm3), sperm motility (30 vs. 90%), abnormal sperm (30.32 vs. 14.43%), dead sperm count (32.43 vs. 10.49 × 106/mm3), DNA fragmentation (21.57 vs. 5.49%); meanwhile, azilsartan prevent these effects on median sperm count (17.0 × 106/mm3), sperm motility (70.0%), abnormal sperm (23.19%), dead sperm count (26.17 × 106/mm3), DNA fragmentation (13.81%), and improved plasmatic testosterone levels compared to the CP group and prevented histopathological alterations of the testes. Azilsartan's mitigation of CP's effects suggests it can prevent male rats' reproductive damage caused by CP. One possible explanation for AZ's protective effects is that it inhibits lipid peroxidation and has antioxidant properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haneen Alaa Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq.
| | - Fouad Kadhim Gatea
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Zeena Ayad Hussein
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, Al-Nahrain University, Baghdad, Iraq
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16
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Liu Y, Li X, Xiong Y. Chronic Polystyrene Microplastic Exposure Reduces Testosterone Levels in Mice through Mitochondrial Oxidative Stress and BAX/BCL2-Mediated Apoptosis. TOXICS 2024; 12:561. [PMID: 39195663 PMCID: PMC11359750 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12080561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as a major environmental issue. They have been found to cause significant reproductive toxicity and lower testosterone levels in adult males, though the exact mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, C57bl/6 mice were orally exposed to saline or varying doses (0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/day) of 5 μm polystyrene MPs (PS-MPs) for 4 weeks, and TM3 mouse Leydig cells were treated with different concentrations of PS-MPs. Our results found that exposure to PS-MPs significantly reduced testosterone levels and impaired the synthesis function of testicular steroids. In vitro, PS-MPs reduced steroid synthesis in Leydig cells. Treatment with PS-MPs significantly increased the apoptosis rate and BAX/BCL2 ratio in Leydig cells. Additionally, GSH-px and SOD activities decreased, while MDA levels increased, along with a rise in mitochondrial ROS. In conclusion, chronic PS-MP exposure reduced testosterone levels in mice through mitochondrial oxidative stress and BAX/BCL2-mediated apoptosis. This study offers new insights into the health risks posed by MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medicine College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Xiaomin Li
- Department of Pharmacology, Taikang Medical School (School of Basic Medical Sciences), Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Ying Xiong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
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17
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Zhang F, Tang C, Zhu Y, Wang Q, Huang X, Yang C, He C, Zuo Z. Long-term exposure to aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist neburon induces reproductive toxicity in male zebrafish (Danio rerio). J Environ Sci (China) 2024; 142:193-203. [PMID: 38527884 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2023.06.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Neburon is a phenylurea herbicide that is widely used worldwide, but its toxicity is poorly studied. In our previous study, we found that neburon has strong aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) agonist activity, but whether it causes reproductive toxicity is not clear. In the present study, zebrafish were conducted as a model organism to evaluate whether environmental concentrations of neburon (0.1, 1 and 10 µg/L) induce reproductive disorder in males. After exposure to neburon for 150 days from embryo to adult, that the average spawning egg number in high concentration group was 106.40, which was significantly lower than 193.00 in control group. This result was mainly due to the abnormal male reproductive behavior caused by abnormal transcription of genes associated with reproductive behavior in the brain, such as secretogranin-2a. The proportions of spermatozoa in the medium and high concentration groups were 82.40% and 83.84%, respectively, which were significantly lower than 89.45% in control group. This result was mainly caused by hormonal disturbances and an increased proportion of apoptotic cells. The hormonal disruption was due to the significant changes in the transcription levels of key genes in the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis following neburon treatment. Neburon treatment also significantly activated the AhR signaling pathway, causing oxidative stress damage and eventually leading to a significant increase in apoptosis in the exposed group. Together, these data filled the currently more vacant profile of neburon toxicity and might provide information to assess the ecotoxicity of neburon on male reproduction at environmentally relevant concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fucong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Chen Tang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yue Zhu
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Qian Wang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Chunyan Yang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Chengyong He
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Zhenghong Zuo
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China.
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18
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Liu CY, Chen CC, Chiang LH, Yang BH, Chang TC, Tsao CW. Hirsutella sinensis intensifies testicular function and spermatogenesis in male mice with high-fat diet-induced obesity. J Chin Med Assoc 2024; 87:765-773. [PMID: 38946025 DOI: 10.1097/jcma.0000000000001128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hirsutella sinensis (HS) is a mycelium isolated from the fruiting body of the medicinal mushroom Cordyceps sinensis . This study explored whether HS treatment affects reproductive dysfunction in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced mouse model and regulates various mechanisms, focusing on oxidative stress, apoptosis, inflammation, and autophagy. METHODS Twenty-four C57BL/6J (B6) mice were randomly divided into a standard chow diet (NCD)- or HFD-fed group for 24 weeks. During the final 8 weeks, half of the HFD-fed mice were orally administered HS (HFD + HS). Biochemical markers, including glucose, insulin, triglycerides, and total cholesterol, were assessed, and hormones, including testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH), were analyzed. Liver and testicular histology, as well as sperm quality markers such as sperm motility, sperm count, and percentage of sperm with normal morphology, were observed. The activities of the testicular antioxidants superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and the products of lipid peroxidation, such as malondialdehyde (MDA), were measured. The protein expression levels of apoptosis-, autophagy- and inflammation-related markers were measured. RESULTS The HFD-fed mice had abnormal sex hormone levels, poor sperm quality, and a destroyed testicular structure, with increased oxidative stress and apoptosis in the testis. HS supplementation in HFD-fed mice attenuated testicular apoptosis by suppressing the Bax/Bcl-xl ratio and cleaved caspase 3 protein expression. The HS-treated mice exhibited improved reproductive function, possibly due to reduced oxidative stress and apoptosis, suggesting that HS has a protective effect against HFD-induced testicular damage. CONCLUSION Male mice supplemented with HS exhibited attenuated poor semen quality and reduced testosterone levels brought about by HFD-induced obesity by reducing oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chin-Yu Liu
- Department of Nutritional Science, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chin-Chu Chen
- Biotech Research Institute, Grape King Bio Ltd., Taoyuan, Taiwan, ROC
- Institute of Food Science and Technology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Nutraceutical Biotechnology, Shih Chien University, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
- Department of Bioscience Technology, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Lynn-Huey Chiang
- Biotech Research Institute, Grape King Bio Ltd., Taoyuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Bi-Hua Yang
- Biotech Research Institute, Grape King Bio Ltd., Taoyuan, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Ting-Chia Chang
- Department of Nutritional Science, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan, ROC
| | - Chih-Wei Tsao
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC
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19
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Falvo S, Grillo G, Latino D, Chieffi Baccari G, Di Fiore MM, Venditti M, Petito G, Santillo A. Potential role of mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum in the response elicited by D-aspartate in TM4 Sertoli cells. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1438231. [PMID: 39105170 PMCID: PMC11298366 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1438231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
D-Aspartic Acid (D-Asp) affects spermatogenesis by enhancing the biosynthesis of the sex steroid hormones acting either through the hypothalamus-pituitary-testis axis or directly on Leydig cells. Recently, in vitro studies have also demonstrated the direct effects of D-Asp on the proliferation and/or activity of germ cells. However, although D-Asp is present in Sertoli cells (SC), the specific role of the amino acid in these cells remains unknown. This study investigated the effects of D-Asp on the proliferation and activity of TM4 SC, focusing on the mitochondrial compartment and its association with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). We found that D-Asp enhanced the proliferation and activity of TM4 cells as evidenced by the activation of ERK/Akt/PCNA pathway and the increase in the protein levels of the androgen receptor. Furthermore, D-Asp reduced both the oxidative stress and apoptotic process. An increase in mitochondrial functionality and dynamics, as well as a reduction in ER stress, were also found in D-Asp-treated TM4 cells. It is known that mitochondria are closely associated with ER to form the Mitochondrial-Associated Endoplasmic Reticulum Membranes (MAM), the site of calcium ions and lipid transfer from ER to the mitochondria, and vice versa. The data demonstrated that D-Asp induced stabilization of MAM in TM4 cells. In conclusion, this study is the first to demonstrate a direct effect of D-Asp on SC activity and to clarify the cellular/molecular mechanism underlying these effects, suggesting that D-Asp could stimulate spermatogenesis by improving the efficiency of SC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Falvo
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Giulia Grillo
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Debora Latino
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Massimo Venditti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Petito
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Department of Environmental Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
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Wang C, Meriggiola C, Behre HM, Page ST. Hormonal male contraception. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 39016284 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 06/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Male contraception with exogenously administered hormones suppresses both luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone leading to low intratesticular testosterone concentration. This results in reversible suppression of spermatogenesis and marked decrease in sperm output in the ejaculate and preventing pregnancy in the female partner. PRIOR STUDIES Studies of testosterone administered alone or in combination of another gonadotropin suppressive agent such as a progestin or gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) analog showed decisively that the exogenous hormone administrations are effective in suppressing sperm output with few adverse events that are not anticipated. In contraceptive efficacy studies, testosterone alone or combined with a progestin are as effective in preventing pregnancies as female contraceptive methods. CONCLUSION Hormone combinations for male contraception are in late-phase clinical trials and hold the promise of being the new, reversible contraception method for men in over half a century. Lessons learned from the male hormonal contraceptive development pave the way for new targeted approached to regulate male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Wang
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, and Clinical and Translational Science Institute, The Lundquist Institute, Torrance, California, USA
| | - Cristina Meriggiola
- Division of Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Hermann M Behre
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Medicine Halle, Halle, Germany
| | - Stephanie T Page
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, UW Medicine Diabetes Institute, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
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21
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Parvin A, Erabi G, Alemi A, Rezanezhad A, Maleksabet A, Sadeghpour S, Taheri-Anganeh M, Ghasemnejad-Berenji H. Seminal plasma proteomics as putative biomarkers for male infertility diagnosis. Clin Chim Acta 2024; 561:119757. [PMID: 38857670 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2024.119757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Male infertility represents a significant global public health issue that is currently emerging as a prominent research focus. Presently, laboratories adhere to the guidelines outlined by the World Health Organization (WHO) manuals for conducting routine semen analysis to diagnose male infertility. However, the accuracy of results in predicting sperm quality and fertility is limited because some individuals with a normal semen analysis report, an unremarkable medical history, and a physical examination may still experience infertility. As a result, the importance of employing more advanced techniques to investigate sperm function and male fertility in the treatment of male infertility and/or subfertility becomes apparent. The standard test for evaluating human semen has been improved by more complex tests that look at things like reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), sperm DNA fragmentation levels, DNA compaction, apoptosis, genetic testing, and the presence and location of anti-sperm antibodies. Recent discoveries of novel biomarkers have significantly enriched our understanding of male fertility. Moreover, the notable biological diversity among samples obtained from the same individual complicates the efficacy of routine semen analysis. Therefore, unraveling the molecular mechanisms involved in fertilization is pivotal in expanding our understanding of factors contributing to male infertility. By understanding how these proteins work and what role they play in sperm activity, we can look at the expression profile in men who can't have children to find diagnostic biomarkers. This review examines the various sperm and seminal plasma proteins associated with infertility, as well as proteins that are either deficient or exhibit aberrant expression, potentially contributing to male infertility causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Parvin
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Gisou Erabi
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Alireza Alemi
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Arman Rezanezhad
- Student Research Committee, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Amir Maleksabet
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Sonia Sadeghpour
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mortaza Taheri-Anganeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Hojat Ghasemnejad-Berenji
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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22
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Rohayem J, Alexander EC, Heger S, Nordenström A, Howard SR. Mini-Puberty, Physiological and Disordered: Consequences, and Potential for Therapeutic Replacement. Endocr Rev 2024; 45:460-492. [PMID: 38436980 PMCID: PMC11244267 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnae003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
There are 3 physiological waves of central hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis activity over the lifetime. The first occurs during fetal life, the second-termed "mini-puberty"-in the first months after birth, and the third at puberty. After adolescence, the axis remains active all through adulthood. Congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by a deficiency in hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion or action. In cases of severe CHH, all 3 waves of GnRH pulsatility are absent. The absence of fetal HPG axis activation manifests in around 50% of male newborns with micropenis and/or undescended testes (cryptorchidism). In these boys, the lack of the mini-puberty phase accentuates testicular immaturity. This is characterized by a low number of Sertoli cells, which are important for future reproductive capacity. Thus, absent mini-puberty will have detrimental effects on later fertility in these males. The diagnosis of CHH is often missed in infants, and even if recognized, there is no consensus on optimal therapeutic management. Here we review physiological mini-puberty and consequences of central HPG axis disorders; provide a diagnostic approach to allow for early identification of these conditions; and review current treatment options for replacement of mini-puberty in male infants with CHH. There is evidence from small case series that replacement with gonadotropins to mimic "mini-puberty" in males could have beneficial outcomes not only regarding testis descent, but also normalization of testis and penile sizes. Moreover, such therapeutic replacement regimens in disordered mini-puberty could address both reproductive and nonreproductive implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Rohayem
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Children's Hospital of Eastern Switzerland, 9006 St. Gallen, Switzerland
- University of Muenster, 48149 Muenster, Germany
| | - Emma C Alexander
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Sabine Heger
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Children's Hospital Auf der Bult, 30173 Hannover, Germany
| | - Anna Nordenström
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sasha R Howard
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London EC1M 6BQ, UK
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal London Children's Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London E1 1FR, UK
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23
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Ashour AM. Propolis attenuates diabetes-induced testicular injury by protecting against DNA damage and suppressing cellular stress. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1416238. [PMID: 39055492 PMCID: PMC11269134 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1416238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Propolis has a wide range of biological and pharmacological actions, including antioxidant properties-particularly its phenolic and flavonoid constituents-that could potentially protect the reproductive system from oxidative damage. Method: Four groups were allocated 40 male Wistar rats each. The vehicle was given to the first group's normal control rats negative control. The second, third, and fourth groups of diabetic rats were given vehicle (diabetic control) and propolis orally at 50 and 100 mg/kg, respectively, for 8 weeks. Diabetes was induced in rats via injection of nicotinamide and streptozotocin (STZ). Fasting blood glucose (FBG) and insulin levels, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and semen analysis were assessed. In addition, assessments of serum reproductive hormones, including total testosterone (TTST), estradiol (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone luteinizing hormone (LH), and prolactin (PRL), were measured at the end of the study. Tissue total testosterone, E2, and dihydrotestosterone were also evaluated. Serum and tissue oxidative enzymes, including catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activities, were examined, and malondialdehyde content was determined. The pancreatic and testicular tissues were histopathologically examined, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) in testicular tissue were immunohistochemically analyzed. Testicular tissue was examined for DNA integrity using a comet assay. Results: Compared to the STZ-control group, propolis greatly decreased FBG levels and improved the glycemic status of diabetic rats. In comparison to the STZ-DC group, propolis increased the number of sperm cells and the percent of morphologically normal and viable sperm in male rats, improving their fertility. Propolis also restored the pancreatic islets, protected the testis from oxidative stress, and increased levels of reproductive hormones in the blood, especially testosterone. Moreover, propolis at high doses demonstrated a strong positive response for Bcl-2 and a negative expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen in spermatogenic cells. Conclusion: The data obtained strongly indicate that STZ causes severe impairments to the testis whereas propolis, acting as an antioxidant, protects against the adverse effects of STZ on the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M. Ashour
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
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24
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Qi HY, Zhao Z, Wei BH, Li ZF, Tan FQ, Yang WX. ERK/CREB and p38 MAPK/MMP14 Signaling Pathway Influences Spermatogenesis through Regulating the Expression of Junctional Proteins in Eriocheir sinensis Testis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7361. [PMID: 39000467 PMCID: PMC11242087 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The hemolymph-testis barrier (HTB) is a reproduction barrier in Crustacea, guaranteeing the safe and smooth process of spermatogenesis, which is similar to the blood-testis barrier (BTB) in mammals. The MAPK signaling pathway plays an essential role in spermatogenesis and maintenance of the BTB. However, only a few studies have focused on the influence of MAPK on crustacean reproduction. In the present study, we knocked down and inhibited MAPK in Eriocheir sinensis. Increased defects in spermatogenesis were observed, concurrently with a damaged HTB. Further research revealed that es-MMP14 functions downstream of ERK and p38 MAPK and degrades junctional proteins (Pinin and ZO-1); es-CREB functions in the ERK cascade as a transcription factor of ZO-1. In addition, when es-MMP14 and es-CREB were deleted, the defects in HTB and spermatogenesis aligned with abnormalities in the MAPK. However, JNK impacts the integrity of the HTB by changing the distribution of intercellular junctions. In summary, the MAPK signaling pathway maintains HTB integrity and spermatogenesis through es-MMP14 and es-CREB, which provides insights into the evolution of gene function during barrier evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Yu Qi
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (H.-Y.Q.)
| | - Zhan Zhao
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (H.-Y.Q.)
| | - Bang-Hong Wei
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (H.-Y.Q.)
| | - Zhen-Fang Li
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (H.-Y.Q.)
| | - Fu-Qing Tan
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China;
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; (H.-Y.Q.)
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25
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Vaishnavi Nalla S, Jayapradha P, Lalruatmawii, Nandheeswari K, Naxine P, Vigneshwaran G, Rohilla G, Dubey I, Kushwaha S. Irisin as an emerging target in the regulation of reproductive functions in health and disease. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2024; 353:114529. [PMID: 38643847 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2024.114529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Germ cells are highly conserved in the gonads, nurtured to either develop into a gamete or self-renew into a stem cell reserve. Preserving the germ cell pool and protecting the reproductive organs is essential for maintaining an individual's fertility. Several factors, including a sedentary lifestyle, pollutants, hormonal disruption, drugs, and a disease condition, have been shown to impair normal reproductive function. Irisin has recently been identified as an adipomyokine involved in modulating physiological functions based on the body's metabolic status. It is being studied for its role in various functions, including fertility. Findings show the localization of irisin in various parts of the reproductive axis, with the highest levels observed during puberty and pregnancy. This raises questions about its role and function in reproduction. Studies support irisin's role in protecting against disease-induced reproductive abnormalities and infertility. Therefore, the current review focuses on how irisin influences spermatogenesis and ovarian follicular development and plays a significant role in indirectly preserving the germ cell pool by protecting the gonads against oxidative stress and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sree Vaishnavi Nalla
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - P Jayapradha
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - Lalruatmawii
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - K Nandheeswari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - Pratik Naxine
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - G Vigneshwaran
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - Gaurav Rohilla
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - Itishree Dubey
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India
| | - Sapana Kushwaha
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Raebareli (NIPER-R), Transit Campus, Bijnor-Sisendi Road, Sarojini Nagar, Near CRPF Base Camp, Lucknow (UP) 226002, India.
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26
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Jung H, Yoon M. Transplantation of spermatogonial stem cells in stallions. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2024; 66:635-644. [PMID: 39165739 PMCID: PMC11331362 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2024.e30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells originate from gonocytes and undergo self-renewal and differentiation to generate mature spermatozoa via spermatogenesis in the seminiferous tubules of the testis in male mammals. Owing to the unique capacity of these cells, the spermatogonial stem cell transplantation technique, which enables the restoration of male fertility by transfer of germlines between donor and recipient males, has been developed. Thus, spermatogonial stem cell transplantation can be used as an important next-generation reproductive and breeding tool in livestock production. However, in large animals, this approach is associated with many technical limitations and inefficiency. Furthermore, research regrading spermatogonial stem cell transplantation in stallions is limited. Therefore, this review article describes the history and current knowledge regarding spermatogonial stem cell transplantation in animals and challenges in establishing an experimental protocol for successful spermatogonial stem cell transplantation in stallions, which have been presented under the following heads: spermatogonial stem cell isolation, recipient preparation, and spermatogonial stem cell transplantation. Additionally, we suggest that further investigation based on previous unequivocal evidence regarding donor-derived spermatogenesis in large animals must be conducted. A detailed and better understanding of the physical and physiological aspects is required to discuss the current status of this technique field and develop future directions for the establishment of spermatogonial stem cell transplantation in stallions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heejun Jung
- Research Center for Horse Industry,
Kyungpook National University, Sangju 37224, Korea
| | - Minjung Yoon
- Research Center for Horse Industry,
Kyungpook National University, Sangju 37224, Korea
- Department of Horse, Companion and Wild
Animal Science, Kyungpook National University, Sangju 37224,
Korea
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27
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Cheng K, Seita Y, Whelan EC, Yokomizo R, Hwang YS, Rotolo A, Krantz ID, Ginsberg JP, Kolon TF, Lal P, Luo X, Pierorazio PM, Linn RL, Ryeom S, Sasaki K. Defining the cellular origin of seminoma by transcriptional and epigenetic mapping to the normal human germline. Cell Rep 2024; 43:114323. [PMID: 38861385 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2024.114323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Aberrant male germline development can lead to the formation of seminoma, a testicular germ cell tumor. Seminomas are biologically similar to primordial germ cells (PGCs) and many bear an isochromosome 12p [i(12p)] with two additional copies of the short arm of chromosome 12. By mapping seminoma transcriptomes and open chromatin landscape onto a normal human male germline trajectory, we find that seminoma resembles premigratory/migratory PGCs; however, it exhibits enhanced germline and pluripotency programs and upregulation of genes involved in apoptosis, angiogenesis, and MAPK/ERK pathways. Using pluripotent stem cell-derived PGCs from Pallister-Killian syndrome patients mosaic for i(12p), we model seminoma and identify gene dosage effects that may contribute to transformation. As murine seminoma models do not exist, our analyses provide critical insights into genetic, cellular, and signaling programs driving seminoma transformation, and the in vitro platform developed herein permits evaluation of additional signals required for seminoma tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keren Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Yasunari Seita
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Eoin C Whelan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ryo Yokomizo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Young Sun Hwang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Antonia Rotolo
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Ian D Krantz
- Division of Human Genetics, The Roberts Individualized Medical Genetics Center, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Jill P Ginsberg
- Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Thomas F Kolon
- Division of Urology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3500 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Priti Lal
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Xunda Luo
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Presbyterian Medical Center, 51 North 39th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Phillip M Pierorazio
- Division of Urology, University of Pennsylvania Presbyterian Medical Center, 3737 Market St. 4th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Rebecca L Linn
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pathology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Sandra Ryeom
- Department of Surgery, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, 630 W. 168th Street, P&S 17-409, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Kotaro Sasaki
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, 3400 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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28
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Guo Q, Cheng Y, Li T, Huang J, Li J, Zhang Z, Qu Y. The Gut Microbiota Contributes to the Development of LPS-Induced Orchitis by Disrupting the Blood-Testosterone Barrier in Mice. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01613-9. [PMID: 38858330 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01613-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Orchitis is a frequent inflammatory reproductive disease that causes male infertility and a decline in sperm quality. Gut microbiota can regulate systemic and local inflammation, spermatogenesis and blood-testosterone barrier (BTB). In this study, we investigated correlation between gut microbiota and orchitis by establishing a mouse gut microbiota imbalance model induced by antibiotics (ABX) treatment and orchitis model induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) infection. Based on these two models, 16s rRNA sequencing and feces microbiota transplantation (FMT) experiments were combined to examine the function and regulatory mechanisms of the gut microbiota in host defense against orchitis. Compared with control mice, gut microbiota imbalance resulted in increasing inflammatory responses, modulating oxidative stress related enzyme activity, testosterone levels and the permeability of blood testosterone barrier, which are restored after FMT. Subsequently, we tested the relationship between the gut microbiota imbalance and testicular inflammation severity in orchitis. It was found that the ABX and LPS co-treated mice had more severe inflammatory responses, lower testosterone levels and greater permeability of the BTB than the LPS-treated mice, but these changes could be partially recovered by gut microbiota transplantation. In conclusion, these above results proved for the first time that gut microbiota is involved in the pathogenesis of orchitis, which laid a good foundation for the subsequent development of anti-orchitis drugs and probiotic targeting intestinal flora.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Guo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Ye Cheng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Tianfeng Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jiang Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jinchun Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Zecai Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Yongli Qu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China.
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, 163319, Heilongjiang, China.
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29
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Figueiredo AFA, Wnuk NT, Brener MRG, Farias TO, Campolina-Silva GH, Andrade ACSP, Queiroz-Junior CM, Menezes GB, Teixeira MM, Costa VV, Costa GMJ. Acute murine-betacoronavirus infection impairs testicular steroidogenesis and the quality of sperm production. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 163:104214. [PMID: 38508038 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Although several testicular alterations promoted by coronavirus infection have been demonstrated, the extent, causes, and players of testicular pathogenesis are not totally understood. The present study aimed to investigate the short-term effects on male fertility of intranasally administered murine hepatitis virus strain 3 (MHV-3), a member of the genus Betacoronavirus, which causes a severe systemic acute infection. This mouse model might be used as a in vivo prototype for investigating the impact of betacoronavirus on the endocrine and exocrine testicular functions with the advantage to be performed in a biosafety level 2 condition. Herein, we performed virological, histopathological, and molecular studies regarding the testicular spermatogenesis and the spermatic quality analyses in an MHV-3-infected C57BL/6 mice. The main outcomes showed that MHV-3 infects mouse testis and induces a testicular inflammatory state, impairing the steroidogenic pathway. The infection led to several alterations in the testicular parenchyma, such as: seminiferous epithelium sloughing, retention of residual bodies, germ cell apoptosis, alterations in intercellular junction proteins, and worse spermatogenic parameters. Moreover, the levels of plasmatic testosterone as well as the quality of sperm production reduced. Therefore, the present data suggest that the viral/inflammatory impairment of the steroidogenic pathway and the consequent imbalance of androgen levels is critical in testicular pathology, disturbing the SC barrier function and the germ cell differentiation. Our study is important for comprehending the effects of beta coronavirus infections on testis function in order to develop treatments that could prevent virus-mediated male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- A F A Figueiredo
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - N T Wnuk
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - M R G Brener
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - T O Farias
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - A C S P Andrade
- CHU from Quebec Research Center, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - C M Queiroz-Junior
- Center for Drug Research and Development, Research Group in Arboviral Diseases, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - G B Menezes
- Center for Gastrointestinal Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - M M Teixeira
- Center for Drug Research and Development, Immunopharmacology Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - V V Costa
- Center for Drug Research and Development, Research Group in Arboviral Diseases, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - G M J Costa
- Laboratory of Cellular Biology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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Bangalore Krishna K, Fuqua JS, Witchel SF. Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2024; 53:279-292. [PMID: 38677870 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2024.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Delayed puberty is defined as absent testicular enlargement in boys or breast development in girls at an age that is 2 to 2.5 SDS later than the mean age at which these events occur in the population (traditionally, 14 years in boys and 13 years in girls). One cause of delayed/absent puberty is hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH), which refers to inadequate hypothalamic/pituitary function leading to deficient production of sex steroids in males and females. Individuals with HH typically have normal gonads, and thus HH differs from hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, which is associated with primary gonadal insufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanthi Bangalore Krishna
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, UPMC Childrens Hospital of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA.
| | - John S Fuqua
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Indiana University School of Medicine, 705 Riley Hospital Drive, Room 5960, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Selma F Witchel
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, UPMC Childrens Hospital of Pittsburgh, 4401 Penn Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
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Baliga S, Patel S, Naqa IE, Li XA, Cohen LE, Howell RM, Hoppe BS, Constine LS, Palmer JD, Hamstra D, Olch AJ. Testicular Dysfunction in Male Childhood Cancer Survivors Treated With Radiation Therapy: A PENTEC Comprehensive Review. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2024; 119:610-624. [PMID: 37791936 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The male reproductive task force of the Pediatric Normal Tissue Effects in the Clinic (PENTEC) initiative performed a comprehensive review that included a meta-analysis of publications reporting radiation dose-volume effects for risk of impaired fertility and hormonal function after radiation therapy for pediatric malignancies. METHODS AND MATERIALS The PENTEC task force conducted a comprehensive literature search to identify published data evaluating the effect of testicular radiation dose on reproductive complications in male childhood cancer survivors. Thirty-one studies were analyzed, of which 4 had testicular dose data to generate descriptive scatter plots. Two cohorts were identified. Cohort 1 consisted of pediatric and young adult patients with cancer who received scatter radiation therapy to the testes. Cohort 2 consisted of pediatric and young adult patients with cancer who received direct testicular radiation therapy as part of their cancer therapy. Descriptive scatter plots were used to delineate the relationship between the effect of mean testicular dose on sperm count reduction, testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. RESULTS Descriptive scatter plots demonstrated a 44% to 80% risk of oligospermia when the mean testicular dose was <1 Gy, but this was recovered by >12 months in 75% to 100% of patients. At doses >1 Gy, the rate of oligospermia increased to >90% at 12 months. Testosterone levels were generally not affected when the mean testicular dose was <0.2 Gy but were abnormal in up to 25% of patients receiving between 0.2 and 12 Gy. Doses between 12 and 19 Gy may be associated with abnormal testosterone in 40% of patients, whereas doses >20 Gy to the testes were associated with a steep increase in abnormal testosterone in at least 68% of patients. FSH levels were unaffected by a mean testicular dose <0.2 Gy, whereas at doses >0.5 Gy, the risk was between 40% and 100%. LH levels were affected at doses >0.5 Gy in 33% to 75% of patients between 10 and 24 months after radiation. Although dose modeling could not be performed in cohort 2, the risk of reproductive toxicities was escalated with doses >10 Gy. CONCLUSIONS This PENTEC comprehensive review demonstrates important relationships between scatter or direct radiation dose on male reproductive endpoints including semen analysis and levels of FSH, LH, and testosterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujith Baliga
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio.
| | - Samir Patel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Issam El Naqa
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, Florida
| | - X Allen Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Laurie E Cohen
- Division of Endocrinology, Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Bronx, New York
| | - Rebecca M Howell
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Bradford S Hoppe
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Louis S Constine
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York
| | - Joshua D Palmer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Daniel Hamstra
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Arthur J Olch
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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Yang Y, Hong Y, Han J, Yang Z, Huang N, Xu B, Wang Q. D-Limonene Alleviates Oxidative Stress Injury of the Testis Induced by Arsenic in Rat. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024; 202:2776-2785. [PMID: 37773484 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03881-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
Long-term exposure to arsenic can lead to testicular damage and lower sperm quality in males, which is mediated by increased arsenic-induced oxidative stress and other damage mechanisms. D-Limonene, which is rich in oranges, lemons, oranges, grapes and other natural fruits, can relieve doxorubicin (DOX)-induced kidney injury and CCL4-induced cardiac toxicity by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammatory response. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of D-limonene motivate us to further explore whether it can reduce arsenic-induced testicular injury. To verify this scientific hypothesis, testicular pathology, testicular oxidative stress levels and sperm motility were determined after intervention with D-limonene in rats chronically exposed to arsenic. As expected, long-term arsenic exposure caused testicular tissue structure disturbances, increased levels of oxidative stress, and decreased sperm activation, all of which were significantly inhibited due to treatment with D-limonene. In conclusion, our data reveal a previously unproven beneficial effect of D-limonene, namely that D-limonene can inhibit arsenic-induced testicular injury, and also provide theoretical and experimental basis for the application of D-limonene in the treatment of arsenic-induced testicular injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanping Yang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Yan Hong
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Jing Han
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Zhe Yang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Nanmin Huang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Binwei Xu
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, Guizhou, China.
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Zhang Y, Wang M, Zhang T, Wang H, Chen Y, Zhou T, Yang R. Spermbots and Their Applications in Assisted Reproduction: Current Progress and Future Perspectives. Int J Nanomedicine 2024; 19:5095-5108. [PMID: 38836008 PMCID: PMC11149708 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s465548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Sperm quality is declining dramatically during the past decades. Male infertility has been a serious health and social problem. The sperm cell driven biohybrid nanorobot opens a new era for automated and precise assisted reproduction. Therefore, it is urgent and necessary to conduct an updated review and perspective from the viewpoints of the researchers and clinicians in the field of reproductive medicine. In the present review, we first update the current classification, design, control and applications of various spermbots. Then, by a comprehensive summary of the functional features of sperm cells, the journey of sperms to the oocyte, and sperm-related dysfunctions, we provide a systematic guidance to further improve the design of spermbots. Focusing on the translation of spermbots into clinical practice, we point out that the main challenges are biocompatibility, effectiveness, and ethical issues. Considering the special requirements of assisted reproduction, we also propose the three laws for the clinical usage of spermbots: good genetics, gentle operation and no contamination. Finally, a three-step roadmap is proposed to achieve the goal of clinical translation. We believe that spermbot-based treatments can be validated and approved for in vitro clinical usage in the near future. However, multi-center and multi-disciplinary collaborations are needed to further promote the translation of spermbots into in vivo clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Zhang
- Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Diseases, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Wuxi, 214002, People’s Republic of China
| | - Min Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214002, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214002, People’s Republic of China
| | - Honghua Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214002, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ying Chen
- Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Diseases, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Wuxi, 214002, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tao Zhou
- Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Diseases, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Wuxi, 214002, People’s Republic of China
| | - Rui Yang
- Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Diseases, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Wuxi, 214002, People’s Republic of China
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Wei M, Liu H, Wang Y, Sun M, Shang P. Mechanisms of Male Reproductive Sterility Triggered by Dysbiosis of Intestinal Microorganisms. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:694. [PMID: 38929676 PMCID: PMC11204708 DOI: 10.3390/life14060694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The intestinal microbiota, comprised of bacteria, archaea, and phages, inhabits the gastrointestinal tract of the organism. Male reproductive sterility is currently a prominent topic in medical research. Increasing research suggests that gut microbiota dysbiosis can result in various reproductive health problems. This article specifically investigates the impact of gut microbiota dysbiosis on male reproductive infertility development. Gut microbiota imbalances can disrupt the immune system and immune cell metabolism, affecting testicular growth and sperm production. This dysfunction can compromise the levels of hormones produced and secreted by the endocrine glands, affecting male reproductive health. Furthermore, imbalance of the gut microbiota can disrupt the gut-brain-reproductive axis, resulting in male reproductive infertility. This article explores how the imbalance of the gut microbiota impacts male reproductive infertility through immune regulation, endocrine regulation, and interactions of the gut-brain-reproductive axis, concluding with recommendations for prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingbang Wei
- College of Animal Science, Tibet Agriculture and Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi 860000, China; (M.W.); (H.L.); (Y.W.); (M.S.)
- The Provincial and Ministerial Co-Founded Collaborative Innovation Center for R & D in Tibet Characteristic Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Resources, Linzhi 860000, China
- Key Laboratory for the Genetic Improvement and Reproduction Technology of the Tibetan Swine, Linzhi 860000, China
| | - Huaizhi Liu
- College of Animal Science, Tibet Agriculture and Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi 860000, China; (M.W.); (H.L.); (Y.W.); (M.S.)
- The Provincial and Ministerial Co-Founded Collaborative Innovation Center for R & D in Tibet Characteristic Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Resources, Linzhi 860000, China
- Key Laboratory for the Genetic Improvement and Reproduction Technology of the Tibetan Swine, Linzhi 860000, China
| | - Yu Wang
- College of Animal Science, Tibet Agriculture and Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi 860000, China; (M.W.); (H.L.); (Y.W.); (M.S.)
- The Provincial and Ministerial Co-Founded Collaborative Innovation Center for R & D in Tibet Characteristic Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Resources, Linzhi 860000, China
- Key Laboratory for the Genetic Improvement and Reproduction Technology of the Tibetan Swine, Linzhi 860000, China
| | - Mingyang Sun
- College of Animal Science, Tibet Agriculture and Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi 860000, China; (M.W.); (H.L.); (Y.W.); (M.S.)
- The Provincial and Ministerial Co-Founded Collaborative Innovation Center for R & D in Tibet Characteristic Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Resources, Linzhi 860000, China
- Key Laboratory for the Genetic Improvement and Reproduction Technology of the Tibetan Swine, Linzhi 860000, China
| | - Peng Shang
- College of Animal Science, Tibet Agriculture and Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi 860000, China; (M.W.); (H.L.); (Y.W.); (M.S.)
- The Provincial and Ministerial Co-Founded Collaborative Innovation Center for R & D in Tibet Characteristic Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Resources, Linzhi 860000, China
- Key Laboratory for the Genetic Improvement and Reproduction Technology of the Tibetan Swine, Linzhi 860000, China
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Guo Q, Li TF, Huang J, Li JC, Zhang ZC, Qu YL. The protective role of phlorizin against lipopolysaccharide-induced acute orchitis in mice associated with changes in gut microbiota composition. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1340591. [PMID: 38846786 PMCID: PMC11156221 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1340591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Orchitis is a common reproductive disease of male animals, which has serious implications to human and animal reproduction. Additionally, phlorizin (PHN), a common polyphenol in apples and strawberries, has a variety of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and anti-aging activities. We aimed to determine the protective effects and potential mechanisms of PHN in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute orchitis in mice. Method After 21 days of PHN pretreatment, mice were injected with LPS to induce testicular inflammation, and then the changes of testicular tissue structure, expression of inflammatory factors, testosterone level, expression of testosterone-related genes, adhesion gene and protein expression were detected, and the structural changes in the intestinal flora after PHN treatment were further detected by 16SRNA. Result Our results demonstrated that PHN treatment reduced LPS-induced testicular injury and body and testicular weight losses. The mRNA expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines-related genes and antioxidant enzyme activity were also decreased and elevated, respectively, by PHN administration; however, PHN treatment also reduced the LPS-induced decrease in testosterone levels in the testes. Additionally, further studies found that PHN increased the expression of marker proteins zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and occludin associated with the blood testosterone barrier compared with that in LPS treatment groups. To further examine the potential mechanisms of the protective effect of PHN on LPS-induced testicular injury, we compared the differences of gut microbiota compositions between the 100 mg/kg PHN treatment group and the control group using 16SRNA. Metagenomic analyses indicated that the abundances of Bacteroidetes, Muribaculaceae, Lactobacillaceae, uncultured bacterium f Muribaculaceae, and Lactobacillus in the PHN treatment group improved, while potential microbes that can induce intestinal diseases, including Verrucomicrobia, Epsilonbacteraeota, Akkermansiaceae, and Akkermansia decreased in the PHN treatment group. Conclusion Our results indicate that PHN pretreatment might alleviate orchitis by altering the composition of gut microflora, which may provide a reference for reducing the occurrence of acute orchitis in male animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Guo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Tian-Feng Li
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jiang Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Jing-Chun Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Ze-Cai Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yong-Li Qu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, China
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Utilization of Feed Resources and Nutrition Manipulation in Cold Region, Heilongjiang Bayi Agricultural University, Daqing, Heilongjiang, China
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Wang TT, Zhu HL, Ouyang KW, Wang H, Luo YX, Zheng XM, Ling Q, Wang KW, Zhang J, Chang W, Lu Q, Zhang YF, Yuan Z, Li H, Xiong YW, Wei T, Wang H. Environmental cadmium inhibits testicular testosterone synthesis via Parkin-dependent MFN1 degradation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 470:134142. [PMID: 38555669 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Low testosterone (T) levels are associated with many common diseases, such as obesity, male infertility, depression, and cardiovascular disease. It is well known that environmental cadmium (Cd) exposure can induce T decline, but the exact mechanism remains unclear. We established a murine model in which Cd exposure induced testicular T decline. Based on the model, we found Cd caused mitochondrial fusion disorder and Parkin mitochondrial translocation in mouse testes. MFN1 overexpression confirmed that MFN1-dependent mitochondrial fusion disorder mediated the Cd-induced T synthesis suppression in Leydig cells. Further data confirmed Cd induced the decrease of MFN1 protein by increasing ubiquitin degradation. Testicular specific Parkin knockdown confirmed Cd induced the ubiquitin-dependent degradation of MFN1 protein through promoting Parkin mitochondrial translocation in mouse testes. Expectedly, testicular specific Parkin knockdown also mitigated testicular T decline. Mito-TEMPO, a targeted inhibitor for mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mtROS), alleviated Cd-caused Parkin mitochondrial translocation and mitochondrial fusion disorder. As above, Parkin mitochondrial translocation induced mitochondrial fusion disorder and the following T synthesis repression in Cd-exposed Leydig cells. Collectively, our study elucidates a novel mechanism through which Cd induces T decline and provides a new treatment strategy for patients with androgen disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Tian Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hua-Long Zhu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Kong-Wen Ouyang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Department of Respiratory Medicine, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, Hefei, Anhui 230000, China
| | - Ye-Xin Luo
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Xin-Mei Zheng
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Qing Ling
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Kai-Wen Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Wei Chang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Qi Lu
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Yu-Feng Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Zhi Yuan
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Hao Li
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China
| | - Yong-Wei Xiong
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Tian Wei
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China.
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Yao K, Kang Q, Liu W, Chen D, Wang L, Li S. Chronic exposure to tire rubber-derived contaminant 6PPD-quinone impairs sperm quality and induces the damage of reproductive capacity in male mice. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 470:134165. [PMID: 38574660 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
It has been reported that N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine-quinone (6PPD-Q), a derivative of the tire antioxidant, N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine (6PPD), exhibits acute toxicity towards organisms. However, the possible reproductive toxicity of 6PPD-Q in mammals has rarely been reported. In this study, the effects of 6PPD-Q on the reproductive toxicity of C57Bl/6 male mice were assessed after exposure to 6PPD-Q for 40 days at 4 mg/kg body weight (bw). Exposure to 6PPD-Q not only led to a decrease in testosterone levels but also adversely affected semen quality and in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes, thereby indicating impaired male fertility resulting from 6PPD-Q exposure. Additionally, transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses revealed that 6PPD-Q elicited differential expression of genes and metabolites primarily enriched in spermatogenesis, apoptosis, arginine biosynthesis, and sphingolipid metabolism in the testes of mice. In conclusion, our study reveals the toxicity of 6PPD-Q on the reproductive capacity concerning baseline endocrine disorders, sperm quality, germ cell apoptosis, and the sphingolipid signaling pathway in mice. These findings contribute to an enhanced understanding of the health hazards posed by 6PPD-Q to mammals, thereby facilitating the development of more robust safety regulations governing the utilization and disposal of rubber products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kezhen Yao
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Quanmin Kang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenbo Liu
- Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-treatment of Waste Biomass of Zhejiang Province, School of Environmental and Natural Resources, Zhejiang University of Science & Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - Danna Chen
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lefeng Wang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shun Li
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China; Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Ali N, Lunenfeld E, Huleihel M. Effect of IL-1β on the Development of Spermatogenesis In Vitro in Normal and Busulfan-Treated Immature Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4926. [PMID: 38732137 PMCID: PMC11084478 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Gonadotoxic agents could impair spermatogenesis and may lead to male infertility. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of IL-1β on the development of spermatogenesis from cells isolated from seminiferous tubules (STs) of normal and busulfan-treated immature mice in vitro. Cells were cultured in a 3D in vitro culture system for 5 weeks. We examined the development of cells from the different stages of spermatogenesis by immunofluorescence staining or qPCR analyses. Factors of Sertoli and Leydig cells were examined by qPCR analysis. We showed that busulfan (BU) treatment significantly reduced the expression of testicular IL-1β in the treated mice compared to the control group (CT). Cultures of cells from normal and busulfan-treated immature mice induced the development of pre-meiotic (Vasa), meiotic (Boule), and post-meiotic (acrosin) cells. However, the percentage of developed Boule and acrosin cells was significantly lower in cultures of busulfan-treated mice compared to normal mice. Adding IL-1β to both cultures significantly increased the percentages of Vasa, Boule, and acrosin cells compared to their controls. However, the percentage of Boule and acrosin cells was significantly lower from cultures of busulfan-treated mice that were treated with IL-1β compared to cultures treated with IL-1β from normal mice. Furthermore, addition of IL-1β to cultures from normal mice significantly increased only the expression of androgen receptor and transferrin but no other factors of Sertoli cells compared to their CT. However, the addition of IL-1β to cultures from busulfan-treated mice significantly increased only the expression of androgen-binding protein and the FSH receptor compared to their CT. Adding IL-1β to cultures of normal mice did not affect the expression of 3βHSD compared to the CT, but it significantly reduced its expression in cultures from busulfan-treated mice compared to the CT. Our findings demonstrate the development of different stages of spermatogenesis in vitro from busulfan-treated mice and that IL-1β could potentiate this development in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nagham Ali
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel;
- The Center of Advanced Research and Education in Reproduction (CARER), Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Eitan Lunenfeld
- Adelson School of Medicine, Ariel University, Ariel 4070000, Israel;
| | - Mahmoud Huleihel
- The Shraga Segal Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel;
- The Center of Advanced Research and Education in Reproduction (CARER), Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel
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Huang IS, Li LH, Chen WJ, Juan CC, Huang WJ. Intratesticular Testosterone and Its Precursors among Azoospermic Men: A Pilot Study. World J Mens Health 2024; 42:42.e51. [PMID: 38772536 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.230265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The study aimed to comprehensively analyze testosterone and precursor concentrations in the testicular interstitial fluid (TIF) of men with azoospermia, exploring their significance in the testicular microenvironment and their correlation with testicular sperm retrieval outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS We analyzed 37 TIF samples, including 5 from men with obstructive azoospermia (OA) and 32 from men with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA). Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry quantified testosterone and precursor levels. Comparative assessments of the outcomes of testicular sperm retrieval were performed between the OA and NOA groups as well as among men with NOA. RESULTS Men with NOA who had not undergone hormone treatment exhibited significantly higher intratesticular concentrations of testosterone (median 1,528.1 vs. 207.5 ng/mL), androstenedione (median 10.6 vs. 1.9 ng/mL), and 17-OH progesterone (median 13.0 vs. 1.8 ng/mL) than men diagnosed with OA. Notably, in the subgroup of patients with NOA subjected to medical treatment, men with successful sperm retrieval had significantly reduced levels of androstenedione (median androstenedione 5.7 vs. 18.5 ng/mL, p=0.004). Upon a more detailed analysis of these men who underwent hormone manipulation treatment, the testosterone/androstenedione ratio (indicative of HSD17B3 enzyme activity) was markedly increased in men with successful sperm retrieval (median: 365.8 vs. 165.0, p=0.008) compared with individuals with NOA who had unsuccessful sperm recovery. Furthermore, within the subset of men with NOA who did not undergo medical treatment before microdissection testicular sperm extraction but achieved successful sperm retrieval, the ratio of 17-OH progesterone/progesterone (indicative of CYP17A1 activity) was substantially higher. CONCLUSIONS The study suggests distinct testosterone biosynthesis pathways in men with compromised spermatogenesis and those with normal spermatogenesis. Among NOA men with successful retrieval after hormone optimization therapy, there was decreased androstenedione and increased HSD17B3 enzyme activity. These findings have diagnostic and therapeutic implications for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- I-Shen Huang
- Department of Urology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine and Shu-Tien Urological Science Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Hua Li
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program of Medical Biotechnology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Jen Chen
- Department of Urology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine and Shu-Tien Urological Science Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chang Juan
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - William J Huang
- Department of Urology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine and Shu-Tien Urological Science Research Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Pan F, Fu W, Zhang B, Han M, Xie H, Yi Q, Qian W, Cui J, Cao M, Li Y, Jia Y, Fang F, Ling Y, Li Y, Liu Y. Effects of Vaccination against Recombinant FSH or LH Receptor Subunits on Gonadal Development and Functioning Male Rats. Vet Sci 2024; 11:176. [PMID: 38668443 PMCID: PMC11054695 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11040176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) play key roles in regulating testosterone secretion and spermatogenesis in male mammals, respectively, and they maintain the fertility of male animals by binding to their corresponding receptors. We designed and prepared a recombinant LH receptor (LHR) subunit vaccine and a recombinant FSH receptor (FSHR) subunit vaccine and used male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats as a model to examine their effects on testicular development, spermatogenesis, and testosterone secretion in prepubertal and pubertal mammals. Both vaccines (LHR-DTT and FSHR-DTT) significantly decreased the serum testosterone level in prepubertal rats (p < 0.05) but had no effect on the testosterone secretion in pubertal rats; both vaccines decreased the number of cell layers in the seminiferous tubules and reduced spermatogenesis in prepubertal and pubertal rats. Subunit vaccine FSHR-DTT decreased the sperm density in the epididymis in both prepubertal and pubertal rats (p < 0.01) and lowered testicular index and sperm motility in pubertal rats (p < 0.05), whereas LHR-DTT only reduced the sperm density in the epididymis in pubertal rats (p < 0.05). These results indicate that the FSHR subunit vaccine may be a promising approach for immunocastration, but it still needs improvements in effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuqiang Pan
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Wanzhen Fu
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Bochao Zhang
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Mengdi Han
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Huihui Xie
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Qing Yi
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Wei Qian
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Jiankun Cui
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Meng Cao
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yanqiuhong Li
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yuke Jia
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Fugui Fang
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
- Anhui Provinciale Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
- Linquan County Modern Agriculture Technology Cooperation and Extension Service Center, Fuyang 236000, China
| | - Yinghui Ling
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
- Anhui Provinciale Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
- Linquan County Modern Agriculture Technology Cooperation and Extension Service Center, Fuyang 236000, China
| | - Yunsheng Li
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
- Anhui Provinciale Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
- Linquan County Modern Agriculture Technology Cooperation and Extension Service Center, Fuyang 236000, China
| | - Ya Liu
- Departmet of Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 Changjiang West Road, Hefei 230036, China; (F.P.); (W.F.); (B.Z.); (M.H.); (H.X.); (Q.Y.); (W.Q.); (J.C.); (M.C.); (Y.L.); (Y.J.); (F.F.); (Y.L.); (Y.L.)
- Anhui Provinciale Key Laboratory of Local Livestock and Poultry, Genetical Resource Conservation and Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China
- Linquan County Modern Agriculture Technology Cooperation and Extension Service Center, Fuyang 236000, China
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Tian M, Li H, Wu S, Xi H, Wang YX, Lu YY, Wei L, Huang Q. Exposure to haloacetic acid disinfection by-products and male steroid hormones: An epidemiological and in vitro study. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 468:133796. [PMID: 38377905 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Haloacetic acids (HAAs) are ubiquitous in drinking water and have been associated with impaired male reproductive health. However, epidemiological evidence exploring the associations between HAA exposure and reproductive hormones among males is scarce. In the current study, the urinary concentrations of dichloroacetic acid (DCAA) and trichloroacetic acid (TCAA), the internal exposure markers of HAAs, as well as sex hormones (testosterone [T], progesterone [P], and estradiol [E2]) were measured among 449 Chinese men. Moreover, in vitro experiments, designed to simulate the real-world scenarios of human exposure, were conducted to assess testosterone synthesis in the Leydig cell line MLTC-1 and testosterone metabolism in the hepatic cell line HepG2 in response to low-dose HAA exposure. The DCAA and TCAA urinary concentrations were found to be positively associated with urinary T, P, and E2 levels (all p < 0.001), but negatively associated with the ratio of urinary T to E2 (p < 0.05). Combined with in vitro experiments, the results suggest that environmentally-relevant doses of HAA stimulate sex hormone synthesis and steroidogenesis pathway gene expression in MLTC-1 cells. In addition, the inhibition of the key gene CYP3A4 involved in the testosterone phase Ⅰ catabolism, and induction of the gene UGT2B15 involved in testosterone phase Ⅱ glucuronide conjugation metabolism along with the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transport genes (ABCC4 and ABCG2) in HepG2 cells could play a role in elevation of urinary hormone excretion upon low-dose exposure to HAAs. Our novel findings highlight that exposure to HAAs at environmentally-relevant concentrations is associated with increased synthesis and excretion of sex hormones in males, which potentially provides an alternative approach involving urinary hormones for the noninvasive evaluation of male reproductive health following exposure to DBPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiping Tian
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China.
| | - Huiru Li
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, China
| | - Shuangshan Wu
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Hanyan Xi
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, China
| | - Yi-Xin Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China; Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Yan-Yang Lu
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Liya Wei
- College of Life Sciences, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, China
| | - Qingyu Huang
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China.
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Fraser B, Wilkins A, Whiting S, Liang M, Rebourcet D, Nixon B, Aitken RJ. Development of peptides for targeting cell ablation agents concurrently to the Sertoli and Leydig cell populations of the testes: An approach to non-surgical sterilization. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0292198. [PMID: 38574116 PMCID: PMC10994420 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0292198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The surgical sterilization of cats and dogs has been used to prevent their unwanted breeding for decades. However, this is an expensive and invasive procedure, and often impractical in wider contexts, for example the control of feral populations. A sterilization agent that could be administered in a single injection, would not only eliminate the risks imposed by surgery but also be a much more cost-effective solution to this worldwide problem. In this study, we sought to develop a targeting peptide that would selectively bind to Leydig cells of the testes. Subsequently, after covalently attaching a cell ablation agent, Auristatin, to this peptide we aimed to apply this conjugated product (LH2Auristatin) to adult male mice in vivo, both alone and together with a previously developed Sertoli cell targeting peptide (FSH2Menadione). The application of LH2Auristatin alone resulted in an increase in sperm DNA damage, reduced mean testes weights and mean seminiferous tubule size, along with extensive germ cell apoptosis and a reduction in litter sizes. Together with FSH2Menadione there was also an increase in embryo resorptions. These promising results were observed in around a third of all treated animals. Given this variability, we discuss how these reagents might be modified in order to increase target cell ablation and improve their efficacy as sterilization agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Fraser
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
- College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Alex Wilkins
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
- College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Sara Whiting
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
- College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Mingtao Liang
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Diane Rebourcet
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
- College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
- College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Robert John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
- College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
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Chen G, Zhang W, Li D, Song J, Dong M. Testosterone synthesis was inhibited in the testis metabolomics of a depression mouse model. J Affect Disord 2024; 350:627-635. [PMID: 38244803 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.01.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Depression is a common emotional disorder. Previous studies have suggested that depression is associated with the central nervous system. Recent studies have suggested that reduced testosterone level is the core inducement of depression. Testis is the vital organ for the synthesis of testosterone. How does testis mediate depression is still unknown. OBJECTIVES We adopted a classical depression model of mouse caused through chronic mild stress (CMS). The metabolomics liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was adopted to analyse the influence of CMS on testis metabolism. Then we confirmed the possible abnormal metabolism of the testis in depression mice by pathway analysis and molecular biological technique. RESULTS Compared with control mice, 16 differential metabolites were found in CMS mice by multivariate statistical analysis. In comparison with control mice, CMS mice showed higher levels for campesterol, ribitol, citric acid, platelet activating factor, guanosine, cytosine and xanthine and lower levels for docosahexaenoic acid, hippuric acid, creatine, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, progesterone, l-carnitine, acetyl carnitine and propionyl carnitine. The pathway analysis indicated that these differential metabolites are associated with steroid hormone synthesis, purine metabolism and phenylalanine metabolism. In addition, we also first discovered that testicular morphology in depression mice was damaged and steroid hormone synthetases (including steroidogenic acute regulatory protein and P450 cholesterol side chain cleavage) were inhibited. CONCLUSION These findings may be helpful to parse molecular mechanisms of pathophysiology of depression. It also pointed out the direction to search for potential therapy schedules for male depression and provide novel insights into exploring the pathogenesis of male depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guanghui Chen
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Wenbin Zhang
- Department of Oncology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Dongyan Li
- Department of Pharmacy, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, China
| | - Jian Song
- Department of Pharmacy, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Meixue Dong
- Department of Neurology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China.
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Elashal MH, Abd El-Wahed AA, Mohamed MA, Hamad R, Abd Eldaim MA, Khalifa SAM, Aldahmash B, El-Seedi HR, El-Aarag B. Apilarnil ameliorates Bisphenol A-induced testicular toxicity in adult male rats via improving antioxidant potency and PCNA expression. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 125:108570. [PMID: 38484946 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Apilarnil, a bee-derived product originating from drone larvae, offers a range of advantageous properties for both humans and animals. It functions as an antioxidant, provides neuroprotection, boosts fertility, and has antiviral capabilities. Additionally, it is a provider of androgenic hormones. These beneficial functions are supported by its chemical composition, which comprises mineral salts, vitamins, carbs, lipids, hormones, and amino acids. The current study aimed to evaluate the ameliorative effect of apilarnil against Bisphenol A (BPA)-induced testicular toxicity in male adult rats. Forty-eight Wistar albino rats were randomly classified into six groups. The first, second, and third received olive oil, BPA at a dose of 50 mg/kg body weight (bwt), and apilarnil at a dose of 0.6 g/kg bwt, respectively. The fourth, fifth, and sixth groups received apilarnil with, before, or after BPA administration, respectively. Phytochemical analysis using included linear ion trap-ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LTQ-UPLC-MS/MS) and global natural products social molecular networking (GNPS) revealed the presence of lysine, 10-hydroxy-(E)-2-dodecenoic acid, apigenin7-glucoside, testosterone, progesterone, and campesterol. BPA administration decreased serum level of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, glutathione (GSH) concentration, total sperm count, motility, and vitality. Additionally, BPA increased sperm abnormalities, malondialdehyde concentration (MDA), and decreased proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression. The treatment with apilarnil ameliorated BPA reproductive toxicity in rats which was indicated by increased serum testosterone levels, normalized serum levels of FSH and LH, and concentration of MDA and GSH activity. Moreover, apilarnil improved sperm count, motility, morphology, and PCNA expression. Apilarnil was found to enhance reproductive hormones, MDA levels, antioxidant activity, and PCNA expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed H Elashal
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom 31100107, Egypt
| | - Aida A Abd El-Wahed
- Department of Bee Research, Plant Protection Research Institute, Agricultural Research Centre, Giza 12627, Egypt.
| | - Mostafa Abdelgaber Mohamed
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom 31100107, Egypt.
| | - Rania Hamad
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom 31100107, Egypt
| | - Mabrouk Attia Abd Eldaim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom 31100107, Egypt.
| | - Shaden A M Khalifa
- Psychiatry and Neurology Department, Capio Saint Göran's Hospital, Sankt Göransplan 1, Stockholm 112 19, Sweden; International Research Center for Food Nutrition and Safety, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
| | - Badr Aldahmash
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Hesham R El-Seedi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Islamic University of Madinah, Madinah 42351, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Bishoy El-Aarag
- Biochemistry Division, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Koom 31100107, Egypt
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45
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Huang W, Zhang J, Miao C, Ying H, Zhang X, Song M, Cui Y, Wang X, Li Y, Cheng P. Aflatoxin B1-Induced Testosterone Biosynthesis Disorder via the ROS/AMPK Signaling Pathway in Male Mice. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:5955-5965. [PMID: 38451160 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c08769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
The worldwide prevalence of Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), which contaminates feedstock and food, is on the rise. AFB1 inhibits testosterone (T) biosynthesis, but the mechanism is not yet clear. By establishing in vivo and in vitro models, this study found the number of Leydig cells (LCs), T content, and the expression of T biosynthesis key enzymes were suppressed after AFB1 treatment. AFB1 exposure also increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and promoted mitochondrial injury and mitochondrial pathway apoptosis. Moreover, the AMPK signaling pathway was activated, and using an AMPK inhibitor relieved apoptosis and the suppressed T biosynthesis key enzymes of LCs caused by AFB1 through regulating downstream p53 and Nur77. Additionally, adding ROS intervention could inhibit AMPK activation and alleviate the decreased T content caused by AFB1. In summary, AFB1 promotes the apoptosis of LCs and inhibits T biosynthesis key enzyme expression via activating the ROS/AMPK signaling pathway, which eventually leads to T synthesis disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanyue Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 West Changjiang Road, Hefei 230036, China
| | - Jialu Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 West Changjiang Road, Hefei 230036, China
| | - Chenjiao Miao
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Mechanism for Animal Disease and Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Huihui Ying
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 West Changjiang Road, Hefei 230036, China
| | - Xuliang Zhang
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Mechanism for Animal Disease and Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Miao Song
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Mechanism for Animal Disease and Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Yilong Cui
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Inner Mongolia Minzu University, 028000 Tongliao, China
| | - Xichun Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 West Changjiang Road, Hefei 230036, China
| | - Yanfei Li
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Mechanism for Animal Disease and Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, China
| | - Ping Cheng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, 130 West Changjiang Road, Hefei 230036, China
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46
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Shen H, Cai Y, Zhu K, Wang D, Yu R, Chen X. Enniatin B1 induces damage to Leydig cells via inhibition of the Nrf2/HO-1 and JAK/STAT3 signaling pathways. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 273:116116. [PMID: 38387140 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Enniatin B1 (ENN B1) is a mycotoxin that can be found in various foods. However, whether ENN B1 is hazardous to the reproductive system is still elusive. Leydig cells are testosterone-generating cells that reside in the interstitial compartment between seminiferous tubules. Dysfunction of Leydig cells could result in male infertility. This study aimed to examine the toxicological effects of ENN B1 against TM3 Leydig cells. ENN B1 significantly inhibited cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. ENN B1 treatment also decreased the expression of functional genes in Leydig cells. Moreover, ENN B1 induced Leydig cells apoptosis and oxidative stress. Mechanistically, ENN B1 leads to the upregulation of Bax and downregulation of Bcl-2 in Leydig cells. In addition, ENN B1 inhibited the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, which is critical for the induction of oxidative stress. Additionally, ENN B1 treatment repressed the JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway in Leydig cells. Rescue experiments showed that activation of STAT3 resulted in alleviation of ENN B1-induced damage in Leydig cells. Collectively, our study demonstrated that ENN B1 induced Leydig cell dysfunction via multiple mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongping Shen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yili Cai
- Department of Acupuncture, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Keqi Zhu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Dong Wang
- Shanghai Houyu Medical Equiment Co., Ltd, China
| | - Rui Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Science, Ningbo University, China.
| | - Xueqin Chen
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China.
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47
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Li Y, Liu Y, Chen Y, Yao C, Yu S, Qu J, Chen G, Wei H. Combined effects of polystyrene nanoplastics and lipopolysaccharide on testosterone biosynthesis and inflammation in mouse testis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 273:116180. [PMID: 38458071 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs)/nanoplastics (NPs), as a source and vector of pathogenic bacteria, are widely distributed in the natural environments. Here, we investigated the combined effects of polystyrene NPs (PS-NPs) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) on testicular function in mice for the first time. 24 male mice were randomly assigned into 4 groups, control, PS-NPs, LPS, and PS-NPs + LPS, respectively. Histological alterations of the testes were observed in mice exposed to PS-NPs, LPS or PS-NPs + LPS. Total sperm count, the levels of testosterone in plasma and testes, the expression levels of steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) decreased more remarkable in testes of mice treated with PS-NPs and LPS than the treatment with LPS or PS-NPs alone. Compared with PS-NPs treatment, LPS treatment induced more sever inflammatory response in testes of mice. Moreover, PS-NPs combined with LPS treatment increased the expression of these inflammatory factors more significantly than LPS treatment alone. In addition, PS-NPs or LPS treatment induced oxidative stress in testes of mice, but their combined effect is not significantly different from LPS treatment alone. These results suggest that PS-NPs exacerbate LPS-induced testicular dysfunction. Our results provide new evidence for the threats to male reproductive function induced by both NPs and bacterial infection in human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanli Li
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, College of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, China
| | - Yingqi Liu
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, College of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, China; Wujiang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215299, China
| | - Yanhong Chen
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, College of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, China
| | - Chenjuan Yao
- Department of Molecular Oral Physiology, Institute of Health Biosciences, University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima-Shi, Tokushima 770-8504, Japan
| | - Shali Yu
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, College of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, China
| | - Jianhua Qu
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, College of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, China
| | - Gang Chen
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, College of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, China.
| | - Haiyan Wei
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, College of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226019, China.
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48
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Liu M, He Q, Yuan Z, Chen N, Ren S, Du Q, Wang Y, Han S, Xu C, Lu L, Sun Z, Guan Y, Xie J, Guan Y, Ye L. HDAC3 promotes Sertoli cell maturation and maintains the blood-testis barrier dynamics. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23526. [PMID: 38430456 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202301349rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Germ cell development depends on the capacity of somatic Sertoli cells to undergo differentiation into a mature state and establish a germ cell-specific blood-testis barrier (BTB). The BTB structure confers an immunological barrier for meiotic and postmeiotic germ cells, and its dynamic permeability facilitates a transient movement of preleptotene spermatocytes through BTB to enter meiosis. However, the regulatory factors involved in Sertoli cell maturation and how BTB dynamics coordinate germ cell development remain unclear. Here, we found a histone deacetylase HDAC3 abundantly expresses in Sertoli cells and localizes in both cytoplasm and nucleus. Sertoli cell-specific Hdac3 knockout in mice causes infertility with compromised integrity of blood-testis barrier, leading to germ cells unable to traverse through BTB and an accumulation of preleptotene spermatocytes in juvenile testis. Mechanistically, nuclear HDAC3 regulates the expression program of Sertoli cell maturation genes, and cytoplasmic HDAC3 forms a complex with the gap junction protein Connexin 43 to modulate the BTB integrity and dynamics through regulating the distribution of tight junction proteins. Our findings identify HDAC3 as a critical regulator in promoting Sertoli cell maturation and maintaining the homeostasis of the blood-testis barrier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengrou Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qing He
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zihan Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Niuniu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Sen Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Qian Du
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shenglin Han
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chen Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Luyang Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zheng Sun
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Yongjuan Guan
- College of Life Sciences, Capital Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yichun Guan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, the Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lan Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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49
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Rodprasert W, Virtanen HE, Toppari J. Cryptorchidism and puberty. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1347435. [PMID: 38532895 PMCID: PMC10963523 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1347435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptorchidism is the condition in which one or both testes have not descended adequately into the scrotum. The congenital form of cryptorchidism is one of the most prevalent urogenital anomalies in male newborns. In the acquired form of cryptorchidism, the testis that was previously descended normally is no longer located in the scrotum. Cryptorchidism is associated with an increased risk of infertility and testicular germ cell tumors. However, data on pubertal progression are less well-established because of the limited number of studies. Here, we aim to review the currently available data on pubertal development in boys with a history of non-syndromic cryptorchidism-both congenital and acquired cryptorchidism. The review is focused on the timing of puberty, physical changes, testicular growth, and endocrine development during puberty. The available evidence demonstrated that the timing of the onset of puberty in boys with a history of congenital cryptorchidism does not differ from that of non-cryptorchid boys. Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal hormone measurements showed an impaired function or fewer Sertoli cells and/or germ cells among boys with a history of cryptorchidism, particularly with a history of bilateral cryptorchidism treated with orchiopexy. Leydig cell function is generally not affected in boys with a history of cryptorchidism. Data on pubertal development among boys with acquired cryptorchidism are lacking; therefore, more research is needed to investigate pubertal progression among such boys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wiwat Rodprasert
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology and Centre for Population Health Research, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Helena E. Virtanen
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology and Centre for Population Health Research, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology and Centre for Population Health Research, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Pediatrics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Centre for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Copenhagen University Hospital—Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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50
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Liu S, Ezran C, Wang MFZ, Li Z, Awayan K, Long JZ, De Vlaminck I, Wang S, Epelbaum J, Kuo CS, Terrien J, Krasnow MA, Ferrell JE. An organism-wide atlas of hormonal signaling based on the mouse lemur single-cell transcriptome. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2188. [PMID: 38467625 PMCID: PMC10928088 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46070-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Hormones mediate long-range cell communication and play vital roles in physiology, metabolism, and health. Traditionally, endocrinologists have focused on one hormone or organ system at a time. Yet, hormone signaling by its very nature connects cells of different organs and involves crosstalk of different hormones. Here, we leverage the organism-wide single cell transcriptional atlas of a non-human primate, the mouse lemur (Microcebus murinus), to systematically map source and target cells for 84 classes of hormones. This work uncovers previously-uncharacterized sites of hormone regulation, and shows that the hormonal signaling network is densely connected, decentralized, and rich in feedback loops. Evolutionary comparisons of hormonal genes and their expression patterns show that mouse lemur better models human hormonal signaling than mouse, at both the genomic and transcriptomic levels, and reveal primate-specific rewiring of hormone-producing/target cells. This work complements the scale and resolution of classical endocrine studies and sheds light on primate hormone regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shixuan Liu
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Camille Ezran
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michael F Z Wang
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Zhengda Li
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Kyle Awayan
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan Z Long
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
- Sarafan ChEM-H, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Iwijn De Vlaminck
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Sheng Wang
- Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jacques Epelbaum
- Adaptive Mechanisms and Evolution (MECADEV), UMR 7179, National Center for Scientific Research, National Museum of Natural History, Brunoy, France
| | - Christin S Kuo
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jérémy Terrien
- Adaptive Mechanisms and Evolution (MECADEV), UMR 7179, National Center for Scientific Research, National Museum of Natural History, Brunoy, France
| | - Mark A Krasnow
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - James E Ferrell
- Department of Chemical and Systems Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
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