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Siebert-Kuss LM, Dietrich V, Di Persio S, Bhaskaran J, Stehling M, Cremers JF, Sandmann S, Varghese J, Kliesch S, Schlatt S, Vaquerizas JM, Neuhaus N, Laurentino S. Genome-wide DNA methylation changes in human spermatogenesis. Am J Hum Genet 2024; 111:1125-1139. [PMID: 38759652 PMCID: PMC11179423 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2024.04.017] [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: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Sperm production and function require the correct establishment of DNA methylation patterns in the germline. Here, we examined the genome-wide DNA methylation changes during human spermatogenesis and its alterations in disturbed spermatogenesis. We found that spermatogenesis is associated with remodeling of the methylome, comprising a global decline in DNA methylation in primary spermatocytes followed by selective remethylation, resulting in a spermatids/sperm-specific methylome. Hypomethylated regions in spermatids/sperm were enriched in specific transcription factor binding sites for DMRT and SOX family members and spermatid-specific genes. Intriguingly, while SINEs displayed differential methylation throughout spermatogenesis, LINEs appeared to be protected from changes in DNA methylation. In disturbed spermatogenesis, germ cells exhibited considerable DNA methylation changes, which were significantly enriched at transposable elements and genes involved in spermatogenesis. We detected hypomethylation in SVA and L1HS in disturbed spermatogenesis, suggesting an association between the abnormal programming of these regions and failure of germ cells progressing beyond meiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara M Siebert-Kuss
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Verena Dietrich
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sara Di Persio
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jahnavi Bhaskaran
- MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences, London, UK; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK; Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Martin Stehling
- Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Jann-Frederik Cremers
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sarah Sandmann
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Julian Varghese
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Juan M Vaquerizas
- MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences, London, UK; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Imperial College London, London, UK; Max Planck Institute for Molecular Biomedicine, Münster, Germany
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sandra Laurentino
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Institute of Reproductive and Regenerative Biology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.
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Kumar D, Agrawal NK. Study of Correlation between Serum Vitamin B12 Level and Aberrant DNA Methylation in Infertile Males. Indian J Endocrinol Metab 2024; 28:308-314. [PMID: 39086567 PMCID: PMC11288512 DOI: 10.4103/ijem.ijem_8_24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Altered DNA methylation pattern in sperms has been associated with infertility in males demonstrating defective spermatogenesis or low semen quality. Vitamin B-12, by affecting 1-carbon metabolism pathways, might alter the DNA methylation pattern. We aimed to study the correlation of serum vitamin B12 levels with aberrant DNA methylation in infertile male patients. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 17 oligozoospermic infertile males (WHO criteria, 2010) and 10 healthy fertile males. Serum vitamin B12 levels were estimated using the chemiluminescence method. Global methylation was determined using the ELISA system (Imprint Methylated DNA Quantification Kit, Sigma-Aldrich). The levels of global DNA methylation were calculated and compared relative to the methylated (100%) control DNA provided with the kit. Results Mean serum vitamin B12 concentration in the control group was higher than that of the case group. This difference in serum vitamin B12 concentration in both groups was found statistically significant. Although the results of this study show that oligozoospermic men have relatively lower global DNA methylation as compared to normozoospermic control, the values could not reach a statistically significant level. A small positive correlation was found between serum vitamin B12 levels and percent methylation defect (r = 0.14) but was statistically insignificant. Conclusion Our study concludes that oligozoospermic infertile males have a significant deficiency of vitamin B12 as compared to normozoospermic fertile males. This study did not find any significant difference in global DNA methylation between the two groups. The present study does not suggest any correlation between serum vitamin B12 level and percent DNA methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dharmendra Kumar
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Medical Sciences, BHU, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Neeraj K. Agrawal
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Medical Sciences, BHU, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Prasasya RD, Caldwell BA, Liu Z, Wu S, Leu NA, Fowler JM, Cincotta SA, Laird DJ, Kohli RM, Bartolomei MS. Iterative oxidation by TET1 is required for reprogramming of imprinting control regions and patterning of mouse sperm hypomethylated regions. Dev Cell 2024; 59:1010-1027.e8. [PMID: 38569549 PMCID: PMC11042979 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2024.02.012] [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: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Ten-eleven translocation (TET) enzymes iteratively oxidize 5-methylcytosine (5mC) to generate 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), 5-formylcytosine, and 5-carboxylcytosine to facilitate active genome demethylation. Whether these bases are required to promote replication-coupled dilution or activate base excision repair during mammalian germline reprogramming remains unresolved due to the inability to decouple TET activities. Here, we generated two mouse lines expressing catalytically inactive TET1 (Tet1-HxD) and TET1 that stalls oxidation at 5hmC (Tet1-V). Tet1 knockout and catalytic mutant primordial germ cells (PGCs) fail to erase methylation at select imprinting control regions and promoters of meiosis-associated genes, validating the requirement for the iterative oxidation of 5mC for complete germline reprogramming. TET1V and TET1HxD rescue most hypermethylation of Tet1-/- sperm, suggesting the role of TET1 beyond its oxidative capability. We additionally identify a broader class of hypermethylated regions in Tet1 mutant mouse sperm that depend on TET oxidation for reprogramming. Our study demonstrates the link between TET1-mediated germline reprogramming and sperm methylome patterning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rexxi D Prasasya
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Blake A Caldwell
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Zhengfeng Liu
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Songze Wu
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - N Adrian Leu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Animal Transgenesis and Germ Cell Research, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Johanna M Fowler
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Steven A Cincotta
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Center for Reproductive Sciences, Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 84143, USA
| | - Diana J Laird
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Center for Reproductive Sciences, Eli and Edythe Broad Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 84143, USA
| | - Rahul M Kohli
- Department of Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Penn Epigenetics Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Marisa S Bartolomei
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; Penn Epigenetics Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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Lu L, Cheng Y, Wu W, Wang L, Li S, Li Q, Chen L, Zhang J, Chen R, Tan X, Hong Y, Yang L, Song Y. Paternal p,p'-DDE exposure and pre-pubertal high-fat diet increases the susceptibility to fertility impairment and sperm Igf2 DMR2 hypo-methylation in male offspring. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 271:115999. [PMID: 38262096 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.115999] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
The hypothesis of paternal origins of health and disease (POHaD) indicates that paternal exposure to adverse environment could alter the epigenetic modification in germ line, increasing the disease susceptibility in offspring or even in subsequent generations. p,p'-Dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p'-DDE) is an anti-androgenic chemical and male reproductive toxicant. Gestational p,p'-DDE exposure could impair reproductive development and fertility in male offspring. However, the effect of paternal p,p'-DDE exposure on fertility in male offspring remains uncovered. From postnatal day (PND) 35 to 119, male rats (F0) were given 10 mg/body weight (b.w.) p,p'-DDE or corn oil by gavage. Male rats were then mated with the control females to generate male offspring. On PND35, the male offspring were divided into 4 groups according whether to be given the high-fat diet (HF): corn oil treatment with control diet (C-C), p,p'-DDE treatment with control diet (DDE-C), corn oil treatment with high-fat diet (C-HF) or p,p'-DDE treatment with high-fat diet (DDE-HF) for 35 days. Our results indicated that paternal p,p'-DDE exposure did not affect the male fertility of male offspring directly, but decreased sperm quality and induced testicular apoptosis after the high-fat diet treatment. Further analysis demonstrated that paternal exposure to p,p'-DDE and pre-pubertal high-fat diet decreased sperm Igf2 DMR2 methylation and gene expression in male offspring. Hence, paternal exposure to p,p'-DDE and pre-pubertal high-fat diet increases the susceptibility to male fertility impairment and sperm Igf2 DMR2 hypo-methylation in male offspring, posing a significant implication in the disease etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Lu
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, 2318 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuzhou Cheng
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, 2318 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wei Wu
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, 2318 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lijun Wang
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, 2318 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shuqi Li
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, 2318 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qianyu Li
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, 2318 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liangjing Chen
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, 2318 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianyun Zhang
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, 2318 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Rong Chen
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, 2318 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohua Tan
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, 2318 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yu Hong
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, 2318 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lei Yang
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, 2318 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yang Song
- School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, 2318 Yuhangtang Road, Hangzhou, China.
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Huang R, Chen J, Guo B, Jiang C, Sun W. Diabetes-induced male infertility: potential mechanisms and treatment options. Mol Med 2024; 30:11. [PMID: 38225568 PMCID: PMC10790413 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-023-00771-x] [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: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a physiological phenomenon in which a man is unable to impregnate a fertile woman during a 12-month period of continuous, unprotected sexual intercourse. A growing body of clinical and epidemiological evidence indicates that the increasing incidence of male reproductive problems, especially infertility, shows a very similar trend to the incidence of diabetes within the same age range. In addition, a large number of previous in vivo and in vitro experiments have also suggested that the complex pathophysiological changes caused by diabetes may induce male infertility in multiple aspects, including hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis dysfunction, spermatogenesis and maturation disorders, testicular interstitial cell damage erectile dysfunction. Based on the above related mechanisms, a large number of studies have focused on the potential therapeutic association between diabetes progression and infertility in patients with diabetes and infertility, providing important clues for the treatment of this population. In this paper, we summarized the research results of the effects of diabetes on male reproductive function in recent 5 years, elaborated the potential pathophysiological mechanisms of male infertility induced by diabetes, and reviewed and prospected the therapeutic measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Runchun Huang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China, 730000
| | - Jiawang Chen
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China, 730000
| | - Buyu Guo
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China, 730000
| | - Chenjun Jiang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China, 730000
| | - Weiming Sun
- The First Clinical Medical College, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, People's Republic of China, 730000.
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Hospital of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, Gansu, People's Republic of China.
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Qaria MA, Xu C, Hu R, Alsubki RA, Ali MY, Sivasamy S, Attia KA, Zhu D. Ectoine Globally Hypomethylates DNA in Skin Cells and Suppresses Cancer Proliferation. Mar Drugs 2023; 21:621. [PMID: 38132942 PMCID: PMC10744768 DOI: 10.3390/md21120621] [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: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic modifications, mainly aberrant DNA methylation, have been shown to silence the expression of genes involved in epigenetic diseases, including cancer suppression genes. Almost all conventional cancer therapeutic agents, such as the DNA hypomethylation drug 5-aza-2-deoxycytidine, have insurmountable side effects. To investigate the role of the well-known DNA protectant (ectoine) in skin cell DNA methylation and cancer cell proliferation, comprehensive methylome sequence analysis, 5-methyl cytosine (5mC) analysis, proliferation and tumorigenicity assays, and DNA epigenetic modifications-related gene analysis were performed. The results showed that extended ectoine treatment globally hypomethylated DNA in skin cells, especially in the CpG island (CGIs) element, and 5mC percentage was significantly reduced. Moreover, ectoine mildly inhibited skin cell proliferation and did not induce tumorigenicity in HaCaT cells injected into athymic nude mice. HaCaT cells treated with ectoine for 24 weeks modulated the mRNA expression levels of Dnmt1, Dnmt3a, Dnmt3b, Dnmt3l, Hdac1, Hdac2, Kdm3a, Mettl3, Mettl14, Snrpn, and Mest. Overall, ectoine mildly demethylates DNA in skin cells, modulates the expression of epigenetic modification-related genes, and reduces cell proliferation. This evidence suggests that ectoine is a potential anti-aging agent that prevents DNA hypermethylation and subsequently activates cancer-suppressing genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majjid A. Qaria
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.A.Q.); (C.X.); (M.Y.A.); (S.S.)
| | - Chunyan Xu
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.A.Q.); (C.X.); (M.Y.A.); (S.S.)
| | - Ran Hu
- School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China;
| | - Roua A. Alsubki
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mohamed Yassin Ali
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.A.Q.); (C.X.); (M.Y.A.); (S.S.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University, Fayoum 63514, Egypt
| | - Sethupathy Sivasamy
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.A.Q.); (C.X.); (M.Y.A.); (S.S.)
| | - Kotb A. Attia
- Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Daochen Zhu
- Biofuels Institute, School of the Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China; (M.A.Q.); (C.X.); (M.Y.A.); (S.S.)
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Amjadian T, Yaghmaei P, Nasim HR, Yari K. Impact of DNA methylation of the human mesoderm-specific transcript ( MEST) on male infertility. Heliyon 2023; 9:e21099. [PMID: 37928396 PMCID: PMC10622617 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility accounts for nearly 40%-50% of all infertile cases. One of the most prevalent disorders detected in infertile men is errors in the MEST differentially methylated region (DMR), which has been correlated with poor sperm indexes. The aim of our study was to characterize the methylation pattern of the MEST gene, along with assessing seminal factors and chromatin condensation in sperm samples from both infertile patients and fertile cases, all of whom were candidates for intracytoplasmic sperm injection. We collected forty-five semen specimens from men undergoing routine spermiogram analysis at the Infertility Treatment Center. The specimens consisted of 15 samples of normospermia as the control group, 15 individuals of asthenospermia, and 15 individuals of oligoasthenoteratospermia as the cases group. Standard semen analysis and the chromatin quality and sperm maturity tests using aniline blue staining were performed. The DNA from spermatozoa was extracted and treated with a sodium bisulfite-based procedure. The methylation measure was done quantitatively at the DMRs of the MEST gene by quantitative methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction (qMSP). The mean percentages of total motility, progression, and morphology in normospermia were significantly higher than oligoasthenoteratospermia and asthenospermia, and they were substantially higher in asthenospermia compared to oligoasthenoteratospermia (P ≤ 0.05). The mean percentages of histone transition abnormality and MEST methylation in oligoasthenoteratospermia were significantly higher than asthenospermia and normospermia (P ≤ 0.05). A negative correlation existed between the histone transition abnormality and MEST methylation with sperm parameters. In conclusion, chromatin integrity, sperm maturity, and MEST methylation may be considered important predictors for addressing male factor infertility. Therefore, we suggest that male infertility may be linked to methylation of the imprinted genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayebeh Amjadian
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parichehreh Yaghmaei
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hayati Roodbari Nasim
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kheirollah Yari
- Medical Biology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
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Clement A, Amar E, Clement P, Sedbon É, Brami C, Alvarez S, Menezo Y. Hyperhomocysteinemia in hypofertile male patients can be alleviated by supplementation with 5MTHF associated with one carbon cycle support. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2023; 5:1229997. [PMID: 37705678 PMCID: PMC10495983 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2023.1229997] [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: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Homocysteine (Hcy) is a cellular poison, side product of the hydrolysis of S-Adenosyl Homocysteine, produced after the universal methylation effector S -Adenosylmethionine liberates a methyl group to recipient targets. It inhibits the methylation processes and its rising is associated with multiple disease states and ultimately is both a cause and a consequence of oxidative stress, affecting male gametogenesis. We have determined hyper homocysteinhemia (HHcy) levels can be reliably reduced in hypofertile patients in order to decrease/avoid associated epigenetic problems and protect the health of future children, in consideration of the fact that treatment with high doses of folic acid is inappropriate. Methods Homocysteine levels were screened in male patients consulting for long-standing infertility associated with at least three failed Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) attempts and/or repeat miscarriages. Seventy-seven patients with Hcy levels > 15 µM were treated for three months with a combination of micronutrients including 5- MethylTetraHydroFolate (5-MTHF), the compound downstream to the MTHFR enzyme, to support the one carbon cycle; re-testing was performed at the end of a 3 months treatment period. Genetic status for Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFR) Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) 677CT (c.6777C > T) and 1298AC (c.1298A > C) was determined. Results Micronutrients/5-MTHF were highly efficient in decreasing circulating Hcy, from averages 27.4 to 10.7 µM, with a mean observed decrease of 16.7 µM. The MTHFR SNP 677TT (homozygous form) and combined heterozygous 677CT/1298AC status represent 77.9% of the patients with elevated Hcy. Discussion Estimation HHcy should not be overlooked in men suffering infertility of long duration. MTHFR SNPs, especially 677TT, are a major cause of high homocysteinhemia (HHcy). In these hypofertile patients, treatment with micronutrients including 5-MTHF reduces Hcy and even allows spontaneous pregnancies post treatment. This type of therapy should be considered in order to ensure these patients' quality of life and avoid future epigenetic problems in their descendants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Clement
- Laboratoire Clément, Genetics and IVF, Avenue d'Eylau, Paris, France
| | - Edouard Amar
- Cabinet Médical Urology, Andrology, Avenue Victor Hugo, Paris, France
| | - Patrice Clement
- Laboratoire Clément, Genetics and IVF, Avenue d'Eylau, Paris, France
| | - Éric Sedbon
- Cabinet Médical, Gyn Obst, 17 rue Pétrarque, Paris, France
| | - Charles Brami
- Cabinet Médical, Gyn Obst, 16 Avenue Paul Doumer, Paris, France
| | - Silvia Alvarez
- Cabinet Médical, Gyn Obst, 15 Avenue Pointcarré, Paris, France
| | - Yves Menezo
- Laboratoire Clément, Genetics and IVF, Avenue d'Eylau, Paris, France
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Prasasya RD, Caldwell BA, Liu Z, Wu S, Leu NA, Fowler JM, Cincotta SA, Laird DJ, Kohli RM, Bartolomei MS. TET1 Catalytic Activity is Required for Reprogramming of Imprinting Control Regions and Patterning of Sperm-Specific Hypomethylated Regions. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.21.529426. [PMID: 36865267 PMCID: PMC9980038 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.21.529426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
DNA methylation erasure is required for mammalian primordial germ cell reprogramming. TET enzymes iteratively oxidize 5-methylcytosine to generate 5-hyroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), 5-formylcytosine, and 5-carboxycytosine to facilitate active genome demethylation. Whether these bases are required to promote replication-coupled dilution or activate base excision repair during germline reprogramming remains unresolved due to the lack of genetic models that decouple TET activities. Here, we generated two mouse lines expressing catalytically inactive TET1 ( Tet1-HxD ) and TET1 that stalls oxidation at 5hmC ( Tet1-V ). Tet1 -/- , Tet1 V/V , and Tet1 HxD/HxD sperm methylomes show that TET1 V and TET1 HxD rescue most Tet1 -/- hypermethylated regions, demonstrating the importance of TET1’s extra-catalytic functions. Imprinted regions, in contrast, require iterative oxidation. We further reveal a broader class of hypermethylated regions in sperm of Tet1 mutant mice that are excluded from de novo methylation during male germline development and depend on TET oxidation for reprogramming. Our study underscores the link between TET1-mediated demethylation during reprogramming and sperm methylome patterning.
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Yahaya TO, Bashar DM, Oladele EO, Umar J, Anyebe D, Izuafa A. Epigenetics in the etiology and management of infertility. World J Med Genet 2022; 10:7-21. [DOI: 10.5496/wjmg.v10.i2.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic disruptions have been implicated in some cases of infertility and can serve as therapeutic targets. However, the involvement of epigenetics in infertility has not received adequate attention.
AIM This study aimed to determine the epigenetic basis of infertility in order to enhance public knowledge.
METHODS Relevant articles on the subject were collected from PubMed, RCA, Google Scholar, SpringerLink, and Scopus. The articles were pooled together and duplicates were removed using Endnote software.
RESULTS Available information shows that epigenetic mechanisms, mainly DNA methylation, histone modification, and microRNA interference are necessary for normal gametogenesis and embryogenesis. As a result, epigenetic disruptions in genes that control gametogenesis and embryogenesis, such as DDX3X, ADH4, AZF, PLAG1, D1RAS3, CYGB, MEST, JMJD1A, KCNQ1, IGF2, H19, and MTHFR may result in infertility. Aberrant DNA methylation during genomic imprinting and parental epigenetic mark erasures, in particular, may affect the DNA epigenomes of sperm and oocytes, resulting in reproductive abnormalities. Histone epigenetic dysregulation during oocyte development and histone-protamine replacement in the sperm may also cause reproductive abnormalities. Furthermore, overexpression or repression of certain microRNAs embedded in the ovary, testis, embryo, as well as granulosa cells and oocytes may impair reproduction. Male infertility is characterized by spermatogenesis failure, which includes oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia, and teratozoospermia, while female infertility is characterized by polycystic ovary syndrome. Some epigenetic modifications can be reversed by deactivating the regulatory enzymes, implying that epigenetic reprogramming could help treat infertility in some cases. For some disorders, epigenetic drugs are available, but none have been formulated for infertility.
CONCLUSION Some cases of infertility have an epigenetic etiology and can be treated by reversing the same epigenetic mechanism that caused it. As a result, medical practitioners are urged to come up with epigenetic treatments for infertility that have an epigenetic cause.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Danlami M Bashar
- Department of Microbiology, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Esther O Oladele
- Biology Unit, Distance Learning Institute, University of Lagos, Lagos State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Ja'afar Umar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Daniel Anyebe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
| | - Abdulrazaq Izuafa
- Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State 23401, Nigeria
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11
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Liu M, Liu P, Chang Y, Xu B, Wang N, Qin L, Zheng J, Liu Y, Wu L, Yan H. Genome-wide DNA methylation profiles and small noncoding RNA signatures in sperm with a high DNA fragmentation index. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:2255-2274. [PMID: 36190595 PMCID: PMC9596664 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02618-6] [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: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A growing number of studies have reported that sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) is associated with male infertility. However, no studies have compared genome-wide DNA methylation profiles and sncRNA signatures between sperm with high and low sperm DNA fragmentation indices (DFIs). METHODS Whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) was performed on sperm samples from a weak group (DFI ≥ 30%, n = 6) and normal group (DFI ≤ 15%, n = 7). Small noncoding RNA (sncRNA) deep sequencing was conducted for sperm samples from the weak (DFI ≥ 30%, n = 13) and normal (DFI ≤ 15%, n = 17) groups. RESULTS A total of 4939 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were identified in the weak group sperm samples relative to normal group sperm samples, with 2072 (41.95%) of them located in promoter regions. The percentages of hypermethylated DMRs were higher than those of hypomethylated DMRs in all seven examined gene annotation groups. Hypermethylated DMRs were significantly enriched in terms associated with neurons and microtubules. Compared with the normal group, the global DNA methylation level of the weak group sperm showed a downward trend, with lower correlation for methylation in the weak group sperm; therefore, the chromosomes of high-DFI sperm may be loose. On average, 40.5% of sncRNAs were annotated as rsRNAs, 19.3% as tsRNAs, 10.4% as yRNAs, and 7.1% as miRNAs. A total of 27 miRNAs, 151 tsRNAs, and 70 rsRNAs were differentially expressed between the two groups of sperm samples. Finally, 7 sncRNAs were identified as candidate sperm quality biomarkers, and the target genes of the differentially expressed miRNAs are involved in nervous system development. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that genome-wide DNA methylation profiles and sncRNA signatures are significantly altered in high-DFI sperm. Our study provides potential biomarkers for sperm quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minghua Liu
- Reproductive Medical Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peiru Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yunjian Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Beiying Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Nengzhuang Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lina Qin
- Reproductive Medical Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jufen Zheng
- Reproductive Medical Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yun Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Ligang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hongli Yan
- Reproductive Medical Center, Changhai Hospital, Naval Medical University, Shanghai, China.
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12
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Lloyd DT, Skinner HG, Maguire R, Murphy SK, Motsinger-Reif AA, Hoyo C, House JS. Clomifene and Assisted Reproductive Technology in Humans Are Associated with Sex-Specific Offspring Epigenetic Alterations in Imprinted Control Regions. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:10450. [PMID: 36142363 PMCID: PMC9499479 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Children conceived with assisted reproductive technology (ART) have an increased risk of adverse outcomes, including congenital malformations and imprinted gene disorders. In a retrospective North Carolina-based-birth-cohort, we examined the effect of ovulation drugs and ART on CpG methylation in differentially methylated CpGs in known imprint control regions (ICRs). Nine ICRs containing 48 CpGs were assessed for methylation status by pyrosequencing in mixed leukocytes from cord blood. After restricting to non-smoking, college-educated participants who agreed to follow-up, ART-exposed (n = 27), clomifene-only-exposed (n = 22), and non-exposed (n = 516) groups were defined. Associations of clomifene and ART with ICR CpG methylation were assessed with linear regression and stratifying by offspring sex. In males, ART was associated with hypomethylation of the PEG3 ICR [β(95% CI) = -1.46 (-2.81, -0.12)] and hypermethylation of the MEG3 ICR [3.71 (0.01, 7.40)]; clomifene-only was associated with hypomethylation of the NNAT ICR [-5.25 (-10.12, -0.38)]. In female offspring, ART was associated with hypomethylation of the IGF2 ICR [-3.67 (-6.79, -0.55)]. Aberrant methylation of these ICRs has been associated with cardiovascular disease and metabolic and behavioral outcomes in children. The results suggest that the increased risk of adverse outcomes in offspring conceived through ART may be due in part to altered methylation of ICRs. Larger studies utilizing epigenome-wide interrogation are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dillon T. Lloyd
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
- Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Harlyn G. Skinner
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Rachel Maguire
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Susan K. Murphy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27701, USA
| | - Alison A. Motsinger-Reif
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Cathrine Hoyo
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - John S. House
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
- Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
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13
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Bai X, Liu Z, Tang T, Yu S, Liu D, Liu G, Fan X, Tang Y, Liu Z. An integrative approach to uncover the components, mechanisms, and functions of traditional Chinese medicine prescriptions on male infertility. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:794448. [PMID: 36034828 PMCID: PMC9403420 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.794448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a major and growing health problem with an estimated global prevalence of 4.2%. The current therapy is limited by the unknown etiology of MI, emphasizing the critical requirement forward to a more efficient method or medication. Through thousands of years, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been shown to be effective in treating MI effectively. However, the components, mechanisms and functions of TCM prescriptions on MI are still obscure, severely limiting its clinical application. In order to discover the molecular mechanism of TCM against MI, our study presents a comprehensive approach integrated data mining, network pharmacology, molecular docking, UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS, and experimental validation. Here, we begin to acquire 289 clinical TCM prescriptions for MI from a TCM hospital's outpatient department. Then, Core Chinese Materia Medica (CCMM) was then retrieved from the TCM Inheritance Support System (TCMISS), which was utilized to discover the underlying rules and connections in clinical prescriptions. After that, 98 CCMM components and 816 MI targets were obtained from ten distinct databases. Additionally, the network pharmacology methods, including network construction, GO and KEGG pathway enrichment, PPI analysis, were utilized to reveal that kaempferol, quercetin, isorhamnetin, and beta-sitosterol are the core components of CCMM in treating MI. The mechanisms and functions of CCMM against MI are hormone regulation, anti-apoptosis, anti-oxidant stress, and anti-inflammatory. Furthermore, the strong connections between four core components and six key targets were verified using a molecular docking method. Following that, the core components of the CCMM extract were identified using UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS analysis. Finally, in vivo experiments demonstrated that CCMM and four core components could improve the density, motility, viability of sperm, lecithin corpuscle density, decrease the rate of sperm malformation and testis tissue damage, and regulate the protein expressions of AKT1, MAPK3/1, EGFR, and TNF-α in a mouse model of MI. UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS analysis and in vivo experiments further validated the results of data mining, network pharmacology, and molecular docking. Our study could uncover the components, mechanisms, and functions of TCM prescriptions against MI and develop a new integrative approach to demonstrate TCM's multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway approach to disease treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Bai
- Beijing Key Laboratory of TCM Basic Research on Prevention and Treatment of Major Disease, Experimental Research Center, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhejun Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tian Tang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Shujun Yu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Guimin Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaolei Fan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yibo Tang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zhenquan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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14
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Sujit KM, Pallavi S, Singh V, Andrabi SW, Trivedi S, Sankhwar SN, Gupta G, Rajender S.
SPATA16
promoter hypermethylation and downregulation in male infertility. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14548. [DOI: 10.1111/and.14548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Saini Pallavi
- Division of Endocrinology Central Drug Research Institute Lucknow India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research Ghaziabad India
| | - Vertika Singh
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics Banaras Hindu University Varanasi India
| | | | - Sameer Trivedi
- Department of Urology Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University Varanasi India
| | | | - Gopal Gupta
- Division of Endocrinology Central Drug Research Institute Lucknow India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research Ghaziabad India
| | - Singh Rajender
- Division of Endocrinology Central Drug Research Institute Lucknow India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research Ghaziabad India
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15
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Niu J, Wang X, Liu P, Liu H, Li R, Li Z, He Y, Qi J. Effects of Cryopreservation on Sperm with Cryodiluent in Viviparous Black Rockfish ( Sebastes schlegelii). Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:3392. [PMID: 35328812 PMCID: PMC8955014 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Black rockfish is an economically important fish in East Asia. Little mention has been paid to the sperm cryopreservation in black rockfish. In this study, the optimal cryodiluent was selected from 48 combinations by detecting various sperm parameters. Transcriptome and methylome analysis were further performed to explore the molecular mechanism of inevitable cryoinjuries. The results showed that cryopreservation had negative effects on the viability, DNA integrity, mitochondrial activity, total ATPase and LDH of sperm even with optimal cryodiluent (FBS + 15% Gly). Transcriptome and methylome analysis revealed that the expression of 179 genes and methylation of 1266 genes were affected by cryopreservation. These genes were enriched in GO terms of death, G-protein coupled receptor signaling pathway, response to external stimulus and KEGG pathways of phospholipase D signaling pathway and xenobiotic and carbohydrate metabolism pathways. The role of PIK3CA and CCNA2 were highlighted in the protein-protein interaction network, and the sperm quality-related imprinted gene mest was identified among the 7 overlapping genes between transcriptome and methylome. Overall, the cryodiluent for black rockfish sperm was optimized, providing a feasible method for cryopreservation. The transcriptome and methylome data further demonstrated the underlying molecular mechanisms of cryoinjuries, proving clues for improvement of cryopreservation method of black rockfish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Niu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (J.N.); (X.W.); (P.L.); (H.L.); (R.L.); (Z.L.); (Y.H.)
| | - Xuliang Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (J.N.); (X.W.); (P.L.); (H.L.); (R.L.); (Z.L.); (Y.H.)
| | - Pingping Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (J.N.); (X.W.); (P.L.); (H.L.); (R.L.); (Z.L.); (Y.H.)
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Aquatic Germplasm of Hainan Province, Sanya Oceanog Institute, Ocean University of China, Sanya 572000, China
| | - Huaxiang Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (J.N.); (X.W.); (P.L.); (H.L.); (R.L.); (Z.L.); (Y.H.)
| | - Rui Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (J.N.); (X.W.); (P.L.); (H.L.); (R.L.); (Z.L.); (Y.H.)
| | - Ziyi Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (J.N.); (X.W.); (P.L.); (H.L.); (R.L.); (Z.L.); (Y.H.)
| | - Yan He
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (J.N.); (X.W.); (P.L.); (H.L.); (R.L.); (Z.L.); (Y.H.)
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Aquatic Germplasm of Hainan Province, Sanya Oceanog Institute, Ocean University of China, Sanya 572000, China
| | - Jie Qi
- MOE Key Laboratory of Marine Genetics and Breeding, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, 5 Yushan Road, Qingdao 266003, China; (J.N.); (X.W.); (P.L.); (H.L.); (R.L.); (Z.L.); (Y.H.)
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Aquatic Germplasm of Hainan Province, Sanya Oceanog Institute, Ocean University of China, Sanya 572000, China
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16
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Bruno C, Bourredjem A, Barry F, Frappier J, Martinaud A, Chamoy B, Hance I, Ginod P, Cavalieri M, Amblot C, Binquet C, Barberet J, Fauque P. Analysis and quantification of female and male contributions to the first stages of embryonic kinetics: study from a time-lapse system. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:85-95. [PMID: 34674102 PMCID: PMC8866590 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02336-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The few studies that examined the effect of male and/or female features on early embryo development, notably using the time-lapse system (TL), reported conflicting results. This can be explained by the small number of studies using an adapted model. METHODS We used two original designs to study the female and male effects on embryo development: (1) based on embryos from donor oocytes (TL-DO), and (2) from donor sperm (TL-DS). Firstly, we analyzed the female and male similarities using an ad hoc intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), then we completed the analysis with a multivariable model to assess the association between both male and female factors, and early embryo kinetics. A total of 572 mature oocytes (TL-DO: 293; TL-DS: 279), fertilized by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and incubated in a TL (Embryoscope®) were included from March 2013 to April 2019; 429 fertilized oocytes (TL-DO: 212; TL-DS: 217) were assessed. The timings of the first 48 h have been analyzed. RESULTS The similarities in the timings thought to be related to the female component were significant: (ICC in both DO-DS designs respectively: tPB2: 9-18%; tPNa: 16-21%; tPNf: 40-26%; t2: 38-24%; t3: 15-20%; t4: 21-32%). Comparatively, those related to male were lower. Surprisingly after multivariable analyses, no intrinsic female factors were clearly identified. However, in TL-DO design, oligozoospermia was associated with a tendency to longer timings, notably for tPB2 (p = 0.026). CONCLUSION This study quantifies the role of the oocyte in the first embryo cleavages, but without identified specific female factors. However, it also highlights that sperm may have an early embryonic effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Céline Bruno
- Laboratoire de Biologie de La Reproduction, Hôpital François Mitterrand, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France.
| | - Abderrahmane Bourredjem
- Inserm, CIC1432, Module Epidémiologie Clinique, F-21000, Dijon, France
- CHU Dijon-Bourgogne, Centre d'Investigation Clinique, Module Epidémiologie Clinique/Essais Clinique, 21000, Dijon, France
| | - Fatima Barry
- Laboratoire de Biologie de La Reproduction, Hôpital François Mitterrand, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Jean Frappier
- Laboratoire de Biologie de La Reproduction, Hôpital François Mitterrand, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Aurélie Martinaud
- Laboratoire de Biologie de La Reproduction, Hôpital François Mitterrand, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Bruno Chamoy
- Laboratoire de Biologie de La Reproduction, Hôpital François Mitterrand, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Isabelle Hance
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, Hôpital François Mitterrand, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Perrine Ginod
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, Hôpital François Mitterrand, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Mathilde Cavalieri
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, Hôpital François Mitterrand, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Céline Amblot
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, Hôpital François Mitterrand, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Christine Binquet
- Inserm, CIC1432, Module Epidémiologie Clinique, F-21000, Dijon, France
- CHU Dijon-Bourgogne, Centre d'Investigation Clinique, Module Epidémiologie Clinique/Essais Clinique, 21000, Dijon, France
| | - Julie Barberet
- Laboratoire de Biologie de La Reproduction, Hôpital François Mitterrand, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - Patricia Fauque
- Laboratoire de Biologie de La Reproduction, Hôpital François Mitterrand, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
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17
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Di Persio S, Leitão E, Wöste M, Tekath T, Cremers JF, Dugas M, Li X, Meyer Zu Hörste G, Kliesch S, Laurentino S, Neuhaus N, Horsthemke B. Whole-genome methylation analysis of testicular germ cells from cryptozoospermic men points to recurrent and functionally relevant DNA methylation changes. Clin Epigenetics 2021; 13:160. [PMID: 34419158 PMCID: PMC8379757 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-021-01144-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have reported an association between male infertility and aberrant sperm DNA methylation patterns, in particular in imprinted genes. In a recent investigation based on whole methylome and deep bisulfite sequencing, we have not found any evidence for such an association, but have demonstrated that somatic DNA contamination and genetic variation confound methylation studies in sperm of severely oligozoospermic men. To find out whether testicular germ cells (TGCs) of such patients might carry aberrant DNA methylation, we compared the TGC methylomes of four men with cryptozoospermia (CZ) and four men with obstructive azoospermia, who had normal spermatogenesis and served as controls (CTR). RESULTS There was no difference in DNA methylation at the whole genome level or at imprinted regions between CZ and CTR samples. However, using stringent filters to identify group-specific methylation differences, we detected 271 differentially methylated regions (DMRs), 238 of which were hypermethylated in CZ (binominal test, p < 2.2 × 10-16). The DMRs were enriched for distal regulatory elements (p = 1.0 × 10-6) and associated with 132 genes, 61 of which are differentially expressed at various stages of spermatogenesis. Almost all of the 67 DMRs associated with the 61 genes (94%) are hypermethylated in CZ (63/67, p = 1.107 × 10-14). As judged by single-cell RNA sequencing, 13 DMR-associated genes, which are mainly expressed during meiosis and spermiogenesis, show a significantly different pattern of expression in CZ patients. In four of these genes, the promoter is hypermethylated in CZ men, which correlates with a lower expression level in these patients. In the other nine genes, eight of which downregulated in CZ, germ cell-specific enhancers may be affected. CONCLUSIONS We found that impaired spermatogenesis is associated with DNA methylation changes in testicular germ cells at functionally relevant regions of the genome. We hypothesize that the described DNA methylation changes may reflect or contribute to premature abortion of spermatogenesis and therefore not appear in the mature, motile sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Di Persio
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Elsa Leitão
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Marius Wöste
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Tobias Tekath
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Jann-Frederik Cremers
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Martin Dugas
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Xiaolin Li
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Gerd Meyer Zu Hörste
- Department of Neurology, Institute of Translational Neurology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Sandra Laurentino
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, 48149, Münster, Germany.
| | - Bernhard Horsthemke
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
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18
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Rotondo JC, Lanzillotti C, Mazziotta C, Tognon M, Martini F. Epigenetics of Male Infertility: The Role of DNA Methylation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:689624. [PMID: 34368137 PMCID: PMC8339558 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.689624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, a number of studies focused on the role of epigenetics, including DNA methylation, in spermatogenesis and male infertility. We aimed to provide an overview of the knowledge concerning the gene and genome methylation and its regulation during spermatogenesis, specifically in the context of male infertility etiopathogenesis. Overall, the findings support the hypothesis that sperm DNA methylation is associated with sperm alterations and infertility. Several genes have been found to be differentially methylated in relation to impaired spermatogenesis and/or reproductive dysfunction. Particularly, DNA methylation defects of MEST and H19 within imprinted genes and MTHFR within non-imprinted genes have been repeatedly linked with male infertility. A deep knowledge of sperm DNA methylation status in association with reduced reproductive potential could improve the development of novel diagnostic tools for this disease. Further studies are needed to better elucidate the mechanisms affecting methylation in sperm and their impact on male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Charles Rotondo
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmen Lanzillotti
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazziotta
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Tognon
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fernanda Martini
- Laboratories of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Dahadhah FW, Saleh Jaweesh M, Al Zoubi MS, Issam Abu Alarjah M, Hammadeh ME, Amor H. Lack of association between single polymorphic variants of the mitochondrial nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase 3, and 4L (MT-ND3 and MT-ND4L) and male infertility. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14139. [PMID: 34120353 DOI: 10.1111/and.14139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a multifactorial condition associated with different genetic abnormalities in at least 15%-30% of cases. The purpose of this study was to identify suspected correlations between infertility and polymorphisms in mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunits 3 and 4L (MT-ND3 and MT-ND4L) in subfertile male spermatozoa. Sanger sequencing of the mitochondrial DNA target genes was performed on 68 subfertile and 44 fertile males. Eight single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in MT-ND3 (rs2853826, rs28435660, rs193302927, rs28358278, rs41467651, rs3899188, rs28358277 and rs28673954) and seven SNPs in MT-ND4L (rs28358280, rs28358281, rs28358279, rs2853487, rs2853488, rs193302933 and rs28532881) were detected and genotyped. The genotypes and allele frequencies of the study population have shown a lack of statistically significant association between MT-ND3 and MT-ND4L SNPs and male infertility. However, no statistically significant association was found between the asthenozoospermia, oligozoospermia, teratozoospermia, asthenoteratozoospermia, oligoasthenoteratozoospermia and oligoteratozoospermia subgroups of subfertile males. However, rs28358278 genotype of the MT-ND3 gene was reported in the subfertile group but not in the fertile group, which implies a possible role of this SNP in male infertility. In conclusion, the investigated polymorphic variants in the MT-ND3 and MT-ND4L genes did not show any significant association with the occurrence of male infertility. Further studies are required to evaluate these findings. Moreover, the subfertile individuals who exhibit a polymorphism at rs28358278 require further monitoring and evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatina W Dahadhah
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Mayyas Saleh Jaweesh
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Mazhar Salim Al Zoubi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Manal Issam Abu Alarjah
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Mohamad Eid Hammadeh
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Houda Amor
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
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20
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Bai X, Tang Y, Li Q, Liu D, Liu G, Fan X, Liu Z, Yu S, Tang T, Wang S, Li L, Zhou K, Zheng Y, Liu Z. An Integrated Analysis of Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Experiment Validation to Explore the New Candidate Active Component and Mechanism of Cuscutae Semen-Mori Fructus Coupled-Herbs in Treating Oligoasthenozoospermia. Drug Des Devel Ther 2021; 15:2059-2089. [PMID: 34040346 PMCID: PMC8139735 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s307015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE One of the most common types of male infertility is recognized as oligoasthenozoospermia (OA), characterized by low sperm count and quality in males. As a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Cuscutae Semen-Mori Fructus coupled-herbs (CSMFCH) has been known to act a curative effect on OA for thousands of years. Nevertheless, the substantial basis and molecular mechanism of CSMFCH in treating OA remain elusive. METHODS Herein, an integrated approach, including network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experiment validation, was utilized to reveal the new candidate active component and mechanism of CSMFCH in treating OA. RESULTS The results show that kaempferol is the most significant bioactive component of CSMFCH on OA. The mechanism and targets of CSMFCH against OA are relevant to hormone regulation, oxidant stress, and reproductive promotion. In order to validate network pharmacology results, molecular docking and experiment validation were conducted. In detail, molecular docking was employed to verify the strong binding interactions between kaempferol and the core targets. UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS was used to identify kaempferol in the CSMFCH extract. In vitro and in vivo experiments further proved CSMFCH and kaempferol could enhance the mouse Leydig (TM3) and mouse Sertoli (TM4) cell viability, improve the male reproductive organ weights, sperm quality, and decrease testis tissue damage in the OA mouse model induced by CP. CONCLUSION Our results not only identify the new candidate active component of CSMFCH in treating OA but also provide new insights into the mechanisms of CSMFCH against OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Bai
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yibo Tang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiang Li
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Guimin Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaolei Fan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhejun Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shujun Yu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Tian Tang
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shuyan Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lingru Li
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kailin Zhou
- School of Humanities, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yanfei Zheng
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhenquan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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21
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RNA-sequencing and bioinformatics analysis of long noncoding RNAs and mRNAs in the asthenozoospermia. Biosci Rep 2021; 40:225687. [PMID: 32614449 PMCID: PMC7364483 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20194041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthenozoospermia is one of the major causes of human male infertility. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical roles in the spermatogenesis processes. The present study aims to investigate the intricate regulatory network associated with asthenozoospermia. The lncRNAs expression profile was analyzed in the asthenozoospermia seminal plasma exosomes by RNA-sequencing, and the functions of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway and DO (Disease Ontology) enrichment analyses. Pearson’s correlation test was utilized to calculate the correlation coefficients between lncRNA and mRNAs. Moreover, the lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA co-expression network was constructed with bioinformatics. From the co-expression analyses, we identified the cis regulated correlation pairs lncRNA–mRNA. To confirm sequencing results with five of the identified DElncRNAs were verified with quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). We identified 4228 significantly DEGs, 995 known DElncRNAs, 2338 DEmRNAs and 11,706 novel DElncRNAs between asthenozoospermia and normal group. GO and KEGG analyses showed that the DEGs were mainly associated with metabolism, transcription, ribosome and channel activity. We found 254,981 positive correlations lncRNA–mRNA pairs through correlation analysis. The detailed lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA regulatory network included 11 lncRNAs, 35 miRNAs and 59 mRNAs. From the co-expression analyses, we identified 7 cis-regulated correlation pairs lncRNA–mRNA. Additionally, the qRT-PCR analysis confirmed our sequencing results. Our study constructed the lncRNA–mRNA–miRNA regulation networks in asthenozoospermia. Therefore, the study findings provide a set of pivotal lncRNAs for future investigation into the molecular mechanisms of asthenozoospermia.
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22
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Sperm Global DNA Methylation (SGDM) in Semen of Healthy Dogs. Vet Sci 2021; 8:vetsci8030050. [PMID: 33802963 PMCID: PMC8002840 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci8030050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is an emerging problem in both humans and animals, and the knowledge of its causes is the first step to identifying new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. In humans, alteration of sperm DNA methylation have been related to poor quality semen, impaired seminal parameters, azoospermia and reduced fertility. Although semen analysis is routinely used to evaluate the male reproductive potential in the canine species, no authors have attempted to relate semen characteristics to the sperm global DNA methylation (SGDM). The aim of this study was to evaluate the SGDM level in healthy dogs and to correlate it with semen parameters that are currently used in dog semen analyses. Conventional and unconventional (sperm DNA fragmentation and SGDM) seminal parameters of thirty dogs from different breeds were evaluated. A positive correlation was found between SGDM and sperm concentration (r = 0.41; p < 0.05), and total sperm count (r = 0.61; p < 0.001); SGDM was significantly lower in oligozoospermic vs non-oligozoospermic dogs (4.3% vs. 8.7%; p < 0.005). Our findings suggest that SGDM levels are related to conventional seminal parameters, and could be used as a marker of testis function and spermatogenesis in dogs.
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23
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Bai X, Tang Y, Li Q, Chen Y, Liu D, Liu G, Fan X, Ma R, Wang S, Li L, Zhou K, Zheng Y, Liu Z. Network pharmacology integrated molecular docking reveals the bioactive components and potential targets of Morinda officinalis-Lycium barbarum coupled-herbs against oligoasthenozoospermia. Sci Rep 2021; 11:2220. [PMID: 33500463 PMCID: PMC7838196 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-80780-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Oligoasthenozoospermia (OA) is one of the most common types of male infertility affecting sperm count and sperm motility. Unfortunately, it is difficult for existing drugs to fundamentally improve the sperm quality of OA patients, because the pathological mechanism of OA has not been fully elucidated yet. Morinda officinalis-Lycium barbarum coupled-herbs (MOLBCH), as traditional Chinese Medicines, has been widely used for treating OA over thousands of years, but its molecular mechanism is still unclear. For this purpose, we adopted a comprehensive approach integrated network pharmacology and molecular docking to reveal the bioactive components and potential targets of MOLBCH against OA. The results showed that MOLBCH alleviated apoptosis, promoted male reproductive function, and reduced oxidant stress in the treatment of OA. Ohioensin-A, quercetin, beta-sitosterol and sitosterol were the key bioactive components. Androgen receptor (AR), Estrogen receptor (ESR1), Mitogen-activated protein kinase 3 (MAPK3), RAC-alpha serine/threonine-protein kinase (AKT1), Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) were the core potential targets. PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, prostate cancer, AGE-RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications were the most representative pathways. Moreover, molecular docking was performed to validate the strong binding interactions between the obtained core components and targets. These observations provide deeper insight into the pathogenesis of OA and can be used to design new drugs and develop new therapeutic instructions to treat OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Bai
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yibo Tang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Qiang Li
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yafei Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Dan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Guimin Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Xiaolei Fan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Ru Ma
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Shuyan Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Lingru Li
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Kailin Zhou
- School of Humanities, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yanfei Zheng
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Zhenquan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
- National Institute of TCM Constitution and Preventive Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, 100029, China.
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24
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Oluwayiose OA, Josyula S, Houle E, Marcho C, Brian W Whitcomb, Rahil T, Sites CK, Pilsner JR. Association between sperm mitochondarial DNA copy number and nuclear DNA methylation. Epigenomics 2020; 12:2141-2153. [PMID: 33320694 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2020-0253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Accumulating evidence associates sperm mitochondria DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) with male infertility and reproductive success. However, the mechanism underlying mtDNAcn variation is largely unknown. Patients & methods: Sperm mtDNAcn and genome-wide DNA methylation were assessed using triplex probe-based quantitative PCR and Illumina's 450K array, respectively. Multivariable models assessed the association between sperm mtDNAcn and DNA methylation profiles of 47 men seeking infertility treatment. Results: A priori candidate-gene approach showed sperm mtDNAcn was associated with 16 CpGs located at/near POLG and TWNK genes. Unbiased genome-wide analysis revealed that sperm mtDNAcn was associated with 218 sperm differentially methylated regions (q < 0.05), which displayed predominantly (94%) increases in methylation. Conclusion: Findings suggest that DNA methylation may play a role in regulating sperm mtDNAcn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oladele A Oluwayiose
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health & Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 686 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Srinihaari Josyula
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health & Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 686 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Emily Houle
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health & Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 686 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Chelsea Marcho
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health & Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 686 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
| | - Brian W Whitcomb
- Department of Biostatistics & Epidemiology, School of Public Health & Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 715 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01002, USA
| | - Tayyab Rahil
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Baystate Medical Center, 759 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA 01199, USA
| | - Cynthia K Sites
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Baystate Medical Center, 759 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA 01199, USA
| | - J Richard Pilsner
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health & Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, 686 North Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
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25
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Saki J, Sabaghan M, Arjmand R, Teimoori A, Rashno M, Saki G, Shojaee S. Curcumin as an indirect methylation inhibitor modulates the effects of Toxoplasma gondii on genes involved in male fertility. EXCLI JOURNAL 2020; 19:1196-1207. [PMID: 33013270 PMCID: PMC7527515 DOI: 10.17179/excli2020-2052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a common protozoan parasite, which infects warm-blooded mammals, including mice and humans, throughout the world. The negative effects of T. gondii infection on the human reproductive system have been documented, especially in females. However, only few studies have examined the effects of T. gondii infection on the male reproductive system. Previous research shows that T. gondii can induce DNA methylation in some gene promoters, which are key regulators of spermatogenesis. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of curcumin on the activity of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs), as well as selected genes, involved in spermatogenesis in spermatogenic cells. In the spermatogenic cells exposed to T. gondii, there was a significant increase in DNMT1 and DNMT3A gene expression and a significant reduction in HSPA1A, MTHR, and DAZL gene expression, compared to the controls. The present results showed that curcumin could regulate changes in T. gondii-mediated gene expression. The effect of T. gondii on DNMT activity was also investigated in this study. A 40 % increase in DNMT activity was observed due to T. gondii infection. However, DNMT activity was restored by treatment with 20 μM curcumin for eight hours. The results revealed that T. gondii increases the NF-κB activity, compared to the control group. The increase in NF-κB activity, induced by T. gondii, was inhibited by curcumin. In conclusion, T. gondii, by increasing DNMT expression and activity, leads to an increase in NF-κB activity in cells. On the other hand, curcumin reduced DNA methylation, induced by T. gondii, owing to its NF-κB-inhibiting properties. Therefore, curcumin, as a hypomethylating agent, can be potentially used to alleviate the negative effects of T. gondii on the male reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasem Saki
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mohamad Sabaghan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Reza Arjmand
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Ali Teimoori
- Virology Department, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Rashno
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Ghasem Saki
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.,Physiology Research Center, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Saeedeh Shojaee
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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26
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Marcho C, Oluwayiose OA, Pilsner JR. The preconception environment and sperm epigenetics. Andrology 2020; 8:924-942. [PMID: 31901222 PMCID: PMC7346722 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility is a common reproductive disorder, with male factor infertility accounting for approximately half of all cases. Taking a paternal perceptive, recent research has shown that sperm epigenetics, such as changes in DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin structure, and noncoding RNA expression, can impact reproductive and offspring health. Importantly, environmental conditions during the preconception period has been demonstrated to shape sperm epigenetics. OBJECTIVES To provide an overview on epigenetic modifications that regulate normal gene expression and epigenetic remodeling that occurs during spermatogenesis, and to discuss the epigenetic alterations that may occur to the paternal germline as a consequence of preconception environmental conditions and exposures. MATERIALS AND METHODS We examined published literature available on databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect) focusing on adult male preconception environmental exposures and sperm epigenetics in epidemiologic studies and animal models. RESULTS The preconception period is a sensitive developmental window in which a variety of exposures such as toxicants, nutrition, drugs, stress, and exercise, affects sperm epigenetics. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Understanding the environmental legacy of the sperm epigenome during spermatogenesis will enhance our understanding of reproductive health and improve reproductive success and offspring well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - J. Richard Pilsner
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts
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27
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Kumaresan A, Das Gupta M, Datta TK, Morrell JM. Sperm DNA Integrity and Male Fertility in Farm Animals: A Review. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:321. [PMID: 32637425 PMCID: PMC7317013 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The accurate prediction of male fertility is of major economic importance in the animal breeding industry. However, the results of conventional semen analysis do not always correlate with field fertility outcomes. There is evidence to indicate that mammalian fertilization and subsequent embryo development depend, in part, on the inherent integrity of the sperm DNA. Understanding the complex packaging of mammalian sperm chromatin and assessment of DNA integrity could potentially provide a benchmark in clinical infertility. In the era of assisted reproduction, especially when in-vitro fertilization or gamete intrafallopian transfer or intracytoplasmic sperm injection is used, assessment of sperm DNA integrity is important because spermatozoa are not subjected to the selection process occurring naturally in the female reproductive tract. Although sperm DNA integrity testing measures a significant biological parameter, its precise role in the infertility evaluation in farm animals remains unclear. In this review, the earlier findings on sperm DNA integrity in relation to male fertility are compiled and analyzed. Furthermore, the causes and consequences of sperm DNA damage are described, together with a review of advances in methods for detection of sperm DNA damage, and the prognostic value of sperm DNA quality on male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arumugam Kumaresan
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Southern Regional Station of National Dairy Research Institute (ICAR), Bengaluru, India
| | - Mohua Das Gupta
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Southern Regional Station of National Dairy Research Institute (ICAR), Bengaluru, India
| | - Tirtha Kumar Datta
- Animal Genomics Laboratory, National Dairy Research Institute (ICAR), Karnal, India
| | - Jane M. Morrell
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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28
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Leitão E, Di Persio S, Laurentino S, Wöste M, Dugas M, Kliesch S, Neuhaus N, Horsthemke B. The sperm epigenome does not display recurrent epimutations in patients with severely impaired spermatogenesis. Clin Epigenetics 2020; 12:61. [PMID: 32375885 PMCID: PMC7204326 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-020-00854-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the past 15 years, numerous studies have described aberrant DNA methylation of imprinted genes (e.g. MEST and H19) in sperm of oligozoospermic men, but the prevalence and genomic extent of abnormal methylation patterns have remained unknown. RESULTS Using deep bisulfite sequencing (DBS), we screened swim-up sperm samples from 40 normozoospermic and 93 patients diagnosed as oligoasthenoteratozoospermic, oligoteratozoospermic or oligozoospermic, which are termed OATs throughout the manuscript, for H19 and MEST methylation. Based on this screening, we defined three patient groups: normal controls (NC), abnormally methylated oligozoospermic (AMO; n = 7) and normally methylated oligozoospermic (NMO; n = 86). Whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) of five NC and five AMO samples revealed abnormal methylation levels of all 50 imprinting control regions in each AMO sample. To investigate whether this finding reflected epigenetic germline mosaicism or the presence of residual somatic DNA, we made a genome-wide inventory of soma-germ cell-specific DNA methylation. We found that > 2000 germ cell-specific genes are promoter-methylated in blood and that AMO samples had abnormal methylation levels at these genes, consistent with the presence of somatic cell DNA. The comparison between the five NC and six NMO samples revealed 19 differentially methylated regions (DMRs), none of which could be validated in an independent cohort of 40 men. Previous studies reported a higher incidence of epimutations at single CpG sites in the CTCF-binding region 6 of H19 in infertile patients. DBS analysis of this locus, however, revealed an association between DNA methylation levels and genotype (rs2071094), but not fertility phenotype. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that somatic DNA contamination and genetic variation confound methylation studies in sperm of infertile men. While we cannot exclude the existence of rare patients with slightly abnormal sperm methylation at non-recurrent CpG sites, the prevalence of aberrant methylation in swim-up purified sperm of infertile men has likely been overestimated, which is reassuring for patients undergoing assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsa Leitão
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Sara Di Persio
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sandra Laurentino
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Marius Wöste
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Martin Dugas
- Institute of Medical Informatics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Nina Neuhaus
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany.
| | - Bernhard Horsthemke
- Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany.,Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
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29
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Sujit KM, Singh V, Trivedi S, Singh K, Gupta G, Rajender S. Increased DNA methylation in the spermatogenesis-associated (SPATA) genes correlates with infertility. Andrology 2020; 8:602-609. [PMID: 31838782 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenesis-associated (SPATA) family of genes plays important roles in spermatogenesis, sperm maturation or fertilization. The knockout studies in mice have demonstrated that SPATA genes are crucial for fertility. Gene expression and genetic polymorphism studies have further suggested their correlation with infertility; however, methylation analysis of SPATA genes in human male infertility has not yet been undertaken. OBJECTIVES To analyze the methylation status of SPATA4, SPATA5 and SPATA6 genes in oligozoospermic male infertility. MATERIALS AND METHODS In the present study, we have analyzed DNA methylation pattern in the promoter regions of SPATA4, SPATA5 and SPATA6 genes in oligozoospermic patients and compared it with normozoospermic fertile controls. Semen samples were obtained from 30 oligozoospermic infertile and 19 normozoospermic fertile controls, and DNA methylation levels of the target gene promoters were analyzed by amplicon based deep sequencing methylation analysis using MiSeq. RESULTS SPATA4 (P < 0.0008), SPATA5 (P = 0.009) and SPATA6 (Promoter, P < 0.0005; Exon 1, P = 0.0128) genes were significantly hypermethylated in oligozoospermic patients in comparison to controls. This is the first study reporting a higher methylation in the promoters of SPATA4, SPATA5 and SPATA6 in oligozoospermic infertile individuals in comparison to the normozoospermic fertile controls. DISCUSSION Altered methylation of SPATA genes would affect pathways involved in sperm production or affect various processes linked to sperm fertility. CONCLUSION In conclusion, hypermethylation in the SPATA4, SPATA5 and SPATA6 genes correlates with oligozoospermic infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vertika Singh
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Sameer Trivedi
- Department of Urology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Kiran Singh
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Gopal Gupta
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Singh Rajender
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
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30
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Capra E, Lazzari B, Turri F, Cremonesi P, Portela AMR, Ajmone-Marsan P, Stella A, Pizzi F. Epigenetic analysis of high and low motile sperm populations reveals methylation variation in satellite regions within the pericentromeric position and in genes functionally related to sperm DNA organization and maintenance in Bos taurus. BMC Genomics 2019; 20:940. [PMID: 31810461 PMCID: PMC6898967 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-019-6317-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sperm epigenetics is an emerging area of study supported by observations reporting that abnormal sperm DNA methylation patterns are associated with infertility. Here, we explore cytosine-guanine dinucleotides (CpGs) methylation in high (HM) and low motile (LM) Bos taurus sperm populations separated by Percoll gradient. HM and LM methylation patterns were investigated by bisulfite sequencing. Results Comparison between HM and LM sperm populations revealed that methylation variation affects genes involved in chromatin organization. CpG Islands (CGIs), were highly remodelled. A high proportion of CGIs was found to be methylated at low/intermediate level (20–60%) and associated to the repetitive element BTSAT4 satellite. The low/intermediate level of methylation in BTSAT4 was stably maintained in pericentric regions of chromosomes. BTSAT4 was hypomethylated in HM sperm populations. Conclusions The characterization of the epigenome in HM and LM Bos taurus sperm populations provides a first step towards the understanding of the effect of methylation on sperm fertility. Methylation variation observed in HM and LM populations in genes associated to DNA structure remodelling as well as in a repetitive element in pericentric regions suggests that maintenance of chromosome structure through epigenetic regulation is probably crucial for correct sperm functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele Capra
- Istituto di Biologia e Biotecnologia Agraria, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, via Einstein, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Barbara Lazzari
- Istituto di Biologia e Biotecnologia Agraria, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, via Einstein, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Federica Turri
- Istituto di Biologia e Biotecnologia Agraria, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, via Einstein, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Paola Cremonesi
- Istituto di Biologia e Biotecnologia Agraria, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, via Einstein, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Ajmone-Marsan
- Department of Animal Science, Food and Nutrition - DIANA, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy.,Proteomics and Nutrigenomics Research Center - PRONUTRIGEN, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Alessandra Stella
- Istituto di Biologia e Biotecnologia Agraria, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, via Einstein, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Flavia Pizzi
- Istituto di Biologia e Biotecnologia Agraria, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, via Einstein, 26900, Lodi, Italy.
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31
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Chan D, Shao X, Dumargne MC, Aarabi M, Simon MM, Kwan T, Bailey JL, Robaire B, Kimmins S, San Gabriel MC, Zini A, Librach C, Moskovtsev S, Grundberg E, Bourque G, Pastinen T, Trasler JM. Customized MethylC-Capture Sequencing to Evaluate Variation in the Human Sperm DNA Methylome Representative of Altered Folate Metabolism. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2019; 127:87002. [PMID: 31393794 PMCID: PMC6792365 DOI: 10.1289/ehp4812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The sperm DNA methylation landscape is unique and critical for offspring health. If gamete-derived DNA methylation escapes reprograming in early embryos, epigenetic defects in sperm may be transmitted to the next generation. Current techniques to assess sperm DNA methylation show bias toward CpG-dense regions and do not target areas of dynamic methylation, those predicted to be environmentally sensitive and tunable regulatory elements. OBJECTIVES Our goal was to assess variation in human sperm DNA methylation and design a targeted capture panel to interrogate the human sperm methylome. METHODS To characterize variation in sperm DNA methylation, we performed whole genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) on an equimolar pool of sperm DNA from a wide cross section of 30 men varying in age, fertility status, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) genotype, and exposures. With our targeted capture panel, in individual samples, we examined the effect of MTHFR genotype ([Formula: see text] 677CC, [Formula: see text] 677TT), as well as high-dose folic acid supplementation ([Formula: see text], per genotype, before and after supplementation). RESULTS Through WGBS we discovered nearly 1 million CpGs possessing intermediate methylation levels (20-80%), termed dynamic sperm CpGs. These dynamic CpGs, along with 2 million commonly assessed CpGs, were used to customize a capture panel for targeted interrogation of the human sperm methylome and test its ability to detect effects of altered folate metabolism. As compared with MTHFR 677CC men, those with the 677TT genotype (50% decreased MTHFR activity) had both hyper- and hypomethylation in their sperm. High-dose folic acid supplement treatment exacerbated hypomethylation in MTHFR 677TT men compared with 677CC. In both cases, [Formula: see text] of altered methylation was found in dynamic sperm CpGs, uniquely measured by our assay. DISCUSSION Our sperm panel allowed the discovery of differential methylation following conditions affecting folate metabolism in novel dynamic sperm CpGs. Improved ability to examine variation in sperm DNA methylation can facilitate comprehensive studies of environment-epigenome interactions. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP4812.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donovan Chan
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Xiaojian Shao
- Canadian Centre for Computational Genomics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marie-Charlotte Dumargne
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Animal Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mahmoud Aarabi
- Medical Genetics & Genomics Laboratories, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) Magee-Womens Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Tony Kwan
- McGill University and Génome Québec Innovation Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Janice L. Bailey
- Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Faculté des sciences de l’agriculture et de l’alimentation, Quebec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Bernard Robaire
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Sarah Kimmins
- Department of Animal Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Maria C. San Gabriel
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Armand Zini
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Clifford Librach
- Canadian Reproductive Assisted Technology (CReATe) Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sergey Moskovtsev
- Canadian Reproductive Assisted Technology (CReATe) Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elin Grundberg
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Center for Pediatric Genomic Medicine, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Guillaume Bourque
- Canadian Centre for Computational Genomics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Tomi Pastinen
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Center for Pediatric Genomic Medicine, Children’s Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, Missouri, USA
| | - Jacquetta M. Trasler
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Choufani S, Turinsky AL, Melamed N, Greenblatt E, Brudno M, Bérard A, Fraser WD, Weksberg R, Trasler J, Monnier P. Impact of assisted reproduction, infertility, sex and paternal factors on the placental DNA methylome. Hum Mol Genet 2019; 28:372-385. [PMID: 30239726 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddy321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Children conceived using Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) have a higher incidence of growth and birth defects, attributable in part to epigenetic perturbations. Both ART and germline defects associated with parental infertility could interfere with epigenetic reprogramming events in germ cells or early embryos. Mouse models indicate that the placenta is more susceptible to the induction of epigenetic abnormalities than the embryo, and thus the placental methylome may provide a sensitive indicator of 'at risk' conceptuses. Our goal was to use genome-wide profiling to examine the extent of epigenetic abnormalities in matched placentas from an ART/infertility group and control singleton pregnancies (n = 44/group) from a human prospective longitudinal birth cohort, the Design, Develop, Discover (3D) Study. Principal component analysis revealed a group of ART outliers. The ART outlier group was enriched for females and a subset of placentas showing loss of methylation of several imprinted genes including GNAS, SGCE, KCNQT1OT1 and BLCAP/NNAT. Within the ART group, placentas from pregnancies conceived with in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) showed distinct epigenetic profiles as compared to those conceived with less invasive procedures (ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination). Male factor infertility and paternal age further differentiated the IVF/ICSI group, suggesting an interaction of infertility and techniques in perturbing the placental epigenome. Together, the results suggest that the human placenta is sensitive to the induction of epigenetic defects by ART and/or infertility, and we stress the importance of considering both sex and paternal factors and that some but not all ART conceptuses will be susceptible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaa Choufani
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrei L Turinsky
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Centre for Computational Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nir Melamed
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ellen Greenblatt
- Mount Sinai Centre for Fertility and Reproductive Health, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael Brudno
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Centre for Computational Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anick Bérard
- Research Unit on Medications and Pregnancy, Research Centre, CHU Sainte-Justine, and Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - William D Fraser
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Sherbrooke and Centre de Recherche du CHUS, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Rosanna Weksberg
- Genetics and Genome Biology Program, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Clinical and Metabolic Genetics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics and Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jacquetta Trasler
- Departments of Pediatrics, Human Genetics and Pharmacology & Therapeutics, and The Montreal Children's Hospital and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre
| | - Patricia Monnier
- MUHC Reproductive Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Royal Victoria Hospital and Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Quebec, Canada
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Potabattula R, Dittrich M, Schorsch M, Hahn T, Haaf T, El Hajj N. Male obesity effects on sperm and next-generation cord blood DNA methylation. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0218615. [PMID: 31246962 PMCID: PMC6597061 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0218615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of metabolic disorders, in particular obesity has dramatically increased worldwide. Genetic variants explain only a minor part of the obesity epidemic induced by physical inactivity and over-nutrition. Epidemiological studies in humans and animal models indicate that epigenetic changes associated with adverse parental and/or intrauterine factors may contribute to the missing heritability of metabolic disorders. Possible adverse paternal effects are likely transmitted by sperm to the next-generation. To investigate this hypothesis, we have systematically analyzed the effects of male body mass index (BMI) on sperm epigenome and its association with next-generation fetal cord blood (FCB) DNA methylation. Methylation levels of maternally imprinted (PEG1, PEG4, PEG5, and PEG10), paternally imprinted (H19-IG DMR, IGF2-DMR0, and MEG3-IG DMR) regions, and obesity-related non-imprinted HIF3A gene were quantified by bisulphite pyrosequencing in sperm samples of 294 human donors undergoing in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection, and in 113 FCBs of the resulting offspring. Multivariable regression analyses revealed that MEG3 intergenic differentially methylated region (IG DMR) showed positive correlation between sperm methylation and donor’s BMI. A gender-specific correlation between paternal BMI and FCB methylation was observed for MEG3-IG DMR, HIF3A, and IGF2-DMR0. The former two genes displayed same directional nominal association (as sperm) between paternal BMI and FCB methylation in male offspring. Hypomethylation of IGF2-DMR0 with increased paternal BMI was observed in FCBs from female offsprings. Our results suggest that male obesity is nominally associated with modification of sperm DNA methylome in humans, which may affect the epigenome of the next-generation. Nevertheless, it is important to note that none of the associated p-values survived multiple testing adjustments. Future work should test the effect of associated methylation aberrations in the offspring as DNA methylation was shown to control expression and/or imprint establishment across the studied genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramya Potabattula
- Institute of Human Genetics, Julius Maximilians University, Würzburg, Germany
- * E-mail: (RP); , (NEH)
| | - Marcus Dittrich
- Institute of Human Genetics, Julius Maximilians University, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | | | - Thomas Haaf
- Institute of Human Genetics, Julius Maximilians University, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nady El Hajj
- Institute of Human Genetics, Julius Maximilians University, Würzburg, Germany
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Education City, Doha, Qatar
- * E-mail: (RP); , (NEH)
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34
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Wang X, Kadarmideen HN. An Epigenome-Wide DNA Methylation Map of Testis in Pigs for Study of Complex Traits. Front Genet 2019; 10:405. [PMID: 31114612 PMCID: PMC6502962 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Epigenetic changes are important for understanding complex trait variation and inheritance in pigs that are also a valuable biomedical model for human health research. Testis is the main organ for reproduction and boar taint in pigs; however, there have been no studies to-date on adult pig testis epigenome. The main objective of this study was to establish a genome-wide DNA methylation map of pig testis that would help identify candidate epigenetic biomarkers and methylated genes for complex traits such as male reproduction, fertility or boar taint. Reduced Representation Bisulfite Sequencing (RRBS) was used to study methylation levels of cytosine in nine pig testis samples. The results showed that genome-wide methylation status of nine samples overlapped greatly and their variation among pigs were low. The methylation levels of promoter, exon, intron, cytosine and guanine dinucleotide (CpG) islands and CpG island shores regions were 0.15, 0.47, 0.55, 0.39, and 0.53, respectively. Cytosines binding to CpG islands showed different methylation levels between exon and intron regions. All methylation levels of CpG islands were lower than CpG island shores in different genic features. The distribution of 12,738 differentially methylated cytosines (DMCs) within CpG islands, CpG island shores and other regions was 36.86, 21.65, and 41.49%, respectively, and was 0.33, 1.71, 5.95, and 92.01% in promoter, exon, intron and intergenic regions, respectively. Methylation levels of DMCs in promoter, exon and intron regions were significantly different between CpG islands and CpG island shores (P < 0.05). A total of 898 genes with 2089 DMCs were enriched in 112 Gene Ontology (GO) terms. Fifteen methylated genes from our study were associated with fertility or boar taint traits. Our analysis revealed the methylation patterns in different genic features and CpG island regions of testis in pigs, and summarized several candidate genes associated with DMCs and the involved GO terms. These findings are helpful to understand the relationship between DNA methylation and genic CpG islands, to provide candidate epigenetic regions or biomarkers for pig production and welfare and for translational epigenomic studies that use pigs as an animal model for human research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Wang
- Quantitative Genomics, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Group, Department of Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Haja N Kadarmideen
- Quantitative Genomics, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Group, Department of Applied Mathematics and Computer Science, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
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35
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Darbandi M, Darbandi S, Agarwal A, Baskaran S, Dutta S, Sengupta P, Khorram Khorshid HR, Esteves S, Gilany K, Hedayati M, Nobakht F, Akhondi MM, Lakpour N, Sadeghi MR. Reactive oxygen species-induced alterations in H19-Igf2 methylation patterns, seminal plasma metabolites, and semen quality. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:241-253. [PMID: 30382470 PMCID: PMC6420547 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1350-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study was conducted in order to investigate the effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels on the seminal plasma (SP) metabolite milieu and sperm dysfunction. METHODS Semen specimens of 151 normozoospermic men were analyzed for ROS by chemiluminescence and classified according to seminal ROS levels [in relative light units (RLU)/s/106 sperm]: group 1 (n = 39): low (ROS < 20), group 2 (n = 38): mild (20 ≤ ROS < 40), group 3 (n = 31): moderate (40 ≤ ROS < 60), and group 4 (n = 43): high (ROS ≥ 60). A comprehensive analysis of SP and semen parameters, including conventional semen characteristics, measurement of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI), chromatin maturation index (CMI), H19-Igf2 methylation status, and untargeted seminal metabolic profiling using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-NMR), was carried out. RESULT(S) The methylation status of H19 and Igf2 was significantly different in specimens with high ROS (P < 0.005). Metabolic fingerprinting of these SP samples showed upregulation of trimethylamine N-oxide (P < 0.001) and downregulations of tryptophan (P < 0.05) and tyrosine/tyrosol (P < 0.01). High ROS significantly reduced total sperm motility (P < 0.05), sperm concentration (P < 0.001), and seminal TAC (P < 0.001) but increased CMI and DFI (P < 0.005). ROS levels have a positive correlation with Igf2 methylation (r = 0.19, P < 0.05), DFI (r = 0.40, P < 0.001), CMI (r = 0.39, P < 0.001), and trimethylamine N-oxide (r = 0.45, P < 0.05) and a negative correlation with H19 methylation (r = - 0.20, P < 0.05), tryptophan (r = - 0.45, P < 0.05), sperm motility (r = - 0.20, P < 0.05), sperm viability (r = - 0.23, P < 0.01), and sperm concentration (r = - 0.30, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION(S) Results showed significant correlation between ROS levels and H19-Igf2 gene methylation as well as semen parameters. These findings are critical to identify idiopathic male infertility and its management through assisted reproduction technology (ART).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Darbandi
- Department of Embryology and Andrology, Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, 1936773493, Iran
| | - Sara Darbandi
- Department of Embryology and Andrology, Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, 1936773493, Iran
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Saradha Baskaran
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Sulagna Dutta
- Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, 42610, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, MAHSA University, 42610, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Hamid Reza Khorram Khorshid
- Genetics Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, 1985713834, Iran
| | - Sandro Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, 13075-460, Brazil
| | - Kambiz Gilany
- Department of Embryology and Andrology, Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, 1936773493, Iran
| | - Mehdi Hedayati
- Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University for Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1985717413, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Nobakht
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Nishabur, 9314634814, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Akhondi
- Monoclonal Antibody Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute (ARI), ACECR, Shahid Beheshti University, Evin, Tehran, 1936773493, Iran
| | - Niknam Lakpour
- Department of Embryology and Andrology, Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, 1936773493, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Sadeghi
- Monoclonal Antibody Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute (ARI), ACECR, Shahid Beheshti University, Evin, Tehran, 1936773493, Iran.
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Aarabi M, Christensen KE, Chan D, Leclerc D, Landry M, Ly L, Rozen R, Trasler J. Testicular MTHFR deficiency may explain sperm DNA hypomethylation associated with high dose folic acid supplementation. Hum Mol Genet 2019; 27:1123-1135. [PMID: 29360980 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddy021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Supplementation with high doses of folic acid, an important mediator of one-carbon transfers for DNA methylation, is used clinically to improve sperm parameters in infertile men. We recently detected an unexpected loss of DNA methylation in the sperm of idiopathic infertile men after 6 months of daily supplementation with 5 mg folic acid (>10× the daily recommended intake-DRI), exacerbated in men homozygous for a common variant in the gene encoding an important enzyme in folate metabolism, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR 677C>T). To investigate the epigenomic impact and mechanism underlying effects of folic acid on male germ cells, wild-type and heterozygote mice for a targeted inactivation of the Mthfr gene were fed high-dose folic acid (10× the DRI) or control diets (CDs) for 6 months. No changes were detected in general health, sperm counts or methylation of imprinted genes. Reduced representation bisulfite sequencing revealed sperm DNA hypomethylation in Mthfr+/- mice on the 10× diets. Wild-type mice demonstrated sperm hypomethylation only with a very high dose (20×) of folic acid for 12 months. Testicular MTHFR protein levels decreased significantly in wild-type mice on the 20× diet but not in those on the 10× diet, suggesting a possible role for MTHFR deficiency in sperm DNA hypomethylation. In-depth analysis of the folic acid-exposed sperm DNA methylome suggested mouse/human susceptibility of sequences with potential importance to germ cell and embryo development. Our data provide evidence for a similar cross-species response to high dose folic acid supplementation, of sperm DNA hypomethylation, and implicate MTHFR downregulation as a possible mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Aarabi
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada.,Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Karen E Christensen
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Donovan Chan
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Daniel Leclerc
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Mylène Landry
- Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Lundi Ly
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada.,Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Rima Rozen
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada.,Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Jacquetta Trasler
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada.,Child Health and Human Development Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
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Tang Q, Pan F, Yang J, Fu Z, Lu Y, Wu X, Han X, Chen M, Lu C, Xia Y, Wang X, Wu W. Idiopathic male infertility is strongly associated with aberrant DNA methylation of imprinted loci in sperm: a case-control study. Clin Epigenetics 2018; 10:134. [PMID: 30373665 PMCID: PMC6206675 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-018-0568-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male infertility is a complex disease caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Abnormal epigenetic programming has been proposed as a possible mechanism compromising male fertility. Recent studies suggest that aberrant imprinting in spermatozoa in a subset of infertile men is a risk factor for congenital diseases in children conceived via assisted reproduction techniques. In this study, we examined the DNA methylation status of CpG sites within the differentially methylated regions (DMRs) of three imprinted genes, H19, GNAS, and DIRAS3, using combined bisulfite PCR restriction analysis and bisulfite sequencing in sperm obtained from 135 men with idiopathic male infertility, including normozoospermia (n = 39), moderate oligozoospermia (n = 45), and severe oligozoospermia (n = 51), and fertile controls (n = 59). The percentage of global methylation was compared between fertile controls and infertile patients displaying abnormal DNA methylation status of imprinted loci. Moreover, we also analyzed whether the DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) polymorphisms impact upon the methylation patterns of imprinted genes in idiopathic infertile males. RESULTS Aberrant methylation patterns of imprinted genes were more prevalent in idiopathic infertile males, especially in patients with oligozoospermia. Infertile males with aberrant methylation patterns of imprinted genes displayed a tendency of lower global methylation levels, although not reaching statistical significance (P = 0.13). In the genotype-epigenotype correlation analysis, no significant association was observed between aberrant methylation patterns of the three imprinted genes and genotypes of the four DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) genes. CONCLUSION We conclude that abnormalities of DMR within imprinted genes may be associated with idiopathic male infertility. Disruption in methylation pattern of the three imprinted genes does not occur in high-risk genotypes of DNMTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuqin Tang
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Pan
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211166, China.,Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ziqiang Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211166, China.,Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yiwen Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211166, China.,Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xian Wu
- National Toxicology Program Laboratory, Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Xiumei Han
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211166, China.,Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Minjian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211166, China.,Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chuncheng Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211166, China.,Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yankai Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211166, China.,Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinru Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211166, China.,Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Toxicology, Nanjing Medical University, 101 Longmian Avenue, Nanjing, 211166, China. .,Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China. .,Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, USA.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Testicular germ cell tumor such as seminoma is strongly associated with male reproductive problems commonly associated with the alteration of sperm parameters as described in testicular dysgenesis syndrome. Interestingly, numerous studies have reported that the precursor of germ cell cancer, germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS), present similarities to fetal gonocytes, specifically characterized by global DNA hypomethylation particularly on imprinting sequences. These disorders may have a common origin derived from perturbations of embryonal programming during fetal development. Presently, there is no available information concerning the sperm DNA methylation patterns of testicular cancer patients. For the first time, we evaluated the sperm imprinting of seminoma patients. A total of 92 cryopreserved sperm samples were included, 31 before seminoma treatment (S): 23 normozoospermic (SN) and 8 oligozoospermic (SO) and 61 sperm controls samples: 31 normozoospermic (N) and 30 oligozoospermic (O). DNA methylation levels of seven differentially methylated regions (DMRs) of imprinted genes [H19/IGF2: IG-DMR (CTCF3 and CTCF6 of H19 gene); IGF2-DMRs (DMR0 and DMR2); MEG3/DLK1:IG-DMR; SNURF:TSS-DMR; KCNQ1OT1:TSS-DMR] were assessed by pyrosequencing. All comparative analyses were adjusted for age. RESULTS Comparisons of sperm DNA methylation levels between seminoma (S) and normozoospermic (N) samples showed a significant difference for the SNURF sequence (p = 0.017), but after taking into account the sperm parameters, no difference was observed. However, we confirmed a significant association between oligozoospermia (O) and imprinting defects for H19/IGF2-CTCF6 (p = 0.001), MEG3/DLK1 (p = 0.017), IGF2-DMR2 (p = 0.022), and SNURF (p = 0.032) in comparison with control groups (N). CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the high risk of sperm imprinting defects in cases of oligozoospermia and shows for the first time that seminoma patients with normal spermatogenesis present sperm imprinting integrity. These data suggest a low probability of the involvement of a common imprinting defect in fetal cells leading to both TGCT and subfertility.
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Champroux A, Cocquet J, Henry-Berger J, Drevet JR, Kocer A. A Decade of Exploring the Mammalian Sperm Epigenome: Paternal Epigenetic and Transgenerational Inheritance. Front Cell Dev Biol 2018; 6:50. [PMID: 29868581 PMCID: PMC5962689 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2018.00050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The past decade has seen a tremendous increase in interest and progress in the field of sperm epigenetics. Studies have shown that chromatin regulation during male germline development is multiple and complex, and that the spermatozoon possesses a unique epigenome. Its DNA methylation profile, DNA-associated proteins, nucleo-protamine distribution pattern and non-coding RNA set up a unique epigenetic landscape which is delivered, along with its haploid genome, to the oocyte upon fertilization, and therefore can contribute to embryogenesis and to the offspring health. An emerging body of compelling data demonstrates that environmental exposures and paternal lifestyle can change the sperm epigenome and, consequently, may affect both the embryonic developmental program and the health of future generations. This short review will attempt to provide an overview of what is currently known about sperm epigenome and the existence of transgenerational epigenetic inheritance of paternally acquired traits that may contribute to the offspring phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Champroux
- GReD, Laboratoire “Génétique, Reproduction and Développement,” UMR Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique 6293, INSERM U1103, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Julie Cocquet
- INSERM U1016, Institut Cochin, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique UMR8104, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Joëlle Henry-Berger
- GReD, Laboratoire “Génétique, Reproduction and Développement,” UMR Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique 6293, INSERM U1103, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Joël R. Drevet
- GReD, Laboratoire “Génétique, Reproduction and Développement,” UMR Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique 6293, INSERM U1103, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Ayhan Kocer
- GReD, Laboratoire “Génétique, Reproduction and Développement,” UMR Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique 6293, INSERM U1103, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
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40
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Novel biomarker ZCCHC13 revealed by integrating DNA methylation and mRNA expression data in non-obstructive azoospermia. Cell Death Discov 2018. [PMID: 29531833 PMCID: PMC5841273 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-018-0033-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to identify genes regulated by methylation that were involved in spermatogenesis failure in non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA). Testis biopsies of patients with NOA and OA (with normal spermatogenesis) were evaluated by microarray analysis to examine DNA methylation and mRNA expression using our established integrative approach. Of the coordinately hypermethylated and down-regulated gene list, zinc-finger CCHC-type containing 13 (ZCCHC13) was present within the nuclei of germ cells of testicular tissues according immunohistochemistry, and there was decreased protein expression in men with NOA compared with OA controls. Mechanistic analyses indicated that ZCCHC13 increased c-MYC expression through the p-AKT and p-ERK pathways. To confirm the changes in ZCCHC13 expression in response to methylation, 5-aza-2′-deoxycitidine (5-Aza), a hypomethylating agent, was administered to mouse spermatogonia GC-1 cells. We demonstrated that 5-Aza enhanced protein and mRNA expression of ZCCHC13 epigenetically, which was accompanied by activation of p-AKT and p-ERK signaling. Our data, for the first time, demonstrate that ZCCHC13 is an important signaling molecule that positively regulates the AKT/MAPK/c-MYC pathway and that methylation aberrations of ZCCHC13 may cause defects in testis development in human disease, such as NOA.
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Chinnasamy T, Kingsley JL, Inci F, Turek PJ, Rosen MP, Behr B, Tüzel E, Demirci U. Guidance and Self-Sorting of Active Swimmers: 3D Periodic Arrays Increase Persistence Length of Human Sperm Selecting for the Fittest. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2018; 5:1700531. [PMID: 29610725 PMCID: PMC5827459 DOI: 10.1002/advs.201700531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Revised: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Male infertility is a reproductive disease, and existing clinical solutions for this condition often involve long and cumbersome sperm sorting methods, including preprocessing and centrifugation-based steps. These methods also fall short when sorting for sperm free of reactive oxygen species, DNA damage, and epigenetic aberrations. Although several microfluidic platforms exist, they suffer from structural complexities, i.e., pumps or chemoattractants, setting insurmountable barriers to clinical adoption. Inspired by the natural filter-like capabilities of the female reproductive tract for sperm selection, a model-driven design, featuring pillar arrays that efficiently and noninvasively isolate highly motile and morphologically normal sperm, with lower epigenetic global methylation, from raw semen, is presented. The Simple Periodic ARray for Trapping And isolatioN (SPARTAN) created here modulates the directional persistence of sperm, increasing the spatial separation between progressive and nonprogressive motile sperm populations within an unprecedentedly short 10 min assay time. With over 99% motility of sorted sperm, a 5-fold improvement in morphology, 3-fold increase in nuclear maturity, and 2-4-fold enhancement in DNA integrity, SPARTAN offers to standardize sperm selection while eliminating operator-to-operator variations, centrifugation, and flow. SPARTAN can also be applied in other areas, including conservation ecology, breeding of farm animals, and design of flagellar microrobots for diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiruppathiraja Chinnasamy
- Bio‐Acoustic MEMS in Medicine (BAMM) LaboratoryCanary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early DetectionDepartment of RadiologyStanford School of MedicineStanford UniversityPalo AltoCA94304USA
| | - James L. Kingsley
- Department of PhysicsWorcester Polytechnic InstituteWorcesterMA01609USA
| | - Fatih Inci
- Bio‐Acoustic MEMS in Medicine (BAMM) LaboratoryCanary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early DetectionDepartment of RadiologyStanford School of MedicineStanford UniversityPalo AltoCA94304USA
| | | | - Mitchell P. Rosen
- Department of OBGYNUniversity of California San Francisco School of MedicineSan FranciscoCA94158USA
| | - Barry Behr
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySchool of MedicineStanford UniversityStanfordCA94305USA
| | - Erkan Tüzel
- Department of PhysicsWorcester Polytechnic InstituteWorcesterMA01609USA
| | - Utkan Demirci
- Bio‐Acoustic MEMS in Medicine (BAMM) LaboratoryCanary Center at Stanford for Cancer Early DetectionDepartment of RadiologyStanford School of MedicineStanford UniversityPalo AltoCA94304USA
- Department of Electrical Engineering (by courtesy)Stanford UniversityStanfordCA94305USA
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42
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Tang L, Liu Z, Zhang R, Su C, Yang W, Yao Y, Zhao S. Imprinting alterations in sperm may not significantly influence ART outcomes and imprinting patterns in the cord blood of offspring. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0187869. [PMID: 29136648 PMCID: PMC5685618 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 10/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
An increase in imprinting disorders in children conceived though assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) has been the subject of several reports. The transmission of imprinting errors from the sperm of infertile fathers is believed to be a possible reason for the increased occurrence of these disorders. However, whether the imprinting alterations in sperm affect ART outcomes and the imprinting of offspring is unclear. In the current study, we analyzed the methylation of H19, SNRPN and KCNQ1OT1 by pyrosequencing sperm samples from 97 infertile patients and 31 proven fertile males as well as cord blood samples from 13 infantswho were conceived by infertile parents through intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and 30 healthy newborns who were conceived naturally. After four cases were excluded owing to the lack of a sequencing signal, the infertile patients were subgrouped into normal (69 cases) and abnormal (24 cases) imprinting groups according to the reference range set by the control group. Between the groups, there were no significant differences in ART outcomes. Significantly different levels of methylation were detected in H19, but none of the imprinted genes were determined to be outside of the methylation reference range set by the values derived from the naturally conceived controls. Three CpG loci were found to be significantly hypomethylated in the maternally imprinted gene KCNQ1OT1 in two patients from the abnormal imprinting group, none of which were caused by sperm imprinting errors. In addition, the paternal H19 gene exhibited discrepant methylation patterns between the sperm controls and the cord blood controls. Our data suggest that increased imprinting errors in the sperm of infertile patients do not have an obvious influence on ART outcomes or the imprinting of offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Tang
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Zichao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Special Biological Resource Development and Utilization of Universities in Yunnan Province, Department of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Ruopeng Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Dali University, Dali, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Cunmei Su
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Wenjuan Yang
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Youlin Yao
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Shuhua Zhao
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics, the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
- Yunnan Population and Family Planning Research Institute, Kunming, China
- * E-mail:
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43
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Bieniek JM, Drabovich AP, Lo KC. Seminal biomarkers for the evaluation of male infertility. Asian J Androl 2017; 18:426-33. [PMID: 26975492 PMCID: PMC4854096 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.175781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
For men struggling to conceive with their partners, diagnostic tools are limited and often consist of only a standard semen analysis. This baseline test serves as a crude estimation of male fertility, leaving patients and clinicians in need of additional diagnostic biomarkers. Seminal fluid contains the highest concentration of molecules from the male reproductive glands, therefore, this review focuses on current and novel seminal biomarkers in certain male infertility scenarios, including natural fertility, differentiating azoospermia etiologies, and predicting assisted reproductive technique success. Currently available tests include antisperm antibody assays, DNA fragmentation index, sperm fluorescence in situ hybridization, and other historical sperm functional tests. The poor diagnostic ability of current assays has led to continued efforts to find more predictive biomarkers. Emerging research in the fields of genomics, epigenetics, proteomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics holds promise for the development of novel male infertility biomarkers. Seminal protein-based assays of TEX101, ECM1, and ACRV1 are already available or under final development for clinical use. Additional panels of DNA, RNA, proteins, or metabolites are being explored as we attempt to understand the pathophysiologic processes of male infertility. Future ventures will need to continue data integration and validation for the development of clinically useful infertility biomarkers to aid in male infertility diagnosis, treatment, and counseling.
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44
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Chan D, McGraw S, Klein K, Wallock LM, Konermann C, Plass C, Chan P, Robaire B, Jacob RA, Greenwood CMT, Trasler JM. Stability of the human sperm DNA methylome to folic acid fortification and short-term supplementation. Hum Reprod 2016; 32:272-283. [PMID: 27994001 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2016] [Revised: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 11/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do short-term and long-term exposures to low-dose folic acid supplementation alter DNA methylation in sperm? SUMMARY ANSWER No alterations in sperm DNA methylation patterns were found following the administration of low-dose folic acid supplements of 400 μg/day for 90 days (short-term exposure) or when pre-fortification of food with folic acid and post-fortification sperm samples (long-term exposure) were compared. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Excess dietary folate may be detrimental to health and DNA methylation profiles due to folate's role in one-carbon metabolism and the formation of S-adenosyl methionine, the universal methyl donor. DNA methylation patterns are established in developing male germ cells and have been suggested to be affected by high-dose (5 mg/day) folic acid supplementation. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This is a control versus treatment study where genome-wide sperm DNA methylation patterns were examined prior to fortification of food (1996-1997) in men with no history of infertility at baseline and following 90-day exposure to placebo (n = 9) or supplement containing 400 μg folic acid/day (n = 10). Additionally, pre-fortification sperm DNA methylation profiles (n = 19) were compared with those of a group of post-fortification (post-2004) men (n = 8) who had been exposed for several years to dietary folic acid fortification. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Blood and seminal plasma folate levels were measured in participants before and following the 90-day treatment with placebo or supplement. Sperm DNA methylation was assessed using the whole-genome and genome-wide techniques, MassArray epityper, restriction landmark genomic scanning, methyl-CpG immunoprecipitation and Illumina HumanMethylation450 Bead Array. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Following treatment, supplemented individuals had significantly higher levels of blood and seminal plasma folates compared to placebo. Initial first-generation genome-wide analyses of sperm DNA methylation showed little evidence of changes when comparing pre- and post-treatment samples. With Illumina HumanMethylation450 BeadChip arrays, no significant changes were observed in individual probes following low-level supplementation; when compared with those of the post-fortification cohort, there were also few differences in methylation despite exposure to years of fortified foods. LARGE SCALE DATA Illumina HumanMethylation450 BeadChip data from this study have been submitted to the NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus under the accession number GSE89781. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study was limited to the number of participants available in each cohort, in particular those who were not exposed to early (pre-1998) fortification of food with folic acid. While genome-wide DNA methylation was assessed with several techniques that targeted genic and CpG-rich regions, intergenic regions were less well interrogated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Overall, our findings provide evidence that short-term exposure to low-dose folic acid supplements of 400 μg/day, over a period of 3 months, a duration of time that might occur during infertility treatments, has no major impact on the sperm DNA methylome. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This work was supported by a grant to J.M.T. from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR: MOP-89944). The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Chan
- Departments of Pediatrics and of Human Genetics of McGill University, Montreal Children's Hospital and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Glen Site, 1001 Décarie Boulevard Block E- Room EM0.2236 Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - S McGraw
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine of Université de Montréal, Research Center of the Sainte-Justine University Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1C5, Canada
| | - K Klein
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada
| | - L M Wallock
- Department of Biological Sciences, Diablo Valley College, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, USA
| | - C Konermann
- Department of Epigenomics and Cancer Risk Factors, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg 69120, Germany
| | - C Plass
- Department of Epigenomics and Cancer Risk Factors, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg 69120, Germany
| | - P Chan
- Royal Victoria Hospital of the McGill University Health Centre and Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - B Robaire
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
| | - R A Jacob
- USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Western Human Nutrition Research Center, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - C M T Greenwood
- Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada.,Departments of Oncology, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, and Human Genetics, McGill University, Montréal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - J M Trasler
- Departments of Pediatrics and of Human Genetics of McGill University, Montreal Children's Hospital and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Glen Site, 1001 Décarie Boulevard Block E- Room EM0.2236 Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada .,Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada
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45
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Dere E, Wilson SK, Anderson LM, Boekelheide K. From the Cover: Sperm Molecular Biomarkers Are Sensitive Indicators of Testicular Injury following Subchronic Model Toxicant Exposure. Toxicol Sci 2016; 153:327-40. [PMID: 27466211 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfw137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional testis histopathology endpoints remain the gold standard for evaluating testicular insult and injury in a non-clinical setting, but are invasive and unfeasible for monitoring these effects clinically in humans. Assessing testicular injury in humans relies on semen and serum hormone analyses, both of which are insensitive and poor indicators of effect. Therefore, we hypothesized that sperm messenger RNA (mRNA) transcripts and DNA methylation marks can be used as translatable and sensitive indicators or testicular injury. Dose-response studies using adult male Fischer 344 rats subchronically exposed to model Sertoli cell toxicants (0.14, 0.21, and 0.33% 2,5-hexanedione, and 30, 50, and 70 mg/kg/day carbendazim), and a model germ cell toxicant (1.4, 3.4, and 5.1 mg/kg/day cyclophosphamide) for 3 months were evaluated for testicular injury by traditional histopathological endpoints, changes in sperm mRNA transcript levels using custom PCR arrays, and alterations in sperm DNA methylation via reduced representation bisulfite sequencing. Testis histopathological evaluation and PCR array analysis of the sperm transcriptome identified dose-dependent changes elicited by toxicant exposure (P < 0.05). Global sperm DNA methylation analysis of subchronic 0.33% 2,5-hexandione and 5.1 mg/kg/day cyclophosphamide exposure using a Monte Carlo approach did not identify differentially methylated regions (methylation difference > 10% and q < 0.05) with robust signatures. Overall, these results suggest that sperm mRNA transcripts are sensitive indicators of low dose toxicant-induced testicular injury in the rat, while sperm DNA methylation changes are not. Additionally, the Monte Carlo analysis is a powerful approach that can be used to assess the robustness of signals resulting from -omic studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Dere
- *Division of Urology, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island 02903 Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Shelby K Wilson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Linnea M Anderson
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
| | - Kim Boekelheide
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island 02912
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46
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Mulder CL, Zheng Y, Jan SZ, Struijk RB, Repping S, Hamer G, van Pelt AMM. Spermatogonial stem cell autotransplantation and germline genomic editing: a future cure for spermatogenic failure and prevention of transmission of genomic diseases. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 22:561-73. [PMID: 27240817 PMCID: PMC5001497 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Subfertility affects approximately 15% of all couples, and a severe male factor is identified in 17% of these couples. While the etiology of a severe male factor remains largely unknown, prior gonadotoxic treatment and genomic aberrations have been associated with this type of subfertility. Couples with a severe male factor can resort to ICSI, with either ejaculated spermatozoa (in case of oligozoospermia) or surgically retrieved testicular spermatozoa (in case of azoospermia) to generate their own biological children. Currently there is no direct treatment for azoospermia or oligozoospermia. Spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) autotransplantation (SSCT) is a promising novel clinical application currently under development to restore fertility in sterile childhood cancer survivors. Meanwhile, recent advances in genomic editing, especially the clustered regulatory interspaced short palindromic repeats-associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9) system, are likely to enable genomic rectification of human SSCs in the near future. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The objective of this review is to provide insights into the prospects of the potential clinical application of SSCT with or without genomic editing to cure spermatogenic failure and to prevent transmission of genetic diseases. SEARCH METHODS We performed a narrative review using the literature available on PubMed not restricted to any publishing year on topics of subfertility, fertility treatments, (molecular regulation of) spermatogenesis and SSCT, inherited (genetic) disorders, prenatal screening methods, genomic editing and germline editing. For germline editing, we focussed on the novel CRISPR-Cas9 system. We included papers written in English only. OUTCOMES Current techniques allow propagation of human SSCs in vitro, which is indispensable to successful transplantation. This technique is currently being developed in a preclinical setting for childhood cancer survivors who have stored a testis biopsy prior to cancer treatment. Similarly, SSCT could be used to restore fertility in sterile adult cancer survivors. In vitro propagation of SSCs might also be employed to enhance spermatogenesis in oligozoospermic men and in azoospermic men who still have functional SSCs albeit in insufficient numbers. The combination of SSCT with genomic editing techniques could potentially rectify defects in spermatogenesis caused by genomic mutations or, more broadly, prevent transmission of genomic diseases to the offspring. In spite of the promising prospects, SSCT and germline genomic editing are not yet clinically applicable and both techniques require optimization at various levels. WIDER IMPLICATIONS SSCT with or without genomic editing could potentially be used to restore fertility in cancer survivors to treat couples with a severe male factor and to prevent the paternal transmission of diseases. This will potentially allow these couples to have their own biological children. Technical development is progressing rapidly, and ethical reflection and societal debate on the use of SSCT with or without genomic editing is pressing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Callista L Mulder
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yi Zheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sabrina Z Jan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Robert B Struijk
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Geert Hamer
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ans M M van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Li XP, Hao CL, Wang Q, Yi XM, Jiang ZS. H19 gene methylation status is associated with male infertility. Exp Ther Med 2016; 12:451-456. [PMID: 27347077 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2016.3314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2014] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the H19 gene methylation status in male infertility. Between March 2013 and June 2014, semen samples were collected from 15 normal fertile males and 15 males experiencing infertility, and routine analysis and sperm morphological assessment were performed. The semen samples were subjected to density gradient centrifugation to separate the sperm fraction, and genomic DNA from the sperms was extracted and treated for bisulfite modification. Following in vitro amplification by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the purified PCR products were cloned into pMD®18-T vectors and successful cloning was confirmed by restriction enzyme digestion. Positive clones were sequenced and the DNA methylation status was analyzed. The overall methylation rate in the normal fertile group was 100% (270/270), whereas in the infertile group the methylation rate was lower at 94.1% (525/558), revealing a statistically significant decrease in overall methylation rate in the infertile patients compared with the control group (χ2=15.12; P<0.001). The average methylation rates of CpG 1, 3 and 6 in the infertile group were statistically different from those in the normal control group (all P<0.05). The abnormal methylation of imprinted gene H19 is associated with male infertility, suggesting that H19 may serve as a biomarker for the detection of defects in human spermiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Ping Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421000, P.R. China; Post-Doctoral Mobile Stations for Basic Medicine, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421000, P.R. China; Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421000, P.R. China
| | - Chao-Liang Hao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421000, P.R. China
| | - Qian Wang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421000, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Mei Yi
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421000, P.R. China
| | - Zhi-Sheng Jiang
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Key Lab for Arteriosclerology of Hunan, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421000, P.R. China
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Castillo J, Estanyol JM, Ballescá JL, Oliva R. Human sperm chromatin epigenetic potential: genomics, proteomics, and male infertility. Asian J Androl 2016; 17:601-9. [PMID: 25926607 PMCID: PMC4492051 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.153302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The classical idea about the function of the mammalian sperm chromatin is that it serves to transmit a highly protected and transcriptionally inactive paternal genome, largely condensed by protamines, to the next generation. In addition, recent sperm chromatin genome-wide dissection studies indicate the presence of a differential distribution of the genes and repetitive sequences in the protamine-condensed and histone-condensed sperm chromatin domains, which could be potentially involved in regulatory roles after fertilization. Interestingly, recent proteomic studies have shown that sperm chromatin contains many additional proteins, in addition to the abundant histones and protamines, with specific modifications and chromatin affinity features which are also delivered to the oocyte. Both gene and protein signatures seem to be altered in infertile patients and, as such, are consistent with the potential involvement of the sperm chromatin landscape in early embryo development. This present work reviews the available information on the composition of the human sperm chromatin and its epigenetic potential, with a particular focus on recent results derived from high-throughput genomic and proteomic studies. As a complement, we provide experimental evidence for the detection of phosphorylations and acetylations in human protamine 1 using a mass spectrometry approach. The available data indicate that the sperm chromatin is much more complex than what it was previously thought, raising the possibility that it could also serve to transmit crucial paternal epigenetic information to the embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Rafael Oliva
- Human Genetics Research Group, IDIBAPS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Casanova 143; Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Biomedical Diagnostic Centre, Hospital Clinic, Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
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Gunes S, Arslan MA, Hekim GNT, Asci R. The role of epigenetics in idiopathic male infertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:553-569. [PMID: 26941097 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0682-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a complex disorder with multiple genetic and environmental causes. Although some specific mutations have been identified, other factors responsible for sperm defects remain largely unknown. Despite considerable efforts to identify the pathophysiology of the disease, we cannot explain the underlying mechanisms of approximately half of infertility cases. This study reviews current data on epigenetic regulation and idiopathic male infertility. Recent data have shown an association between epigenetic modifications and idiopathic infertility. In this regard, epigenetics has emerged as one of the promising research areas in understanding male infertility. Many studies have indicated that epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation in imprinted and developmental genes, histone tail modifications and short non-coding RNAs in spermatozoa may have a role in idiopathic male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sezgin Gunes
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
- Health Sciences Institute, Department of Multidisciplinary Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet Alper Arslan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
- Health Sciences Institute, Department of Multidisciplinary Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
| | | | - Ramazan Asci
- Health Sciences Institute, Department of Multidisciplinary Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey
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50
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Ventura-Juncá P, Irarrázaval I, Rolle AJ, Gutiérrez JI, Moreno RD, Santos MJ. In vitro fertilization (IVF) in mammals: epigenetic and developmental alterations. Scientific and bioethical implications for IVF in humans. Biol Res 2015; 48:68. [PMID: 26683055 PMCID: PMC4684609 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-015-0059-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The advent of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in animals and humans implies an extraordinary change in the environment where the beginning of a new organism takes place. In mammals fertilization occurs in the maternal oviduct, where there are unique conditions for guaranteeing the encounter of the gametes and the first stages of development of the embryo and thus its future. During this period a major epigenetic reprogramming takes place that is crucial for the normal fate of the embryo. This epigenetic reprogramming is very vulnerable to changes in environmental conditions such as the ones implied in IVF, including in vitro culture, nutrition, light, temperature, oxygen tension, embryo-maternal signaling, and the general absence of protection against foreign elements that could affect the stability of this process. The objective of this review is to update the impact of the various conditions inherent in the use of IVF on the epigenetic profile and outcomes of mammalian embryos, including superovulation, IVF technique, embryo culture and manipulation and absence of embryo-maternal signaling. It also covers the possible transgenerational inheritance of the epigenetic alterations associated with assisted reproductive technologies (ART), including its phenotypic consequences as is in the case of the large offspring syndrome (LOS). Finally, the important scientific and bioethical implications of the results found in animals are discussed in terms of the ART in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricio Ventura-Juncá
- Bioethical Center and Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile. .,Bioethics Center, Universidad Finis Terrae, Pedro de Valdivia 1509, Providencia, Región Metropolitana, 7501015, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Isabel Irarrázaval
- Bioethical Center and Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Augusto J Rolle
- Bioethical Center and Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Juan I Gutiérrez
- Bioethical Center and Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Ricardo D Moreno
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile. .,Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Manuel J Santos
- Bioethical Center and Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile. .,Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
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