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Raad G, Bakos HW, Bazzi M, Mourad Y, Fakih F, Shayya S, Mchantaf L, Fakih C. Differential impact of four sperm preparation techniques on sperm motility, morphology, DNA fragmentation, acrosome status, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial activity: A prospective study. Andrology 2021; 9:1549-1559. [PMID: 33999521 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Suboptimal human semen handling in vitro may induce sperm damage. However, the effects of semen swim-up, pellet swim-up, density gradient, and density gradient followed by SU on sperm motility, morphology, DNA fragmentation, acrosome reaction, intracellular reactive oxygen species, and mitochondrial activity were not fully understood. OBJECTIVES To study the impact of four sperm preparation techniques on sperm functional parameters. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study was conducted on 60 infertile men with a minimum sperm concentration of 20 × 106 /ml and total sperm motility of ≥30%. Each raw semen sample was divided into four aliquots. Each aliquot was prepared by one of the tested techniques. Various sperm characteristics were assessed before and after sperm preparation. RESULTS Density gradient and density gradient followed by SU resulted in significantly higher DNA fragmentation percentages compared with semen swim-up (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively) and pellet swim-up (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Significantly higher percentages of spermatozoa with intact acrosome were detected in semen swim-up (p < 0.001) and pellet swim-up (p < 0.001) compared with raw semen. The percentage of reactive oxygen species-positive spermatozoa was significantly higher after pellet swim-up (p < 0.001), density gradient (p < 0.001), and density gradient followed by SU (p < 0.001) than raw semen. In addition, the percentages of 100% stained midpiece (active mitochondria) were significantly higher in semen swim-up (p < 0.001) and pellet swim-up (p < 0.001) compared with raw semen. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report comparing the impact of these techniques on various sperm functional parameters. Semen swim-up was more effective than density gradient in selecting better spermatozoa in terms of DNA integrity, reactive oxygen species levels, acrosome status, and mitochondrial activity. Randomized clinical trials comparing these four techniques are required to test their impact on embryo development and pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georges Raad
- Al Hadi Laboratory and Medical Centre, Beirut, Lebanon.,Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh, Lebanon
| | - Hassan W Bakos
- Monash IVF Group, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia
| | - Marwa Bazzi
- Al Hadi Laboratory and Medical Centre, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Youmna Mourad
- Al Hadi Laboratory and Medical Centre, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Fadi Fakih
- Al Hadi Laboratory and Medical Centre, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Salman Shayya
- American University of Science and Technology, Ashrafieh, Lebanon
| | | | - Chadi Fakih
- Al Hadi Laboratory and Medical Centre, Beirut, Lebanon.,Lebanese University, Hadath, Lebanon
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The outcome of IVF/ICSI cycles in male cancer patients: retrospective analysis of procedures from 2004 to 2018. Radiol Oncol 2021; 55:221-228. [PMID: 33675201 PMCID: PMC8042825 DOI: 10.2478/raon-2021-0011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Fertility preservation is an important aspect of quality of life in oncological patients, and in men is achieved by semen cryopreservation prior to treatment. Results of in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures in healthy infertile couples are comparable, regardless of whether fresh or cryopreserved semen is used, but are scarce in male oncological patients. Patients and methods We performed a retrospective analysis of IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) procedures in infertile couples where men had been treated for cancer in the past. We additionally compared the results of IVF/ICSI procedures with respect to the type of semen used (fresh, cryopreserved). Results We compared the success rates of 214 IVF/ICSI cycles performed in the years 2004–2018. Pregnancy (30.0% vs. 21.4%; p = 0.12) and live-birth rates (22.3% vs. 17.9%; p = 0.43) per oocyte aspiration were similar between the groups in fresh cycles; however embryo utilization (48.9% vs. 40.0%; p = 0.006) and embryo cryopreservation rates (17.3% vs. 12.7%; p = 0.048) were significantly higher in the cryopreserved semen group. The cumulative pregnancy rate (60.6% vs. 37.7%; p = 0.012) was significantly higher, and the live-birth rate (45.1% vs. 34.0%; p = 0.21) non-significantly higher, in the cryopreserved semen group. Conclusions The success of IVF/ICSI procedures in couples where the male partner was treated for cancer in the past are the same in terms of pregnancies and live-births in fresh cycles regardless of the type of semen used. However, embryo utilization and embryo cryopreservation rates are significantly higher when cryopreserved semen is used, leading to a significantly higher cumulative number of couples who achieved at least one pregnancy.
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Ribas-Maynou J, Yeste M, Becerra-Tomás N, Aston KI, James ER, Salas-Huetos A. Clinical implications of sperm DNA damage in IVF and ICSI: updated systematic review and meta-analysis. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2021; 96:1284-1300. [PMID: 33644978 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The clinical effect of sperm DNA damage in assisted reproduction has been a controversial topic during recent decades, leading to a variety of clinical practice recommendations. While the latest European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) position report concluded that DNA damage negatively affects assisted reproduction outcomes, the Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) does not recommend the routine testing of DNA damage for in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Herein, our aim was to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies investigating whether sperm DNA damage affects clinical outcomes in IVF and ICSI, in order to contribute objectively to a consistent clinical recommendation. A comprehensive systematic search was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines from the earliest available online indexing year until March 2020, using the MEDLINE-PubMed and EMBASE databases. We included studies analysing IVF and/or ICSI treatments performed in infertile couples in which sperm DNA damage was well defined and assessed. Studies also had to include information about pregnancy, implantation or live birth rates as primary outcomes. The NHLBI-NIH quality assessment tool was used to assess the quality of each study. Meta-analyses were conducted using the Mantel-Haenszel method with random-effects models to evaluate the Risk Ratio (RR) between high-DNA-damage and control groups, taking into account the 95% confidence intervals. Heterogeneity among studies was evaluated using the I2 statistic. We also conducted sensitivity analyses and post-hoc subgroup analyses according to different DNA fragmentation assessment techniques. We identified 78 articles that met our inclusion and quality criteria and were included in the qualitative analysis, representing a total of 25639 IVF/ICSI cycles. Of these, 32 articles had sufficient data to be included in the meta-analysis, comprising 12380 IVF/ICSI cycles. Meta-analysis revealed that, considering IVF and ICSI results together, implantation rate (RR = 0.74; 95% CI = 0.61-0.91; I2 = 69) and pregnancy rate (RR = 0.83; 0.73-0.94; I2 = 58) are negatively influenced by sperm DNA damage, although after adjustment for publication bias the relationship for pregnancy rate was no longer significant. The results showed a non-significant but detrimental tendency (RR = 0.78; 0.58-1.06; I2 = 72) on live birth rate. Meta-analysis also showed that IVF outcomes are negatively influenced by sperm DNA damage, with a statistically significant impact on implantation (RR = 0.68; 0.52-0.89; I2 = 50) and pregnancy rates (RR = 0.72; 0.55-0.95; I2 = 72), although the latter was no longer significant after correction for publication bias. While it did not quite meet our threshold for significance, a negative trend was also observed for live birth rate (RR = 0.48; 0.22-1.02; I2 = 79). In the case of ICSI, non-significant trends were observed for implantation (RR = 0.79; 0.60-1.04; I2 = 72) or pregnancy rates (RR = 0.89; 0.78-1.02; I2 = 44), and live birth rate (RR = 0.92; 0.67-1.27; I2 = 70). The current review provides the largest evidence to date supporting a negative association between sperm DNA damage and conventional IVF treatments, significantly reducing implantation and pregnancy rates. The routine use of sperm DNA testing is therefore justified, since it may help improve the outcomes of IVF treatments and/or allow a given couple to be advised on the most suitable treatment. Further well-designed controlled studies on a larger number of patients are required to allow us to reach more precise conclusions, especially in the case of ICSI treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Ribas-Maynou
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Jaume Casadamont Building, Door E, 15 Pic de Peguera St, Girona, ES-17003, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Sciences Building, 69 Maria Aurèlia Capmany, Girona, ES-17003, Spain
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Jaume Casadamont Building, Door E, 15 Pic de Peguera St, Girona, ES-17003, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Sciences Building, 69 Maria Aurèlia Capmany, Girona, ES-17003, Spain
| | - Nerea Becerra-Tomás
- Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Departament de Bioquímica i Biotecnologia, Unitat de Nutrició, St/Sant Llorenç, 21, Reus, ES-43201, Spain.,Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV), Reus, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y la Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, ES-46010, Spain
| | - Kenneth I Aston
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, 675 Arapeen Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, US-84108, U.S.A
| | - Emma R James
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, 675 Arapeen Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, US-84108, U.S.A.,Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, 15 N 2030 E, Salt Lake City, UT, US-84112, U.S.A
| | - Albert Salas-Huetos
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, 675 Arapeen Drive, Salt Lake City, UT, US-84108, U.S.A
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Huang L, Yao G, Huang G, Jiang C, Li L, Liao L, Yuan G, Shang L, Xu W. Association of Zinc deficiency, oxidative stress and increased double-stranded DNA breaks in globozoospermic infertile patients and its implication for the assisted reproductive technique. Transl Androl Urol 2021; 10:1088-1101. [PMID: 33850744 PMCID: PMC8039599 DOI: 10.21037/tau-20-1116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sperm DNA fragmentation and its adverse impact on outcomes of assisted reproductive techniques (ART) in globozoospermic infertile patients has been previously reported. However, the association of Zinc element with DNA damage and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcome in globozoospermic infertile patients remains unclear. Methods Using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer and superoxide dismutase (SOD) assay, the levels of Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn and SOD activities in seminal plasma from both globozoospermic infertile patients and fertile volunteers were tested respectively. Using sperm chromatin dispersion (SCD) test and Comet assay, the DNA damages in their semen samples from the two groups was detected. In addition, using Aniline Blue staining, their sperm nucleus maturations were also examined. Results The levels of seminal Zinc and SOD activities were lower in the globozoospermic infertile patients and the double-stranded break DFI (DSB-DFI) were significantly higher than that in the fertile controls. Antioxidative insufficiency of SOD with a low Zn level might be responsible for oxidative stress, which may lead to DNA damage in globozoospermic spermatozoa. Zn deficiency might also have influence on the chromatin stabilization of globozoospermic spermatozoa during spermiogenesis, causing its more vulnerable to oxidative attack. Conclusions Serious DSBs in globozoospermia and antioxidative insufficiency due to Zinc element deficiency in spermatozoa might be responsible for the failure of ICSI in globozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Huang
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, SCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynaecologic and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guanping Yao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, the Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Gelin Huang
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, SCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynaecologic and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chuan Jiang
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, SCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynaecologic and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Li
- Chengdu PUHUA Technology Co., Ltd., Chengdu, China
| | - Lu Liao
- Chengdu PUHUA Technology Co., Ltd., Chengdu, China
| | - Guiping Yuan
- Analytical & Testing Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lijun Shang
- School of Human Sciences, London Metropolitan University, London, UK
| | - Wenming Xu
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, SCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynaecologic and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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55
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Zhou Y, Deng CC, Liu WJ, Liu H, Zheng HB, Tang YG, Zhang XZ, Deng JH. Reproductive outcomes of intracytoplasmic sperm injection using testicular sperm and ejaculated sperm in patients with AZFc microdeletions: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Asian J Androl 2021; 23:495-500. [PMID: 33605899 PMCID: PMC8451498 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_1_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies have explored the assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes of Y-chromosome azoospermia factor c (AZFc) microdeletions, but the effect of sperm source on intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) remains unknown. To determine the ART results of ICSI using testicular sperm and ejaculated sperm from males with AZFc microdeletions, we searched Embase, Web of Science, and PubMed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis. The first meta-analysis results for 106 cycles in five studies showed no significant differences in the live birth rate between the testicular sperm group and the ejaculated sperm group (risk ratio: 0.97, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.73–1.28, P = 0.82). The second meta-analysis of 106 cycles in five studies showed no difference in the abortion rate between the testicular sperm group and ejaculated sperm group (risk ratio: 1.06, 95% CI: 0.54–2.06, P = 0.87). The third meta-analysis of 386 cycles in seven studies showed no significant difference in clinical pregnancy rates between the testicular sperm group and the ejaculated sperm group (risk ratio: 1.24, 95% CI: 0.66–2.34, P = 0.50). Inevitable heterogeneity weakened our results. However, our results indicated that testicular sperm and ejaculated sperm yield similar ART outcomes, representing a meaningful result for clinical treatment. More properly designed studies are needed to further confirm our conclusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhou
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Family Planning Research Institute of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou 510600, China
| | - Cun-Can Deng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Family Planning Research Institute of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou 510600, China.,Digestive Diseases Center, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China
| | - Wu-Jiang Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Family Planning Research Institute of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou 510600, China
| | - Huang Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Family Planning Research Institute of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou 510600, China
| | - Hou-Bin Zheng
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Family Planning Research Institute of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou 510600, China
| | - Yun-Ge Tang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Family Planning Research Institute of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou 510600, China
| | - Xin-Zong Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Family Planning Research Institute of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou 510600, China
| | - Jun-Hong Deng
- Department of Andrology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510180, China
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Iovine C, Mottola F, Santonastaso M, Finelli R, Agarwal A, Rocco L. In vitro ameliorative effects of ellagic acid on vitality, motility and DNA quality in human spermatozoa. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:167-174. [PMID: 33522057 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) plays a significant role in the etiology of male infertility, resulting in the impairment of male reproduction. This condition, characterized by an imbalance in the levels of oxidizing and antioxidant species in the seminal fluid, has a harmful impact on sperm functions and DNA integrity. The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-genotoxic action of ellagic acid, a polyphenolic molecule of natural origin having a powerful antigenotoxic, anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative role. An OS condition was induced in vitro by incubating normozoospermic human semen samples in benzene for 45, 60 and 90 min. DNA integrity was evaluated by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay, RAPD-PCR was performed to calculate the genome template stability, while the percentage of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) was assessed by the 2', 7'-dichlorofluorescein assay. Our results showed that ellagic acid has a consistent protective effect on DNA integrity, as well as on sperm vitality and motility, by counteracting generation of intracellular ROS. The results of this study suggest ellagic acid as a suitable molecule to protect sperm DNA from oxidative stress, with a potentially significant translational impact on the management of the male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Concetta Iovine
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Filomena Mottola
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Marianna Santonastaso
- Department of Woman, Child and General and Special Surgery, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center of Reproductive Medicine, Andrology Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center of Reproductive Medicine, Andrology Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Lucia Rocco
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
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Verdi A, Nasr-Esfahani MH, Forouzanfar M, Tavalaee M. The Effect of Recombinant Human Follicle-Stimulating Hormone on Sperm Quality, Chromatin Status and Clinical Outcomes of Infertile Oligozoospermic Men Candidate for Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection: A Randomized Clinical Trial. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2021; 15:1-7. [PMID: 33497040 PMCID: PMC7838760 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2021.6210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Background Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) plays a crucial role in spermatogenesis; in this study, we assessed
the effect of recombinant human FSH (rhFSH) on sperm parameters, chromatin status and clinical outcomes of infer-
tile oligozoospermic men candidates for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Materials and Methods This interventional randomized clinical trials (IRCT) included 40 infertile oligozoospermic
men undergoing ICSI. These individuals were randomized into two groups: 20 men received rhFSH drug for three
months and the other 20 men who did not receive rhFSH drug were considered the control group. Before and 3 months
after treatment initiation, sperm parameters (using computer-assisted semen analysis) and chromatin status [using
chromomycin A3, aniline blue, and sperm chromatin dispersion (SCD) tests] were assessed in these individuals. Fur-
thermore, hormonal profile was assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Clinical outcomes of
ICSI were also compared between the two groups.
Results The rhFSH treated group showed a significant increase in the level of FSH, luteinizing hormone (LH), tes-
tosterone (T) and prolactin (PRL), as well as significant improvements in sperm parameters compared to the control
group. Also, after administration of rhFSH, there was asignificant reduction in the percentage of sperm DNA damage,
protamine deficiency and chromatin immaturity, while such a reduction in these parameters was not observed in the
control group. Moreover, the percentage of embryos with grade Aquality, was significantly higher in the rhFSH group
compared to the control group. The pregnancy rate in the rhFSH group was higher than the control group but the dif-
ference was insignificant. Conclusion Administration of rhFSH improves sperm quality in infertile oligozoospermic men and results in higher
rates of good quality embryos post-ICSI (Registration number: IRCT20170923036334N2).
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Affiliation(s)
- Atefeh Verdi
- Department of Biology, Fars Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Fars, Iran.,Department of Biology, Shiraz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.,Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohsen Forouzanfar
- Department of Biology, Marvdasht Branch, Islamic Azad University, Marvdasht, Iran. Electronic Address:
| | - Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
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Tharakan T, Bettocchi C, Carvalho J, Corona G, Jones TH, Kadioglu A, Salamanca JIM, Serefoglu EC, Verze P, Salonia A, Minhas S. European Association of Urology Guidelines Panel on Male Sexual and Reproductive Health: A Clinical Consultation Guide on the Indications for Performing Sperm DNA Fragmentation Testing in Men with Infertility and Testicular Sperm Extraction in Nonazoospermic Men. Eur Urol Focus 2021; 8:339-350. [PMID: 33422457 DOI: 10.1016/j.euf.2020.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Accumulating evidence has highlighted the contribution of oxidative stress and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) in the pathophysiology of male infertility. SDF has emerged as a novel biomarker of risk stratification for patients undergoing assisted reproductive technologies. Studies have also supported the use of testicular over ejaculated sperm at the time of intracytoplasmic sperm injection, as testicular sperm may have lower SDF than ejaculated samples. The European Association of Urology Working Panel on Male Sexual and Reproductive Health provides an evidence-based consultation guide on the indications for SDF testing in male infertility and also for testicular sperm extraction (TESE) in nonazoospermic men. We present the limitations and advantages of SDF testing and a framework to ensure that it is appropriately utilised in clinical practice. Furthermore, we critically appraise the current literature advocating the use of TESE in nonazoospermic men. PATIENT SUMMARY: This article reviews the evidence supporting the use of sperm DNA fragmentation testing in the assessment of male infertility and testicular sperm extraction in nonazoospermic men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tharu Tharakan
- Department of Urology, Imperial Healthcare NHS Trust, Charing Cross Hospital, Fulham Palace Road, London, UK; Section of Investigative Medicine, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Carlo Bettocchi
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Urology, Andrology and Kidney Transplantation Unit, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Joana Carvalho
- Centre for Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Porto University, Porto, Portugal
| | - Giovanni Corona
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Physiopathology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Thomas Hugh Jones
- Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Barnsley Hospital NHS Trust, Barnsley, UK
| | - Ates Kadioglu
- Department of Urology, İstanbul University İstanbul School of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Ege Can Serefoglu
- Department of Urology, Biruni University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey; Department of Histology & Embryology, Medipol University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Paolo Verze
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, Scuola Medica Salernitana, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Andrea Salonia
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy; University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
| | - Suks Minhas
- Department of Urology, Imperial Healthcare NHS Trust, Charing Cross Hospital, Fulham Palace Road, London, UK.
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59
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Dai Y, Liu J, Yuan E, Li Y, Shi Y, Zhang L. Relationship Among Traditional Semen Parameters, Sperm DNA Fragmentation, and Unexplained Recurrent Miscarriage: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:802632. [PMID: 35058886 PMCID: PMC8764458 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.802632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies have explored the relationship among traditional semen parameters, sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), and unexplained recurrent miscarriage (RM); however, the findings remain controversial. Hence, we conducted a meta-analysis to explore the relationship among traditional semen parameters, SDF, and unexplained RM. Multiple databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), were searched to identify relevant publications. From the eligible publications, data were extracted independently by two researchers. A total of 280 publications were identified using the search strategy. According to the inclusion/exclusion criteria, 19 publications were eligible. A total of 1182 couples with unexplained RM and 1231 couples without RM were included in this meta-analysis to assess the relationship among traditional semen parameters, SDF, and unexplained RM. Our results showed that couples with unexplained RM had significantly increased levels of SDF and significantly decreased levels of total motility and progressive motility compared with couples without RM, although significant differences were not observed in the semen volume, sperm concentration, and total sperm count between couples with and without RM. The SDF assay may be considered for inclusion in evaluations of couples with unexplained RM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanpeng Dai
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Junjie Liu
- Henan Human Sperm Bank, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Enwu Yuan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yushan Li
- Henan Human Sperm Bank, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ying Shi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Linlin Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Tremellen K, Woodman R, Hill A, Shehadeh H, Lane M, Zander-Fox D. Use of a male antioxidant nutraceutical is associated with superior live birth rates during IVF treatment. Asian J Androl 2021; 23:16-23. [PMID: 32769234 PMCID: PMC7831842 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_41_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress is prevalent among infertile men and is a significant cause of sperm DNA damage. Since sperm DNA damage may reduce embryo quality and increase miscarriage rates, it is possible that untreated sperm oxidative stress may impair in vitro fertilization (IVF) live birth rates. Given that the antioxidant Menevit is reported to reduce sperm DNA damage, it was hypothesized that men's consumption of this supplement may alter IVF outcomes. Therefore, a retrospective cohort study was conducted analyzing outcomes for couples undergoing their first fresh embryo transfer. Men were classified as controls if they were taking no supplements, health conscious controls if taking “general health” supplements, or Menevit users. Men with karyotype abnormalities, or cycles using donated, frozen and surgically extracted sperm were excluded. Among the final study cohort of 657 men, live birth rates were significantly higher in Menevit users than controls (multivariate adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 1.57, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–2.45, P = 0.046), but not between controls taking no supplements and those using general health supplements, thereby suggesting that potential health conscious behavior in supplement users is unlikely responsible for the superior outcomes in Menevit users. Interestingly, in a post hoc sensitivity analysis, live birth rates among Menevit users were statistically superior to controls for lean men (OR: 2.73, 95% CI: 1.18–6.28; P = 0.019), not their overweight/obese counterparts (OR: 1.29, 95% CI: 0.75–2.22, P = 0.37). The results of this large cohort study therefore support a positive association between men's use of the Menevit antioxidant during IVF treatment and live birth rates, especially in lean individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelton Tremellen
- Repromed, 180 Fullarton Road Dulwich, South Australia 5065, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042, Australia
| | - Richard Woodman
- Flinders Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042, Australia
| | - Amy Hill
- Repromed, 180 Fullarton Road Dulwich, South Australia 5065, Australia
| | - Helana Shehadeh
- Repromed, 180 Fullarton Road Dulwich, South Australia 5065, Australia.,Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5000, Australia
| | - Michelle Lane
- Repromed, 180 Fullarton Road Dulwich, South Australia 5065, Australia.,Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5000, Australia
| | - Deirdre Zander-Fox
- Repromed, 180 Fullarton Road Dulwich, South Australia 5065, Australia.,Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia 5000, Australia
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61
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Dai X, Wang Y, Yang H, Gao T, Yu C, Cao F, Xia X, Wu J, Zhou X, Chen L. AMH has no role in predicting oocyte quality in women with advanced age undergoing IVF/ICSI cycles. Sci Rep 2020; 10:19750. [PMID: 33184364 PMCID: PMC7661530 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-76543-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It has been widely acknowledged that anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a golden marker of ovarian reserve. Declined ovarian reserve (DOR), based on experience from reproductive-aged women, refers to both the quantitative and qualitative reduction in oocytes. This view is challenged by a recent study clearly showing that the quality of oocytes is similar in young women undergoing IVF cycles irrespective of the level of AMH. However, it remains elusive whether AMH indicates oocyte quality in women with advanced age (WAA). The aim of this study was to investigate this issue. In the present study, we retrospectively analysed the data generated from a total of 492 IVF/ICSI cycles (from January 2017 to July 2020), and these IVF/ICSI cycles contributed 292 embryo transfer (ET) cycles (from June 2017 to September 2019, data of day 3 ET were included for analysis) in our reproductive centre. Based on the level of AMH, all patients (= > 37 years old) were divided into 2 groups: the AMH high (H) group and the AMH low (L) group. The parameters of in vitro embryo development and clinical outcomes were compared between the two groups. The results showed that women in the L group experienced severe DOR, as demonstrated by a higher rate of primary diagnosis of DOR, lower antral follicle count (AFC), higher level of basal follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and cancelation cycles, lower level of E2 production on the day of surge, and fewer oocytes and MII oocytes retrieved. Compared with women in the H group, women in the L group showed slightly reduced top embryo formation rate but a similar normal fertilization rate and blastocyst formation rate. More importantly, we found that the rates of implantation, spontaneous miscarriage and livebirth were similar between the two groups, while the pregnancy rate was significantly reduced in the L group compared with the H group. Further analysis indicated that the higher pregnancy rate of women in the H group may be due to more top embryos transferred per cycle. Due to an extremely low implantation potential for transfer of non-top embryos from WAA (= > 37 years old) in our reproductive centre, we assumed that all the embryos that implanted may result from the transfer of top embryos. Based on this observation, we found that the ratio of embryos that successfully implanted or eventually led to a livebirth to top embryos transferred was similar between the H and the L groups. Furthermore, women with clinical pregnancy or livebirth in the H or L group did not show a higher level of serum AMH but were younger than women with non-pregnancy or non-livebirth. Taken together, this study showed that AMH had a limited role in predicting in vitro embryo developmental potential and had no role in predicting the in vivo embryo developmental potential, suggesting that in WAA, AMH should not be used as a marker of oocyte quality. This study supports the view that the accumulation of top embryos via multiple oocyte retrieval times is a good strategy for the treatment of WAA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuliang Dai
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yufeng Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haiyan Yang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tingting Gao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chunmei Yu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fang Cao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiyang Xia
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jun Wu
- Research Center for Bone and Stem Cells, Department of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.
| | - Xianju Zhou
- Department of Neurology, Integrated Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510315, Guangdong, China. .,Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Changzhou No. 2 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, The Affiliated Changzhou Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Changzhou, 213000, Jiangsu, China.
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62
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Esteves SC, Zini A, Coward RM, Evenson DP, Gosálvez J, Lewis SEM, Sharma R, Humaidan P. Sperm DNA fragmentation testing: Summary evidence and clinical practice recommendations. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13874. [PMID: 33108829 PMCID: PMC7988559 DOI: 10.1111/and.13874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We herein summarise the evidence concerning the impact of sperm DNA fragmentation in various clinical infertility scenarios and the advances on sperm DNA fragmentation tests. The collected evidence was used to formulate 41 recommendations. Of these, 13 recommendations concern technical aspects of sperm DNA fragmentation testing, including pre‐analytical information, clinical thresholds and interpretation of results. The remaining 28 recommendations relate to indications for sperm DNA fragmentation testing and clinical management. Clinical scenarios like varicocele, unexplained infertility, idiopathic infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, intrauterine insemination, in vitro fertilisation/intracytoplasmic sperm injection, fertility counselling for men with infertility risk factors and sperm cryopreservation have been contemplated. The bulk evidence supporting the recommendations has increased in recent years, but it is still of moderate to low quality. This guideline provides clinicians with advice on best practices in sperm DNA fragmentation testing. Also, recommendations are provided on possible management strategies to overcome infertility related to sperm DNA fragmentation, based on the best available evidence. Lastly, we identified gaps in knowledge and opportunities for research and elaborated a list of recommendations to stimulate further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Referral Center for Male Reproduction, Campinas, SP, Brazil.,Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil.,Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Armand Zini
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, St. Mary's Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Robert Matthew Coward
- Department of Urology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.,UNC Fertility, Raleigh, NC, USA
| | - Donald P Evenson
- SCSA Diagnostics, Brookings, SD, USA.,Sanford Medical School, University of South Dakota, Sioux Falls, SD, USA
| | - Jaime Gosálvez
- Unit of Genetics, Department of Biology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sheena E M Lewis
- Queens University Belfast, Belfast, UK.,Examenlab Ltd., Belfast, UK
| | - Rakesh Sharma
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Fertility Clinic Skive, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark
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63
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Interplay between male reproductive system dysfunction and the therapeutic effect of flavonoids. Fitoterapia 2020; 147:104756. [PMID: 33069836 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2020.104756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Male infertility has affected many families around the world. However, due to the mechanism underlying male reproductive system dysfunction are not completely elucidated, the use of drugs for male reproductive system dysfunction treatment only insignificant higher pregnancy outcomes, low-quality evidence suggests that clinical pregnancy rates may increase. Therefore, the focus in the future will be on developing more viable treatment options to prevent or treatment of male reproductive system dysfunction and achieve the purpose of improving fertility. Interestingly, natural products, as the potential inhibitors for the treatment of male reproductive system dysfunction, have shown a good therapeutic effect. Among many natural products, flavonoids have been extensively investigated for the treatment of male reproductive system dysfunction, such as testicular structural disruption, spermatogenesis disturbance and sperm quality decline. Flavonoids have been reported to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immune stimulating, anti-apoptotic, anticarcinogenic, anti-allergic and antiviral activities, investigating for the treatment of male reproductive system dysfunction. In this review, we evaluate the therapeutic effects of flavonoids on male reproductive system dysfunction under different cellular scenarios and summarize the therapeutic strategies of flavonoids based on the aforementioned retrospective analysis. In the end, we describe some perspective research areas relevant to the application of flavonoids in the treatment of male reproductive system dysfunction.
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64
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Kasman AM, Li S, Zhao Q, Behr B, Eisenberg ML. Relationship between male age, semen parameters and assisted reproductive technology outcomes. Andrology 2020; 9:245-252. [PMID: 32964702 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low semen quality often obligates the use of assisted reproductive technology; however, the association between semen quality and assisted reproductive technology outcomes is uncertain. OBJECTIVES To further assess the impact of semen quality on assisted reproductive technology outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective cohort study was carried out at a single academic reproductive medicine center (January 2012-December 2018). Patients undergoing at least one assisted reproductive technology cycle utilizing freshly ejaculated spermatozoa from the male partner were included. We assessed the association between semen quality (as stratified based on WHO 5th edition criteria), paternal age (< or ≥40), and reproductive/perinatal outcomes. To evaluate the differences in assisted reproductive technology outcomes by semen parameters and age, generalized estimating equations were applied for rates of fertilization, pregnancy, implantation, miscarriage, live birth, blast formation, gestational age, and normal embryo biopsy. RESULTS A total of 2063 couples were identified who underwent 4517 assisted reproductive technology cycles. Average ages of the male and female partners were 39.8 and 37.7, respectively. Lower pregnancy rates were observed in cycles with lower sperm motility (ie <40%; 39.9% vs 44.1%) and total motile count (ie <9 million; 38.3% vs 43.5%). When examining only cycles utilizing Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection, only a lower motility count was associated with a decline in pregnancy rate (39.1% vs 44.9%). No association was identified between semen quality and gestational age or birth weight. Paternal age was not associated with ART outcomes. However, among assisted reproductive technology cycles in women <40, aneuploidy rate was higher for older men (P < .001). In cycles with women >40, no association between aneuploidy and male age was identified. DISCUSSION Sperm motility is associated with pregnancy rates, while other semen parameters are not. In cycles in women <40, paternal age is associated with embryo aneuploidy rate. CONCLUSION Paternal factors are associated with assisted reproductive technology outcomes, and future studies should explore mechanisms by which semen quality is associated with assisted reproductive technology outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex M Kasman
- Department of Urology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Shufeng Li
- Department of Urology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Qianying Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Barry Behr
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michael L Eisenberg
- Department of Urology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
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65
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Chen M, Liu W, Li Z, Xiao W. Effect of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) on embryos inseminated with oxidative stress-induced DNA damage sperm. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2020; 66:244-254. [PMID: 32427532 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2020.1756525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Cryopreservation can induce damage in human spermatozoa through reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. To reduce the potential risk of oxidative stress-induced sperm DNA damage, addition of different epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) concentrations were performed to determine the optimum concentration which was beneficial for IVF outcome for both fresh and frozen-thawed sperm. Next, the mouse sperm model exhibiting oxidative stress-induced DNA damage by exogenously treating with H2O2 but overcoming the low fertilization rate of frozen-thawed sperm was used to investigate the effect of EGCG on the embryonic development and the potential EGCG-mediated effects on ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) pSer-1981 in zygotes, the latter was known for leading to the activation of major kinases involved in the DNA repair pathway and the cell cycle checkpoint pathway. We found the fertilization and embryonic development of embryos inseminated with frozen-thawed sperm was impaired compared to fresh sperm. EGCG promoted the development of embryos inseminated with both types of sperm at optimum concentration. In embryos inseminated with the H2O2 sperm, fertilization, embryonic development, and the time at which the cleavage rate of one-cell embryos reached ≥95% were not affected by EGCG treatment. However, the EGCG-treated group required less time to achieve 50% cleavage rate of one-cell embryos, and the EGCG-treated zygotes showed enhanced expression of ATM (pSer-1981) than the untreated group. EGCG at optimum concentrations may exert beneficial effects by modulating the ATM activation and moving up the time to enter into mitotic (M) phase. ABBREVIATIONS ROS: reactive oxygen species; EGCG: epigallocatechin-3-gallate; ATM: ataxia telangiectasia mutated; M: mitotic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College , Shantou, China
| | - Wanmin Liu
- Department of Gynecology, The Jiangmen Central Hospital , Jiangmen, China
| | - Zhiling Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College , Shantou, China
| | - Wanfen Xiao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College , Shantou, China
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66
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Ribas-Maynou J, Yeste M, Salas-Huetos A. The Relationship between Sperm Oxidative Stress Alterations and IVF/ICSI Outcomes: A Systematic Review from Nonhuman Mammals. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9070178. [PMID: 32708086 PMCID: PMC7408105 DOI: 10.3390/biology9070178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Achieving high embryo quality following IVF and ICSI procedures is a key factor in increasing fertility outcomes in human infertile couples. While the male factor is known to underlie infertility in about 50% of cases, studies performed in human infertile couples have not been able to define the precise effect of sperm affectations upon embryo development. This lack of consistency is, in most cases, due to the heterogeneity of the results caused by the multiple male and female factors that mask the concrete effect of a given sperm parameter. These biases can be reduced with the use of animal gametes, being a good approach for basic researchers to design more homogeneous studies analyzing the specific consequences of a certain affectation. Herein, we conducted a systematic review (March 2020) that assessed the relationship between sperm oxidative stress alterations and IVF/ICSI outcomes in nonhumans mammals. The review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines and using the MEDLINE-PubMed and EMBASE databases. Thirty articles were included: 11 performed IVF, 17 conducted ICSI, and two carried out both fertilization methods. Most articles were conducted in mouse (43%), cattle (30%) and pig models (10%). After IVF treatments, 80% of studies observed a negative effect of sperm oxidative stress on fertilization rates, and 100% of studies observed a negative effect on blastocyst rates. After ICSI treatments, a positive relationship of sperm oxidative stress with fertilization rates (75% of studies) and with blastocyst rates (83% of studies) was found. In conclusion, the present systematic review shows that sperm oxidative stress is associated with a significant reduction in fertilization rates and in vitro embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Ribas-Maynou
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain;
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain
- Correspondence: (J.R.-M.); (A.S.-H.); Tel.: +34-972-419-514 (J.R.-M.); +1-(385)-210-5534 (A.S.-H.)
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain;
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Albert Salas-Huetos
- Andrology and IVF Laboratory, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
- Correspondence: (J.R.-M.); (A.S.-H.); Tel.: +34-972-419-514 (J.R.-M.); +1-(385)-210-5534 (A.S.-H.)
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67
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Choi KH, Kim H, Kim MH, Kwon HJ. Semiconductor Work and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes Associated with Male Workers: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Ann Work Expo Health 2020; 63:870-880. [PMID: 31421636 DOI: 10.1093/annweh/wxz061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES A hazardous work environment in semiconductor factories is a threat to the workers' health. Semiconductor manufacturing characteristically requires young workers, and reproductive toxicity is an important issue. Studies investigating reproductive toxicity among individuals working in the semiconductor manufacturing industry have primarily focused on outcomes in women. Information on the reproductive health of male semiconductor factory workers is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the association between workplace exposures among male workers in a Korean semiconductor company and adverse pregnancy outcomes. METHODS Based on the data from the 2015 Semiconductor Health Survey (SHS), which evaluated the workplace exposures, pregnancy outcomes, and general health of 21 969 employees of the semiconductor industry in South Korea, we included 3868 male workers with 7504 pregnancy outcomes identified by self-reports for this retrospective cohort study. Data regarding the pregnancy outcomes, order of pregnancy, and the years of the outcomes were collected via the SHS questionnaire. Adverse pregnancy outcomes were defined as preterm labor, spontaneous abortion, and stillbirth. Workplace exposures were classified as fabrication, assembly, others, lab, and office work (reference group). A generalized estimating equations model including repeated events of individuals and producing relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to estimate the association between workplace exposure and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Analyses were adjusted for work location, spouse's employment in semiconductor production work, educational level, marital status, risky alcohol drinking, smoking status, body mass index, order of pregnancy, and age and year of pregnancy outcome, which were based on a priori decisions. RESULTS The adjusted risk for adverse outcomes was higher [RR (95% CI): 1.47 (1.04, 2.07)] among assembly process workers compared with the office workers. Adjusted risks for adverse outcomes among workers in assembly and fabrication, whose spouses also worked in semiconductor production, were 1.60 (95% CI: 1.04, 2.46) and 1.74 (95% CI: 1.18, 2.57) times higher, respectively, compared with the office workers with spouses not working in semiconductor production. CONCLUSIONS Based on these findings, semiconductor work might be considered a risk factor for reproductive toxicity among male workers, especially for those whose spouses have the same job.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung-Hwa Choi
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Dankook University College of Medicine, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan, Chungnam, Korea
| | - Hyunjoo Kim
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital, Yangcheon-gu, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - Ho-Jang Kwon
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Dankook University College of Medicine, Dongnam-gu, Cheonan, Chungnam, Korea
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68
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Martinez M, Majzoub A. Best laboratory practices and therapeutic interventions to reduce sperm DNA damage. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13736. [PMID: 32662555 DOI: 10.1111/and.13736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Conventional semen analysis is considered the cornerstone investigation for infertile men. Nonetheless, this routine test does not provide information on important sperm functions like sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF). Abnormalities of human spermatozoal nucleus and chromatin have a detrimental impact on both natural and assisted reproductive outcomes. In vivo, SDF results from abnormalities in chromatin compaction, abortive apoptosis and oxidative stress, while in vitro, a number of factors may be implicated. Various SDF testing methods are available, and the most commonly utilised assays include terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL), sperm chromatin dispersion (SCD) test, sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA) and Comet assay. SDF testing has shown beneficial effects on treatment decision-making; however, its routine use in the initial evaluation of infertile men is still not recommended. One of the treatment options to reduce sperm DNA damage is the use of antioxidants. Despite the documented improvement in semen parameters and sperm DNA integrity following antioxidant therapy, no definitive recommendation is reached due to lack of large, well-designed, randomised, placebo-controlled trials assessing their exact role in male factor infertility. The objectives of this review article are to illustrate the aetiologies of SDF, to describe the effects of SDF on male factor fertility, to explore the common techniques utilised in SDF testing, to review the clinical indications for SDF testing and to review the effect of antioxidant therapy as a method to alleviate SDF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmad Majzoub
- Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,Department of Clinical Urology, Weill Cornel Medicine -Qatar, Doha, Qatar
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69
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Dutta S, Henkel R, Agarwal A. Comparative analysis of tests used to assess sperm chromatin integrity and DNA fragmentation. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13718. [PMID: 32628294 DOI: 10.1111/and.13718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility has a complex etiology, and many times, the cause is unknown. While routine semen analysis provides an overview of basic semen parameters, such as sperm concentration, motility, viability and morphology, a significant overlap of these parameters has been reported in fertile and infertile men. Moreover, conventional semen parameters do not reveal the cellular or molecular mechanisms of sperm dysfunctions leading to infertility. Therefore, sperm functional parameters, including sperm chromatin integrity, are evaluated to provide information on subtle sperm defects that are not routinely identified. Incomplete or defective sperm chromatin condensation increases the susceptibility of the sperm DNA to oxidative damage or other factors. To evaluate sperm chromatin integrity, different methods with varying degrees of diagnostic and prognostic capabilities are available. Among these assays, SCSA, TUNEL and SCD assays are most commonly used. While these assays rather evaluate the DNA directly for damages, the aniline blue and chromomycin A3 stains test for the quality of chromatin condensation. Thus, this review discusses and compares different methods used to evaluate sperm chromatin integrity and condensation, and their inclusion in the routine evaluation of the male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulagna Dutta
- Department of Oral Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ralf Henkel
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa.,American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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70
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The Impact of Single- and Double-Strand DNA Breaks in Human Spermatozoa on Assisted Reproduction. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113882. [PMID: 32485940 PMCID: PMC7312948 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Several cellular insults can result in sperm DNA fragmentation either on one or both DNA strands. Oxidative damage, premature interruption of the apoptotic process and defects in DNA compaction during spermatogenesis are the main mechanisms that cause DNA breaks in sperm. The two-tailed Comet assay is the only technique that can differentiate single- (SSBs) from double- (DSBs) strand DNA breaks. Increased levels of the phosphorylated isoform of the H2AX histone are directly correlated with DSBs and proposed as a molecular biomarker of DSBs. We have carried out a narrative review on the etiologies associated with SSBs and DSBs in sperm DNA, their association with reproductive outcomes and the mechanisms involved in their repair. Evidence suggests a stronger negative impact of DSBs on reproductive outcomes (fertilization, implantation, miscarriage, pregnancy, and live birth rates) than SSBs, which can be partially overcome by using intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In sperm, SSBs are irreversible, whereas DSBs can be repaired by homologous recombination, non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) and alternative NHEJ pathways. Although few studies have been published, further research is warranted to provide a better understanding of the differential effects of sperm SSBs and DSBs on reproductive outcomes as well as the prognostic relevance of DNA breaks discrimination in clinical practice.
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Gao J, Duan YG, Yi X, Yeung WSB, Ng EHY. A randomised trial comparing conventional semen parameters, sperm DNA fragmentation levels and satisfaction levels between semen collection at home and at the clinic. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13628. [PMID: 32458506 DOI: 10.1111/and.13628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the randomised trial was to compare conventional semen parameters, sperm DNA fragmentation levels and satisfaction levels between semen samples collected at home and at the clinic. We recruited 110 men with a history of infertility for at least 1 year from the outpatient andrology clinic. Each man collected two semen samples, one at home and one at the clinic. Men were randomly assigned into the home first (n = 55) or clinic first (n = 55) groups. The primary outcome was sperm concentration. There was no significant difference in sperm concentration, sperm DNA fragmentation levels or other conventional semen parameters between home first and clinic first samples (p > .05), while satisfaction levels were significantly higher for home first samples (p < .01). Consistent results were obtained when comparing home-collected and clinic-collected samples within individuals. Men can be offered the option to collect semen samples at home for examination or assisted reproduction without compromising semen quality, especially for those with difficulty in producing semen samples at the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Gao
- Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yong-Gang Duan
- Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiang Yi
- Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S B Yeung
- Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ernest H Y Ng
- Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen Mary Hospital, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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72
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Sperm count affects cumulative birth rate of assisted reproduction cycles in relation to ovarian response. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1653-1659. [PMID: 32405898 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01807-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the possible influence of sperm quality, as assessed by prewash total sperm count (TSC), on cumulative success rates in assisted reproduction cycles. METHODS Retrospective study carried out in private IVF centre. Seven hundred sixty-five couples undergoing complete ICSI cycles, i.e. whose all embryos were transferred or disposed of. Couples were characterised by male infertility and female age younger than 36 years. Couples with a combination of female and male infertility factors were excluded. The primary outcome measure was cumulative live birth rate. Secondary outcomes were cumulative pregnancy and miscarriage rates. No specific interventions were made. RESULTS Higher TSC values have a positive impact on cumulative success rates in cycles characterised by few retrieved oocytes (1 to 5), while does not influence the outcome of cycles with a normal (6 to 10) or high (> 10) number of retrieved oocytes. CONCLUSIONS The study highlights the importance of sperm quality for the efficacy of assisted reproduction treatments. This influence may remain relatively cryptic in association with normal or high ovarian response, but emerge decisively in cases of reduced ovarian response, suggesting a relationship between ovarian response and oocyte ability to compensate for paternal-derived deficiencies.
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73
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Chen L, Fang J, Jiang W, Wang J, Li D. Effects of the sperm DNA fragmentation index on the clinical and neonatal outcomes of intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles. J Ovarian Res 2020; 13:52. [PMID: 32359369 PMCID: PMC7196230 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-020-00658-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Most studies have mainly focused on the effects of the sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) on fertilization, embryonic developmental potential and aneuploidy, pregnancy and abortion rates after in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and have remained controversial. However, few studies have reported the effects of sperm DFI on neonatal outcomes, including stillbirths, neonatal deaths, sex, gestational age, prematurity, birthweight, low birth weight (LBW) and birth defects in newborns. Our objective was to evaluate the effects of sperm DFI on the clinical and neonatal outcomes of ICSI cycles. Methods This retrospective study analysed a total of 2067 oocyte retrieval, 1139 transfer and 713 delivery cycles from conventional ICSI cycles, including 301, 469, and 214 live-born infants in groups segregated according to sperm DFI as the < 15%, 15–30% and > 30% groups, respectively. The clinical and neonatal outcomes were compared among the three groups. Results Sperm DFI did not significantly affect the rates of fertilization, clinical pregnancy, miscarriage or ongoing pregnancy. Sperm DFI did not increase the risk of stillbirths or neonatal deaths. The rates of stillbirths and neonatal deaths were not significantly different among the three groups. The sex, gestational age, prematurity, birthweight and LBW of newborns in the three groups were not significantly affected by sperm DFI. Moreover, sperm DFI did not increase the number of birth defects in children. Conclusions Sperm DFI did not affect the clinical or neonatal outcomes of ICSI cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linjun Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Zhongshan, Road 321#, Nanjing, 210008, People's Republic of China.
| | - Junshun Fang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Zhongshan, Road 321#, Nanjing, 210008, People's Republic of China
| | - Weihua Jiang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Zhongshan, Road 321#, Nanjing, 210008, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Zhongshan, Road 321#, Nanjing, 210008, People's Republic of China
| | - Dong Li
- Reproductive Medical Center, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, The Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Zhongshan, Road 321#, Nanjing, 210008, People's Republic of China
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74
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Abstract
An extensive review of new resources to support the provision of evidence-based care for women and infants. The current column includes a discussion of a new National Academy of Medicine report on planned place of birth and implications during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic and commentaries on reviews focused on anorectal sexually transmitted infections and feeding methods following cleft lip repair in infants.
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75
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Abstract
The male contribution to infertility has traditionally been overlooked, or at best oversimplified. In recent years efforts have been made to optimize diagnostic and therapeutic techniques to maximize fertility outcomes. A renewed focus on the male partner has resulted in an increased understanding of both genetic and epigenetic changes within the male germline. Furthermore, single-nucleotide polymorphisms, copy-number variants, DNA damage, sperm cryopreservation, obesity, and paternal age have recently been recognized as important factors that play a role in male fertility. Developing a deeper knowledge of these issues could potentially lead to improved success with assisted reproductive technology.
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76
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Oxidative Stress in Male Infertility: Causes, Effects in Assisted Reproductive Techniques, and Protective Support of Antioxidants. BIOLOGY 2020; 9:biology9040077. [PMID: 32290152 PMCID: PMC7235998 DOI: 10.3390/biology9040077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The spermatozoon is a highly specialized cell, whose main function is the transport of the intact male genetic material into the oocyte. During its formation and transit throughout male and female reproductive tracts, sperm cells are internally and externally surrounded by reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are produced from both endogenous and exogenous sources. While low amounts of ROS are known to be necessary for crucial physiological sperm processes, such as acrosome reaction and sperm-oocyte interaction, high levels of those species underlie misbalanced antioxidant-oxidant molecules, generating oxidative stress (OS), which is one of the most damaging factors that affect sperm function and lower male fertility potential. The present work starts by reviewing the different sources of oxidative stress that affect sperm cells, continues by summarizing the detrimental effects of OS on the male germline, and discusses previous studies addressing the consequences of these detrimental effects on natural pregnancy and assisted reproductive techniques effectiveness. The last section is focused on how antioxidants can counteract the effects of ROS and how sperm fertilizing ability may benefit from these agents.
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77
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Cannarella R, Condorelli RA, Mongioì LM, La Vignera S, Calogero AE. Molecular Biology of Spermatogenesis: Novel Targets of Apparently Idiopathic Male Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E1728. [PMID: 32138324 PMCID: PMC7084762 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility affects half of infertile couples and, currently, a relevant percentage of cases of male infertility is considered as idiopathic. Although the male contribution to human fertilization has traditionally been restricted to sperm DNA, current evidence suggest that a relevant number of sperm transcripts and proteins are involved in acrosome reactions, sperm‒oocyte fusion and, once released into the oocyte, embryo growth and development. The aim of this review is to provide updated and comprehensive insight into the molecular biology of spermatogenesis, including evidence on spermatogenetic failure and underlining the role of the sperm-carried molecular factors involved in oocyte fertilization and embryo growth. This represents the first step in the identification of new possible diagnostic and, possibly, therapeutic markers in the field of apparently idiopathic male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (R.A.C.); (L.M.M.); (A.E.C.)
| | | | | | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (R.A.C.); (L.M.M.); (A.E.C.)
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78
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DNA fragmentation index (DFI) as a measure of sperm quality and fertility in mice. Sci Rep 2020; 10:3833. [PMID: 32123279 PMCID: PMC7052244 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-60876-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Although thousands of genetically modified mouse strains have been cryopreserved by sperm freezing, the likelihood of cryorecovery success cannot be accurately predicted using conventional sperm parameters. The objective of the present study was to assess the extent to which measurement of a sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) can predict sperm quality and fertility after cryopreservation. Using a modified TUNEL assay, we measured and correlated the DFI of frozen-thawed sperm from 83 unique mutant mouse strains with sperm count, motility and morphology. We observed a linear inverse correlation between sperm DFI and sperm morphology and motility. Further, sperm DFI was significantly higher from males with low sperm counts compared to males with normal sperm counts (P < 0.0001). Additionally, we found that viable embryos derived using sperm from males with high DFI (62.7 ± 7.2% for IVF and 73.3 ± 8.1% for ICSI) failed to litter after embryo transfer compared to embryos from males with low DFI (20.4 ± 7.9% for IVF and 28.1 ± 10.7 for ICSI). This study reveals that measurement of DFI provides a simple, informative and reliable measure of sperm quality and can accurately predict male mouse fertility.
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79
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Crespo F, Quiñones-Pérez C, Ortiz I, Diaz-Jimenez M, Consuegra C, Pereira B, Dorado J, Hidalgo M. Seasonal variations in sperm DNA fragmentation and pregnancy rates obtained after artificial insemination with cooled-stored stallion sperm throughout the breeding season (spring and summer). Theriogenology 2020; 148:89-94. [PMID: 32169626 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.02.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess seasonal variations during different periods of the breeding season (spring and summer) on stallion sperm DNA fragmentation and in vivo fertility associated with cooled-stored semen samples. Ejaculates were collected from eleven stallions and assessed for sperm motility (assessed by computer-assisted sperm analysis) and plasma membrane integrity (evaluated under fluorescence microscopy). Sperm DNA fragmentation (evaluated by the Sperm Chromatin Dispersion test) was assessed in cooled-stored semen at 5 °C for up to 24 h. Artificial insemination was performed throughout the breeding season. Mares were inseminated with cooled-stored semen (up to 24 h) every other day until ovulation. Pregnancy rates per cycle were determined detecting the embryonic vesicle by ultrasonography fifteen days after ovulation. Values (mean ± SD) for progressive sperm motility were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in spring (53.57 ± 9.97%) in comparison to summer (41.37 ± 10.81%). No significant differences in plasma membrane integrity were found between seasons (P > 0.05). Sperm DNA fragmentation was significantly lower (P < 0.01) in spring in comparison to summer after 0h (4.81 ± 1.87% vs. 8.77 ± 5.78%), 6h (9.00 ± 3.19% vs. 18.73 ± 8.22%) and 24h (14.6 ± 4.13% vs. 30.14 ± 9.85%) of cooled-storage. Pregnancy rates per cycle were also significantly higher (P < 0.01) in spring (50%) in comparison to summer (37%). There was a moderate negative relationship between positive pregnancies and sperm with fragmented DNA (r = - 0.619; P < 0.001). Semen samples associated with moderate fertility levels (Pregnancy rate < 50%) showed a higher percentage of sperm with fragmented DNA compared to samples obtaining higher fertility levels. In conclusion, seasonal variations were found during the breeding season, obtaining lower sperm DNA fragmentation and higher pregnancy rates in spring. Additionally, samples with the highest proportion of sperm with fragmented DNA showed the lowest fertility levels throughout the breeding season.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Crespo
- Centro Militar de Cría Caballar de Ávila, Cría Caballar de las Fuerzas Armadas, Ávila, 05005, Spain
| | - C Quiñones-Pérez
- Centro Militar de Cría Caballar de Ávila, Cría Caballar de las Fuerzas Armadas, Ávila, 05005, Spain; Laboratorio de Investigación Aplicada, Cría Caballar de las Fuerzas Armadas, Córdoba, 14014, Spain
| | - I Ortiz
- College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843-4466, United States
| | - M Diaz-Jimenez
- Veterinary Reproduction Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, 14071, Spain
| | - C Consuegra
- Veterinary Reproduction Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, 14071, Spain
| | - B Pereira
- Veterinary Reproduction Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, 14071, Spain
| | - J Dorado
- Veterinary Reproduction Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, 14071, Spain
| | - M Hidalgo
- Veterinary Reproduction Group, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, 14071, Spain.
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Elbardisi H, Finelli R, Agarwal A, Majzoub A, Henkel R, Arafa M. Predictive value of oxidative stress testing in semen for sperm DNA fragmentation assessed by sperm chromatin dispersion test. Andrology 2020; 8:610-617. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Haitham Elbardisi
- Male Infertility Unit Urology Department Hamad General Hospital Doha Qatar
- Urology Department Weill Cornell Medical‐Qatar Doha Qatar
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine Cleveland Clinic Cleveland OH USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine Cleveland Clinic Cleveland OH USA
| | - Ahmad Majzoub
- Male Infertility Unit Urology Department Hamad General Hospital Doha Qatar
- Urology Department Weill Cornell Medical‐Qatar Doha Qatar
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine Cleveland Clinic Cleveland OH USA
| | - Ralf Henkel
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine Cleveland Clinic Cleveland OH USA
- Department of Medical Bioscience University of the Western Cape Bellville South Africa
| | - Mohamed Arafa
- Male Infertility Unit Urology Department Hamad General Hospital Doha Qatar
- Urology Department Weill Cornell Medical‐Qatar Doha Qatar
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine Cleveland Clinic Cleveland OH USA
- Andrology Department Cairo University Cairo Egypt
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81
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Baskaran S, Agarwal A, Panner Selvam MK, Finelli R, Robert KA, Iovine C, Pushparaj PN, Samanta L, Harlev A, Henkel R. Tracking research trends and hotspots in sperm DNA fragmentation testing for the evaluation of male infertility: a scientometric analysis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2019; 17:110. [PMID: 31878936 PMCID: PMC6931248 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-019-0550-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 11/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This article describes the research trends in sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) over the past 20 years (1999-2018) using a scientometric approach. METHODS A stepwise approach was adopted to retrieve scientometric data (articles per year, authors, affiliations, journals, countries) from Scopus and analyze the publication pattern of SDF with reference to key areas of research in the field of Andrology. RESULTS A total of 2121 articles were retrieved related to SDF. Our data revealed an increasing research trend in SDF (n = 33 to n = 173) over the past 20 years (R2 = 0.894). Most productive country in publications was the USA (n = 450), while Agarwal A. (n = 129) being the most productive author. Most of the articles in SDF were primarily focused on lifestyle (n = 157), asthenozoospermia (n = 135) and varicocele (130). Mechanistic studies on SDF were published twice as much as prognostic/diagnostic studies, with significant emphasis on oxidative stress. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) was the most widely used technique to evaluate SDF. Publications on SDF related to assisted reproductive techniques also showed a linear increasing trend (R2 = 0.933). CONCLUSIONS Our analysis revealed an increasing trend in SDF publications predominantly investigating lifestyle, asthenozoospermia and varicocele conditions with TUNEL being the most widely used technique. A substantial increase in research is warranted to establish SDF as prognostic/diagnostic parameter to evaluate clinical scenarios and ART outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saradha Baskaran
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA.
| | - Manesh Kumar Panner Selvam
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Kathy Amy Robert
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Concetta Iovine
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
| | - Peter Natesan Pushparaj
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Luna Samanta
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
- Redox Biology Laboratory, Center of Excellence in Environment and Public Health, Ravenshaw University, -753003, Cuttack, India
| | - Avi Harlev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soroka University Medical Center, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Ralf Henkel
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Mail Code X-11, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, Cleveland, OH, 44195, USA
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
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Esteves SC, Santi D, Simoni M. An update on clinical and surgical interventions to reduce sperm DNA fragmentation in infertile men. Andrology 2019; 8:53-81. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandro C. Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic Referral Center for Male Reproduction Campinas Brazil
- Department of Surgery (Division of Urology) University of Campinas (UNICAMP) Campinas Brazil
- Faculty of Health Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Daniele Santi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Modena Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology Department of Medical Specialties Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Modena Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Modena Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology Department of Medical Specialties Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Modena Italy
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Armstrong S, Atkinson M, MacKenzie J, Pacey A, Farquhar C. Add-ons in the laboratory: hopeful, but not always helpful. Fertil Steril 2019; 112:994-999. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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84
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Tesarik J. Acquired Sperm DNA Modifications: Causes, Consequences, and Potential Solutions. EUROPEAN MEDICAL JOURNAL 2019. [DOI: 10.33590/emj/10312990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA of human spermatozoa can be subject to various kinds of modifications acquired throughout life. Put simply, two basic types of acquired sperm DNA modifications can be distinguished: genetic and epigenetic. Genetic modifications cause alterations of the DNA sequence and mainly result from the formation of breakpoints leading to sperm DNA fragmentation. Epigenetic modifications include a vast spectrum of events that influence the expression of different genes without altering their DNA sequence. Both the genetic and the epigenetic modifications of sperm DNA can negatively influence embryonic development, cause miscarriages, and be the origin of different health problems for the offspring. As to sperm DNA fragmentation, reliable diagnostic methods are currently available. On the other hand, the detection of potentially harmful epigenetic modifications in spermatozoa is a much more complicated issue. Different treatment options can be chosen to solve problems associated with sperm DNA fragmentation. Some are relatively simple and noninvasive, based on oral treatments with antioxidants and other agents, depending on the underlying cause. In other cases, the recourse to different micromanipulation-assisted in vitro fertilisation techniques is necessary to select spermatozoa with minimal DNA damage to be injected into oocytes. The treatment of cases with epigenetic DNA modifications is still under investigation. Preliminary data suggest that some of the techniques used in cases of extensive DNA fragmentation can also be of help in those of epigenetic modifications; however, further progress will depend on the availability of more reliable diagnostic methods with which it will be possible to evaluate the effects of different therapeutic interventions.
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85
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Awaga HA, Lymperi S, Bosdou JK, Makedos A, Mitsoli A, Bazioti MG, Savvaidou D, Goulis DG, Chatzimeletiou K, Salem MN, Ahmed SR, Grimbizis G, Tarlatzis BC, Kolibianakis EM. Addition of procyanidine to semen preserves progressive sperm motility up to three hours of incubation. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:255-260. [PMID: 31353213 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.07.001] [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: 03/18/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Several studies on semen physiology and sperm fertilizing capacity have shown a beneficial effect of antioxidants. Procyanidine is a natural antioxidant, more efficient compared with vitamin C and E, with many applications in the food, agriculture, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry. Thus, we tested whether the addition of procyanidine to the semen of infertile men has a beneficial effect on spermatozoa during their in vitro incubation and during the cryopreservation process. Semen samples of 25 infertile men were divided in to two aliquots, in which procyanidine was added or not. Semen analysis, measurement of sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) and measurement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were performed 3 h after incubation at 37 °C and after sperm cryopreservation and thawing. In-vitro addition of procyanidine to semen of infertile men resulted in a lesser decrease in progressive motility [-4 (-31:+6) vs. -6 (-31:+5), p < 0.001] and total motility [-5 (-29:+3) vs. -9 (-32:+2), p < 0.001] after 3 h of incubation compared with no addition of procyanidine. Sperm morphology was decreased only in the control group after 3 h of incubation [2 (0:+6) vs. 1 (0:+4), p = 0.009]. Furthermore, a larger increase in sperm DFI was observed in the control compared with the procyanidine group [9 (-7:+27) vs. 3 (-3:+18), p = 0.005] after thawing of cryopreserved semen samples. In conclusion, in-vitro addition of procyanidine to the semen of infertile men exerts a protective effect on progressive motility during handling and after 3 h of incubation as well as on sperm DFI during the process of cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hatem A Awaga
- Unit for Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Sohag University Hospital, Sohag, Egypt; Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stefania Lymperi
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Julia K Bosdou
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anastasios Makedos
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anna Mitsoli
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Maria G Bazioti
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Despina Savvaidou
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Dimitrios G Goulis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Katerina Chatzimeletiou
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Mohamed N Salem
- Unit for Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Sohag University Hospital, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Salah R Ahmed
- Unit for Human Reproduction, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Sohag University Hospital, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Grigoris Grimbizis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Basil C Tarlatzis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Efstratios M Kolibianakis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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