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The Role of Zinc in Male Fertility. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21207796. [PMID: 33096823 PMCID: PMC7589359 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies proposed the importance of zinc ion in male fertility. Here, we describe the properties, roles and cellular mechanisms of action of Zn2+ in spermatozoa, focusing on its involvement in sperm motility, capacitation and acrosomal exocytosis, three functions that are crucial for successful fertilization. The impact of zinc supplementation on assisted fertilization techniques is also described. The impact of zinc on sperm motility has been investigated in many vertebrate and invertebrate species. It has been reported that Zn2+ in human seminal plasma decreases sperm motility and that Zn2+ removal enhances motility. Reduction in the intracellular concentration of Zn2+ during epididymal transit allows the development of progressive motility and the subsequent hyper activated motility during sperm capacitation. Extracellular Zn2+ affects intracellular signaling pathways through its interaction with the Zn2+ sensing receptor (ZnR), also named GPR39. This receptor was found in the sperm tail and the acrosome, suggesting the possible involvement of Zn2+ in sperm motility and acrosomal exocytosis. Our studies showed that Zn2+ stimulates bovine sperm acrosomal exocytosis, as well as human sperm hyper-activated motility, were both mediated by GPR39. Zn2+ binds and activates GPR39, which activates the trans-membrane-adenylyl-cyclase (tmAC) to catalyze cAMP production. The NHE (Na+/H+-exchanger) is activated by cAMP, leading in increased pHi and activation of the sperm-specific Ca2+ channel CatSper, resulting in an increase in [Ca2+]i, which, together with HCO3−, activates the soluble adenylyl-cyclase (sAC). The increase in [cAMP]i activates protein kinase A (PKA), followed by activation of the Src-epidermal growth factor receptor-Pphospholipase C (Src-EGFR-PLC) cascade, resulting in inositol-triphosphate (IP3) production, which mobilizes Ca2+ from the acrosome, causing a further increase in [Ca2+]i and the development of hyper-activated motility. PKA also activates phospholipase D1 (PLD1), leading to F-actin formation during capacitation. Prior to the acrosomal exocytosis, PLC induces phosphadidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) hydrolysis, leading to the release of the actin-severing protein gelsolin to the cytosol, which is activated by Ca2+, resulting in F-actin breakdown and the occurrence of acrosomal exocytosis.
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Balbach M, Hamzeh H, Jikeli JF, Brenker C, Schiffer C, Hansen JN, Neugebauer P, Trötschel C, Jovine L, Han L, Florman HM, Kaupp UB, Strünker T, Wachten D. Molecular Mechanism Underlying the Action of Zona-pellucida Glycoproteins on Mouse Sperm. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:572735. [PMID: 32984353 PMCID: PMC7487327 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.572735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian oocytes are enveloped by the zona pellucida (ZP), an extracellular matrix of glycoproteins. In sperm, stimulation with ZP proteins evokes a rapid Ca2+ influx via the sperm-specific, pH-sensitive Ca2+ channel CatSper. However, the physiological role and molecular mechanisms underlying ZP-dependent activation of CatSper are unknown. Here, we delineate the sequence of ZP-signaling events in mouse sperm. We show that ZP proteins evoke a rapid intracellular pHi increase that rests predominantly on Na+/H+ exchange by NHA1 and requires cAMP synthesis by the soluble adenylyl cyclase sAC as well as a sufficiently negative membrane potential set by the spem-specific K+ channel Slo3. The alkaline-activated CatSper channel translates the ZP-induced pHi increase into a Ca2+ response. Our findings reveal the molecular components underlying ZP action on mouse sperm, opening up new avenues for understanding the basic principles of sperm function and, thereby, mammalian fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Balbach
- Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Department of Molecular Sensory Systems, Bonn, Germany
| | - Hussein Hamzeh
- Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Department of Molecular Sensory Systems, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jan F Jikeli
- Institute of Innate Immunity, Department of Biophysical Imaging, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christoph Brenker
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Christian Schiffer
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jan N Hansen
- Institute of Innate Immunity, Department of Biophysical Imaging, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Pia Neugebauer
- Institute of Innate Immunity, Department of Biophysical Imaging, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Luca Jovine
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
| | - Ling Han
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
| | - Harvey M Florman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Massachusetts Medical School Worcester, Worcester, MA, United States
| | - U Benjamin Kaupp
- Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, Department of Molecular Sensory Systems, Bonn, Germany.,Life and Medical Sciences Institute, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Timo Strünker
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Dagmar Wachten
- Institute of Innate Immunity, Department of Biophysical Imaging, Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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53
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Lim VT, Geragotelis AD, Lim NM, Freites JA, Tombola F, Mobley DL, Tobias DJ. Insights on small molecule binding to the Hv1 proton channel from free energy calculations with molecular dynamics simulations. Sci Rep 2020; 10:13587. [PMID: 32788614 PMCID: PMC7423955 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70369-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hv1 is a voltage-gated proton channel whose main function is to facilitate extrusion of protons from the cell. The development of effective channel blockers for Hv1 can lead to new therapeutics for the treatment of maladies related to Hv1 dysfunction. Although the mechanism of proton permeation in Hv1 remains to be elucidated, a series of small molecules have been discovered to inhibit Hv1. Here, we computed relative binding free energies of a prototypical Hv1 blocker on a model of human Hv1 in an open state. We used alchemical free energy perturbation techniques based on atomistic molecular dynamics simulations. The results support our proposed open state model and shed light on the preferred tautomeric state of the channel blocker. This work lays the groundwork for future studies on adapting the blocker molecule for more effective inhibition of Hv1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria T Lim
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | | | - Nathan M Lim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - J Alfredo Freites
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - Francesco Tombola
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
- Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA
| | - David L Mobley
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
| | - Douglas J Tobias
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
- Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, CA, 92697, USA.
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54
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Escoffier J, Arnaud B, Kaba M, Hograindleur JP, Le Blévec E, Martinez G, Stévant I, Ray PF, Arnoult C, Nef S. Pantoprazole, a proton-pump inhibitor, impairs human sperm motility and capacitation in vitro. Andrology 2020; 8:1795-1804. [PMID: 32609951 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effects of PPIs on human sperm fertilizing capacity were poorly investigated although these drugs are widely over-used. Two publications retrospectively studied relationships between any PPI intake and sperm parameters from patients consulting at infertility clinics, but the conclusions of these reports were contradictory. Only two reports investigated the effects of lansoprazole and omeprazole on sperm motility and found lansoprazole to be deleterious and omeprazole to be neutral for sperm motility. The inconsistency of the PPI effect in the previous reports emphasizes the need for more basic research on human spermatozoa, taking into account the hypothesis that the different PPI drugs may have different effects on sperm physiology. OBJECTIVES Do PPIs, which are among the most widely sold drug in the word, impact negatively human sperm capacitation and sperm motility? MATERIALS AND METHODS The effects of PPIs on human sperm maturation and motility were analyzed by CASA, flow cytometry, and Western blot. RESULTS We tested the impact of 6 different PPIs on human sperm motility and capacitation. We showed that pantoprazole, but not the other PPIs, decreased sperm progressive motility and capacitation-induced sperm hyperactivation. We therefore investigated further the effects of pantoprazole on sperm capacitation, and we observed that it had a significant deleterious effect on the capacitation-induced hyperpolarization of the membrane potential and capacitation-associated protein phosphorylation. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Our results indicate that exposure to pantoprazole has an adverse effect on the physiological competence of human spermatozoa. As the capacitation process takes place within the female tract, our results suggest that PPIs intake by the female partner may impair in vivo sperm maturation and possibly fertilization. Moreover, the absence of adverse effect by PPIs on mouse sperm emphasizes the need to develop reprotox assays using human material to better assess the effects of medication intake on sperm physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Escoffier
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Université Grenoble Alpes, Equipe "Génétique, Epigénétique et Thérapies de l'Infertilité", IAB, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France
| | - Bastien Arnaud
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Equipe "Génétique, Epigénétique et Thérapies de l'Infertilité", IAB, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France
| | - Mayis Kaba
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jean Pascal Hograindleur
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Equipe "Génétique, Epigénétique et Thérapies de l'Infertilité", IAB, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France
| | - Emilie Le Blévec
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Equipe "Génétique, Epigénétique et Thérapies de l'Infertilité", IAB, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France
| | - Guillaume Martinez
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Equipe "Génétique, Epigénétique et Thérapies de l'Infertilité", IAB, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France
| | - Isabelle Stévant
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pierre F Ray
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Equipe "Génétique, Epigénétique et Thérapies de l'Infertilité", IAB, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France.,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UM GI-DPI, Grenoble, France
| | - Christophe Arnoult
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Equipe "Génétique, Epigénétique et Thérapies de l'Infertilité", IAB, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France
| | - Serge Nef
- Department of Genetic Medicine and Development, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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55
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Ebrahimi B, Keshtgar S. The Effects of EGTA on the Quality of Fresh and Cryopreserved-Thawed Human Spermatozoa. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2020; 45:188-198. [PMID: 32546885 PMCID: PMC7253491 DOI: 10.30476/ijms.2019.45787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Background: Sperm cryopreservation-thawing process has damaging effects on the structure and function of sperm, namely cryoinjury.
Calcium overload has been reported as a postulated mechanism for sperm damage during the first steps after thawing.
This study was designed to assess the intracellular calcium (Ca2+i) after cryopreservation and to clarify the role
of a calcium chelator ethylene glycol-bis (2-aminoethyl ether)-N, N, N′, N′-tetraacetic acid (EGTA) on human sperm quality. Methods: Forty semen samples were obtained from fertile men (March 2017 to 2018). The samples were randomly divided into fresh (F)
and cryopreserved-thawed (CT) groups. The F and CT samples were divided into control and 1 mM EGTA-treated groups.
Sperm kinematics and membrane integrity were assessed. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) and adenosine triphosphate
(ATP) were measured by luminescent methods. Ca2+i, apoptotic rate, and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) were
evaluated using flow cytometric methods. Data were compared using SPSS software, version 16.0 by ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis test. P<0.05 was considered as significant. Results: Cryopreservation decreased sperm motility, viability, membrane integrity, Ca2+i, MMP, and induced cell apoptosis
and ROS production. EGTA could not protect the cryopreserved sperm from cryoinjury. It was found to have destructive
effects on fresh sperm motility and viability (P=0.009) relative to cryopreserved sperm. ATP was reduced (P=0.02)
and ROS production (P=0.0001) was increased in the EGTA-treated F and CT sperms. Conclusion: Despite Ca2+i reduction by EGTA, it had no protective effects on fresh or cryopreserved sperm. We concluded that sperm
cryoinjury was not dependent on calcium overload, and it was suggested that cryoinjury was mainly related to cell membranes damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahareh Ebrahimi
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sara Keshtgar
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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56
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Voltage-dependent structural models of the human Hv1 proton channel from long-timescale molecular dynamics simulations. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:13490-13498. [PMID: 32461356 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1920943117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The voltage-gated Hv1 proton channel is a ubiquitous membrane protein that has roles in a variety of cellular processes, including proton extrusion, pH regulation, production of reactive oxygen species, proliferation of cancer cells, and increased brain damage during ischemic stroke. A crystal structure of an Hv1 construct in a putative closed state has been reported, and structural models for the channel open state have been proposed, but a complete characterization of the Hv1 conformational dynamics under an applied membrane potential has been elusive. We report structural models of the Hv1 voltage-sensing domain (VSD), both in a hyperpolarized state and a depolarized state resulting from voltage-dependent conformational changes during a 10-μs-timescale atomistic molecular dynamics simulation in an explicit membrane environment. In response to a depolarizing membrane potential, the S4 helix undergoes an outward displacement, leading to changes in the VSD internal salt-bridge network, resulting in a reshaping of the permeation pathway and a significant increase in hydrogen bond connectivity throughout the channel. The total gating charge displacement associated with this transition is consistent with experimental estimates. Molecular docking calculations confirm the proposed mechanism for the inhibitory action of 2-guanidinobenzimidazole (2GBI) derived from electrophysiological measurements and mutagenesis. The depolarized structural model is also consistent with the formation of a metal bridge between residues located in the core of the VSD. Taken together, our results suggest that these structural models are representative of the closed and open states of the Hv1 channel.
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57
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Yeste M, Llavanera M, Mateo-Otero Y, Catalán J, Bonet S, Pinart E. HVCN1 Channels Are Relevant for the Maintenance of Sperm Motility During In Vitro Capacitation of Pig Spermatozoa. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21093255. [PMID: 32375375 PMCID: PMC7246839 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21093255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to determine the physiological role of voltage-gated hydrogen channels 1 (HVCN1 channels) during in vitro capacitation of pig spermatozoa. Sperm samples from 20 boars were incubated in capacitating medium for 300 minutes (min) in the presence of 2-guanidino benzimidazole (2-GBI), a specific HVCN1-channel blocker, added either at 0 min or after 240 min of incubation. Control samples were incubated in capacitating medium without the inhibitor. In all samples, acrosomal exocytosis was triggered with progesterone after 240 min of incubation. Sperm viability, sperm motility and kinematics, acrosomal exocytosis, membrane lipid disorder, intracellular calcium levels and mitochondrial membrane potential were evaluated after 0, 60, 120, 180, 240, 250, 270 and 300 min of incubation. While HVCN1-blockage resulted in altered sperm viability, sperm motility and kinematics and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential as compared to control samples, at any blocker concentration and incubation time, it had a non-significant effect on intracellular Ca2+ levels determined through Fluo3-staining. The effects on acrosomal exocytosis were only significant in blocked samples at 0 min, and were associated with increased membrane lipid disorder and Ca2+ levels of the sperm head determined through Rhod5-staining. In conclusion, HVCN1 channels play a crucial role in the modulation of sperm motility and kinematics, and in Ca2+ entrance to the sperm head.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain; (M.Y.); (M.L.); (Y.M.-O); (S.B.)
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Marc Llavanera
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain; (M.Y.); (M.L.); (Y.M.-O); (S.B.)
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Yentel Mateo-Otero
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain; (M.Y.); (M.L.); (Y.M.-O); (S.B.)
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Jaime Catalán
- Unit of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, E-08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Spain;
| | - Sergi Bonet
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain; (M.Y.); (M.L.); (Y.M.-O); (S.B.)
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Elisabeth Pinart
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain; (M.Y.); (M.L.); (Y.M.-O); (S.B.)
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-972-419-514
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Šabović I, Cosci I, De Toni L, Ferramosca A, Stornaiuolo M, Di Nisio A, Dall'Acqua S, Garolla A, Foresta C. Perfluoro-octanoic acid impairs sperm motility through the alteration of plasma membrane. J Endocrinol Invest 2020; 43:641-652. [PMID: 31776969 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-019-01152-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Perfluoroalkyl-substances (PFAS) are chemical additives considered harmful for humans. We recently showed that accumulation of perfluoro-octanoic acid (PFOA) in human semen of exposed subjects was associated with altered motility parameters of sperm cells, suggesting direct toxicity. OBJECTIVES To determine whether direct exposure of human spermatozoa to PFOA was associated to impairment of cell function. PATIENTS AND METHODS Spermatozoa isolated from semen samples of ten normozoospermic healthy donors were exposed up to 2 h to PFOA, at concentrations from 0.1 to 10 ng/mL. Viability and motility parameters were evaluated by Sperm Class Analyser. Cell respiratory function was assessed by both mitochondrial probe JC-1 and respiratory control ratio (RCR) determination. Sperm accumulation of PFOA was quantified by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Expression of organic ion-transporters OATP1 and SLCO1B2 was assessed by immunofluorescence and respective role in PFOA accumulation was evaluated by either blockade with probenecid or membrane scavenging through β-cyclodextrin (β-CD). Plasma membrane fluidity and electrochemical potential (ΔΨp) were evaluated, respectively, with Merocyanine-540 and Di-3-ANEPPDHQ fluorescent probes. RESULTS Compared to untreated controls, a threefold increase of the percentage of non-motile sperms was observed after 2 h of exposure to PFOA regardless of the concentration of PFOA, whilst RCR was significantly reduced. Only scavenging with β-CD was effective in reducing PFOA accumulation, suggesting membrane involvement. Altered membrane fluidity, reduced ΔΨp and sperm motility loss associated with exposure to PFOA were reverted by β-CD treatment. CONCLUSION PFOA alters human sperm motility through plasma-membrane disruption, an effect recovered by incubation with β-CD.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Šabović
- Department of Medicine and Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - I Cosci
- Department of Medicine and Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
- Familial Cancer Clinic, Veneto Institute of Oncology (IOV-IRCCS), Padua, Italy
| | - L De Toni
- Department of Medicine and Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - A Ferramosca
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - M Stornaiuolo
- Department of Medicine and Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - A Di Nisio
- Department of Medicine and Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - S Dall'Acqua
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - A Garolla
- Department of Medicine and Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padua, Italy
| | - C Foresta
- Department of Medicine and Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128, Padua, Italy.
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Darszon A, Nishigaki T, López-González I, Visconti PE, Treviño CL. Differences and Similarities: The Richness of Comparative Sperm Physiology. Physiology (Bethesda) 2020; 35:196-208. [PMID: 32293232 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00033.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Species preservation depends on the success of fertilization. Sperm are uniquely equipped to fulfill this task, and, although several mechanisms are conserved among species, striking functional differences have evolved to contend with particular sperm-egg environmental characteristics. This review highlights similarities and differences in sperm strategies, with examples within internal and external fertilizers, pointing out unresolved issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca Morelos, México
| | - Takuya Nishigaki
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca Morelos, México
| | - Ignacio López-González
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca Morelos, México
| | - Pablo E Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts
| | - Claudia L Treviño
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca Morelos, México
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60
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Kerns K, Sharif M, Zigo M, Xu W, Hamilton LE, Sutovsky M, Ellersieck M, Drobnis EZ, Bovin N, Oko R, Miller D, Sutovsky P. Sperm Cohort-Specific Zinc Signature Acquisition and Capacitation-Induced Zinc Flux Regulate Sperm-Oviduct and Sperm-Zona Pellucida Interactions. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21062121. [PMID: 32204514 PMCID: PMC7139966 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21062121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Building on our recent discovery of the zinc signature phenomenon present in boar, bull, and human spermatozoa, we have further characterized the role of zinc ions in the spermatozoa’s pathway to fertilization. In boar, the zinc signature differed between the three major boar ejaculate fractions, the initial pre-rich, the sperm-rich, and the post-sperm-rich fraction. These differences set in the sperm ejaculatory sequence establish two major sperm cohorts with marked differences in their sperm capacitation progress. On the subcellular level, we show that the capacitation-induced Zn-ion efflux allows for sperm release from oviductal glycans as analyzed with the oviductal epithelium mimicking glycan binding assay. Sperm zinc efflux also activates zinc-containing enzymes and proteases involved in sperm penetration of the zona pellucida, such as the inner acrosomal membrane matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2). Both MMP2 and the 26S proteasome showed severely reduced activity in the presence of zinc ions, through studies using by gel zymography and the fluorogenic substrates, respectively. In the context of the fertilization-induced oocyte zinc spark and the ensuing oocyte-issued polyspermy-blocking zinc shield, the inhibitory effect of zinc on sperm-borne enzymes may contribute to the fast block of polyspermy. Altogether, our findings establish a new paradigm on the role of zinc ions in sperm function and pave the way for the optimization of animal semen analysis, artificial insemination (AI), and human male-factor infertility diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl Kerns
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211-5300, USA; (K.K.); (M.Z.); (L.E.H.); (M.S.); (M.E.)
| | - Momal Sharif
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (M.S.); (D.M.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Michal Zigo
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211-5300, USA; (K.K.); (M.Z.); (L.E.H.); (M.S.); (M.E.)
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3 N6, Canada; (W.X.); (R.O.)
| | - Lauren E. Hamilton
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211-5300, USA; (K.K.); (M.Z.); (L.E.H.); (M.S.); (M.E.)
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3 N6, Canada; (W.X.); (R.O.)
| | - Miriam Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211-5300, USA; (K.K.); (M.Z.); (L.E.H.); (M.S.); (M.E.)
| | - Mark Ellersieck
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211-5300, USA; (K.K.); (M.Z.); (L.E.H.); (M.S.); (M.E.)
| | - Erma Z. Drobnis
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211-5300, USA;
| | - Nicolai Bovin
- Shemyakin Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow 117997, Russia;
| | - Richard Oko
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 3 N6, Canada; (W.X.); (R.O.)
| | - David Miller
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; (M.S.); (D.M.)
| | - Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211-5300, USA; (K.K.); (M.Z.); (L.E.H.); (M.S.); (M.E.)
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211-5300, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-573-882-3329
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Matamoros-Volante A, Treviño CL. Capacitation-associated alkalization in human sperm is differentially controlled at the subcellular level. J Cell Sci 2020; 133:jcs238816. [PMID: 31932506 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.238816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Capacitation in mammalian sperm involves the accurate balance of intracellular pH (pHi), but the mechanisms controlling this process are not fully understood, particularly regarding the spatiotemporal regulation of the proteins involved in pHi modulation. Here, we employed an image-based flow cytometry technique combined with pharmacological approaches to study pHi dynamics at the subcellular level during capacitation. We found that, upon capacitation induction, sperm cells undergo intracellular alkalization in the head and principal piece regions. The observed localized pHi increases require the initial uptake of HCO3-, which is mediated by several proteins acting consistently with their subcellular localization. Hv1 proton channel (also known as HVCN1) and cAMP-activated protein kinase (protein kinase A, PKA) antagonists impair alkalization mainly in the principal piece. Na+/HCO3- cotransporter (NBC) and cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) antagonists impair alkalization only mildly, predominantly in the head. Motility measurements indicate that inhibition of alkalization in the principal piece prevents the development of hyperactivated motility. Altogether, our findings shed light on the complex control mechanisms of pHi and underscore their importance during human sperm capacitation.This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arturo Matamoros-Volante
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca Morelos 62210, México
| | - Claudia L Treviño
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca Morelos 62210, México
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Jardin C, Chaves G, Musset B. Assessing Structural Determinants of Zn 2+ Binding to Human H V1 via Multiple MD Simulations. Biophys J 2020; 118:1221-1233. [PMID: 31972155 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2019.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated proton channels (HV1) are essential for various physiological tasks but are strongly inhibited by Zn2+ cations. Some determinants of Zn2+ binding have been elucidated experimentally and in computational studies. However, the results have always been interpreted under the assumption that Zn2+ binds to monomeric HV1 despite evidence that HV1 expresses as a dimer and that the dimer has a higher affinity for zinc than the monomer and experimental data that suggest coordination in the dimer interface. The results of former studies are also controversial, e.g., supporting either one single or two binding sites. Some structural determinants of the binding are still elusive. We performed a series of molecular dynamics simulations to address different structures of the human proton channel, the monomer and two plausible dimer conformations, to compare their respective potential to interact with and bind Zn2+ via the essential histidines. The series consisted of several copies of the system to generate independent trajectories and increase the significance compared to a single simulation. The amount of time simulated totals 29.9 μs for 126 simulations of systems comprising ∼59,000 to ∼187,000 atoms. Our approach confirms the existence of two binding sites in monomeric and dimeric human HV1. The dimer interface is more efficient for attracting and binding Zn2+ via the essential histidines than the monomer or a dimer with the histidines in the periphery. The higher affinity is due to the residues in the dimer interface that create an attractive electrostatic potential funneling the zinc cations toward the binding sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Jardin
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Klinikum Nuremberg Medical School, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Gustavo Chaves
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Klinikum Nuremberg Medical School, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Boris Musset
- Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Klinikum Nuremberg Medical School, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany.
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63
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Dey S, Brothag C, Vijayaraghavan S. Signaling Enzymes Required for Sperm Maturation and Fertilization in Mammals. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:341. [PMID: 31921853 PMCID: PMC6930163 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals, motility and fertilizing ability of spermatozoa develop during their passage through the epididymis. After ejaculation, sperm undergo capacitation and hyperactivation in the female reproductive tract - a motility transition that is required for sperm penetration of the egg. Both epididymal initiation of sperm motility and hyperactivation are essential for male fertility. Motility initiation in the epididymis and sperm hyperactivation involve changes in metabolism, cAMP (cyclic adenosine mono-phosphate), calcium and pH acting through protein kinases and phosphatases. Despite this knowledge, we still do not understand, in biochemical terms, how sperm acquire motility in the epididymis and how motility is altered in the female reproductive tract. Recent data show that the sperm specific protein phosphatase PP1γ2, glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3), and the calcium regulated phosphatase calcineurin (PP2B), are involved in epididymal sperm maturation. The protein phosphatase PP1γ2 is present only in testis and sperm in mammals. PP1γ2 has a isoform-specific requirement for normal function of mammalian sperm. Sperm PP1γ2 is regulated by three proteins - inhibitor 2, inhibitor 3 and SDS22. Changes in phosphorylation of these three inhibitors and their binding to PP1γ2 are involved in initiation and activation of sperm motility. The inhibitors are phosphorylated by protein kinases, one of which is GSK3. The isoform GSK3α is essential for epididymal sperm maturation and fertility. Calcium levels dramatically decrease during sperm maturation and initiation of motility suggesting that the calcium activated sperm phosphatase (PP2B) activity also decreases. Loss of PP2B results in male infertility due to impaired sperm maturation in the epididymis. Thus the three signaling enzymes PP1γ2, GSK3, and PP2B along with the documented PKA (protein kinase A) have key roles in sperm maturation and hyperactivation. Significantly, all these four signaling enzymes are present as specific isoforms only in placental mammals, a testimony to their essential roles in the unique aspects of sperm function in mammals. These findings should lead to a better biochemical understanding of the basis of male infertility and should lead to novel approaches to a male contraception and managed reproduction.
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64
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Liu Y, Cheng H, Tiersch TR. The role of alkalinization-induced Ca2+ influx in sperm motility activation of a viviparous fish Redtail Splitfin (Xenotoca eiseni). Biol Reprod 2019; 99:1159-1170. [PMID: 29982498 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanisms regulating sperm motility activation are generally known in oviparous fishes, but are poorly understood in viviparous species. The mechanism of osmotic-shock induced signaling for oviparous fishes is not suitable for viviparous fishes which activate sperm motility within an isotonic environment. In addition, the presence of sperm bundles in viviparous fishes further complicates study of sperm activation mechanisms. The goal of this study was to establish methodologies to detect intracellular Ca2+ signals from sperm cells within bundles, and to investigate the signaling mechanism of sperm activation of viviparous fish using Redtail Splitfin (Xenotoca eiseni) as a model. Motility was assessed by classification of bundle dissociation and computer-assisted sperm analysis, and intracellular Ca2+ was assessed using the fluorescent probe Fura-2 AM. Bundle dissociation and sperm motility increased with extracellular Ca2+ and pH levels. Intracellular Ca2+ signals were detected from sperm within bundles, and increased significantly with extracellular Ca2+ and pH levels. Major channel blockers known to inhibit Ca2+ influx (NiCl2, ruthenium red, GdCl3, SKF-96365, nimodipine, verapamil, methoxyverapamil, mibefradil, NNC 55-0396, ω-Conotoxin MVIIC, bepridil, and 2-APB) failed to inhibit Ca2+ influx, except for CdCl2, which partially inhibited the influx. We propose a novel mechanism for motility regulation of fish sperm: an alkaline environment in the female reproductive tract opens Ca2+ channels in the sperm plasma membrane without osmotic shock, and the Ca2+ influx functions as a second messenger to activate motor proteins controlling flagella movement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Liu
- Aquatic Germplasm and Genetic Resources Center, School of Renewable Natural Resources, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Henrique Cheng
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Terrence R Tiersch
- Aquatic Germplasm and Genetic Resources Center, School of Renewable Natural Resources, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
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65
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Bernardino RL, Carrageta DF, Sousa M, Alves MG, Oliveira PF. pH and male fertility: making sense on pH homeodynamics throughout the male reproductive tract. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:3783-3800. [PMID: 31165202 PMCID: PMC11105638 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03170-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In the male reproductive tract, ionic equilibrium is essential to maintain normal spermatozoa production and, hence, the reproductive potential. Among the several ions, HCO3- and H+ have a central role, mainly due to their role on pH homeostasis. In the male reproductive tract, the major players in pH regulation and homeodynamics are carbonic anhydrases (CAs), HCO3- membrane transporters (solute carrier 4-SLC4 and solute carrier 26-SLC26 family transporters), Na+-H+ exchangers (NHEs), monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) and voltage-gated proton channels (Hv1). CAs and these membrane transporters are widely distributed throughout the male reproductive tract, where they play essential roles in the ionic balance of tubular fluids. CAs are the enzymes responsible for the production of HCO3- which is then transported by membrane transporters to ensure the maturation, storage, and capacitation of the spermatozoa. The transport of H+ is carried out by NHEs, Hv1, and MCTs and is essential for the electrochemical balance and for the maintenance of the pH within the physiological limits along the male reproductive tract. Alterations in HCO3- production and transport of ions have been associated with some male reproductive dysfunctions. Herein, we present an up-to-date review on the distribution and role of the main intervenient on pH homeodynamics in the fluids throughout the male reproductive tract. In addition, we discuss their relevance for the establishment of the male reproductive potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel L Bernardino
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - David F Carrageta
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mário Sousa
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- i3S-Institute for Innovation and Health Research, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
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66
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Mishra AK, Kumar A, Yadav S, Anand M, Yadav B, Nigam R, Garg SK, Swain DK. Functional insights into voltage gated proton channel (Hv1) in bull spermatozoa. Theriogenology 2019; 136:118-130. [PMID: 31254725 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Acid extrusion and intracellular alkalisation are the key events during sperm capacitation and these are mediated through proton gated channels (Hv1). Role of Hv1 in regulating sperm motility, capacitation and acrosome reaction has been documented in human spermatozoa; but no such data is available in bull spermatozoa; therefore, the present study was undertaken in Hariana bull spermatozoa. Sixty four ejaculates were collected from four Hariana bulls to investigate the functional involvement of Hv1 in regulation of sperm motility, capacitation and acrosome reaction in bull spermatozoa. Immunoblotting revealed the presence of a single band of 31.8 kDa corresponding to Hv1 in Hariana bull spermatozoa and immunoflourescence confirmed the positive immune-reactivity at principal piece of spermatozoa for Hv1. Functional study was carried out using 200 μM 2-Guanidinobenzimidazole (2-Guanidinobenzimidazole,selective Hv1 blocker) and 1 mM zinc chloride (potent Hv1 blocker), and 0.3 μM Anandamide (AEA), an activator of Hv1. Blocking of Hv1 resulted in significant (P < 0.05) reduction in progressive sperm motility (PSM). Activation of Hv1 with AEA also resulted in significant (P < 0.05) reduction in PSM till 1 h and thereafter, the PSM was restored and reduction was almost similar to that in control. However, during activation and inactivation of Hv1, per cent spermatozoa showing hyperactive motility were found to be markedly increased (20-30%) compared to 10-20% in control. 2-Guanidinobenzimidazole, zinc and AEA treated spermatozoa revealed significant (P < 0.05) increase in B-pattern of spermatozoa indicating induction of capacitation. Downstream signalling of Hv1 activation or inactivation seemed to be mediated through cAMP and PKA pathways. Catsper channels were found to be intimately associated with Hv1 function in regulating sperm motility. Blocking as well as activation of Hv1 resulted in significant (P < 0.05) reduction in sperm livability, spermatozoa having intact membrane, intact acrosome, and high mitochondrial transmembrane potential (MTP). Our findings evidently suggest that Hv1 channels are present in bull spermatozoa and these regulate sperm functions like hypermotility, capacitation and acrosome reaction through complex interplay between different pathways involving cAMP, PKC, and Catsper. Further studies are required to find out the possible relationship between Hv1 channels and other channels in regulating spermatozoa functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Kumar Mishra
- College of Biotechnology, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Akshay Kumar
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology & Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sarvajeet Yadav
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mukul Anand
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Brijesh Yadav
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Rajesh Nigam
- College of Biotechnology, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Satish Kumar Garg
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Dilip Kumar Swain
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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67
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Sutovsky P, Kerns K, Zigo M, Zuidema D. Boar semen improvement through sperm capacitation management, with emphasis on zinc ion homeostasis. Theriogenology 2019; 137:50-55. [PMID: 31235187 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.05.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Critical to fertilization success, sperm capacitation within the female oviductal sperm reservoir endows mammalian spermatozoa with hyperactivated motility and capacity to fertilize. An elaborate cascade of signaling events during capacitation guides the redistribution of sperm plasma membrane seminolipid and cholesterol, Ca-influx and increases tyrosine phosphorylation to promote hyperactivated motility. Such events result in the remodeling of the sperm acrosome, increased fluidity and fusability of the plasma membrane, shedding of surface-adsorbed seminal plasma proteins that glue sperm heads to the oviductal epithelium and ultimately the release of hyperactivated spermatozoa from the oviductal sperm reservoir. Discovered recently, the capacitation-induced sperm zinc ion efflux and resultant zinc signatures are reflective of sperm capacitation status and fertilizing ability, inspiring the retrospection of zinc ion functions in the physiology and fertility of boar sperm and that of other species. This review also highlights the merit of the domestic boar as a biomedical model for spermatology and fertilization research. Relevant to the quest for better fertility management in the livestock industries, the benefits of zinc ion supplementation through nutrition and direct addition to extended semen are discussed in the context of artificial insemination (AI). Ideas are shared on future technologies for zinc management in AI doses and research on the sperm zinc-interacting proteome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211-5300, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211-5300, USA.
| | - Karl Kerns
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211-5300, USA
| | - Michal Zigo
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211-5300, USA
| | - Dalen Zuidema
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65211-5300, USA
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68
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Lim S, Kierzek M, O'Connor AE, Brenker C, Merriner DJ, Okuda H, Volpert M, Gaikwad A, Bianco D, Potter D, Prabhakar R, Strünker T, O'Bryan MK. CRISP2 Is a Regulator of Multiple Aspects of Sperm Function and Male Fertility. Endocrinology 2019; 160:915-924. [PMID: 30759213 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-01076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The cysteine-rich secretory proteins (CRISPs) are a group of proteins that show a pronounced expression biased to the male reproductive tract. Although sperm encounter CRISPs at virtually all phases of sperm development and maturation, CRISP2 is the sole CRISP produced during spermatogenesis, wherein it is incorporated into the developing sperm head and tail. In this study we tested the necessity for CRISP2 in male fertility using Crisp2 loss-of-function mouse models. In doing so, we revealed a role for CRISP2 in establishing the ability of sperm to undergo the acrosome reaction and in establishing a normal flagellum waveform. Crisp2-deficient sperm possess a stiff midpiece and are thus unable to manifest the rapid form of progressive motility seen in wild type sperm. As a consequence, Crisp2-deficient males are subfertile. Furthermore, a yeast two-hybrid screen and immunoprecipitation studies reveal that CRISP2 can bind to the CATSPER1 subunit of the Catsper ion channel, which is necessary for normal sperm motility. Collectively, these data define CRISP2 as a determinant of male fertility and explain previous clinical associations between human CRISP2 expression and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuly Lim
- The Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michelina Kierzek
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Anne E O'Connor
- The Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- The School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Christoph Brenker
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - D Jo Merriner
- The Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- The School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hidenobu Okuda
- The Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- The School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marianna Volpert
- The Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Avinash Gaikwad
- The Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- The School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deborah Bianco
- The Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - David Potter
- Monash Micro Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ranganathan Prabhakar
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Timo Strünker
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Moira K O'Bryan
- The Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- The School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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69
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Allouche-Fitoussi D, Bakhshi D, Breitbart H. Signaling pathways involved in human sperm hyperactivated motility stimulated by Zn 2. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:502-515. [PMID: 30746812 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
To fertilize the egg, sperm cells must reside in the female reproductive tract for several hours during which they undergo chemical and motility changes collectively called capacitation. During capacitation, the sperm develop a unique type of motility known as hyperactivated motility (HAM). The semen contains Zn2+ in millimolar concentrations, whereas in the female reproductive tract the concentration is around 1 µM. In this study, we characterize the role of Zn 2+ in human sperm capacitation focusing on its effect on HAM. Western blot analysis revealed the presence of G protein-coupled receptor 39 (GPR39) type Zn-receptor localized mainly in the sperm tail. Zn 2+ at micromolar concentration stimulates HAM, which is mediated by a cascade involving GPR39-AC-cAMP-PKA-Src-EGFR and phospholipase C. Both the transmembrane adenylyl cyclase (AC) and the soluble-AC are involved in the stimulation of HAM by Zn 2+ . The development of HAM is precisely regulated by cyclic adenosine monophosphate, in which relatively low concentration (5-10 µM) stimulated HAM, whereas at 30 µM no stimulation occurred. A similar response was seen when different concentrations of Zn 2+ were added to the cells; low Zn 2+ stimulated HAM, whereas at relatively high Zn 2+ , no effect was seen. We further demonstrate that the Ca 2+ -channel CatSper involved in Zn 2+ -stimulated HAM. These data support a role for extracellular Zn 2+ acting via GPR39 to regulate signaling pathways in sperm capacitation, leading to HAM induction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Danit Bakhshi
- The Mina and Everard Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Haim Breitbart
- The Mina and Everard Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
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70
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Kumar A, Mishra AK, Singh V, Yadav S, Saxena A, Garg SK, Swain DK. Molecular and functional insights into Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) in bull spermatozoa. Theriogenology 2019; 128:207-217. [PMID: 30784807 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.01.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2018] [Revised: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In view of the limited information available on functional significance of TRPV1 in regulating sperm functions, present study was undertaken on bull spermatozoa. Sixty four ejaculates were collected from four Hariana bulls and were used for molecular and functional characterisation of TRPV1. Immunoblotting using TRPV1 specific antibody revealed the presence of a single band of 104 kDa corresponding to TRPV1 in Hariana bull spermatozoa. Indirect immuno fluorescence revealed positive immune-reactivity to TRPV1 at acrosomal, pre-acrosomal, post acrosomal and flagellar regions of spermatozoa. Based on the results of pilot study dose-response analysis, doses of anandamide (AEA; 0.3 μM) and capsazepine (Cp; 10 μM) were selected for further studies. Three groups of semen samples (control 100 μL diluted semen having 1 × 106 spermatozoa; anandamide (3 μL AEA+97 μL of diluted semen containing 1 × 106 spermatozoa and Cp (1 μL Cp+99 μL of diluted semen containing 1 × 106 spermatozoa) were used to study the functional involvement of TRPV1 in bull spermatozoa. Blocking of TRPV1 with Cp resulted in significant (P < 0.05) reduction in progressive sperm motility (PSM) as compared to control. With activation of TRPV1 using AEA also, PSM was significantly (P < 0.05) decreased till 1h and thereafter the PSM was sustained to the level as observed in control. However, both during blocking and activation of TRPV1, per cent spermatozoa showing hyperactive motility were significantly (P < 0.05) increased (20-30%) compared to the control. Treatment with both Cp and AEA revealed significant (P < 0.05) increase in B-pattern of spermatozoa in chlortetracycline hydrochloride (CTC) staining indicating induction of capacitation. Inhibition of soluble adenyl cyclase (sAC) with 99 nM KH7and protein kinase A (PKA) with 3 μM P9115 significantly (P < 0.05) decreased PSM both in the presence of Cp and AEA. Blocking as well as activation of TRPV1 showed significant (P < 0.05) reduction in sperm livability, intact membrane, intact acrosome, high mitochondrial transmembrane potential; hence indicating the involvement of TRPV1 in regulation of sperm functions in bulls. From the study-it was concluded that TRPV1 channels are found in bull spermatozoa and mediate number of sperm functions like motility, hypermotility, capacitation and acrosome reaction. Further studies are required to find out the possible relationship between TRPV1 channels and other channels in regulating spermatozoa function and possible mechanisms associated with TRPV1 activation as well as its role in sperm function regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshay Kumar
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology & Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abhishek Kumar Mishra
- College of Biotechnology, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vijay Singh
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology & Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sarvajeet Yadav
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Atul Saxena
- Department of Veterinary Gynaecology & Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Satish Kumar Garg
- Department of Veterinary Pharmacology & Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Dilip Kumar Swain
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura, 281001, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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Romero-Aguirregomezcorta J, Cronin S, Donnellan E, Fair S. Progesterone induces the release of bull spermatozoa from oviductal epithelial cells. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:1463-1472. [DOI: 10.1071/rd18316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanism that causes the detachment of spermatozoa from the oviductal reservoir around the time of ovulation remains to be elucidated. Because the cumulus cells of the bovine oocyte are known to secrete progesterone (P4), and P4 has been shown to act upon cation channels of spermatozoa (CatSper) in human spermatozoa, it was hypothesised that P4 could induce hyperactivation due to an influx of extracellular calcium, and this would facilitate detachment of spermatozoa from oviductal epithelial cells. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of action of P4 in the release of spermatozoa from bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOEC). Initial dose–response assessments on sperm hyperactivation determined the optimum concentration of P4 (10 nM), mibefradil (a non-specific Ca2+ channel antagonist; 5µM), NNC 55-0396 dihydrochloride (NNC; a CatSper antagonist; 2µM), mifepristone (a classical and membrane P4 receptor antagonist; 400nM) and AG205 (a membrane P4 receptor antagonist; 10μM). BOEC explants were incubated with frozen–thawed bovine spermatozoa for 30min, following which loosely bound spermatozoa were removed. Two experiments were completed. In Experiment 1, BOECs were treated for 30min with either no treatment, P4, NNC, mibefradil, P4+mibefradil, P4+NNC, P4+mibefradil+NNC or P4+EGTA. In Experiment 2, BOECs were treated for 30min with either no treatment, P4, mifepristone, AG205, mifepristone+AG205, P4+mifepristone, P4+AG205 or P4+mifepristone+AG205. The number of spermatozoa remaining bound per millimetre squared of BOEC explant was determined. Progesterone stimulated the release of bound spermatozoa from BOEC explants, whereas NNC, mibefradil and EGTA inhibited this release. The release of spermatozoa by P4 was inhibited in the presence of both mifepristone and AG205, whereas the combination of both had the greatest inhibitory action on P4 release of spermatozoa. These findings suggest the presence of a P4 membrane receptor on bovine spermatozoa and that P4-induced release of spermatozoa from BOECs is likely mediated by extracellular Ca2+.
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72
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Role of human Hv1 channels in sperm capacitation and white blood cell respiratory burst established by a designed peptide inhibitor. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2018; 115:E11847-E11856. [PMID: 30478045 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1816189115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Using a de novo peptide inhibitor, Corza6 (C6), we demonstrate that the human voltage-gated proton channel (hHv1) is the main pathway for H+ efflux that allows capacitation in sperm and permits sustained reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in white blood cells (WBCs). C6 was identified by a phage-display strategy whereby ∼1 million novel peptides were fabricated on an inhibitor cysteine knot (ICK) scaffold and sorting on purified hHv1 protein. Two C6 peptides bind to each dimeric channel, one on the S3-S4 loop of each voltage sensor domain (VSD). Binding is cooperative with an equilibrium affinity (K d) of ∼1 nM at -50 mV. As expected for a VSD-directed toxin, C6 inhibits by shifting hHv1 activation to more positive voltages, slowing opening and speeding closure, effects that diminish with membrane depolarization.
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73
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Orta G, de la Vega-Beltran JL, Martín-Hidalgo D, Santi CM, Visconti PE, Darszon A. CatSper channels are regulated by protein kinase A. J Biol Chem 2018; 293:16830-16841. [PMID: 30213858 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra117.001566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian sperm must undergo capacitation as a preparation for entering into hyperactivated motility, undergoing the acrosome reaction, and acquiring fertilizing ability. One of the initial capacitation events occurs when sperm encounter an elevated HCO3 - concentration. This anion activates the atypical adenylyl cyclase Adcy10, increases intracellular cAMP, and stimulates protein kinase A (PKA). Moreover, an increase in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+] i ) is essential for sperm capacitation. Although a cross-talk between cAMP-dependent pathways and Ca2+ clearly plays an essential role in sperm capacitation, the connection between these signaling events is incompletely understood. Here, using three different approaches, we found that CatSper, the main sperm Ca2+ channel characterized to date, is up-regulated by a cAMP-dependent activation of PKA in mouse sperm. First, HCO3 - and the PKA-activating permeable compound 8-Br-cAMP induced an increase in [Ca2+] i , which was blocked by the PKA peptide inhibitor PKI, and H89, another PKA inhibitor, also abrogated the 8-Br-cAMP response. Second, HCO3 - increased the membrane depolarization induced upon divalent cation removal by promoting influx of monovalent cations through CatSper channels, which was inhibited by PKI, H89, and the CatSper blocker HC-056456. Third, electrophysiological patch clamp, whole-cell recordings revealed that CatSper activity is up-regulated by HCO3 - and by direct cAMP injection through the patch-clamp pipette. The activation by HCO3 - and cAMP was also blocked by PKI, H89, Rp-cAMPS, and HC-056456, and electrophysiological recordings in sperm from CatSper-KO mice confirmed CatSper's role in these activation modes. Our results strongly suggest that PKA-dependent phosphorylation regulates [Ca2+] i homeostasis by activating CatSper channel complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo Orta
- From the Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Morelos 62250, México
| | - José Luis de la Vega-Beltran
- From the Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Morelos 62250, México
| | - David Martín-Hidalgo
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, and
| | - Celia M Santi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and.,Department of Neurosciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - Pablo E Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, Integrated Sciences Building, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003, and
| | - Alberto Darszon
- From the Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Morelos 62250, México,
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Puga Molina LC, Luque GM, Balestrini PA, Marín-Briggiler CI, Romarowski A, Buffone MG. Molecular Basis of Human Sperm Capacitation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2018; 6:72. [PMID: 30105226 PMCID: PMC6078053 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2018.00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In the early 1950s, Austin and Chang independently described the changes that are required for the sperm to fertilize oocytes in vivo. These changes were originally grouped under name of “capacitation” and were the first step in the development of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in humans. Following these initial and fundamental findings, a remarkable number of observations led to characterization of the molecular steps behind this process. The discovery of certain sperm-specific molecules and the possibility to record ion currents through patch-clamp approaches helped to integrate the initial biochemical observation with the activity of ion channels. This is of particular importance in the male gamete due to the fact that sperm are transcriptionally inactive. Therefore, sperm must control all these changes that occur during their transit through the male and female reproductive tracts by complex signaling cascades that include post-translational modifications. This review is focused on the principal molecular mechanisms that govern human sperm capacitation with particular emphasis on comparing all the reported pieces of evidence with the mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lis C Puga Molina
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Guillermina M Luque
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Paula A Balestrini
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Clara I Marín-Briggiler
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana Romarowski
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mariano G Buffone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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75
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Mishra AK, Kumar A, Swain DK, Yadav S, Nigam R. Insights into pH regulatory mechanisms in mediating spermatozoa functions. Vet World 2018; 11:852-858. [PMID: 30034181 PMCID: PMC6048093 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2018.852-858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulation of pH in spermatozoa is a complex and dynamic process as sperm cells encounter different pH gradients during their journey from testes to the site of fertilization in female genital tract. The precise regulations of pH in sperm cells regulate the sperm functions such as motility, hyperactivity, capacitation, and acrosome reaction. Electrophysiological, pharmacological, and molecular studies have revealed the presence of different ion channels and exchanger systems which regulate intracellular pH in sperm cells as well as regulate sperm functions. Recent studies also have shown the potential involvement of pH in the regulation of fertility competence of sperm cells, and alterations in pH have shown to impede sperm functions. This mini-review discusses the probable mechanisms involved in pH regulation in sperm cells and how pH is involved in regulation of various sperm functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Kumar Mishra
- College of Biotechnology, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura - 281 001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Akshay Kumar
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura - 281 001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Dilip Kumar Swain
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura - 281 001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sarvajeet Yadav
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura - 281 001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Rajesh Nigam
- College of Biotechnology, U.P. Pandit Deendayal Upadhayaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan, Mathura - 281 001, Uttar Pradesh, India
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76
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Zhao Y, Tan CH, Krauchunas A, Scharf A, Dietrich N, Warnhoff K, Yuan Z, Druzhinina M, Gu SG, Miao L, Singson A, Ellis RE, Kornfeld K. The zinc transporter ZIPT-7.1 regulates sperm activation in nematodes. PLoS Biol 2018; 16:e2005069. [PMID: 29879108 PMCID: PMC5991658 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.2005069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm activation is a fascinating example of cell differentiation, in which immotile spermatids undergo a rapid and dramatic transition to become mature, motile sperm. Because the sperm nucleus is transcriptionally silent, this transition does not involve transcriptional changes. Although Caenorhabditis elegans is a leading model for studies of sperm activation, the mechanisms by which signaling pathways induce this transformation remain poorly characterized. Here we show that a conserved transmembrane zinc transporter, ZIPT-7.1, regulates the induction of sperm activation in Caenorhabditis nematodes. The zipt-7.1 mutant hermaphrodites cannot self-fertilize, and males reproduce poorly, because mutant spermatids are defective in responding to activating signals. The zipt-7.1 gene is expressed in the germ line and functions in germ cells to promote sperm activation. When expressed in mammalian cells, ZIPT-7.1 mediates zinc transport with high specificity and is predominantly located on internal membranes. Finally, genetic epistasis places zipt-7.1 at the end of the spe-8 sperm activation pathway, and ZIPT-7.1 binds SPE-4, a presenilin that regulates sperm activation. Based on these results, we propose a new model for sperm activation. In spermatids, inactive ZIPT-7.1 is localized to the membranous organelles, which contain higher levels of zinc than the cytoplasm. When sperm activation is triggered, ZIPT-7.1 activity increases, releasing zinc from internal stores. The resulting increase in cytoplasmic zinc promotes the phenotypic changes characteristic of activation. Thus, zinc signaling is a key step in the signal transduction process that mediates sperm activation, and we have identified a zinc transporter that is central to this activation process. Sperm are specialized cells with transcriptionally silent DNA that has been packaged for delivery into the egg. In their final step of development, immature sperm undergo a rapid transition from nonmotile cells to mature, motile sperm capable of fertilization. The signals that trigger this change are not clearly understood. By identifying mutants in the roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans that are defective in sperm activation, we discovered a conserved transmembrane protein, ZIPT-7.1, that transports zinc and promotes sperm activation in both sexes. ZIPT-7.1 is expressed in the germ line and functions there to control sperm activation. When expressed ectopically in mammalian cells, the protein specifically transports zinc across membranes and localizes primarily to membranes within the cell. Previous genetic studies had identified two pathways that mediate sperm activation in C. elegans, and our results suggest that zipt-7.1 acts at the end of one of these two, the spe-8 pathway. We propose that when this pathway triggers sperm activation, it acts through ZIPT-7.1, which mediates the release of zinc from internal stores in the immature sperm. This released zinc functions as a second messenger to promote the differentiation of mature, motile sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanmei Zhao
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Department of Molecular Biology, Rowan University SOM, Stratford, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Chieh-Hsiang Tan
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Amber Krauchunas
- Waksman Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Andrea Scharf
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Nicholas Dietrich
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Kurt Warnhoff
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Zhiheng Yuan
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Marina Druzhinina
- Waksman Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Sam Guoping Gu
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Long Miao
- Key Laboratory of RNA Biology, Institute of Biophysics, CAS Center for Excellence in Biomacromolecules, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Andrew Singson
- Waksman Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Ronald E. Ellis
- Department of Molecular Biology, Rowan University SOM, Stratford, New Jersey, United States of America
- * E-mail: (REE); (KK)
| | - Kerry Kornfeld
- Department of Developmental Biology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- * E-mail: (REE); (KK)
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De La Rosa V, Bennett AL, Ramsey IS. Coupling between an electrostatic network and the Zn 2+ binding site modulates Hv1 activation. J Gen Physiol 2018; 150:863-881. [PMID: 29743298 PMCID: PMC5987874 DOI: 10.1085/jgp.201711822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Revised: 02/15/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The voltage sensor (VS) domain in Hv1 proton channels mediates a voltage-dependent and H+-selective "aqueous" conductance (GAQ) that is potently modulated by extracellular Zn2+ Although two conserved His residues are required for Zn2+ effects on GAQ gating, the atomic structure of the Zn2+ coordination site and mechanism by which extracellular Zn2+ stabilizes a closed-state conformation remain unknown. Here we use His mutagenesis to identify residues that increase Zn2+ potency and are therefore likely to participate in first solvation shell interactions with Zn2+ Experimental Zn2+-mapping data were then used to constrain the structure of a new resting-state Hv1 model (Hv1 F). Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations show how protein and water atoms directly contribute to octahedral Zn2+ coordination spheres in Zn2+-bound and -unbound Hv1 F models. During MD simulations, we observed correlated movements of Zn2+-interacting side chains and residues in a highly conserved intracellular Coulombic network (ICN) that contains highly conserved Arg "gating charges" in S4 as well as acidic "counter-charges" in S2 and S3 and is known to control VS activation, suggesting that occupancy of the extracellular Zn2+ site is conformationally coupled to reorganization of the ICN. To test this hypothesis, we neutralized an ICN Glu residue (E153) and show that in addition to shifting GAQ activation to more negative voltages, E153A also decreases Zn2+ potency. We speculate that extracellular gating-modifier toxins and other ligands may use a generally similar long-range conformational coupling mechanism to modulate VS activation in related ion channel proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor De La Rosa
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Medical College of Virginia Campus, Richmond, VA
| | - Ashley L Bennett
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Medical College of Virginia Campus, Richmond, VA
| | - Ian Scott Ramsey
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Medical College of Virginia Campus, Richmond, VA
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Kelly MC, Brown SG, Costello SM, Ramalingam M, Drew E, Publicover SJ, Barratt CLR, Martins Da Silva S. Single-cell analysis of [Ca2+]i signalling in sub-fertile men: characteristics and relation to fertilization outcome. Hum Reprod 2018; 33:1023-1033. [PMID: 29697805 PMCID: PMC5972555 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Revised: 03/22/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the characteristics of progesterone-induced (CatSper-mediated) single cell [Ca2+]i signals in spermatozoa from sub-fertile men and how do they relate to fertilizing ability? SUMMARY ANSWER Single cell analysis of progesterone-induced (CatSper-mediated) [Ca2+]i showed that reduced progesterone-sensitivity is a common feature of sperm from sub-fertile patients and is correlated with fertilization rate. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Stimulation with progesterone is a widely used method for assessing [Ca2+]i mobilization by activation of CatSper in human spermatozoa. Although data are limited, sperm population studies have indicated an association of poor [Ca2+]i response to progesterone with reduced fertilization ability. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a cohort study using semen samples from 21 donors and 101 patients attending the assisted conception unit at Ninewells Hospital Dundee who were undergoing ART treatment. Patients were recruited from January 2016 to June 2017. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Semen donors and patients were recruited in accordance with local ethics approval (13/ES/0091) from the East of Scotland Research Ethics Service (EoSRES) REC1. [Ca2+]i responses were examined by single cell imaging and motility parameters assessed by computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE For analysis, patient samples were divided into three groups IVF(+ve) (successful fertilization; 62 samples), IVF-FF (failed fertilization; eight samples) and ICSI (21 samples). A further 10 IVF samples showed large, spontaneous [Ca2+]i oscillations and responses to progesterone could not be analysed. All patient samples loaded with the [Ca2+]i-indicator fluo4 responded to progesterone stimulation with a biphasic increase in fluorescence (transient followed by plateau) which resembled that seen in progesterone-stimulated donor samples. The mean normalized response (progesterone-induced increase in fluorescence normalized to resting level) was significantly smaller in IVF-FF and ICSI patient groups than in donors. All samples were further analysed by plotting, for each cell, the relationship between resting fluorescence intensity and the progesterone-induced fluorescence increment. In donor samples these plots overlaid closely and had a gradient of ≈ 2 and plots for most IVF(+ve) samples closely resembled the donor distribution. However, in a subset (≈ 10%) of IVF(+ve) samples, 3/8 IVF-FF samples and one-third of ICSI samples the gradient of the plot was significantly lower, indicating that the response to progesterone of the cells in these samples was abnormally small. Examination of the relationship between gradient (regression coefficient of the plot) in IVF samples and fertilization rate showed a positive correlation. In IVF-FF and ICSI groups, the proportion of cells in which a response to progesterone could be detected was significantly lower than in donors and IVF (+ve) patients. Approximately 20% of cells in donor, IVF(+ve) and ICSI samples generated [Ca2+]i oscillations when challenged with progesterone but in IVF-FF samples only ≈ 10% of cells generated oscillations and there was a significantly greater proportion of samples where no oscillations were observed. Levels of hyperactivated motility were lower in IVF(+ve) and IVF-FF groups compared to controls, IVF-FF also having lower levels than IVF(+ve). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is an in vitro study and caution must be taken when extrapolating these results in vivo. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study reveals important details of impaired [Ca2+]i signalling in sperm from sub-fertile men that cannot be detected in population studies. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by a MRC project grant (MR/M012492/1; MR/K013343/1). Additional funding was provided by Chief Scientist Office/NHS research Scotland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark C Kelly
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | - Sean G Brown
- School of Science, Engineering & Technology, Abertay University, Dundee DD11HG, UK
| | - Sarah M Costello
- School of Biosciences, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Mythili Ramalingam
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
- Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | - Ellen Drew
- Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | | | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
- Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | - Sarah Martins Da Silva
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
- Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD19SY, UK
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79
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Allouche-Fitoussi D, Bakhshi D, Breitbart H. Signaling pathways involved in human sperm hyperactivated motility stimulated by Zn 2. Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 85:543-556. [PMID: 29750435 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
To fertilize the egg, sperm cells must reside in the female reproductive tract for several hours during which they undergo chemical and motility changes collectively called capacitation. During capacitation, the sperm develop a unique type of motility known as hyperactivated motility (HAM). The semen contains Zn2+ in millimolar concentrations, whereas in the female reproductive tract, the concentration is around 1 µM. In this study, we characterize the role of Zn2+ in human sperm capacitation focusing on its effect on HAM. Western blot analysis revealed the presence of GPR39-type Zn-receptor localized mainly in the sperm tail. Zn2+ at micromolar concentration stimulates HAM, which is mediated by a cascade involving GPR39-adenylyl cyclase (AC)-cyclic AMP (cAMP)-protein kinase A-tyrosine kinase Src (Src)-epidermal growth factor receptor and phospholipase C. Both the transmembrane AC and the soluble-AC are involved in the stimulation of HAM by Zn2+ . The development of HAM is precisely regulated by cAMP, in which relatively low concentration (5-10 µM) stimulated HAM, whereas at 30 µM no stimulation occurred. A similar response was seen when different concentrations of Zn2+ were added to the cells; low Zn2+ stimulated HAM, whereas at relatively high Zn2+ , no effect was seen. We further demonstrate that the Ca2+ -channel CatSper involved in Zn2+ -stimulated HAM. These data support a role for extracellular Zn2+ acting via GPR39 to regulate signaling pathways in sperm capacitation, leading to HAM induction.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Danit Bakhshi
- The Mina & Everard Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Haim Breitbart
- The Mina & Everard Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
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80
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Ritagliati C, Baro Graf C, Stival C, Krapf D. Regulation mechanisms and implications of sperm membrane hyperpolarization. Mech Dev 2018; 154:33-43. [PMID: 29694849 DOI: 10.1016/j.mod.2018.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian sperm are unable to fertilize the egg immediately after ejaculation. In order to gain fertilization competence, they need to undergo a series of biochemical and physiological modifications inside the female reproductive tract, known as capacitation. Capacitation correlates with two essential events for fertilization: hyperactivation, an asymmetric and vigorous flagellar motility, and the ability to undergo the acrosome reaction. At a molecular level, capacitation is associated to: phosphorylation cascades, modification of membrane lipids, alkalinization of the intracellular pH, increase in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration and hyperpolarization of the sperm plasma membrane potential. Hyperpolarization is a crucial event in capacitation since it primes the sperm to undergo the exocytosis of the acrosome content, essential to achieve fertilization of the oocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Ritagliati
- Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction Networks, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (IBR-CONICET-UNR), Rosario 2000, Argentina.
| | - Carolina Baro Graf
- Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction Networks, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (IBR-CONICET-UNR), Rosario 2000, Argentina
| | - Cintia Stival
- Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction Networks, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (IBR-CONICET-UNR), Rosario 2000, Argentina
| | - Dario Krapf
- Laboratory of Cell Signal Transduction Networks, Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (IBR-CONICET-UNR), Rosario 2000, Argentina; Laboratorio de Especialidades Reproductivas, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquimicas y Farmacéuticas, UNR, Rosario 2000, Argentina.
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81
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Jin SK, Yang WX. Factors and pathways involved in capacitation: how are they regulated? Oncotarget 2018; 8:3600-3627. [PMID: 27690295 PMCID: PMC5356907 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 09/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In mammals, fertilization occurs via a comprehensive progression of events. Freshly ejaculated sperm have yet to acquire progressive motility or fertilization ability. They must first undergo a series of biochemical and physiological changes, collectively known as capacitation. Capacitation is a significant prerequisite to fertilization. During the process of capacitation, changes in membrane properties, intracellular ion concentration and the activities of enzymes, together with other protein modifications, induce multiple signaling events and pathways in defined media in vitro or in the female reproductive tract in vivo. These, in turn, stimulate the acrosome reaction and prepare spermatozoa for penetration of the egg zona pellucida prior to fertilization. In the present review, we conclude all mainstream factors and pathways regulate capacitation and highlight their crosstalk. We also summarize the relationship between capacitation and assisted reproductive technology or human disease. In the end, we sum up the open questions and future avenues in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Kai Jin
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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82
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Muzzachi S, Guerra L, Martino NA, Favia M, Punzi G, Silvestre F, Guaricci AC, Roscino MT, Pierri CL, Dell'Aquila ME, Casavola V, Lacalandra GM, Ciani E. Effect of cariporide on ram sperm pH regulation and motility: possible role of NHE1. Reproduction 2018; 155:433-445. [PMID: 29491124 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Sperm motility, a feature essential for in vivo fertilization, is influenced by intracellular pH (pHi) homeostasis. Several mechanisms are involved in pHi regulation, among which sodium-hydrogen exchangers (NHEs), a family of integral transmembrane proteins that catalyze the exchange of Na+ for H+ across lipid bilayers. A preliminary characterization of NHE activity and kinetic parameters, followed by analysis of the expression and localization of the protein in ram spermatozoa was performed. NHE activity showed an apparent Km for external Na+ of 17.61 mM. Immunoblotting revealed a molecular mass of 85 kDa. Immunolocalization pattern showed some species-specific aspects, such as positive labeling at the equatorial region of the sperm head. Cariporide, a selective NHE1 inhibitor, significantly reduced pHi recovery (85%). Similarly, exposure to cariporide significantly inhibited different motility parameters, including those related to sperm capacitation. In vitro fertilization (IVF) was not affected by cariporide, possibly due to the non-dramatic, although significant, drop in motility and velocity parameters or due to prolonged exposure during IVF, which may have caused progressive loss of its inhibitory effect. In conclusion, this is the first study documenting, in a large animal model (sheep) of well-known translational relevance, a direct functional role of NHE on sperm pHi and motility. The postulated specificity of cariporide toward isoform 1 of the Na+/H+ exchanger seems to suggest that NHE1 may contribute to the observed effects on sperm cell functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Muzzachi
- Department of BiosciencesBiotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Bari, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Guerra
- Department of BiosciencesBiotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola Antonio Martino
- Department of BiosciencesBiotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Bari, Italy.,Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Puglia e della BasilicataFoggia, Italy
| | - Maria Favia
- Department of BiosciencesBiotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Punzi
- Department of BiosciencesBiotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Bari, Italy
| | - Fabio Silvestre
- Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal ProductionsDepartment of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio Ciro Guaricci
- Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal ProductionsDepartment of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Roscino
- Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal ProductionsDepartment of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Ciro Leonardo Pierri
- Department of BiosciencesBiotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Dell'Aquila
- Department of BiosciencesBiotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Bari, Italy
| | - Valeria Casavola
- Department of BiosciencesBiotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Bari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Michele Lacalandra
- Section of Veterinary Clinics and Animal ProductionsDepartment of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Elena Ciani
- Department of BiosciencesBiotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Bari, Italy
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83
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Srivastav A, Changkija B, Sharan K, Nagar GK, Bansode FW. Influence of antifertility agents Dutasteride and Nifedipine on CatSper gene level in epididymis during sperm maturation in BALB/c mice. Reproduction 2018; 155:347-359. [PMID: 29434054 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Calcium (Ca2+) signaling is critical for successful fertilization. In spermatozoa, capacitation, hyperactivation of motility and the acrosome reaction are all mediated by increases in intracellular Ca2+ through CatSper (sperm-specific cation channel). The CatSper channel complex contains four pore-forming α subunits (CatSper1-4) and five accessory subunits called β, δ, ε, γ and ζ. Genetic deletion of any of the four CatSper genes in mice results in loss of hyperactivated motility and male infertility. Despite their vital role in male fertility, almost very little is known about influence of antifertility agents on CatSper gene expression in epididymis and epididymal spermatozoa. Therefore, we performed quantitative real-time qPCR analysis for CatSper expression in the epididymis and epididymal sperm of BALB/c mice after treatment with Dutasteride (DS), a dual 5-α reductase inhibitor and Nifedipine (NF) a calcium channel blocker as positive control. We observed that treatment with antifertility agents Dutasteride and Nifedipine induced significant decreases in the caput and cauda epididymal sperm counts, motility and fertility which could partly be attributed to alteration in the normal morphology of the sperm associated with downregulation/upregulation of CatSper mRNAs in epididymis and epididymal spermatozoa of male BALB/c mice. These can be explained on the basis of interference with mechanisms affecting calcium ion signaling resulting in changes in intracellular calcium required for sperm activity, finally affecting sperm maturation and fertility of male BALB/c mice. These studies provide some novel avenues for developing new male contraceptives in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archana Srivastav
- Division of EndocrinologyCentral Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | | | - Kunal Sharan
- Division of EndocrinologyCentral Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Geet Kumar Nagar
- Division of EndocrinologyCentral Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Falgun W Bansode
- Division of EndocrinologyCentral Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
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84
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Effect of CatSper and Hv1 Channel Inhibition on Progesterone Stimulated Human Sperm. J Reprod Infertil 2018; 19:133-139. [PMID: 30167393 PMCID: PMC6104424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intracellular calcium and proton concentrations are important factors for activating human sperm. Calcium ion (Ca2+) enters sperm through voltage-dependent calcium channel of sperm (CatSper). Proton was extruded from sperm through voltage-gated proton channel (Hv1). In the present study, the selective inhibitors of the CatSper and Hv1 channels, NNC 55-0396 (NNC) and zinc ion, respectively, were used to investigate functions of these channels. METHODS Normal semen samples (n=24) were washed and diluted to 20×106sperm/ml. The diluted sample was divided into 8 groups, containing Ham's F-10 (the control group), 2 μM NNC, 1 mM ZnCl2 and NNC+Zn. The other 4 groups were the same as above, except that they contained 1 μM progesterone. The computer assisted analysis was done by VT-Sperm 3.1 to determine the percentage of motile sperm and sperm velocity. Acrosomal status was monitored by FITC-PSA and viability assessed by Eosin-Y staining. Statistical comparisons were made using ANOVA followed by Tukey post hoc test. The p<0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS The percentage of viable and motile sperm, curvilinear velocity and other parameters of motility was reduced in all groups containing NNC, zinc and NNC+ zinc. Progesterone-induced acrosome reaction was abolished by each of these inhibitors. The combination effect of NNC plus zinc on motility and progesterone-induced acrosome reaction was not stronger than NNC by itself. CONCLUSION CatSper and Hv1 channels play a critical role in human sperm function and viability. It seems that a functional relationship exists between CatSper and Hv1 channels.
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85
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Que EL, Duncan FE, Bayer AR, Philips SJ, Roth EW, Bleher R, Gleber SC, Vogt S, Woodruff TK, O'Halloran TV. Zinc sparks induce physiochemical changes in the egg zona pellucida that prevent polyspermy. Integr Biol (Camb) 2017; 9:135-144. [PMID: 28102396 DOI: 10.1039/c6ib00212a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
During fertilization or chemically-induced egg activation, the mouse egg releases billions of zinc atoms in brief bursts known as 'zinc sparks.' The zona pellucida (ZP), a glycoprotein matrix surrounding the egg, is the first structure zinc ions encounter as they diffuse away from the plasma membrane. Following fertilization, the ZP undergoes changes described as 'hardening', which prevent multiple sperm from fertilizing the egg and thereby establish a block to polyspermy. A major event in zona hardening is cleavage of ZP2 proteins by ovastacin; however, the overall physiochemical changes contributing to zona hardening are not well understood. Using X-ray fluorescence microscopy, transmission and scanning electron microscopy, and biological function assays, we tested the hypothesis that zinc release contributes to ZP hardening. We found that the zinc content in the ZP increases by 300% following activation and that zinc exposure modulates the architecture of the ZP matrix. Importantly, zinc-induced structural changes of the ZP have a direct biological consequence; namely, they reduce the ability of sperm to bind to the ZP. These results provide a paradigm-shifting model in which fertilization-induced zinc sparks contribute to the polyspermy block by altering conformations of the ZP matrix. This adds a previously unrecognized factor, namely zinc, to the process of ZP hardening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily L Que
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, 2170 North Campus Drive, Silverman 4611, Evanston, IL 60208, USA.
| | - Francesca E Duncan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Superior Street, Lurie 10-121, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
| | - Amanda R Bayer
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, 2170 North Campus Drive, Silverman 4611, Evanston, IL 60208, USA. and Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Steven J Philips
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, 2170 North Campus Drive, Silverman 4611, Evanston, IL 60208, USA. and Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Eric W Roth
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, 2170 North Campus Drive, Silverman 4611, Evanston, IL 60208, USA. and Northwestern University Atomic and Nanoscale Characterization Experimental Center, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Reiner Bleher
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, 2170 North Campus Drive, Silverman 4611, Evanston, IL 60208, USA. and Northwestern University Atomic and Nanoscale Characterization Experimental Center, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Sophie C Gleber
- X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL 60439, USA
| | - Stefan Vogt
- X-ray Science Division, Argonne National Laboratory, Argonne, IL 60439, USA
| | - Teresa K Woodruff
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, 2170 North Campus Drive, Silverman 4611, Evanston, IL 60208, USA. and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, 303 East Superior Street, Lurie 10-121, Chicago, IL 60611, USA. and Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Thomas V O'Halloran
- The Chemistry of Life Processes Institute, Northwestern University, 2170 North Campus Drive, Silverman 4611, Evanston, IL 60208, USA. and Department of Chemistry, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA and Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
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86
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Carkci S, Etem EO, Ozaydin S, Karakeci A, Tektemur A, Ozan T, Orhan I. Ion channel gene expressions in infertile men: A case-control study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2017; 15:749-756. [PMID: 29492471 PMCID: PMC5816234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility is described as not receiving pregnancy despite unprotected and regular sexual intercourse in a 1 yr period. It is detected by 15% of the couples. Male and female factor in the etiology may be detected in similar rates. OBJECTIVE The present study aims to investigate ion channel gene expression in semen samples of infertile male compared with fertile men. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 150 men who applied to the urology clinic due to infertility were divided into five equal groups: asthenozoospermia, oligozoospermia, oligoasthenoteratozoospermia, teratozoospermia, and normozoospermia (control). All paticipants were evaluated with Cation Channel Spermia (CatSper) 1, 2, 3, 4, Proton Voltage Gated Ion Channel1 (Hv1), Potassium Channel Subfamily U1 (KCNU1), and transmembrane protein (TMEM16A) gene expression in semen samples. RESULTS "CatSper1, 4, HV1, KCNU1, and TMEM16A gene expression were detected higher in the oligozoospermia group compared to the controls. CatSper1, 2, 3, 4, KCNU1, and TMEM16A gene expression in the asthenozoospermia group and CatSper1, 2, 3, 4, KCNU1, and TMEM16A gene expression in the teratozoospermia group were detected lower compared to the controls. CatSper1, 4, HV1, and TMEM16A gen expression were higher in the oligoasthenoteratozoospermia men than the controls while CatSper3 gen expression was detected as lower." CONCLUSION It was detected that these ion channels have an effect on sperm progressive motility and morphology. It may be considered that mutations in these ion channels may result in infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serkan Carkci
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey.
| | - Ebru Onalan Etem
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey.
| | - Seda Ozaydin
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey.
| | - Ahmet Karakeci
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey.
| | - Ahmet Tektemur
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey.
| | - Tunc Ozan
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey.
| | - Irfan Orhan
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey.
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87
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Carkci S, Onalan Etem E, Ozaydin S, Karakeci A, Tektemur A, Ozan T, Orhan I. Ion channel gene expressions in infertile men: A case-control study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2017. [DOI: 10.29252/ijrm.15.12.749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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88
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Ramírez-Reveco A, Villarroel-Espíndola F, Rodríguez-Gil JE, Concha II. Neuronal signaling repertoire in the mammalian sperm functionality. Biol Reprod 2017; 96:505-524. [PMID: 28339693 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.144154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The common embryonic origin has been a recurrent explanation to understand the presence of "neural receptors" in sperm. However, this designation has conditioned a bias marked by the classical neurotransmission model, dismissing the possibility that neurotransmitters can play specific roles in the sperm function by themselves. For instance, the launching of acrosome reaction, a fundamental sperm function, includes several steps that recall the process of presynaptic secretion. Unlike of postsynaptic neuron, whose activation is mediated by molecular interaction between neurotransmitter and postsynaptic receptors, the oocyte activation is not mediated by receptors, but by cytosolic translocation of sperm phospholipase (PLCζ). Thus, the sperm has a cellular design to access and activate the oocyte and restore the ploidy of the species by an "allogenic pronuclear fusion." At subcellular level, the events controlling sperm function, particularly the capacitation process, are activated by chemical signals that trigger ion fluxes, sterol oxidation, synthesis of cyclic adenosine monophosphate, protein kinase A activation, tyrosine phosphorylations and calcium signaling, which correspond to second messengers similar to those associated with exocytosis and growth cone guidance in neurons. Classically, the sperm function associated with neural signals has been analyzed as a unidimensional approach (single ligand-receptor effect). However, the in vivo sperm are exposed to multidimensional signaling context, for example, the GABAergic, monoaminergic, purinergic, cholinergic, and melatoninergic, to name a few. The aim of this review is to present an overview of sperm functionality associated with "neuronal signaling" and possible cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in their regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Ramírez-Reveco
- Instituto de Ciencia Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Franz Villarroel-Espíndola
- Instituto de Bioquímica y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.,Department of Pathology and Pediatric Pathology, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Joan E Rodríguez-Gil
- Unitat de Reproducció Animal, Facultat de Veterinària, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ilona I Concha
- Instituto de Bioquímica y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
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89
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Sun XH, Zhu YY, Wang L, Liu HL, Ling Y, Li ZL, Sun LB. The Catsper channel and its roles in male fertility: a systematic review. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2017; 15:65. [PMID: 28810916 PMCID: PMC5558725 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-017-0281-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The Catsper channel is a sperm-specific, Ca2+-permeable, pH-dependent, and low voltage-dependent channel that is essential for the hyperactivity of sperm flagellum, chemotaxis towards the egg, capacitation and acrosome reaction. All of these physiological events require calcium entry into sperm cells. Remarkably, Catsper genes are exclusively expressed in the testis during spermatogenesis, and are sensitive to ion channel-induced pH change, such as NHEs, Ca2+ATPase, K+ channel, Hv1 channel and HCO3- transporters. Furthermore, the Catsper channel is regulated by some physiological stimulants, such as progesterone, cyclic nucleotides (e.g., cAMP, cGMP), zona pellucida (ZP) glycoproteins and bovine serum albumin (BSA). All of these factors normally stimulate Ca2+ entry into sperm through the Catsper channel. In addition, the Catsper channel may be a potential target for male infertility treatment or contraception. This review will focus on the structure, functions, regulation mechanisms and medicinal targets of the Catsper channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang-hong Sun
- grid.412521.1Department of pharmacy, the affiliated hospital of Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, 266555 China
| | - Ying-ying Zhu
- 0000 0001 0455 0905grid.410645.2Department of pharmacy, College of pharmacy of Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Lin Wang
- grid.412521.1Department of clinical laboratory, the affiliated hospital of Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, China
| | - Hong-ling Liu
- grid.412521.1Department of pharmacy, the affiliated hospital of Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, 266555 China
| | - Yong Ling
- grid.412521.1Department of pharmacy, the affiliated hospital of Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, 266555 China
| | - Zong-li Li
- grid.412521.1Department of pharmacy, the affiliated hospital of Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, 266555 China
| | - Li-bo Sun
- grid.412521.1Department of pharmacy, the affiliated hospital of Qingdao University Medical College, Qingdao, 266555 China
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90
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Cryopreservation of cynomolgus macaque (Macaca fascicularis) sperm with glycerol and ethylene glycol, and its effect on sperm-specific ion channels - CatSper and Hv1. Theriogenology 2017; 104:37-42. [PMID: 28806626 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The cryoprotective agent (CPA) is one of the most important factors that affects the cryosurvival of sperm. The aim of the present study was to compare two different CPAs, glycerol (Gly) and ethylene glycol (EG), on the cryopreservation of cynomolgus macaques sperm and evaluate the effects of cryopreservation on sperm motility, acrosomal integrity, DNA integrity, mitochondrial function and the sperm membrane ion channels CatSper and Hv1. Compared to fresh sperm, cryopreservation with either 0.7 M Gly or EG decreased the sperm motility (79.8 ± 1.5% Vs. 47.3 ± 1.8% and 47.6 ± 1.4%), acrosomal integrity (89.6 ± 1.2% Vs. 80.1 ± 1.8% and 79.6 ± 1.7%), DNA integrity (91.9 ± 0.7% Vs. 82.9 ± 1.0% and 82.3 ± 1.0%) and mitochondrial membrane potential (87.9 ± 1.8% Vs. 70.6 ± 2.7% and 67.9 ± 2.5%) and the quantity of the CatSper and Hv1 channels determined by Western Blot (p < 0.05), and EG showed equal cryoprotection to cynomolgus sperm in all of the sperm parameters. Our results indicated, for the first time, that cryopreservation decreases the quantity of sperm membrane ion channels (CatSper and Hv1), which might be one of the reasons that frozen sperm have a low fertilizing ability. The study will be beneficial to understand the biological process involved in sperm cryopreservation of nonhuman primates and contribute to improving cryopreservation protocols than can maintain sperm function and fertilizing ability.
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Abstract
Fertilization is exceptionally complex and, depending on the species, happens in entirely different environments. External fertilizers in aquatic habitats, like marine invertebrates or fish, release their gametes into the seawater or freshwater, whereas sperm from most internal fertilizers like mammals cross the female genital tract to make their way to the egg. Various chemical and physical cues guide sperm to the egg. Quite generally, these cues enable signaling pathways that ultimately evoke a cellular Ca2+ response that modulates the waveform of the flagellar beat and, hence, the swimming path. To cope with the panoply of challenges to reach and fertilize the egg, sperm from different species have developed their own unique repertoire of signaling molecules and mechanisms. Here, we review the differences and commonalities for sperm sensory signaling in marine invertebrates (sea urchin), fish (zebrafish), and mammals (mouse, human).
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Affiliation(s)
- Dagmar Wachten
- Minerva Max Planck Research Group, Molecular Physiology, Center of Advanced European Studies and Research (caesar), 53175 Bonn, Germany
| | - Jan F Jikeli
- Minerva Max Planck Research Group, Molecular Physiology, Center of Advanced European Studies and Research (caesar), 53175 Bonn, Germany
| | - U Benjamin Kaupp
- Department Molecular Sensory Systems, Center of Advanced European Studies and Research (caesar), 53175 Bonn, Germany
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92
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Pillai H, Shende AM, Parmar MS, Thomas J, Kartha HS, Taru Sharma G, Ghosh SK, Bhure SK. Detection and localization of regucalcin in spermatozoa of water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis): A calcium-regulating multifunctional protein. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 52:865-872. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2016] [Accepted: 03/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H Pillai
- Division of Biochemistry; Indian Veterinary Research Institute; Bareilly U.P. India
| | - AM Shende
- Division of Biochemistry; Indian Veterinary Research Institute; Bareilly U.P. India
| | - MS Parmar
- Division of Physiology and Climatology; Indian Veterinary Research Institute; Bareilly U.P. India
| | - J Thomas
- Immunology Section; Indian Veterinary Research Institute; Bareilly U.P. India
| | - HS Kartha
- Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology; Indian Veterinary Research Institute; Bareilly U.P. India
| | - G Taru Sharma
- Division of Physiology and Climatology; Indian Veterinary Research Institute; Bareilly U.P. India
| | - SK Ghosh
- Germ Plasm Center; Indian Veterinary Research Institute; Bareilly U.P. India
| | - SK Bhure
- Division of Biochemistry; Indian Veterinary Research Institute; Bareilly U.P. India
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93
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Pillai H, Shende AM, Parmar MS, A A, L S, Kumaresan A, G TS, Bhure SK. Regucalcin is widely distributed in the male reproductive tract and exerts a suppressive effect on in vitro sperm capacitation in the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis
). Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:212-221. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Harikrishna Pillai
- Division of Animal Biochemistry; Indian Veterinary Research Institute; Izatnagar Uttar Pradesh India
| | - Ashish Mukunda Shende
- Division of Animal Biochemistry; Indian Veterinary Research Institute; Izatnagar Uttar Pradesh India
| | - Mehtab Sing Parmar
- Division of Physiology and Climatology; Indian Veterinary Research Institute; Izatnagar Uttar Pradesh India
| | - Anjaneya A
- Division of Pathology; Indian Veterinary Research Institute; Izatnagar Uttar Pradesh India
| | - Sreela L
- Theriogenology Laboratory; Animal Reproduction; Gynaecology and Obstetrics; National Dairy Research Institute; Karnal Haryana India
| | - Arumugam Kumaresan
- Theriogenology Laboratory; Animal Reproduction; Gynaecology and Obstetrics; National Dairy Research Institute; Karnal Haryana India
| | - Taru Sharma G
- Division of Physiology and Climatology; Indian Veterinary Research Institute; Izatnagar Uttar Pradesh India
| | - Sanjeev Kumar Bhure
- Division of Animal Biochemistry; Indian Veterinary Research Institute; Izatnagar Uttar Pradesh India
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94
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Soriano-Úbeda C, García-Vázquez FA, Romero-Aguirregomezcorta J, Matás C. Improving porcine in vitro fertilization output by simulating the oviductal environment. Sci Rep 2017. [PMCID: PMC5356470 DOI: 10.1038/srep43616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Differences between the in vitro and in vivo environment in which fertilization occurs seem to play a key role in the low efficiency of porcine in vitro fertilization (IVF). This work proposes an IVF system based on the in vivo oviductal periovulatory environment. The combined use of an IVF medium at the pH found in the oviduct in the periovulatory stage (pHe 8.0), a mixture of oviductal components (cumulus-oocyte complex secretions, follicular fluid and oviductal periovulatory fluid, OFCM) and a device that interposes a physical barrier between gametes (an inverted screw cap of a Falcon tube, S) was compared with the classical system at pHe 7.4, in a 4-well multidish (W) lacking oviduct biological components. The results showed that the new IVF system reduced polyspermy and increased the final efficiency by more than 48%. This higher efficiency seems to be a direct consequence of a reduced sperm motility and lower capacitating status and it could be related to the action of OFCM components over gametes and to the increase in the sperm intracellular pH (pHi) caused by the higher pHe used. In conclusion, a medium at pH 8.0 supplemented with OFCM reduces polyspermy and improves porcine IVF output.
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95
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Abstract
The genetic bases and molecular mechanisms involved in the assembly and function of the flagellum components as well as in the regulation of the flagellar movement are not fully understood, especially in humans. There are several causes for sperm immotility, of which some can be avoided and corrected, whereas other are related to genetic defects and deserve full investigation to give a diagnosis to patients. This review was performed after an extensive literature search on the online databases PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science. Here, we review the involvement of regulatory pathways responsible for sperm motility, indicating possible causes for sperm immotility. These included the calcium pathway, the cAMP-dependent protein kinase pathway, the importance of kinases and phosphatases, the function of reactive oxygen species, and how the regulation of cell volume and osmolarity are also fundamental components. We then discuss main gene defects associated with specific morphological abnormalities. Finally, we slightly discuss some preventive and treatments approaches to avoid development of conditions that are associated with unspecified sperm immotility. We believe that in the near future, with the development of more powerful techniques, the genetic causes of sperm immotility and the regulatory mechanisms of sperm motility will be better understand, thus enabling to perform a full diagnosis and uncover new therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rute Pereira
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal and Multidisciplinary Unit for Biomedical Research-UMIB, ICBAS-UP, Portugal
| | - Rosália Sá
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal and Multidisciplinary Unit for Biomedical Research-UMIB, ICBAS-UP, Portugal
| | - Alberto Barros
- Centre for Reproductive Genetics Alberto Barros, Av. do Bessa, 240, 1° Dto. Frente, 4100-012 Porto, Portugal.,Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto. Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal and Institute of Health Research an Innovation (I3S), University of Porto, Portugal
| | - Mário Sousa
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto (ICBAS-UP), Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal and Multidisciplinary Unit for Biomedical Research-UMIB, ICBAS-UP, Portugal
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96
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Lipovac M, Bodner F, Imhof M, Chedraui P. Comparison of the effect of a combination of eight micronutrients versus a standard mono preparation on sperm parameters. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2016; 14:84. [PMID: 27938385 PMCID: PMC5148870 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-016-0219-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are reports showing that l-carnitine alone or in combination with other micronutrients improve sperm parameters. However, comparative studies are still lacking. This study was carried out to compare the short term effects of a combination of eight micronutrients including l-carnitine vs. a mono-substance (l-carnitine alone) on sperm parameters. METHODS This was a prospective, open-labelled, nonrandomized study that included male subjects (20 to 60 years) with at least 1 year of subfertility and at least one pathological semen analysis who received 3 months treatment with a mono-substance (500 mg l-carnitine/twice a day, n = 156) or a combined compound (440 mg l-carnitine + 250 mg l-arginine + 40 mg zinc + 120 mg vitamin E + 80 mg glutathione + 60 μg selenium + 15 mg coenzyme Q10 + 800 μg folic acid/once a day, n = 143) for the same time period. Sperm parameters were analyzed before and after treatment and groups comparisons performed. RESULTS Baseline characteristics were similar among studied groups (age and body mass indices). Semen parameters (volume, density, overall progressive motility [including slow and fast motility]) and percentage of sperm with normal morphology improved after 3 months in both groups as compared to baseline. However, relative change (expressed as % increase of absolute values) for sperm density and overall progressive motility (including fast motility) was found to be higher for the combined micronutrient treatment group as compared to the mono-treatment using l-carnitine alone. CONCLUSION Both analyzed groups displayed a positive short term effect on all sperm parameters; however effect on density and motility was significantly better for the combined formulation. There is need for more research in this matter that includes long term outcome data. TRIAL REGISTRATION Retrospectively registered at ISRCTN (7th October 2016). Study ID: ISRCTN48594239.
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Affiliation(s)
- Markus Lipovac
- IMI Fertility Center, Vienna, Austria
- Karl Landsteiner Institute for cell-based therapy in Gynecology, Wiener Ring 3-5, 2100 Korneuburg, Austria
| | - Florian Bodner
- IMI Fertility Center, Vienna, Austria
- Karl Landsteiner Institute for cell-based therapy in Gynecology, Wiener Ring 3-5, 2100 Korneuburg, Austria
| | - Martin Imhof
- IMI Fertility Center, Vienna, Austria
- Karl Landsteiner Institute for cell-based therapy in Gynecology, Wiener Ring 3-5, 2100 Korneuburg, Austria
- Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Chedraui
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Area for Women’s Health, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
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97
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Leemans B, Gadella BM, Stout TAE, Nelis H, Hoogewijs M, Van Soom A. An alkaline follicular fluid fraction induces capacitation and limited release of oviduct epithelium-bound stallion sperm. Reproduction 2016; 150:193-208. [PMID: 26242588 DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Induction of hyperactivated motility is considered essential for triggering the release of oviduct-bound mammalian spermatozoa in preparation for fertilization. In this study, oviduct-bound stallion spermatozoa were exposed for 2 h to: i) pre-ovulatory and ii) post-ovulatory oviductal fluid; iii) 100% and iv) 10% follicular fluid (FF); v) cumulus cells, vi) mature equine oocytes, vii) capacitating and viii) non-capacitating medium. None of these triggered sperm release or hyperactivated motility. Interestingly, native FF was detrimental to sperm viability, an effect that was negated by heat inactivation, charcoal treatment and 30 kDa filtration alone or in combination. Moreover, sperm suspensions exposed to treated FF at pH 7.9 but not pH 7.4 showed Ca(2+)-dependent hypermotility. Fluo-4 AM staining of sperm showed elevated cytoplasmic Ca(2+) in hyperactivated stallion spermatozoa exposed to treated FF at pH 7.9 compared to a modest response in defined capacitating conditions at pH 7.9 and no response in treated FF at pH 7.4. Moreover, 1 h incubation in alkaline, treated FF induced protein tyrosine phosphorylation in 20% of spermatozoa. None of the conditions tested induced widespread release of sperm pre-bound to oviduct epithelium. However, the hyperactivating conditions did induce release of 70-120 spermatozoa per oviduct explant, of which 48% showed protein tyrosine phosphorylation and all were acrosome-intact, but capable of acrosomal exocytosis in response to calcium ionophore. We conclude that, in the presence of elevated pH and extracellular Ca(2+), a heat-resistant, hydrophilic, <30 kDa component of FF can trigger protein tyrosine phosphorylation, elevated cytoplasmic Ca(2+) and hyperactivated motility in stallion sperm, but infrequent release of sperm pre-bound to oviduct epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart Leemans
- Department of ReproductionObstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, BelgiumDepartments of Farm Animal HealthBiochemistry and Cell BiologyEquine SciencesFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Bart M Gadella
- Department of ReproductionObstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, BelgiumDepartments of Farm Animal HealthBiochemistry and Cell BiologyEquine SciencesFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands Department of ReproductionObstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, BelgiumDepartments of Farm Animal HealthBiochemistry and Cell BiologyEquine SciencesFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Tom A E Stout
- Department of ReproductionObstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, BelgiumDepartments of Farm Animal HealthBiochemistry and Cell BiologyEquine SciencesFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands Department of ReproductionObstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, BelgiumDepartments of Farm Animal HealthBiochemistry and Cell BiologyEquine SciencesFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hilde Nelis
- Department of ReproductionObstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, BelgiumDepartments of Farm Animal HealthBiochemistry and Cell BiologyEquine SciencesFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten Hoogewijs
- Department of ReproductionObstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, BelgiumDepartments of Farm Animal HealthBiochemistry and Cell BiologyEquine SciencesFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ann Van Soom
- Department of ReproductionObstetrics and Herd Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, BelgiumDepartments of Farm Animal HealthBiochemistry and Cell BiologyEquine SciencesFaculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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98
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Bolanca I, Obhodas J, Ljiljak D, Matjacic L, Kuna K. Synergetic Effects of K, Ca, Cu and Zn in Human Semen in Relation to Parameters Indicative of Spontaneous Hyperactivation of Spermatozoa. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0152445. [PMID: 27031102 PMCID: PMC4816564 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0152445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We have observed that sperm quality parameters indicative of spermatozoa hyperactivation such are lower “linearity” and “straightness”, and as showed by this research “elongation”, were more pronounced in patients with normal spermiogram compared to the group of men with reduced sperm motility who were undergoing routine in vitro fertilisation. The research encompassed 97 men diagnosed with normozoospermia (n = 20), asthenozoospermia (n = 54) and oligoasthenozoospermia (n = 23). The findings indicate that sperm quality of patients with normal spermiogram diagnosed according to WHO criteria, may be compromised by showing premature spontaneous hyperactivation which can decrease the chances of natural conception. We assessed synergistic effects of multiple chemical elements in ejaculated semen to find if premature spontaneous hyperactivation of spermatozoa can be a sign of imbalanced semen composition especially of elements K, Ca, Cu and Zn. Human semen samples showing low or high baseline status of chemical elements concentrations were found in samples from all three diagnostic groups. However, correlation of K/Ca and Cu/Zn ratios, taking into account samples from all three groups of men, were negative at statistical significance level p = 0.01. We tested if the negative correlation between K/Ca and Cu/Zn ratio works for greater number of semen samples. We found the negative correlation to be valid for 175 semen samples at statistical significance of p = 0.00002. The ratio of K/Ca and Cu/Zn, i.e. increased concentrations of K and Zn in comparison to concentrations of Ca and Cu, were associated with a decrease of “straightness” in the group of men with normal spermiogram and pronounced spontaneous hyperactivation of spermatozoa, implying that these elements act in synergy and that the balance of elements and not their absolute concentrations plays the major role in premature spermatozoa hyperactivation in ejaculated semen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Bolanca
- University Hospital Centre “Sestre milosrdnice”, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Vinogradska c. 29, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Jasmina Obhodas
- Ruder Boskovic Institute, Bijenicka c. 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- * E-mail:
| | - Dejan Ljiljak
- University Hospital Centre “Sestre milosrdnice”, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Vinogradska c. 29, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lidija Matjacic
- Ruder Boskovic Institute, Bijenicka c. 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Krunoslav Kuna
- University Hospital Centre “Sestre milosrdnice”, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Vinogradska c. 29, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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99
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Syeda SS, Carlson EJ, Miller MR, Francis R, Clapham DE, Lishko PV, Hawkinson JE, Hook D, Georg GI. The Fungal Sexual Pheromone Sirenin Activates the Human CatSper Channel Complex. ACS Chem Biol 2016; 11:452-9. [PMID: 26674547 PMCID: PMC4761407 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.5b00748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The basal fungus Allomyces macrogynus (A. macrogynus) produces motile male gametes displaying well-studied chemotaxis toward their female counterparts. This chemotaxis is driven by sirenin, a sexual pheromone released by the female gametes. The pheromone evokes a large calcium influx in the motile gametes, which could proceed through the cation channel of sperm (CatSper) complex. Herein, we report the total synthesis of sirenin in 10 steps and 8% overall yield and show that the synthetic pheromone activates the CatSper channel complex, indicated by a concentration-dependent increase in intracellular calcium in human sperm. Sirenin activation of the CatSper channel was confirmed using whole-cell patch clamp electrophysiology with human sperm. Based on this proficient synthetic route and confirmed activation of CatSper, analogues of sirenin can be designed as blockers of the CatSper channel that could provide male contraceptive agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shameem Sultana Syeda
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and
Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55414, United States
| | - Erick J. Carlson
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and
Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55414, United States
| | - Melissa R. Miller
- Department
of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department
of Physiology, University of California, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
| | - Rawle Francis
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and
Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55414, United States
| | - David E. Clapham
- Department
of Cardiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Department
of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Polina V. Lishko
- Department
of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Jon E. Hawkinson
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and
Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55414, United States
| | - Derek Hook
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and
Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55414, United States
| | - Gunda I. Georg
- Department
of Medicinal Chemistry and Institute for Therapeutics Discovery and
Development, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55414, United States
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100
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Cohen R, Mukai C, Travis AJ. Lipid Regulation of Acrosome Exocytosis. ADVANCES IN ANATOMY, EMBRYOLOGY, AND CELL BIOLOGY 2016; 220:107-27. [PMID: 27194352 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-30567-7_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Lipids are critical regulators of mammalian sperm function, first helping prevent premature acrosome exocytosis, then enabling sperm to become competent to fertilize at the right place/time through the process of capacitation, and ultimately triggering acrosome exocytosis. Yet because they do not fit neatly into the "DNA--RNA-protein" synthetic pathway, they are understudied and poorly understood. Here, we focus on three lipids or lipid classes-cholesterol, phospholipids, and the ganglioside G(M1)--in context of the modern paradigm of acrosome exocytosis. We describe how these various- species are precisely segregated into membrane macrodomains and microdomains, simultaneously preventing premature exocytosis while acting as foci for organizing regulatory and effector molecules that will enable exocytosis. Although the mechanisms responsible for these domains are poorly defined, there is substantial evidence for their composition and functions. We present diverse ways that lipids and lipid modifications regulate capacitation and acrosome exocytosis, describing in more detail how removal of cholesterol plays a master regulatory role in enabling exocytosis through at least two complementary pathways. First, cholesterol efflux leads to proteolytic activation of phospholipase B, which cleaves both phospholipid tails. The resultant changes in membrane curvature provide a mechanism for the point fusions now known to occur far before a sperm physically interacts with the zona pellucida. Cholesterol efflux also enables G(M1) to regulate the voltage-dependent cation channel, Ca(V)2.3, triggering focal calcium transients required for acrosome exocytosis in response to subsequent whole-cell calcium rises. We close with a model integrating functions for lipids in regulating acrosome exocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy Cohen
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Chinatsu Mukai
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Alexander J Travis
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA. .,Atkinson Center for a Sustainable Future, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA.
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