101
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Velazquez MA, Fleming TP, Watkins AJ. Periconceptional environment and the developmental origins of disease. J Endocrinol 2019; 242:T33-T49. [PMID: 30707679 DOI: 10.1530/joe-18-0676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The concept emerging from Professor David Barker’s seminal research on the developmental origins of later-life disease has progressed in many directions since it was first published. One critical question being when during gestation might environment alter the developmental programme with such enduring consequences. Here, we review the growing consensus from clinical and animal research that the period around conception, embracing gamete maturation and early embryogenesis might be the most vulnerable period. We focus on four types of environmental exposure shown to modify periconceptional reproduction and offspring development and health: maternal overnutrition and obesity; maternal undernutrition; paternal diet and health; and assisted reproductive technology. These conditions may act through diverse epigenetic, cellular and physiological mechanisms to alter gene expression and cellular signalling and function in the conceptus affecting offspring growth and metabolism leading to increased risk for cardiometabolic and neurological disease in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A Velazquez
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Tom P Fleming
- Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Adam J Watkins
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
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102
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Manier MK, Welch G, Van Nispen C, Bakst MR, Long J. Low-mobility sperm phenotype in the domestic turkey: Impact on sperm morphometry and early embryonic death. Reprod Domest Anim 2019; 54:613-621. [PMID: 30650207 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The sperm mobility assay measures the ability of sperm to swim through a dense layer of Accudenz® , and the sperm mobility phenotype has been shown to predict fertility and other sperm performance traits in roosters and turkeys. In this study, we examined turkey sperm morphometry and rates of early embryonic death associated with high- and low-mobility semen. We also assessed whether the hypo-osmotic stress test, which evaluates the structural integrity of the sperm plasma membrane, may be used as a faster and simpler assay for sperm mobility and viability. We confirmed previous work that found that high-mobility sperm are faster and swim more linearly than low-mobility sperm, and that mobility traits were repeatable within males. In contrast to previous studies, we did not find higher rates of fertility, but low-mobility sperm was associated with higher rates of early embryonic death, though this trend was not significant. High-mobility sperm had longer sperm heads, explained by longer nuclei, despite shorter acrosomes. Although these sperm were faster, midpiece length and flagellum length did not differ between high- and low-mobility sperm. Finally, mobility was not found to be associated with sperm performance in the hypo-osmotic stress test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mollie K Manier
- Biological Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Glenn Welch
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Beltsville, Maryland
| | - Christiaan Van Nispen
- Biological Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Murray R Bakst
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Beltsville, Maryland
| | - Julie Long
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Beltsville, Maryland
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103
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Cheng PJ, Pastuszak AW, Hotaling JM. Is it time to start folate supplementation in men? The effect of paternal folate status on embryonic growth. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:251-252. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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104
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Rodriguez-Caro H, Dragovic R, Shen M, Dombi E, Mounce G, Field K, Meadows J, Turner K, Lunn D, Child T, Southcombe JH, Granne I. In vitro decidualisation of human endometrial stromal cells is enhanced by seminal fluid extracellular vesicles. J Extracell Vesicles 2019; 8:1565262. [PMID: 30728921 PMCID: PMC6352950 DOI: 10.1080/20013078.2019.1565262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Revised: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles are highly abundant in seminal fluids and have a known role enhancing sperm function. Clinical pregnancy rates after IVF treatment are improved after female exposure to seminal fluid. Seminal fluid extracellular vesicles (SF-EVs) are candidate enhancers, however, whether SF-EVs interact with cells from the endometrium and modulate the implantation processes is unknown. Here, we investigated whether SF-EVs interact with endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) and enhance decidualisation, a requisite for implantation. SF-EVs, isolated from human seminal fluid (n = 11) by ultracentrifugation, were characterised by nanoparticle tracking analysis and Western blotting, and purified using size exclusion chromatography. Non-decidualised and decidualised primary ESCs (n = 5) were then treated with SF-EVs. Binding of bio-maleimide-labelled SF-EVs was detected by flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. Prolactin and IGFBP-1 protein levels in culture media were also analysed after single and multiple SF-EV exposure. SF-EVs size ranged from 50 to 300 nm, and they expressed exosomal markers (ALIX, SYNTENIN-1, CD9 and CD81). SF-EVs bound to non-decidualised and decidualised ESCs at similar levels. ESCs prolactin secretion was increased after single (p = 0.0044) and multiple (p = 0.0021) SF-EV exposure. No differences were found in IGFBP-1 protein levels. In conclusion, SF-EVs enhance in vitro ESC decidualisation and increase secretion of prolactin, an essential hormone in implantation. This elucidates a novel role of SF-EVs on endometrial receptivity. Abbreviations: ECACC: European Collection of Authenticated Cell Cultures; ESCs: endometrial stromal cells; EVs: extracellular vesicles; FCS: foetal calf serum; HRP: horse-radish peroxidase; IFNγ: interferon-gamma; IGF: insulin-like growth factor; IGFBP-1: insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1; IVF: in vitro fertilisation; MVB: multivesicular bodies; NTA: nanoparticle tracking analysis; PRLR−/−: homozygous prolactin receptor knockout; RT: room temperature; SF-EVs: seminal fluid extracellular vesicles; STR: short tandem repeat; TGFβ: transforming growth factor β; uNK: uterine natural killer
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Rodriguez-Caro
- Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Rebecca Dragovic
- Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Mengni Shen
- Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Eszter Dombi
- Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Ginny Mounce
- Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Kate Field
- Oxford Fertility, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Oxford, UK
| | - Jamie Meadows
- Oxford Fertility, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Oxford, UK
| | - Karen Turner
- Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Oxford, UK.,Oxford Fertility, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Oxford, UK
| | - Daniel Lunn
- Department of Statistics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Tim Child
- Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Oxford, UK.,Oxford Fertility, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Oxford, UK
| | - Jennifer Helen Southcombe
- Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Ingrid Granne
- Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, Oxford, UK
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105
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Activin-like kinase 5 (ALK5) inactivation in the mouse uterus results in metastatic endometrial carcinoma. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:3883-3892. [PMID: 30655341 PMCID: PMC6397539 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1806838116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The rising incidence of endometrial cancer in the United States and worldwide can be partially attributed to elevated rates of obesity in the population. Although hysterectomy is an effective treatment for early endometrial cancer, medical interventions are required in advanced cases with metastatic disease or for women wishing to preserve fertility. Here, we present a mouse model with conditional inactivation of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) receptor, activin-like kinase 5 (Alk5), that develops estrogen-dependent endometrial adenocarcinoma with distant lung metastases. We anticipate that this mouse will be a useful preclinical model for testing novel therapies for endometrial cancer and for understanding the mechanisms that control endometrial regeneration in the postpartum uterus. The endometrial lining of the uterine cavity is a highly dynamic tissue that is under the continuous control of the ovarian steroid hormones, estrogen and progesterone. Endometrial adenocarcinoma arises from the uncontrolled growth of the endometrial glands, which is typically associated with unopposed estrogen action and frequently occurs in older postmenopausal women. The incidence of endometrial cancer among younger women has been rising due to increasing rates of obesity, a major risk factor for the disease. The transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) family is a highly conserved group of proteins with roles in cellular differentiation, proliferation, and cancer. Inactivating mutations in the genes encoding the TGFβ cell surface receptors (TGFBR1/ALK5 and TGFBR2) have been detected in various human cancers, indicating that a functional TGFβ signaling pathway is required for evading tumorigenesis. In this study, we present a mouse model with conditional inactivation of activin receptor-like kinase 5 (ALK5) in the mouse uterus using progesterone receptor cre (“Alk5 cKO”) that develops endometrial adenocarcinoma with metastasis to the lungs. The cancer and metastatic lung nodules are estrogen dependent and retain estrogen receptor α (ERα) reactivity, but have decreased levels of progesterone receptor (PR) protein. The endometrial tumors develop only in Alk5 cKO mice that are mated to fertile males, indicating that TGFβ-mediated postpartum endometrial repair is critical for endometrial function. Overall, these studies indicate that TGFβ signaling through TGFBR1/ALK5 in the endometrium is required for endometrial homeostasis, tumor suppression, and postpartum endometrial regeneration.
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106
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Morgan CP, Chan JC, Bale TL. Driving the Next Generation: Paternal Lifetime Experiences Transmitted via Extracellular Vesicles and Their Small RNA Cargo. Biol Psychiatry 2019; 85:164-171. [PMID: 30580777 PMCID: PMC6309802 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2018.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Revised: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies provide strong evidence for the impact of diverse paternal life experiences on offspring neurodevelopmental disease risk. While these associations are well established, the molecular mechanisms underlying these intergenerational transmissions remain elusive, though recent studies focusing on the influence of paternal experience before conception have implicated germ cell epigenetic programming. Any model accounting for the germline transfer of nongenetic information from sire to offspring must include certain components, such as 1) a vector to carry any signal from the paternal compartment to the maternal reproductive tract and future embryo; 2) a molecular signal, encoded by a paternal experience, to carry this memory and enact downstream responses; and 3) a target cell or tissue to receive the signal and convert it into an effect on embryonic development. We explore the current understanding of the potential processes and candidate factors that may serve as these components. We specifically discuss the growing appreciation for the importance of extracellular vesicles in these processes, beginning with their known role in delivering potential signals, including small RNAs, to sperm, the prototypical vector, during their posttesticular maturation. Finally, we explore the possibility that paternal extracellular vesicles could themselves serve as vectors, delivering signals not only to gametes or the zygote but also to tissues of the maternal reproductive tract to influence fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher P Morgan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jennifer C Chan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Tracy L Bale
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland.
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107
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Kisspeptin Protein in Seminal Plasma Is Positively Associated with Semen Quality: Results from the MARHCS Study in Chongqing, China. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:5129263. [PMID: 30729125 PMCID: PMC6343164 DOI: 10.1155/2019/5129263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Objectives To study the associations between kisspeptin levels in seminal plasma and blood plasma and semen quality. Materials and Methods We conducted a male reproductive health survey in June 2014. A total of 666 volunteers were recruited from colleges in Chongqing, China. All volunteers completed a questionnaire including information on domestic characteristics and some potential confounders. We tested the kisspeptin levels in both blood and seminal plasma. Total seminal kisspeptin was calculated as the concentration of kisspeptin in seminal plasma multiplied by semen volume. Semen samples were tested according to the 2010 World Health Organization's (WHO) guidelines. Spearman correlation and multivariate linear regression were used to explore the association between kisspeptin concentrations in seminal plasma and blood plasma and semen quality. Potential confounders that were adjusted for included age, abstinence time, body mass index (BMI), grade, and smoking. Results The median of kisspeptin levels in seminal plasma was 60,000 times higher than kisspeptin in blood plasma (28.0 × 106 pg/ml versus 448.9 pg/ml). Each interquartile range (IQR) of kisspeptin in seminal plasma was associated with a 4.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.6%–7.6%) increase in sperm concentration. Each IQR of total kisspeptin was associated with a 7.7% (95% CI: 4.4%–11.0%) increase in total sperm number and a 7.8% (95% CI: 4.0%–11.7%) increase in total motile sperm count. Kisspeptin levels were further classified into quartiles and Q1 was set as the reference level. Subjects in the high total kisspeptin group had 57.5% (95% CI: 33.2%–86.2%) higher total sperm number than the reference group. Conclusion The positive association between kisspeptin levels in seminal plasma and semen quality supported an important role for the KISS1/GPR54 system in male reproductive health. Kisspeptin may be a potential marker of male reproductive health and an alternative strategy for treating infertility.
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108
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Munuce MJ, Marini PE, Teijeiro JM. Expression profile and distribution of Annexin A1, A2 and A5 in human semen. Andrologia 2019; 51:e13224. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- María José Munuce
- Laboratorio de Medicina Reproductiva, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas; CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Rosario; Rosario Argentina
| | - Patricia Estela Marini
- Laboratorio de Medicina Reproductiva, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas; CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Rosario; Rosario Argentina
- Consejo de Investigaciones de la Universidad Nacional de Rosario and Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario, IBR-CONICET; Rosario Argentina
| | - Juan Manuel Teijeiro
- Laboratorio de Medicina Reproductiva, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas; CONICET, Universidad Nacional de Rosario; Rosario Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CONICET; Rosario Argentina
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109
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Morgan HL, Watkins AJ. Transgenerational Impact of Environmental Change. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1200:71-89. [PMID: 31471795 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-23633-5_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions is critical for any species to survive. Many environmental changes occur too rapidly for an organism's genome to adapt in time. Accordingly, being able to modify either its own phenotype, or the phenotype of its offspring to better suit future anticipated environmental conditions could afford an organism a significant advantage. However, a range of animal models and human epidemiological data sets are now showing that environmental factors such as changes in the quality or quantity of an individual's diet, temperature, stress or exposure to pollutants can all adversely affect the quality of parental gametes, the development of the preimplantation embryo and the health and wellbeing of offspring over multiple generations. This chapter will examine transgenerational effects of both maternal and paternal environmental factors on offspring development and wellbeing in both human and animal model studies. Changes in the epigenetic status of either parental or grand-parental gametes provide one candidate mechanism through which the impacts of environmental experience can be passed from one generation to another. This chapter will therefore also focus on the impact of parental and grand-parental diet on epigenetic transgenerational inheritance and offspring phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah L Morgan
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Adam J Watkins
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
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110
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Motrich RD, Salazar FC, Breser ML, Mackern-Oberti JP, Godoy GJ, Olivera C, Paira DA, Rivero VE. Implications of prostate inflammation on male fertility. Andrologia 2018; 50:e13093. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ruben D. Motrich
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba; Córdoba Argentina
| | - Florencia C. Salazar
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba; Córdoba Argentina
| | - Maria L. Breser
- Instituto A.P. de Ciencias Básicas y Aplicadas; Universidad Nacional de Villa María, Ciudad Universitaria; Villa María, Cordoba Argentina
| | - Juan P. Mackern-Oberti
- Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo, IMBECU-CONICET; Mendoza Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Instituto de Fisiología; Universidad Nacional de Cuyo; Mendoza Argentina
| | - Gloria J. Godoy
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba; Córdoba Argentina
| | - Carolina Olivera
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba; Córdoba Argentina
| | - Daniela A. Paira
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba; Córdoba Argentina
| | - Virginia E. Rivero
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba; Córdoba Argentina
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111
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Proteomic landscape of seminal plasma associated with dairy bull fertility. Sci Rep 2018; 8:16323. [PMID: 30397208 PMCID: PMC6218504 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-34152-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Male fertility is the ability of sperm to fertilize the egg and sustain embryo development. Several factors determine the fertilizing capacity of mammalian sperm, including those intrinsic to sperm and components of the seminal plasma. The present study analyzed the seminal fluid proteome of Bos taurus and potential associations between proteins and fertility scores. Mass spectrometry coupled with nano HPLC allowed the identification of 1,159 proteins in the dairy bull seminal plasma. There were 50 and 29 seminal proteins more abundant in high (HF) low fertility (LF) bulls, respectively. Based on multivariate analysis, C-type natriuretic peptide, TIMP-2, BSP5 and sulfhydryl oxidase indicated relationship with HF bulls. Clusterin, tissue factor pathway inhibitor 2, galectin-3-binding protein and 5′-nucleotidase were associated with LF bulls. Abundance of NAD(P)(+)-arginine ADP-ribosyltransferase, prosaposin and transmembrane protein 2 proteins had the highest positive correlations with fertility ranking. Quantities of vitamin D-binding protein, nucleotide exchange factor SIL1 and galectin-3-binding protein showed the highest negative correlations with fertility ranking. A fertility ranking score was calculated and the relationship with these proteins was significant (Spearman’s rho = 0.94). The present findings represent a major and novel contribution to the study of bovine seminal proteins. Indicators of fertility can be used to improve reproductive biotechnologies.
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112
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Kanannejad Z, Gharesi-Fard B. Difference in the seminal plasma protein expression in unexplained infertile men with successful and unsuccessful in vitro fertilisation outcome. Andrologia 2018; 51:e13158. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Kanannejad
- Department of Immunology; Shiraz University of Medical Sciences; Shiraz Iran
| | - Behrouz Gharesi-Fard
- Department of Immunology; Shiraz University of Medical Sciences; Shiraz Iran
- Infertility Research Center; Shiraz University of Medical Sciences; Shiraz Iran
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113
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Robertson SA, Care AS, Moldenhauer LM. Regulatory T cells in embryo implantation and the immune response to pregnancy. J Clin Invest 2018; 128:4224-4235. [PMID: 30272581 DOI: 10.1172/jci122182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 236] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
At implantation, the embryo expresses paternally derived alloantigens and evokes inflammation that can threaten reproductive success. To ensure a robust placenta and sustainable pregnancy, an active state of maternal immune tolerance mediated by CD4+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) is essential. Tregs operate to inhibit effector immunity, contain inflammation, and support maternal vascular adaptations, thereby facilitating trophoblast invasion and placental access to the maternal blood supply. Insufficient Treg numbers or inadequate functional competence are implicated in idiopathic infertility and recurrent miscarriage as well as later-onset pregnancy complications stemming from placental insufficiency, including preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. In this Review, we summarize the mechanisms acting in the conception environment to drive the Treg response and discuss prospects for targeting the T cell compartment to alleviate immune-based reproductive disorders.
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114
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Borges E, Braga DPDAF, Setti AS. Shorter ejaculatory abstinence interval and maternal endometrium exposure to seminal plasma as tools to improve pregnancy rate in patients undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles. JBRA Assist Reprod 2018; 22:160-161. [PMID: 30129352 PMCID: PMC6106623 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20180059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Edson Borges
- Fertility Medical Group. São Paulo/SP, Brazil.,Instituto Sapientiae - Centro de Estudos e Pesquisa em Reprodução Assistida. São Paulo/SP, Brazil
| | | | - Amanda Souza Setti
- Fertility Medical Group. São Paulo/SP, Brazil.,Instituto Sapientiae - Centro de Estudos e Pesquisa em Reprodução Assistida. São Paulo/SP, Brazil
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115
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Seminal plasma modulates the immune-cytokine network in the porcine uterine tissue and pre-ovulatory follicles. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0202654. [PMID: 30153288 PMCID: PMC6112639 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0202654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Evidence is emerging that the interaction between male seminal fluid and female tissues promotes fertility, pregnancy, and health of offspring. This includes the acceleration of ovulation in a species known as a spontaneous ovulator, the domestic pig. Earlier studies revealed that seminal plasma acts by a local mechanism in the female pig. The aim of the present study was to examine local short-term and mid-term effects of seminal plasma (SP) on mRNA expression of immunoregulatory genes and transcripts associated with follicle- and oocyte maturation. In the porcine animal model, effects on mRNA expression in the female tract and preovulatory follicles were examined. SP suppressed mRNA expression of Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthase 2 (PTGS2) ipsilateral to the infused uterine horn which was associated with a lower presence of immune cells in the uterine epithelium and lower PTGS2 immunoreaction. Depending on the sampling time (2 h vs. 17 h) and hormonal status, SP altered significant correlative relations of mRNA expression between PTGS2 and the transcripts Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha, Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha-Induced Protein 6 and Pentraxin 3 in uterus, granulosa and cumulus cells. A modulatory effect of SP on the oocyte gene network comprising eight oocyte transcripts was observed: uterine exposure to SP induced positive correlations (r >0.08, p<0.05) of maturation promoting factors among each other and with cumulus cells on the side of the treated horn. In conclusion, SP orchestrates the gene network regulating the bidirectional communication between oocytes and surrounding somatic cells. The modulation of the immune-cytokine network of the female reproductive system could contribute to the previously reported SP-induced acceleration of ovulation in the porcine species.
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116
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Johnsen GM, Størvold GL, Drabbels JJM, Haasnoot GW, Eikmans M, Spruyt-Gerritse MJ, Alnæs-Katjavivi P, Scherjon SA, Redman CWG, Claas FHJ, Staff AC. The combination of maternal KIR-B and fetal HLA-C2 is associated with decidua basalis acute atherosis in pregnancies with preeclampsia. J Reprod Immunol 2018; 129:23-29. [PMID: 30055414 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2018.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Acute atherosis is an arterial lesion most often occurring in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia, a hypertensive pregnancy disorder. Acute atherosis predominates in the maternal spiral arteries in the decidua basalis layer of the pregnant uterus. This layer forms the fetal-maternal immunological interface, where fetal extravillous trophoblasts interact with maternal immune cells to promote decidual spiral artery remodeling and maternal immune tolerance towards the fetus. Of the classical polymorphic class I HLAs, extravillous trophoblasts express only HLA-C. HLA-C is a ligand for killer immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR) on NK- and T-cells. Genetic combinations of fetal HLA-C and maternal KIRs affect pregnancy outcome. However, the role of HLA and KIR genes in acute atherosis is unknown. We hypothesized that specific genetic combinations of fetal HLA and maternal KIR are associated with the presence of acute atherosis lesions in the decidua basalis. We genotyped HLA class-I and II loci in paired fetal and maternal DNA samples from 166 pregnancies (83 preeclamptics, 83 controls). Acute atherosis was identified in 38 of these. Maternal KIR-loci were also genotyped. We found that the combination of maternal KIR-B haplotype and fetal HLA-C2 was significantly associated with acute atherosis in preeclampsia. In preeclamptic pregnancies with acute atherosis, 60% had this combination, compared to 24.5% in those without acute atherosis (p = 0.001). We suggest that interactions between fetal HLA-C2 and activating KIRs on maternal decidual NK-cells or T-cells may contribute to the formation of acute atherosis by promoting local decidual vascular inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guro M Johnsen
- Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway; Division of Obstetrics and Gyneacology, Oslo University Hospital, Norway; Institute for Experimental Medical Research, Oslo University Hospital, Norway.
| | - Gro L Størvold
- Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway; Division of Obstetrics and Gyneacology, Oslo University Hospital, Norway; Institute for Experimental Medical Research, Oslo University Hospital, Norway
| | - Jos J M Drabbels
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Netherlands
| | - Geert W Haasnoot
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Netherlands
| | - Michael Eikmans
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Netherlands
| | | | - Patji Alnæs-Katjavivi
- Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway; Division of Obstetrics and Gyneacology, Oslo University Hospital, Norway
| | - Sicco A Scherjon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Groningen, Netherlands
| | | | - Frans H J Claas
- Department of Immunohematology and Blood Transfusion, Leiden University Medical Center, Netherlands
| | - Anne Cathrine Staff
- Institute for Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway; Division of Obstetrics and Gyneacology, Oslo University Hospital, Norway
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117
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Kekäläinen J, Evans JP. Gamete-mediated mate choice: towards a more inclusive view of sexual selection. Proc Biol Sci 2018; 285:20180836. [PMID: 30051836 PMCID: PMC6083266 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2018.0836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
'Sperm competition'-where ejaculates from two or more males compete for fertilization-and 'cryptic female choice'-where females bias this contest to suit their reproductive interests-are now part of the everyday lexicon of sexual selection. Yet the physiological processes that underlie these post-ejaculatory episodes of sexual selection remain largely enigmatic. In this review, we focus on a range of post-ejaculatory cellular- and molecular-level processes, known to be fundamental for fertilization across most (if not all) sexually reproducing species, and point to their putative role in facilitating sexual selection at the level of the cells and gametes, called 'gamete-mediated mate choice' (GMMC). In this way, we collate accumulated evidence for GMMC across different mating systems, and emphasize the evolutionary significance of such non-random interactions among gametes. Our overall aim in this review is to build a more inclusive view of sexual selection by showing that mate choice often acts in more nuanced ways than has traditionally been assumed. We also aim to bridge the conceptual divide between proximal mechanisms of reproduction, and adaptive explanations for patterns of non-random sperm-egg interactions that are emerging across an increasingly diverse array of taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jukka Kekäläinen
- Department of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Joensuu, Finland
| | - Jonathan P Evans
- Centre for Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
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118
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Akison LK, Andraweera PH, Bertoldo MJ, Brown HM, Cuffe JSM, Fullston T, Holland O, Schjenken JE. The current state of reproductive biology research in Australia and New Zealand: core themes from the Society for Reproductive Biology Annual Meeting, 2016. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 29:1883-1889. [PMID: 27918727 DOI: 10.1071/rd16382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Because reproduction is essential for all life, it is central to our understanding of all aspects of biology. The Society for Reproductive Biology (SRB) 2016 conference held on the Gold Coast (Qld, Australia) displayed the current breadth of reproductive research in Australia and New Zealand, with additional insights from world leaders in the field. This conference review provides a focused summary of the key questions, emerging ideas and novel technologies that were presented in the symposia. Presented research demonstrated key advances in how stem cell biology may allow us to better understand pluripotency, as well as how environmental and lifestyle factors, such as circadian disruption, smoking, alcohol and diet, affect gametogenesis, embryo implantation, placental function and reproductive capacity. Sessions also highlighted the role of reproductive biology in providing insight into the mechanisms and processes governing a wide range of biological science disciplines, including cancer research and therapies, oncofertility, conservation of native species and chronic non-communicable diseases. Recurring themes included the importance of male and female gamete quality for reproductive potential and the critical and varied roles of the placenta in the maintenance of a healthy pregnancy. Dysregulation of reproductive processes can contribute to a variety of pathological states that affect future health, fertility and fecundity. Research being conducted by the SRB has the potential to shape not only the fertility of the current generation, but also the health and reproductive viability of future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- L K Akison
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Sir William MacGregor Building, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Qld 4072, Australia
| | - P H Andraweera
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Medical School North, Frome Rd, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - M J Bertoldo
- School of Women's and Children's Health, The University of New South Wales, Wallace Wurth Building, Botany Street, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - H M Brown
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Medical School North, Frome Rd, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - J S M Cuffe
- School of Medical Science, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Parklands Dve, Southport, Qld 4222, Australia
| | - T Fullston
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Medical School North, Frome Rd, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - O Holland
- School of Medical Science, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Parklands Dve, Southport, Qld 4222, Australia
| | - J E Schjenken
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Medical School North, Frome Rd, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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119
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Sharkey DJ, Tremellen KP, Briggs NE, Dekker GA, Robertson SA. Seminal plasma pro-inflammatory cytokines interferon-γ (IFNG) and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8) fluctuate over time within men. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:1373-1381. [PMID: 28541460 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do seminal plasma pro-inflammatory cytokines interferon-γ (IFNG) and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8) vary within individual men over time? SUMMARY ANSWER IFNG exhibits substantial variation that is independent of duration of abstinence but correlates with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) content, while CXCL8 varies moderately in association with duration of abstinence. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Pro-inflammatory cytokines IFNG and CXCL8 in seminal fluid can adversely impact male and female fertility. Other cytokines as well as sperm parameters fluctuate considerably within individuals over time, but whether IFNG and CXCL8 vary similarly, and the determinants of variance, are unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Between two and seven semen samples were collected from 14 proven fertile donors at 6-10 week intervals over the course of ~12 months, to assess variation over time in cytokines and LPS, and to investigate relationships with sperm parameters and possible regulatory factors. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The concentrations and total amounts per ejaculate of IFNG and CXCL8 were determined using commercial ELISA. Sperm parameters were assessed according to World Health Organization (WHO) IV standards and LPS was measured by limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) assay. Mixed model analysis was utilized to determine the relative contribution of between- and within-individual factors in explaining variance. Relationships between cytokines, LPS and sperm parameters, as well as effect of age and duration of abstinence, were investigated by correlation analysis. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Within-individual variability contributed to total variance particularly for both IFNG, CXCL8 and LPS, and was a stronger determinant than between-individual variability for IFNG and LPS. Normal sperm motility correlated inversely with CXCL8, and sperm concentration correlated inversely with LPS. Duration of abstinence was a determinant of total CXCL8, but not IFNG or LPS. Associations between LPS, IFNG and CXCL8 suggest IFNG and perhaps CXCL8 are influenced by microbial populations. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION A limited number of donors from a single clinic were investigated. Clinical information on complete microbiology, BMI, nutrition, smoking and other lifestyle factors was unavailable. Further studies are required to determine whether the findings can be generalized to larger populations and different ethnicities. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These data reveal substantial variation over time in pro-inflammatory seminal fluid cytokines and imply existence of microbial or other environmental regulatory factors. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by grants from the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia. The authors have no competing interests to disclose.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Sharkey
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia
| | - Kelton P Tremellen
- School of Medicine, Flinders University, Adelaide SA 5001, Australia.,Repromed Pty Ltd, 180 Fullarton Road, Dulwich SA 5065, Australia
| | - Nancy E Briggs
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia
| | - Gustaaf A Dekker
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia.,Lyell McEwin Hospital, Elizabeth Vale, Adelaide SA 5112, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia
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120
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Schoenmakers S, Steegers-Theunissen R, Faas M. The matter of the reproductive microbiome. Obstet Med 2018; 12:107-115. [PMID: 31523266 PMCID: PMC6734629 DOI: 10.1177/1753495x18775899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The preconceptional presence of microbiota in the female and male reproductive organs suggests that fertilization is taking place in a nonsterile environment and contributes to reproductive success. The concept of embryonic development in a sterile uterus has also been challenged with recent reports of the existence of a microbiome of the placenta, amniotic fluid and the fetal gut in normal, uncomplicated pregnancies. The maternal origins of the microbiota colonising the fetus and its surroundings are unknown as are the mechanisms of maternal-to-fetal transfer. In this review, we aim to highlight the preconception male and female microbiome, the maternal vaginal and gut microbiome during pregnancy and the fetal microbiome, including their possible roles in reproduction, and maternal and neonatal pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Schoenmakers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marijke Faas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Groningen and University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), Groningen, The Netherlands
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121
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Satta V, Manca ME, Torres-Rovira L, Succu S, Mereu P, Nehme M, Epifani G, Gallus M, Berlinguer F, Naitana S, Leoni GG. Effects of melatonin administration on seminal plasma metabolites and sperm fertilization competence during the non-reproductive season in ram. Theriogenology 2018; 115:16-22. [PMID: 29702366 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of ram melatonin treatment on the sperm quality and metabolite composition of the seminal plasma in the non-breeding season. Four mature rams were treated with 54 mg melatonin in March subcutaneous implants and four untreated rams served as control. At 0, 30, 90 and 120 days semen samples were collected and sperm, separated from seminal plasma, was evaluated for its capacity to fertilize and produce embryos in vitro. Seminal plasma metabolites were extracted and analyzed by capillary electrophoresis/mass spectroscopy. In the resulting electropherograms, the area corresponding to selected metabolites was extracted and quantified. Ram melatonin treatment affected the in vitro fertilization competence of sperm. Blastocyst output increased until 90 days after treatment (27.20 ± 7.35 vs 54.7 ± 4.4% at 0 and 90 days respectively; p < 0.05) while the untreated group did not show statistical differences. In treated rams, the concentration of melatonin in seminal plasma increased from 3.34 ± 1.70 at day 0-9.65 ± 2.89 AU (Arbitrary Units) after 90 days, then decreased to reach the level of the untreated ram after 120 days (p < 0.05). During 90 days after melatonin treatment, an increase (p < 0.05) in seminal plasma concentrations of glutamic acid (6.28 ± 1.53 vs 14.93 ± 1.53 AU at 0 and 90 days respectively), glutamine (16.89 ± 4.65 vs 54.51 ± 4.65 AU), carnitine (22.97 ± 9.81 vs 104.30 ± 9.81 AU), acetyl-carnitine (48.15 ± 17.32 vs 217.69 ± 17.32 AU), choline (1.82 ± 1.55 vs 14.16 ± 1.55 AU) and arginine (1.31 ± 1.08 vs 14.25 ± 1.08 AU) was detected. Tyrosine concentration increased during 30 days from melatonin treatment (12.79 ± 3.93 vs 27.08 ± 3.04 AU) but at 90 days its levels were similar to the untreated group. In conclusion, melatonin treatment during the non-breeding season improves the concentration of several metabolites in seminal plasma and sperm fertilization competence in Sarda breed ram.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Satta
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Manca
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Laura Torres-Rovira
- Department of Animal Reproduction, INIA, Avda. Puerta de Hierro, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Succu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Paolo Mereu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Via Muroni 11, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Michella Nehme
- Lebanese University, Faculty of Agriculture Dekwaneh, Lebanon
| | - Gianpaolo Epifani
- Department of Animal Production, AGRIS Sardegna, Loc. Bonassai, Sassari, Italy
| | - Marilia Gallus
- Department of Animal Production, AGRIS Sardegna, Loc. Bonassai, Sassari, Italy
| | - Fiammetta Berlinguer
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy
| | - Salvatore Naitana
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Giuseppe Leoni
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy
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122
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Outcomes of pregnancies achieved by double gamete donation: A comparison with pregnancies obtained by oocyte donation alone. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2018; 222:1-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2017.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Revised: 12/09/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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123
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Bianchi L, Carnemolla C, Viviani V, Landi C, Pavone V, Luddi A, Piomboni P, Bini L. Soluble protein fraction of human seminal plasma. J Proteomics 2018; 174:85-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2017.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Revised: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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124
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Embryotoxic cytokines—Potential roles in embryo loss and fetal programming. J Reprod Immunol 2018; 125:80-88. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2017.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2017] [Revised: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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125
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Kenny LC, Kell DB. Immunological Tolerance, Pregnancy, and Preeclampsia: The Roles of Semen Microbes and the Father. Front Med (Lausanne) 2018; 4:239. [PMID: 29354635 PMCID: PMC5758600 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2017.00239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Although it is widely considered, in many cases, to involve two separable stages (poor placentation followed by oxidative stress/inflammation), the precise originating causes of preeclampsia (PE) remain elusive. We have previously brought together some of the considerable evidence that a (dormant) microbial component is commonly a significant part of its etiology. However, apart from recognizing, consistent with this view, that the many inflammatory markers of PE are also increased in infection, we had little to say about immunity, whether innate or adaptive. In addition, we focused on the gut, oral and female urinary tract microbiomes as the main sources of the infection. We here marshall further evidence for an infectious component in PE, focusing on the immunological tolerance characteristic of pregnancy, and the well-established fact that increased exposure to the father's semen assists this immunological tolerance. As well as these benefits, however, semen is not sterile, microbial tolerance mechanisms may exist, and we also review the evidence that semen may be responsible for inoculating the developing conceptus (and maybe the placenta) with microbes, not all of which are benign. It is suggested that when they are not, this may be a significant cause of PE. A variety of epidemiological and other evidence is entirely consistent with this, not least correlations between semen infection, infertility and PE. Our view also leads to a series of other, testable predictions. Overall, we argue for a significant paternal role in the development of PE through microbial infection of the mother via insemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise C. Kenny
- The Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Douglas B. Kell
- School of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- The Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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126
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Azad M, Keshtgar S, Jahromi BN, Kanannejad Z, Gharesi-Fard B. T helper cell subsets and related cytokines in infertile women undergoing in vitro fertilization before and after seminal plasma exposure. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2017; 44:214-223. [PMID: 29376019 PMCID: PMC5783919 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2017.44.4.214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Revised: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a well-known method for the treatment of infertility. The present study aimed to compare the differences between infertile women with successful and unsuccessful IVF outcomes regarding the expression of T helper (Th) cell transcription factors and a group of related cytokines before and after exposure to their husbands' seminal plasma. Methods This study was performed on 19 couples with unexplained infertility undergoing IVF treatment. Among the studied group, nine and 10 couples had successful and unsuccessful IVF outcomes, respectively. This study was carried out using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results Before seminal plasma exposure, the expression levels of T-bet (p<0.007), interferon-γ (p=0.013), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α (p=0.017) were higher in the infertile women with IVF failure than in those with successful IVF outcomes, while those of GATA3 (p<0.001), Foxp3 (p=0.001), and interleukin (IL)-35 (p<0.003) were lower. After seminal exposure, the expression of T-bet (p=0.02), Rorc (p<0.001), TNF-α (p=0.001), Foxp3 (p=0.02), and interferon-γ (p=0.001) increased in the unsuccessful IVF group, while the expression of Foxp3 (p=0.02), Rorc (p<0.001), IL-23 (p=0.04), IL-17 (p=0.02), IL-6 (p<0.001), transforming growth factor-β (p=0.01), and IL-35 (p<0.001) increased in the successful IVF group. Conclusion In summary, IVF failure was associated with imbalanced Th1/Th2/Th17/Treg responses. Moreover, our results show that seminal plasma might have a positive effect on IVF outcomes via changes in peripheral blood T cell subsets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marziyeh Azad
- Department of Immunology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sara Keshtgar
- Department of Physiology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Bahia Namavar Jahromi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Infertility Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Kanannejad
- Department of Immunology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Behrouz Gharesi-Fard
- Department of Immunology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Infertility Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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127
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Bai R, Latifi Z, Kusama K, Nakamura K, Shimada M, Imakawa K. Induction of immune-related gene expression by seminal exosomes in the porcine endometrium. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2017; 495:1094-1101. [PMID: 29155178 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2017.11.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Seminal plasma (SP) is considered as a vehicle to carry sperm into female reproductive tract, of which functions have not been completely understood. This study aimed to identify the function of seminal exosomes on porcine endometrium. Exosomes were isolated from the sperm-rich fraction of boar semen and were confirmed by the expression of exosome marker HSP70 and size distribution using nano-sight tracking analysis. Porcine endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) were then treated with seminal exosomes, and RNA extracted were subjected to global expression analysis. Transcripts related to "immune response", "inflammatory response" and their associated signaling pathways were up-regulated in EECs treated with seminal exosome, whereas those associated with "steroid biosynthesis", "metabolic pathways" and "T cell differentiation" were down-regulated. The decrease in PMVK, SC5D, INSIG1, HSD17B7, NSDHL, HMGCR, SQLE and FDFT1, and increase in CCL20, TNFSF15, AMCFII, CXCL2 and CXCL8 were also found in the endometrium from the naturally mated pigs. Moreover, changes in exosome-induced CYP24A1, EBP, CCL20, AMCFII and IL1A expression were not regulated by the exosome removed SP. These observations indicated that exosomes present in SP are involved in the immune-related gene regulation in the uterus, which could pave the passage for sperm and possibly fertilized eggs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rulan Bai
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, The University of Tokyo, Kasama, Ibaraki 319-2606, Japan
| | - Zeinab Latifi
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, The University of Tokyo, Kasama, Ibaraki 319-2606, Japan
| | - Kazuya Kusama
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, The University of Tokyo, Kasama, Ibaraki 319-2606, Japan
| | - Keigo Nakamura
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, The University of Tokyo, Kasama, Ibaraki 319-2606, Japan
| | - Masayuki Shimada
- Department of Applied Animal Science, Graduate School of Biosphere Science, Hiroshima University, Higashi-Hiroshima 739-8528, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Imakawa
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, The University of Tokyo, Kasama, Ibaraki 319-2606, Japan.
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129
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Quality of seminal fluids varies with type of stimulus at ejaculation. Sci Rep 2017; 7:44339. [PMID: 28287188 PMCID: PMC5347088 DOI: 10.1038/srep44339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The theory of ejaculate economics was mainly built around different sperm competition scenarios but also predicts that investments into ejaculates depend on female fecundity. Previous tests of this prediction focused on invertebrates and lower vertebrate, and on species with high female reproductive potential. It remains unclear whether the prediction also holds for polygynous mammals with low female reproductive potential (due to low litter size and long inter-birth intervals). We used horses (Equus caballus) to experimentally test whether semen characteristics are adjusted to the oestrous cycle of the mare a stallion is exposed to during few moments before ejaculation. We analysed 122 weekly semen samples collected from 16 stallions during exposure to either an oestrous or a dioestrous mare. Semen volume and the rate of motile sperm were higher when stallions were exposed to an oestrous than to a diestrous mare, while total sperm counts and sperm velocity remained unchanged. Sperm collected after exposure to an oestrous mare also showed reduced oxidative degeneration of cell membranes over a period of 48 hours. We conclude that stallions invest more into their seminal fluids when the chance of fertilization is elevated, and that this adjustment of ejaculate quality can happen very quickly.
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130
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Holden SA, Fernandez-Fuertes B, Murphy EM, Lonergan P, Fair S. Effect of seminal plasma from high- and low-fertility bulls on cauda epididymal sperm function. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 29:2457-2465. [DOI: 10.1071/rd17136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to characterise the effect of seminal plasma (SP) from bulls of high or low fertility on sperm function. First, the effect of SP on the motility of fresh cauda epididymal spermatozoa (CES) and frozen–thawed ejaculated spermatozoa was assessed (Experiment 1a). Seminal plasma was then collected from bulls of known high and low fertility. Pooled CES were incubated in the SP from each bull, diluted and assessed for motility and viability on Days 1, 2, 3 and 5 after packaging as fresh semen (Experiment 1b). Also assessed were motility, kinematics, viability and mitochondrial membrane potential after thawing (Experiment 1c) as well as hypotonic resistance (Experiment 2) and fertilisation potential using in vitro fertilisation (Experiment 3). Seminal plasma increased the motility of CES (P < 0.05); however, there was no effect of SP on the motility and viability of fresh CES or on CES post-thaw motility, viability and mitochondrial membrane potential (P > 0.05). The hypotonic resistance of CES was reduced by SP (P < 0.05), irrespective of whether the SP was from high- or low-fertility bulls. Seminal plasma from high- or low-fertility bulls had no effect on cleavage or blastocyst rates (P > 0.05). In conclusion, SP affects the physiological function of CES but there is no difference between SP from high- or low-fertility bulls.
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