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Anand-Ivell R, Tremellen K, Soyama H, Enki D, Ivell R. Male seminal parameters are not associated with Leydig cell functional capacity in men. Andrology 2021; 9:1126-1136. [PMID: 33715296 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3) is a constitutive, secreted peptide produced in the male uniquely by the Leydig cells of the testes. It is a biomarker for Leydig cell functional capacity, which is a measure of the numbers and differentiation status of these steroidogenic cells and lacks the biological and technical variance of the steroid testosterone. This retrospective study was carried out to examine the relationship between seminal parameters and the Leydig cell compartment, and secondarily to assess other factors responsible for determining Leydig cell functional capacity. METHODS INSL3 was assessed together with seminal, anthropometric, and hormonal parameters in a Swedish cohort of 18-year-old men, representing the average population, and in a smaller, more heterogeneous cohort of men visiting an Australian infertility clinic. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Average INSL3 concentration at 18 years is greater than that reported at younger or older ages and indicated a large 10-fold variation. In neither cohort was there a relationship between INSL3 concentration and any semen parameter. For the larger, more uniform Swedish cohort of young men, there was a significant negative relationship between INSL3 and BMI, supporting the idea that adult Leydig cell functional capacity may be established during puberty. In both cohorts, there was a significant relationship between INSL3 and FSH, but not LH concentration. No relationship was found between INSL3 and androgen receptor trinucleotide repeat polymorphisms, reinforcing the notion that Leydig cell functional capacity is unlikely to be determined by androgen influence alone. Nor did INSL3 correlate with the T/LH ratio, an alternative measure of Leydig cell functional capacity, supporting the view that these are independent measures of Leydig cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kelton Tremellen
- Department of Obstetrics Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.,Repromed, Dulwich, SA, Australia
| | - Hiroaki Soyama
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Defense Medical College Hospital, Tokorozawa, Japan
| | - Doyo Enki
- School of Medicine, Queens Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Richard Ivell
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK.,School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington, UK
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102
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Mobarak H, Heidarpour M, Rahbarghazi R, Nouri M, Mahdipour M. Amniotic fluid-derived exosomes improved spermatogenesis in a rat model of azoospermia. Life Sci 2021; 274:119336. [PMID: 33716061 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study aimed to explore the therapeutic effects of amniotic fluid-derived extracellular vesicles including exosomes (AF-Exos) on the recovery of sperm production capacity in a rat model of azoospermia. MAIN METHODS The non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) was induced in rats using intratesticular administration of Busulfan. Azoospermia was confirmed by testis histology. AF-Exos samples containing 10 or 40 μg exosomal proteins were injected into testicular tissue of NOA rats. After two months, the recovery of spermatogenesis was monitored via histopathological staining, spermiogram, and hormonal analysis. Immunohistochemistry staining for OCT-3/4 was used to identify of spermatogonial progenitors. The expression of DAZL and VASA, was also measured. KEY FINDINGS AF-Exos exhibited sphere-shaped morphology with the mean diameter and zeta potential of 50 ± 7.521 nm and -7.16 mV. Immunoblots revealed that isolated nanoparticles were CD63, CD9, and CD81 positive. Histopathological evaluation revealed that spermatogenesis was improved significantly in NOA rats after AF-Exos injection. Data showed that the sperm parameters and spermatogenesis index were significantly improved after AF-Exos injection compared to azoospermic groups. OCT-3/4+ cells were increased in NOA rats after AF-Exos injection, showing the restoration of spermatogenesis. In the present study, both doses of exosome (10 and 40 μg) restored the testicular function of NOA rats. DAZL and VASA were increased significantly in animals who received 40 μg exosomal protein compared to azoospermic rats. Except in a high dose of AF-Exos (40 μg) for Testosterone and FSH, no statistically significant differences were found regarding hormones post-exosome injection. SIGNIFICANCE Our study demonstrated that AF-Exos regenerated spermatogenesis and improved sperm quality in NOA rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halimeh Mobarak
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, 9177948974 Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Heidarpour
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, 9177948974 Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, 5165665811 Tabriz, Iran; Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, 5166653431 Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, 5166615739 Tabriz, Iran; Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, 5166653431 Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdi Mahdipour
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, 5166615739 Tabriz, Iran; Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, 5166653431 Tabriz, Iran.
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103
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Zhao LL, Makinde EA, Olatunji OJ. Protective effects of ethyl acetate extract from Shorea roxburghii against diabetes induced testicular damage in rats. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2021; 36:374-385. [PMID: 33058396 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that is associated with several complications including testicular dysfunction. This research investigated the protective action of the ethyl acetate extract from Shorea roxburghii (SRE) on diabetes induced testicular damage in rats. Diabetic rats were orally administered with SRE at doses of 100 and 400 mg/kg for 4 weeks. SRE improved the body weight gain, testes weight, testes index and increased serum concentration of testosterone. Furthermore, SRE increased the testicular antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase. In addition, SRE ameliorated testicular inflammatory mediators such as myeloperoxidase, tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 6, p38 MAPK and nuclear factor kappa B activation and decreased testicular cell apoptosis in the treated diabetic rats. SRE also raised sperm parameters after treatment of diabetic rats. Conclusively, our results suggested that SRE ameliorated diabetes induced testicular damage by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Ling Zhao
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng, China
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104
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de Souza AF, Pieri NCG, Martins DDS. Step by Step about Germ Cells Development in Canine. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11030598. [PMID: 33668687 PMCID: PMC7996183 DOI: 10.3390/ani11030598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The progression of germ cells is a remarkable event that allows biological discovery in the differ-entiation process during in vivo and in vitro development. This is crucial for understanding one toward making oogenesis and spermatogenesis. Companion animals, such as canine, could offer new animal models for experimental and clinical testing for translation to human models. In this review, we describe the latest and more relevant findings on germ cell development. In addition, we showed the methods available for obtaining germ cells in vitro and the characterization of pri-mordial germ cells and spermatogonial stem cells. However, it is necessary to further conduct basic research in canine to clarify the beginning of germ cell development. Abstract Primordial germ cells (PGCs) have been described as precursors of gametes and provide a connection within generations, passing on the genome to the next generation. Failures in the formation of gametes/germ cells can compromise the maintenance and conservation of species. Most of the studies with PGCs have been carried out in mice, but this species is not always the best study model when transposing this knowledge to humans. Domestic animals, such as canines (canine), have become a valuable translational research model for stem cells and therapy. Furthermore, the study of canine germ cells opens new avenues for veterinary reproduction. In this review, the objective is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge on canine germ cells. The aspects of canine development and germ cells have been discussed since the origin, specifications, and development of spermatogonial canine were first discussed. Additionally, we discussed and explored some in vitro aspects of canine reproduction with germ cells, such as embryonic germ cells and spermatogonial stem cells.
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105
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Sharma S, Venzac B, Burgers T, Le Gac S, Schlatt S. Microfluidics in male reproduction: is ex vivo culture of primate testis tissue a future strategy for ART or toxicology research? Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:179-192. [PMID: 31977028 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The significant rise in male infertility disorders over the years has led to extensive research efforts to recapitulate the process of male gametogenesis in vitro and to identify essential mechanisms involved in spermatogenesis, notably for clinical applications. A promising technology to bridge this research gap is organ-on-chip (OoC) technology, which has gradually transformed the research landscape in ART and offers new opportunities to develop advanced in vitro culture systems. With exquisite control on a cell or tissue microenvironment, customized organ-specific structures can be fabricated in in vitro OoC platforms, which can also simulate the effect of in vivo vascularization. Dynamic cultures using microfluidic devices enable us to create stimulatory effect and non-stimulatory culture conditions. Noteworthy is that recent studies demonstrated the potential of continuous perfusion in OoC systems using ex vivo mouse testis tissues. Here we review the existing literature and potential applications of such OoC systems for male reproduction in combination with novel bio-engineering and analytical tools. We first introduce OoC technology and highlight the opportunities offered in reproductive biology in general. In the subsequent section, we discuss the complex structural and functional organization of the testis and the role of the vasculature-associated testicular niche and fluid dynamics in modulating testis function. Next, we review significant technological breakthroughs in achieving in vitro spermatogenesis in various species and discuss the evidence from microfluidics-based testes culture studies in mouse. Lastly, we discuss a roadmap for the potential applications of the proposed testis-on-chip culture system in the field of primate male infertility, ART and reproductive toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swati Sharma
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Bastien Venzac
- Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology and TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Burgers
- Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology and TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Séverine Le Gac
- Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology and TechMed Centre, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
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106
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Hasegawa Y, Takahashi Y, Kezuka Y, Obara W, Kato Y, Tamura S, Onodera K, Segawa T, Oda T, Sato M, Nata K, Nonaka T, Ishigaki Y. Identification and Analysis of a Novel NR0B1 Mutation in Late-Onset Adrenal Hypoplasia Congenita and Hypogonadism. J Endocr Soc 2021; 5:bvaa176. [PMID: 33381670 PMCID: PMC7757432 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvaa176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective X-linked adrenal hypoplasia congenita (AHC) is a rare disorder characterized by primary adrenal insufficiency and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HHG) caused by mutations of the NR0B1/DAX1 gene. We aimed to search for the presence of any NR0B1/DAX1 gene mutations in a referred patient and to further characterize the phenotypes of the identified mutation. Case Presentation Herein, we report a Japanese patient with a novel missense mutation of the NR0B1/DAX1 gene resulting in adult-onset AHC and HHG. The patient was referred with diffuse skin pigmentation at 28 years of age, presented partial adrenal insufficiency and had undiagnosed incomplete HHG. Urological examination revealed severe oligospermia and testicular microlithiasis. Results The NR0B1/DAX1 gene mutation was identified by exome sequencing as a novel missense mutation (c.884A>T, p.Leu295His). We conducted in silico modeling of this mutant NR0B1/DAX1 protein (p.Leu295His) which affected the conserved hydrophobic core of the putative ligand-binding domain (LBD). In addition, functional analysis revealed that this mutant showed a decreased ability as a transcriptional repressor to suppress target genes, such as STAR and LHB. Furthermore, this mutant showed functionally impaired repression of steroidogenesis in human adrenocortical H295R cells. Conclusions We identified a novel missense mutation of the NR0B1/DAX1 gene in a patient suffering from late-onset AHC and HHG, who presented with oligospermia and testicular microlithiasis. This mutant NR0B1/DAX1 protein was found to have reduced repressor activity, according to in vitro studies, clinically consistent with the patient’s phenotypic features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Hasegawa
- Division of Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Yoshihiko Takahashi
- Division of Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Kezuka
- Division of Structural Biology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Iwate Medical University, Yahaba, Japan.,Thermo Fisher Scientific, Life Technologies Japan Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
| | - Wataru Obara
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Yoichiro Kato
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Shukuko Tamura
- Division of Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Ken Onodera
- Division of Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Toshie Segawa
- Division of Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Tomoyasu Oda
- Division of Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Marino Sato
- Division of Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Koji Nata
- Division of Medical Biochemistry, School of Pharmacy, Iwate Medical University, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Takamasa Nonaka
- Division of Structural Biology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Iwate Medical University, Yahaba, Japan
| | - Yasushi Ishigaki
- Division of Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Iwate Medical University, Yahaba, Japan
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107
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Anbara H, Sheibani MT, Razi M, Kian M. Insight into the mechanism of aspartame-induced toxicity in male reproductive system following long-term consumption in mice model. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY 2021; 36:223-237. [PMID: 32951320 DOI: 10.1002/tox.23028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Aspartame is one of the most common consumed artificial sweeteners utilized in many food products and beverages. It has been indicated that long-term consumption of aspartame leads to reproductive toxicity but its mechanism is not well-clear. In this study we investigated mechanism of aspartame-induced reproductive toxicity in male mice. For this purpose, 36 NMRI mature male mice received three doses of 40, 80, and 160 mg/kg body weight of aspartame, respectively per day by gavage for 90 days and also a control group was considered which received 0.5 mL of normal saline as the same route. The results revealed that long-term administration of aspartame at high doses significantly (P < .05) reduced gonadosomatic index, serum concentration of pituitary-testicular axis hormones (FSH, LH, and testosterone). It also decreased sperm parameters and total antioxidant capacity, antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase), while it caused increase in nitric oxide and malondialdehyde levels in testis tissue and sperm samples. Also, it decreased attenuated testicular histomorphometric indices (tubular differentiation index, spermiogenesis index, and repopulation index), and steroidogenic foci, while increased mRNA damages and apoptosis rate, downregulated antiapoptotic (Bcl-2) and upregulated proapoptotic (P53, BAX, and caspase-3) mediators respectively in testis. These findings indicated that consumption of aspartame for a long period results in male reproductive toxicity by decrease in serum concentration of pituitary-testis axis hormones and induction of oxidative stress and apoptosis in testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hojat Anbara
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taghi Sheibani
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mazdak Razi
- Department of Comparative Histology & Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mehdi Kian
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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108
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Kianifard D, Shoar SMM, Karkan MF, Aly A. Effects of monosodium glutamate on testicular structural and functional alterations induced by quinine therapy in rat: An experimental study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2021; 19:167-180. [PMID: 33718761 PMCID: PMC7922298 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v19i2.8475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quinine (QU) as an anti-malarial drug induces alterations in testicular tissue. Toxic effects of monosodium glutamate (MSG) on the male reproductive system have been recognized. OBJECTIVE To investigate the impact of MSG administration on the intensity of gonadotoxicity of QU. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sixty eight-wk old Wistar rats weighing 180-200 gr were divided into six groups (n = 10/each): the first group as a control; the second and third groups received low and high doses of MSG (2 & 4 gr/kg i.p.), respectively, for 28 days; the fourth group received QU for seven days (25 mg/kg); and in the fifth and sixth groups, QU was gavaged following the MSG administration (MSG + QU) from day 22 to day 28. Serum testosterone and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured. Testes samples were prepared for tissue MDA levels, histomorphometry, and immunohistochemistry of p53. Sperm analysis was performed on cauda epididymis. RESULTS Serum and tissue MDA levels were increased in treated groups compared to the control group. This increment was higher in the MSG + QU groups. The testosterone levels were reduced significantly (p < 0.0001) in all treated groups. In addition, histomorphometric indices and tubular epithelium population were reduced significantly (p < 0.0001) in QU, MSG + QU, and consequently in high-dose MSG, QU, MSG + QU groups. All spermatogenic indices were reduced in the treated groups, particularly in the MSG + QU groups. Sperm motility and viability indices were reduced significantly (p = 0.003) in the MSG + QU groups. Finally, the overexpression of p53 was observed in the MSG + QU groups. CONCLUSION The administration of MSG before and during QU therapy may intensify testicular tissue alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davoud Kianifard
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Seyyed Maysam Mousavi Shoar
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Morteza Fallah Karkan
- Department of Urology, Shohada Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmed Aly
- Beykoz Institute of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Bezmialem Vakif University, Istanbul 34820, Turkey
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109
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Fallah HP, Rodrigues MS, Zanardini M, Nóbrega RH, Habibi HR. Effects of gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone on early and late stages of spermatogenesis in ex-vivo culture of zebrafish testis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 520:111087. [PMID: 33249103 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.111087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (Gnih) is known to play a role in the regulation of reproduction in vertebrates by influencing gonadotropin release and synthesis. While the endocrine actions of Gnih have been identified in several species, its paracrine/autocrine effects in the control of spermatogenesis are less defined. We have used ex vivo culture of zebrafish testis to investigate the role of gonadal zebrafish Gnih (zGnih) in the regulation of the spermatogenic process. We used FACScan cell cycle analysis, morphometric quantifications, BrdU incorporation and caspase-3 activity assays as well as measuring 11-Ketotestosterone (11-KT) level in the culture media. FACScan analysis and morphometric quantification results demonstrated direct action of zGnih on basal and gonadotropin (Lh and Fsh)-induced spermatogenesis. Treatment with zGnih (10 nM) significantly decreased the number of G0/G1 cells after 7-days of culture while no significant changes were found in the proportion area of spermatogonia cell types. Investigation of DNA synthesis using BrdU (5-Bromo-2'-Deoxyuridine) labeling showed that treatment with zGnih (10 nM) significantly decreased proliferative activity of type A spermatogonia, while increased the mitotic activity of type B spermatogonia. We also showed that treatment with zGnih (100 nM) completely eliminated 11-KT release induced by 100 ng/ml Fsh. Treatment with zGnih (10 and 100 nM) also inhibited both hCG and Fsh-induced spermatogenesis. These results, plus our previous findings, demonstrate that zGnih produced locally in the testis is a component of a complex multifactorial system that regulates testicular function in zebrafish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamideh P Fallah
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Maira S Rodrigues
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada; Department of Morphology, Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maya Zanardini
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Rafael H Nóbrega
- Department of Morphology, Reproductive and Molecular Biology Group, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Hamid R Habibi
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada.
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110
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Selvaraj K, Ravichandran S, Krishnan S, Radhakrishnan RK, Manickam N, Kandasamy M. Testicular Atrophy and Hypothalamic Pathology in COVID-19: Possibility of the Incidence of Male Infertility and HPG Axis Abnormalities. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:2735-2742. [PMID: 33415647 PMCID: PMC7790483 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00441-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which resulted from the pandemic outbreak of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), causes a massive inflammatory cytokine storm leading to multi-organ damage including that of the brain and testes. While the lungs, heart, and brain are identified as the main targets of SARS-CoV-2-mediated pathogenesis, reports on its testicular infections have been a subject of debate. The brain and testes are physiologically synchronized by the action of gonadotropins and sex steroid hormones. Though the evidence for the presence of the viral particles in the testicular biopsies and semen samples from COVID-19 patients are highly limited, the occurrence of testicular pathology due to abrupt inflammatory responses and hyperthermia has incresingly been evident. The reduced level of testosterone production in COVID-19 is associated with altered secretion of gonadotropins. Moreover, hypothalamic pathology which results from SARS-CoV-2 infection of the brain is also evident in COVID-19 cases. This article revisits and supports the key reports on testicular abnormalities and pathological signatures in the hypothalamus of COVID-19 patients and emphasizes that testicular pathology resulting from inflammation and oxidative stress might lead to infertility in a significant portion of COVID-19 survivors. Further investigations are required to monitor the reproductive health parameters and HPG axis abnormalities related to secondary pathological complications in COVID-19 patients and survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaviya Selvaraj
- School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, 620024, India.,Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, 620024, India
| | - Sowbarnika Ravichandran
- School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, 620024, India.,Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, 620024, India
| | - Sushmita Krishnan
- School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, 620024, India
| | - Risna Kanjirassery Radhakrishnan
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, 620024, India
| | - Nivethitha Manickam
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, 620024, India
| | - Mahesh Kandasamy
- School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, 620024, India. .,Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, 620024, India. .,Faculty Recharge Programme, University Grants Commission (UGC-FRP), New Delhi, 110002, India.
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111
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Walker WH. Androgen Actions in the Testis and the Regulation of Spermatogenesis. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1288:175-203. [PMID: 34453737 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77779-1_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Testosterone is essential for spermatogenesis and male fertility. In this review, topics related to testosterone control of spermatogenesis are covered including testosterone production and levels in the testis, classical and nonclassical testosterone signaling pathways, cell- and temporal-specific expression of the androgen receptor in the testis and autocrine and paracrine signaling of testis cells in the testis. Also discussed are the contributions of testosterone to testis descent, the blood-testis barrier, control of gonocyte numbers and spermatogonia expansion, completion of meiosis and attachment and release of elongaed spermatids. Testosterone-regulated genes identified in various mouse models of idsrupted Androgen receptor expression are discussed. Finally, examples of synergism and antagonism between androgen and follicle-stimulating hormone signaling pathways are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H Walker
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Eyni H, Ghorbani S, Nazari H, Hajialyani M, Razavi Bazaz S, Mohaqiq M, Ebrahimi Warkiani M, Sutherland DS. Advanced bioengineering of male germ stem cells to preserve fertility. J Tissue Eng 2021; 12:20417314211060590. [PMID: 34868541 PMCID: PMC8638075 DOI: 10.1177/20417314211060590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In modern life, several factors such as genetics, exposure to toxins, and aging have resulted in significant levels of male infertility, estimated to be approximately 18% worldwide. In response, substantial progress has been made to improve in vitro fertilization treatments (e.g. microsurgical testicular sperm extraction (m-TESE), intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and round spermatid injection (ROSI)). Mimicking the structure of testicular natural extracellular matrices (ECM) outside of the body is one clear route toward complete in vitro spermatogenesis and male fertility preservation. Here, a new wave of technological innovations is underway applying regenerative medicine strategies to cell-tissue culture on natural or synthetic scaffolds supplemented with bioactive factors. The emergence of advanced bioengineered systems suggests new hope for male fertility preservation through development of functional male germ cells. To date, few studies aimed at in vitro spermatogenesis have resulted in relevant numbers of mature gametes. However, a substantial body of knowledge on conditions that are required to maintain and mature male germ cells in vitro is now in place. This review focuses on advanced bioengineering methods such as microfluidic systems, bio-fabricated scaffolds, and 3D organ culture applied to the germline for fertility preservation through in vitro spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Eyni
- Department of Anatomical Sciences,
School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sadegh Ghorbani
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center
(iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Hojjatollah Nazari
- Research Center for Advanced
Technologies in Cardiovascular Medicine, Tehran Heart Center, Tehran University of
Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Hajialyani
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research
Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah,
Iran
| | - Sajad Razavi Bazaz
- School of Biomedical Engineering,
University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mahdi Mohaqiq
- Institute of Regenerative Medicine,
School of Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | | | - Duncan S Sutherland
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center
(iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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113
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Tedjawirja VN, Nieuwdorp M, Yeung KK, Balm R, de Waard V. A Novel Hypothesis: A Role for Follicle Stimulating Hormone in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Development in Postmenopausal Women. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:726107. [PMID: 34721292 PMCID: PMC8548664 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.726107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a dilatation of the abdominal aorta, which can potentially be fatal due to exsanguination following rupture. Although AAA is less prevalent in women, women with AAA have a more severe AAA progression compared to men as reflected by enhanced aneurysm growth rates and a higher rupture risk. Women are diagnosed with AAA at an older age than men, and in line with increased osteoporosis and cardiovascular events, the delayed AAA onset has been attributed to the reduction of the protective effect of oestrogens during the menopausal transition. However, new insights have shown that a high follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) level during menopause may also play a key role in those diseases. In this report we hypothesize that FSH may aggravate AAA development and progression in postmenopausal women via a direct and/or indirect role, promoting aorta pathology. Since FSH receptors (FSHR) are reported on many other cell types than granulosa cells in the ovaries, it is feasible that FSH stimulation of FSHR-bearing cells such as aortic endothelial cells or inflammatory cells, could promote AAA formation directly. Indirectly, AAA progression may be influenced by an FSH-mediated increase in osteoporosis, which is associated with aortic calcification. Also, an FSH-mediated decrease in cholesterol uptake by the liver and an increase in cholesterol biosynthesis will increase the cholesterol level in the circulation, and subsequently promote aortic atherosclerosis and inflammation. Lastly, FSH-induced adipogenesis may lead to obesity-mediated dysfunction of the microvasculature of the aorta and/or modulation of the periaortic adipose tissue. Thus the long term increased plasma FSH levels during the menopausal transition may contribute to enhanced AAA disease in menopausal women and could be a potential novel target for treatment to lower AAA-related events in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria N. Tedjawirja
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Victoria N. Tedjawirja,
| | - Max Nieuwdorp
- Departments of Internal and Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Kak Khee Yeung
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ron Balm
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Vivian de Waard
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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114
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Otsuka K, Matsubara S, Shiraishi A, Takei N, Satoh Y, Terao M, Takada S, Kotani T, Satake H, Kimura AP. A Testis-Specific Long Noncoding RNA, Start, Is a Regulator of Steroidogenesis in Mouse Leydig Cells. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:665874. [PMID: 33897623 PMCID: PMC8061315 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.665874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The testis expresses many long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), but their functions and overview of lncRNA variety are not well understood. The mouse Prss/Tessp locus contains six serine protease genes and two lncRNAs that have been suggested to play important roles in spermatogenesis. Here, we found a novel testis-specific lncRNA, Start (Steroidogenesis activating lncRNA in testis), in this locus. Start is 1822 nucleotides in length and was found to be localized mostly in the cytosol of germ cells and Leydig cells, although nuclear localization was also observed. Start-knockout (KO) mice generated by the CRISPR/Cas9 system were fertile and showed no morphological abnormality in adults. However, in adult Start-KO testes, RNA-seq and qRT-PCR analyses revealed an increase in the expression of steroidogenic genes such as Star and Hsd3b1, while ELISA analysis revealed that the testosterone levels in serum and testis were significantly low. Interestingly, at 8 days postpartum, both steroidogenic gene expression and testosterone level were decreased in Start-KO mice. Since overexpression of Start in two Leydig-derived cell lines resulted in elevation of the expression of steroidogenic genes including Star and Hsd3b1, Start is likely to be involved in their upregulation. The increase in expression of steroidogenic genes in adult Start-KO testes might be caused by a secondary effect via the androgen receptor autocrine pathway or the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis. Additionally, we observed a reduced number of Leydig cells at 8 days postpartum. Collectively, our results strongly suggest that Start is a regulator of steroidogenesis in Leydig cells. The current study provides an insight into the overall picture of the function of testis lncRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Otsuka
- Graduate School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Shin Matsubara
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akira Shiraishi
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Natsumi Takei
- Graduate School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Yui Satoh
- Graduate School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Miho Terao
- Department of Systems BioMedicine, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shuji Takada
- Department of Systems BioMedicine, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of NCCHD Child Health and Development, Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomoya Kotani
- Graduate School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Honoo Satake
- Bioorganic Research Institute, Suntory Foundation for Life Sciences, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Atsushi P. Kimura
- Graduate School of Life Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
- *Correspondence: Atsushi P. Kimura,
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Abouhamzeh B, Youssefi R, Akbarinejad V, Mirsadeghi E. Effect of feeding male mice with palm, fish, and sunflower oils on sperm characteristics and sex ratio of offspring. VETERINARY RESEARCH FORUM : AN INTERNATIONAL QUARTERLY JOURNAL 2020; 11:319-323. [PMID: 33643583 PMCID: PMC7904121 DOI: 10.30466/vrf.2018.92060.2227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have indicated that feeding female animal with fatty acids could result in alteration of offspring sex ratio; however, there is little information available regarding the effect of feeding male animal with fatty acids on sex ratio of offspring. The aim of current study was to investigate the effect of paternal feeding with n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on sperm characteristics and sex ratio of offspring in mice. Male mice received 2.50% of palm oil (control), fish oil (n-3 PUFAs) or sunflower oil (n-6 PUFAs) for two months. Sperm kinematics and viability were assessed using computer-assisted sperm analyzer and eosin-Y staining, respectively. Additionally, female mice were randomly introduced to males of three experimental groups to determine reproductive parameters including litter size, conception rate and sex ratio. Fish oil enhanced sperm concentration, motility and viability, whereas sunflower oil decreased sperm concentration. Nevertheless, progressive motility, velocity, linearity and straightness of sperms were not affected by source of fatty acids. Although supplementation with fish oil resulted in male-biased sex ratio, palm and sunflower oils did not impact sex ratio. Besides, source of fatty acids failed to influence conception rate and litter size. In conclusion, the present study provided evidence for the impact of paternal fish oil consumption on sex ratio of offspring for the first time. Moreover, it showed beneficial effect of n-3 PUFAs and adverse effects of n-6 PUFAs on seminal parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beheshteh Abouhamzeh
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Youssefi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Akbarinejad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Mirsadeghi
- Animal Core Facility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute For Biotechnology, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research (ACECR), Tehran, Iran
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116
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Lima TFN, Rakitina E, Blachman-Braun R, Ramasamy R. Evaluation of a serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone as a predictor of semen parameter improvement in men undergoing medical treatment for infertility. Can Urol Assoc J 2020; 15:E340-E345. [PMID: 33382370 DOI: 10.5489/cuaj.6846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The goal of medical therapy for infertile men with testosterone deficiency (TD) is to improve intratesticular testosterone (ITT). There is a gap in knowledge to identify those who will respond with semen parameter(s) improvement. We hypothesized that serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) - a marker of ITT - can be used to predict improvement of semen parameter(s). METHODS Between July 2018 and January 2020, we conducted a prospective study of 31 men with primary infertility, TD, and secondary hypogonadism receiving clomiphene citrate (CC) and/or human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) for three months. We assessed baseline and followup hormones, including testosterone, 17-OHP, semen parameter(s), and demographics. Semen quality upgrading was based on assisted reproduction eligibility: in-vitro fertilization (<5 million), intrauterine insemination (IUI) (5-9 million), and natural pregnancy (>9 million). Variables were compared using the Mann-Whitney U or Wilcoxon rank test. RESULTS Twenty-one men received CC and 10 received CC/hCG. Median followup was 3.7 (3.3-5.1) months. Sixteen men upgraded semen quality. Six of 10 men with baseline total motile sperm count (TMSC) of 0 had motile sperm after treatment, and 11/20 men with TMSC <5 upgraded semen quality into TMSC >5 range. Low 17-OHP was the only factor that predicted semen quality upgrading. Men with 17-OHP ≤55 ng/dL upgraded semen quality and improved hormones, whereas men with 17-OHP >55 ng/dL did not upgrade semen quality. CONCLUSIONS Medical therapy for infertile men with TD resulted in the improvement of sperm concentration, TMSC, testosterone, and 17-OHP. Semen quality upgrading appears to be more significant in patients with low 17-OHP, suggesting that ITT can be used as a biomarker to predict semen parameter(s) improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Evgeniya Rakitina
- Department of Urology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Ruben Blachman-Braun
- Department of Urology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Ranjith Ramasamy
- Department of Urology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
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Sangodele JO, Inuwa Z, Lawal B, Adebayo-Gege G, Okoli BJ, Mtunzi F. Proxeed plus salvage rat testis from ischemia- reperfused injury by enhancing antioxidant's activities and inhibition of iNOS expression. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 133:111086. [PMID: 33378987 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.111086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Testicular torsion is an acute urological emergency condition that occurs due to obstruction of blood flow to the testicles which may result in ischemia and loss of testicular functions. This study examined the protective effects of Proxeed Plus (PP), a dietary supplement on testicular ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injured rats using oxidative stress markers, hormonal levels, apoptotic parameters, histological and immunohistochemistry analysis at 4 h and after 7 days of reperfusion. The protective treatment of the I/R injured rats with PP at 1000 and 5000 mg/kg body weight (bw) resulted in significant increases in the serum and tissue antioxidative defense capacities (superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione, catalase, glutathione-s-transferase, and glutathione peroxidase), sex hormones (luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and testosterone), also reduce pro-oxidative markers (malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide), serum iNOS and apoptotic parameters (Caspase -3 and Caspase -9) in comparison to the results detected in the I/R untreated rats. It was also observed that PP ameliorated histological changes of I/R injured rats; increased spermatogenetic activity, seminiferous tubular diameter, Leydig cell mass, and reduced expressions of testicular inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Therefore, the therapeutic use of Proxeed Plus could be considered a promising approach in averting testicular damage against I/R injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Olayemi Sangodele
- Department of Biochemistry, Bingham University, Abuja-Keffi Expressway Road, P.M.B 005, Karu, Nigeria.
| | - Zephaniah Inuwa
- Department of Biochemistry, Bingham University, Abuja-Keffi Expressway Road, P.M.B 005, Karu, Nigeria.
| | - Bashir Lawal
- Graduate Institute for Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taiwan.
| | - Grace Adebayo-Gege
- Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Baze University, Abuja, Nigeria.
| | - Bamidele Joseph Okoli
- Institute of Chemical and Biotechnology, Vaal University of Technology, Science Park, Private Bag x021, South Africa; Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Bingham University Karu, Nigeria.
| | - Fanyana Mtunzi
- Institute of Chemical and Biotechnology, Vaal University of Technology, Science Park, Private Bag x021, South Africa.
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Di Guardo F, Vloeberghs V, Bardhi E, Blockeel C, Verheyen G, Tournaye H, Drakopoulos P. Low Testosterone and Semen Parameters in Male Partners of Infertile Couples Undergoing IVF with a Total Sperm Count Greater than 5 Million. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E3824. [PMID: 33255908 PMCID: PMC7761260 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9123824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Low serum testosterone is found in approximately 15% of subfertile men. Although testosterone is essential in spermatogenesis, it is unclear whether low testosterone levels may have a negative impact on the semen parameters of men belonging to infertile couples with a total sperm count greater than 5 million. Furthermore, it is debatable whether the initial evaluation of the subfertile male should include an endocrine assessment. This was a retrospective, single-center cohort study conducted at a tertiary fertility clinic. Male partners of infertile couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), with a total sperm count greater than 5 million, were included. All men provided morning blood samples, and none had been on exogenous testosterone or other relevant medications. Low total testosterone (TT) was defined as <264 ng/dL. Free T was calculated using TT and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels (nmol/L) by a constant albumin concentration of 43 g/L. In total, 853 patients were included: 116 had low TT (<264 ng/dL) and 737 had normal TT (≥264 ng/dL). Semen volume, sperm cell count, progressive (A + B) motility and morphology (≥4% strict Kruger) were lower in the low TT group but not significantly different between low and normal TT groups (3.2 ± 1.79 vs. 3.23 ± 1.64, p = 0.87; 76.82 ± 83.18 vs. 67.55 ± 57.70, p = 0.7; 54.89 ± 19.45 vs. 56.25 ± 19.03, p = 0.6; 5.77 ± 3.23 vs. 6.89 ± 3.94, p = 0.23). The percentage of patients with below-reference sperm volume (<1.5 mL), cell count (<15 × 106/mL), motility (A + B) (<32%) and morphology (<4%) was higher in the low TT group but not statistically different compared to the normal TT group. Multivariable regression analysis revealed that low TT and free T levels had no significant effect on the aforementioned semen parameters (coefficient: 3.94, 0.88, 1.37, 0.39; p = 0.53, 0.8, 0.3, 0.2; coefficient: 0.001, 0.06, 0.007, 0.0002; p = 0.73, 0.52, 0.85, 0.98). Despite our robust methodological approach, the presence of biases related to retrospective design cannot be excluded. Our findings highlighted the lack of association between low TT levels and semen parameter alterations in male partners of infertile couples undergoing IVF, with a total sperm count greater than 5 million. However, it is important to emphasize that more patients in the low TT group had subnormal semen parameters, albeit the difference was not statistically significant. Larger, prospective studies are warranted in order to validate these findings, as well as to investigate the existence of a TT threshold below which semen parameters might be negatively affected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Di Guardo
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan, 101-1090 Brussels, Belgium; (F.D.G.); (V.V.); (E.B.); (C.B.); (G.V.); (H.T.)
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, Gynecology and Obstetrics Section, University of Catania, Via Santa Sofia 78, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Veerle Vloeberghs
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan, 101-1090 Brussels, Belgium; (F.D.G.); (V.V.); (E.B.); (C.B.); (G.V.); (H.T.)
| | - Erlisa Bardhi
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan, 101-1090 Brussels, Belgium; (F.D.G.); (V.V.); (E.B.); (C.B.); (G.V.); (H.T.)
| | - Christophe Blockeel
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan, 101-1090 Brussels, Belgium; (F.D.G.); (V.V.); (E.B.); (C.B.); (G.V.); (H.T.)
| | - Greta Verheyen
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan, 101-1090 Brussels, Belgium; (F.D.G.); (V.V.); (E.B.); (C.B.); (G.V.); (H.T.)
| | - Herman Tournaye
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan, 101-1090 Brussels, Belgium; (F.D.G.); (V.V.); (E.B.); (C.B.); (G.V.); (H.T.)
| | - Panagiotis Drakopoulos
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan, 101-1090 Brussels, Belgium; (F.D.G.); (V.V.); (E.B.); (C.B.); (G.V.); (H.T.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Crete University, 70013 Crete, Greece
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Schuler G. [Equine chorionic gonadotrophin: Biology and veterinary use]. Tierarztl Prax Ausg G Grosstiere Nutztiere 2020; 48:344-354. [PMID: 33080658 DOI: 10.1055/a-1235-7973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The pituitary gonadotrophins follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) play a prominent role in the control of gonadal functions. Therefore, their use in the treatment of fertility disorders (e. g. anovulatory anestrus) as well as in biotechnology (e. g. superovulation, hormone programs for cycle synchronization) is of substantial interest. Preparations of FSH or LH are relatively expensive due to the laborious extraction from pituitary tissue and are therefore reserved for special indications. In primates and equids, the chorionic epithelium expresses an LH-like molecule (chorionic gonadotrophin, CG). Equine CG (eCG) selectively binds to LH receptors in equids. In all other domestic mammalian species, equine CG (eCG) shows an extraordinarily high FSH activity in addition to its LH activity ("dual activity"). Since its market launch, this has therefore gained considerable importance as a comparatively inexpensive FSH analogue, mainly for use in ruminants and pigs. In contrast to the human CG (hCG), which may be isolated non-invasively from the urine of pregnant women and is widely used as LH analogue, eCG must be extracted from the blood of pregnant donor mares, as eCG concentrations in urine are only minimal. Following reports of deaths and suffering of donor mares associated with eCG collection in South American settings, the current practice of eCG production has given rise to increasing public criticism. This has recently led to calls for a general production ban. Primary aim of this review is therefore to summarize the current state of knowledge concerning the properties and biology of this molecule, which is also highly interesting from the point of view of basic science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerhard Schuler
- Klinik für Geburtshilfe, Gynäkologie und Andrologie der Groß- und Kleintiere mit Tierärztlicher Ambulanz, Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen
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Fertility Preservation in Childhood Cancer: Endocrine Activity in Prepubertal Human Testis Xenografts Exposed to a Pubertal Hormone Environment. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102830. [PMID: 33008013 PMCID: PMC7600569 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Substantial strides have been made in treating childhood cancers; however, as a result of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, young males experience long-term side effects, including impaired fertility. Whilst prepubertal testicular tissue can be cryopreserved prior to gonadotoxic treatments, it remains to be determined how to generate mature gametes from the immature human testis tissue. Development of immature germ cells into sperm is a complex process, which is supported by mature Sertoli cells and testosterone produced from Leydig cells. We used an established testicular xenotransplantation model to investigate the effect of puberty hormones, known as gonadotrophins, on functional maturation of the spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) niche. Limited testosterone production and partial maturation of Sertoli cells occurred in prepubertal testis grafts, suggesting that longer periods of grafting and/or identification of additional factors are required to develop testicular transplantation as a model for fertility preservation in male survivors of childhood cancer. Abstract Survivors of childhood cancer are at risk for long-term treatment-induced health sequelae, including gonadotoxicity and iatrogenic infertility. At present, for prepubertal boys there are no viable clinical options to preserve future reproductive potential. We investigated the effect of a pubertal induction regimen with gonadotrophins on prepubertal human testis xenograft development. Human testis tissue was obtained from patients with cancer and non-malignant haematological disorders (n = 6; aged 1–14 years) who underwent testis tissue cryopreservation for fertility preservation. Fresh and frozen-thawed testis fragments were transplanted subcutaneously or intratesticularly into immunocompromised mice. Graft-bearing mice received injections of vehicle or exogenous gonadotrophins, human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG, 20 IU), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH, 12.5 IU) three times a week for 12 weeks. The gross morphology of vehicle and gonadotrophin-exposed grafts was similar for both transplantation sites. Exposure of prepubertal human testis tissue xenografts to exogenous gonadotrophins resulted in limited endocrine function of grafts, as demonstrated by the occasional expression of the steroidogenic cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (CYP11A1). Plasma testosterone concentrations (0.13 vs. 0.25 ng/mL; p = 0.594) and seminal vesicle weights (10.02 vs. 13.93 mg; p = 0.431) in gonadotrophin-exposed recipient mice were comparable to vehicle-exposed controls. Regardless of the transplantation site and treatment, initiation and maintenance of androgen receptor (AR) expression were observed in Sertoli cells, indicating commitment towards a more differentiated status. However, neither exogenous gonadotrophins (in castrated host mice) nor endogenous testosterone (in intact host mice) were sufficient to repress the expression of markers associated with immature Sertoli cells, such as anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and Ki67, or to induce the redistribution of junctional proteins (connexin 43, CX43; claudin 11, CLDN11) to areas adjacent to the basement membrane. Spermatogonia did not progress developmentally but remained the most advanced germ cell type in testis xenografts. Overall, these findings demonstrate that exogenous gonadotrophins promote partial activation and maturation of the somatic environment in prepubertal testis xenografts. However, alternative hormone regimens or additional factors for pubertal induction are required to complete the functional maturation of the spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) niche.
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Tahtamouni LH, Hamdan MN, Al-Mazaydeh ZA, Bawadi RM, Rammaha MS, Zghoul AM, Ahram MA, Yasin SR. Alu-repeat polymorphism in the tissue plasminogen activator ( t-PA) gene, seminal t-PA concentration, and male fertility impairment: A case-control study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2020; 18:571-578. [PMID: 32930675 PMCID: PMC7457157 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v13i8.7496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 11/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) is a protein involved in the fibrinolytic system that catalyzes the conversion of plasminogen into the active plasmin. The activity of t-PA is controlled by plasminogen activator inhibitor-1. t-PA has crucial functions during spermatogenesis. One polymorphism was reported for t-PA gene, either the presence of a 300-bp Alu-repeat (Alu + ) or its absence (Alu - ). Objective The current work aimed at studying the association between Alu polymorphism in the t-PA gene and male infertility. Materials and Methods Using polymerase chain reaction on genomic DNA isolated from the blood of 79 participants, a region polymorphic for Alu element insertion in t-PA gene was amplified. In addition, total t-PA concentration, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 /t-PA complex concentration, and t-PA activity in seminal plasma were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results The results indicate that the percentage of infertile participants (n = 50) who were homozygous for t-PA Alu insertion (Alu + / + ), heterozygous Alu + / - or homozygous for t-PA Alu deletion (Alu - / - ) did not change significantly (p = 0.43, 0.81, and 0.85, respectively) when compared with the control participants (n = 29). On the other hand, a significant decrease (p = 0.0001) of t-PA total concentration in seminal plasma was observed in the infertile group in comparison with the control group. However, the results indicate that there is no association between the t-PA Alu different genotypes and the total t-PA seminal concentration in the infertile group when compared to the control group (p = 0.63). Conclusion Data obtained from the current study does not support an association between t-PA Alu polymorphism and t-PA seminal concentration or male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lubna Hamid Tahtamouni
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, the Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Natural Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Mahmoud Nael Hamdan
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, the Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Zainab Ali Al-Mazaydeh
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, the Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Randa Mahmoud Bawadi
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, the University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Majdoleen Sobhi Rammaha
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, the Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Ahmad Mohammad Zghoul
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, the Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Mamoun Ahmad Ahram
- Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, School of Medicine, the University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Salem Refat Yasin
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, the Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
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Albasher G. Modulation of reproductive dysfunctions associated with streptozocin-induced diabetes by Artemisia judaica extract in rats fed a high-fat diet. Mol Biol Rep 2020; 47:7517-7527. [PMID: 32920759 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-020-05814-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the palliative effect of Artemisia judaica extract (AjE) on testicular deterioration induced by DM in high-fat diet/streptozocin (HFD/STZ)-injected rats. Forty rats were allocated to the following five groups: control, AjE, HFD/STZ, HFD/STZ-AjE, and HFD/STZ-metformin. HFD/STZ-diabetic rats showed a marked decrease in testicular weight and male sex hormones. There was significant suppression of testicular antioxidant enzymes and glutathione content in HFD/STZ-diabetic rats. However, rats that had received the STZ injection and the high-fat diet displayed increased malondialdehyde content and nitric oxide levels as well as tumour necrosis factor-alpha. High levels of Bax and low levels of Bcl-2 were detected after the STZ injection. Obvious pathological alterations were found in the testicular tissue of the HFD/STZ-diabetic rats. Thus, the administration of AjE attenuated the biochemical, molecular, and histopathological changes in the testes of the diabetic rats. The obtained findings showed that AjE treatment attenuated the diabetes-induced reprotoxicity in male rats via its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gadah Albasher
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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Portela JMD, de Winter-Korver CM, van Daalen SKM, Meißner A, de Melker AA, Repping S, van Pelt AMM. Assessment of fresh and cryopreserved testicular tissues from (pre)pubertal boys during organ culture as a strategy for in vitro spermatogenesis. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:2443-2455. [PMID: 31858131 PMCID: PMC6936721 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can the organ culture method be applied to both fresh and cryopreserved human (pre)pubertal testicular tissue as a strategy for in vitro spermatogenesis? SUMMARY ANSWER Although induction of spermatogenesis was not achieved in vitro, testicular architecture, endocrine function and spermatogonial proliferation were maintained in both fresh and cryopreserved testicular tissues. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Cryopreservation of a testicular biopsy is increasingly offered as a fertility preservation strategy for prepubertal cancer patients. One of the proposed experimental approaches to restore fertility is the organ culture method, which, in the mouse model, successfully allows for in vitro development of spermatozoa from testicular biopsies. However, complete spermatogenesis from human prepubertal testicular tissue in such an organ culture system has not been demonstrated. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Testicular tissue was collected from nine (pre)pubertal boys diagnosed with cancer (ranging from 6 to 14 years of age) admitted for fertility preservation before treatment. Testicular biopsies were either immediately processed for culture or first cryopreserved, using a controlled slow freezing protocol, and thawed before culture. Organ culture of testicular fragments was performed in two different media for a maximum period of 5 weeks, targeting early cellular events (viability, meiosis and somatic differentiation) in vitro. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Fresh and cryopreserved-thawed testis fragments (1–2 mm3) were cultured at a gas–liquid interphase (34°C, 5% CO2) in Minimum Essential Medium alpha + 10% knock-out serum replacement medium containing 10−7 M melatonin and 10−6 M retinoic acid, with or without 3 IU/L FSH/LH supplementation. The effect of culture conditions on testicular fragments was weekly assessed by histological evaluation of germ cell development and immunohistochemical identification of spermatogonia (using MAGEA4), proliferative status of spermatogonia and Sertoli cells (using proliferating cell nuclear antigen [PCNA]), intratubular cell apoptosis (by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labelling) and Sertoli cells maturation (using Anti-Müllerian Hormone [AMH] versus Androgen Receptor [AR]). Additionally, Leydig cells’ functionality was determined by measuring testosterone concentration in the culture media supernatants. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Neither fresh nor cryopreserved human (pre)pubertal testicular fragments were able to initiate spermatogenesis in our organ culture system. Nonetheless, our data suggest that fresh and cryopreserved testicular fragments have comparable functionality in the described organ culture conditions, as reflected by the absence of significant differences in any of the weekly evaluated functional parameters. Additionally, no significant differences were found between the two tested media when culturing fresh and cryopreserved human testicular fragments. Although spermatogonia survived and remained proliferative in all culture conditions, a significant reduction of the spermatogonial population (P ≤ 0.001) was observed over the culture period, justified by a combined reduction of proliferation activity (P ≤ 0.001) and increased intratubular cell apoptosis (P ≤ 0.001). We observed a transient increase in Sertoli cell proliferative activity, loss of AMH expression (P ≤ 0.001) but no induction of AR expression. Leydig cell endocrine function was successfully stimulated in vitro as indicated by increased testosterone production in all conditions throughout the entire culture period (P ≤ 0.02). LARGE SCALE DATA N/A LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although not noticeable in this study, we cannot exclude that if an optimized culture method ensuring complete spermatogenesis in human testicular fragments is established, differences in functional or spermatogenic efficiency between fresh and cryopreserved tissue might be found. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The current inability to initiate spermatogenesis in vitro from cryopreserved human testicular fragments should be included in the counselling of patients who are offered testicular tissue cryopreservation to preserve fertility. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This project was funded by EU-FP7-PEOPLE-2013-ITN 603568 `Growsperm’. None of the authors have competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M D Portela
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - C M de Winter-Korver
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S K M van Daalen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A Meißner
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A A de Melker
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S Repping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A M M van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Research Institute Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Goto T, Hirabayashi M, Watanabe Y, Sanbo M, Tomita K, Inoue N, Tsukamura H, Uenoyama Y. Testosterone Supplementation Rescues Spermatogenesis and In Vitro Fertilizing Ability of Sperm in Kiss1 Knockout Mice. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5854806. [PMID: 32514526 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Restoration of spermatogenesis and fertility is a major issue to be solved in male mammals with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Kiss1 knockout (KO) male mice are postulated to be a suitable animal model to investigate if hormonal replacement rescues spermatogenesis in mammals with this severe reproductive hormone deficiency, because KO mice replicate the hypothalamic disorder causing hypogonadism. The present study investigated whether testosterone supplementation was able to restore spermatogenesis and in vitro fertilization ability in Kiss1 KO mice. To this end, spermatogenesis, in vitro fertilization ability of Kiss1 KO sperm, and preimplantation development of wild-type embryos inseminated with Kiss1 KO sperm, were examined. The newly generated Kiss1 KO male mice showed infertility with cryptorchidism. Subcutaneous testosterone supplementation for 6 weeks restored plasma and intratesticular testosterone levels, elicited testicular descent, and induced complete spermatogenesis from spermatocytes to elongated spermatids in the testis, resulting in an increase in epididymal sperm number in testosterone-supplemented Kiss1 KO male mice. Epididymal sperm derived from the testosterone-supplemented Kiss1 KO mice showed normal in vitro fertilization ability, and the fertilized eggs showed normal preimplantation development, while the males failed to impregnate females. These results suggest that the failure of spermatogenesis in Kiss1 KO mice is mainly due to a lack of testosterone production, and that Kiss1 KO sperm are capable of fertilizing eggs if the animals receive the appropriate testosterone supplementation without local kisspeptin signaling in the testis and epididymis. Thus, testosterone supplementation would restore spermatogenesis of male mammals showing hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with genetic inactivation of the KISS1/Kiss1 gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teppei Goto
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
- Laboratory for Comparative Connectomics, RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Masumi Hirabayashi
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
| | - Youki Watanabe
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Makoto Sanbo
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
| | - Koichi Tomita
- Center for Genetic Analysis of Behavior, National Institute for Physiological Sciences, Okazaki, Aichi, Japan
| | - Naoko Inoue
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tsukamura
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yoshihisa Uenoyama
- Graduate School of Bioagricultural Sciences, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
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Cao Z, Huang W, Sun Y, Li Y. Deoxynivalenol induced spermatogenesis disorder by blood-testis barrier disruption associated with testosterone deficiency and inflammation in mice. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 264:114748. [PMID: 32416428 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.114748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Deoxynivalenol (DON) is an unavoidable cereal crops contaminants and environmental pollutants, which seriously threated the health of human and animal. DON has been reported to exert significant toxicity effects on spermatogenesis, but the underlying mechanisms remain largely inconclusive. The blood-testis barrier (BTB) provides a specialized biochemical microenvironment for maintaining spermatogenesis. Thus, we hypothesized that DON could impair BTB and lead to spermatogenesis disorder. To confirm this hypothesis, sixty male mice were intragastrically administered with 0, 1.2, 2.4 and 4.8 mg/kg body weight DON for 28 days, and several important observations were obtained in present study. First, we found that DON induced spermatogenesis disorder, reflected by the declines of sperm concentration and quality, sperm ultrastructural damage as well as seminiferous tubular damage. Then, we proved that DON induced BTB disruption as well as decreased the expressions of BTB junction proteins, including Occludin, Connexin 43 and N-cadherin. Finally, the present study showed that DON induced inflammation and inhibited T biosynthesis in testis of mice. These results revealed that DON induced spermatogenesis disorder by BTB disruption associated with testosterone deficiency and inflammation in mice, which shed a new light on the potential mechanisms of reproductive toxicity induced by DON.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Cao
- Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education, Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Wanyue Huang
- Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education, Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Yiran Sun
- Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education, Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China
| | - Yanfei Li
- Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education, Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, China.
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Khani HM, Shariati M, Forouzanfar M, Hosseini SE. Protective effects of Ceratonia siliqua extract on protamine gene expression, testicular function, and testicular histology in doxorubicin-treated adult rats: An experimental study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2020; 18:667-682. [PMID: 32923932 PMCID: PMC7457156 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v13i8.7507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Revised: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenesis is a complex process that takes place under the influence of many different genes. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to investigate the possible effects of Ceratonia siliqua hydroalcoholic extract (CSHAE) on protamine gene expression, testicular function, and testicular histology in doxorubicin-treated rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS 56 adult male rats with a age range of 2.5 to 3 months (210 ± 10 gr) were divided into seven groups (n = 8/each). A) Control group was left untreated; B) Sham group received 0.3 ml distilled water intraperitoneally, C) Negative control group received 3 mg/kg doxorubicin, intraperitoneally once a week for 28 days; and D) Positive control group received 600 mg/kg of CSHAE orally for 48 days; E, F, G) the experimental groups 1, 2, and 3 received 150, 300, and 600 mg/kg of CSHAE respectively orally, for 48 days, as well as 3 mg/kg doxorubicin once a week for 28 days. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used in the histological study of testes, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method was used in measuring serum levels of testosterone. Protamine gene expression was determined by real-Time PCR method. RESULTS The mean body weight, testicular weight, testicular volume, testosterone level (p = 0.022), the count of Leydig, spermatogonia, spermatocyte, and spermatid cells, as well as protamine gene expression (p = 0.008) were significantly increased in the experimental group 2 compared to the negative control group. The regeneration of testicular tissue was observed in the experimental group 2. CONCLUSION CSHAE has protective effect on doxorubicin-induced testicular injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mehrdad Shariati
- Department of Biology, Kazerun Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kazerun, Iran
| | - Mohsen Forouzanfar
- Department of Biology, Marvdasht Branch, Islamic Azad University, Marvdasht, Iran
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Zhou Y, Zhang D, Sun D, Cui S. Zearalenone affects reproductive functions of male offspring via transgenerational cytotoxicity on spermatogonia in mouse. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2020; 234:108766. [PMID: 32339757 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2020.108766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies have demonstrated that Zearalenone (ZEA) affects not only maternal reproductive function but also that of the offspring. However, the transgenerational toxic effects of ZEA on the spermatogonia of male F1 mice are not clear. The present study was thus designed to determine whether the fertility of male F1 mice was affected following exposure of F0 pregnant mice to ZEA. In present study, 32 pregnant female mice were divided into 4 groups and exposed to ZEA of 0, 2.5 and 5.0 mg/kg, respectively, and the testis development and reproductive performance of 96 male F1 mice were analyzed. The results demonstrated that the F0 pregnant mice treated with ZEA resulted in increased anogenital distances in the newborn male F1 mice. Moreover, ZEA caused abnormal vacuole structures and loose connections in the testes of male F1 offspring, compared with the controls. Further ultramicrostructural analysis showed that the mitochondria appeared to be vacuolated with ablated membranes and cristae, and this was accompanied by the presence of large lipid droplets in the spermatogonia. Further, the semen quality and sperm counts declined significantly, and increased malformation rates and decreased testosterone levels were observed in the male F1 offspring from experimental groups. Our results reveal the toxic effects of ZEA on F0 pregnant mice is transgenerational, and affects the fertility of male F1 mice by damaging the spermatogonial cells. This offers a new viewpoint of ZEA-induced reproductive toxicity in male animals and provides a new potential direction for the treatment and prevention of ZEA-induced cytotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yewen Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China; College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Di Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Dehao Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China.
| | - Sheng Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China; College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
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Alumeti Munyali D, Tetsatsi Momo AC, Bonsou Fozin GR, Deeh Defo PB, Petnga Tchatat Y, Lieunang B, Watcho P. Rubus apetalus (Rosaceae) improves spermatozoa characteristics, antioxidant enzymes and fertility potential in unilateral cryptorchid rats. Basic Clin Androl 2020; 30:8. [PMID: 32670587 PMCID: PMC7346424 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-020-00107-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptorchidism (CPT) is an important cause of male infertility. Rubus apetalus is a medicinal plant with a powerful antioxidant potential. We investigated the effects of aqueous and methanolic extracts of R. apetalus on spermatozoa parameters, antioxidant enzymes and fertility potential of rats with experimental unilateral CPT. METHOD Normal (n = 15), sham-operated (n = 15) and cryptorchid rats (n = 80; distributed into 16 groups of 5 rats/group) were treated for 2, 4 or 8 weeks with either distilled water (10 ml/kg/day), vitamin E (75 mg/kg/day), aqueous or methanolic extract of R. apetalus (12 and 60 mg/kg). Sex organ weights, spermatozoa parameters, testicular proteins, sex hormones, fertility potential, morphometric characteristics of testis and oxidative stress markers were measured. RESULTS CPT significantly (p < 0.05-0.001) decreased testicular and epididymal weights, spermatozoa density, spermatozoa motility, spermatozoa normality, testicular proteins, LH, FSH and testosterone concentrations. In cryptorchid rats, peri-vascular fibrosis significantly increased (p < 0.001), while diameter of the seminiferous tube, germ cell thickness, gestation index and fertility index decreased when compared to control. Additionally, CPT induced oxidative stress by increasing lipid peroxidation and by reducing superoxide dismutase and catalase activities. These alterations were corrected by R. apetalus. For instance, a significantly increase (p < 0.05-0.001) in spermatozoa motility, normality, viability and density after 2, 4 and 8 weeks of treatment was noticed. R. apetalus also increased (p < 0.05-0.001) testicular proteins, gestation index (90-100%) and fertility index (90-100%), compared to the untreated cryptorchid rats. CONCLUSION R. apetalus boosts fertility potential in cryptorchid rats and could be considered as a promising alternative agent for the management of infertility associated with CPT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Désiré Alumeti Munyali
- Research Unit of Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology (URPAP), Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Dschang, Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
- School of Medicine and Community Health, Université Evangelique en Afrique, Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
| | - Aimé Césaire Tetsatsi Momo
- Research Unit of Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology (URPAP), Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Dschang, Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Georges Romeo Bonsou Fozin
- Research Unit of Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology (URPAP), Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Dschang, Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Patrick Brice Deeh Defo
- Research Unit of Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology (URPAP), Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Dschang, Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Yannick Petnga Tchatat
- Research Unit of Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology (URPAP), Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Dschang, Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Boris Lieunang
- Research Unit of Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology (URPAP), Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Dschang, Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Pierre Watcho
- Research Unit of Animal Physiology and Phytopharmacology (URPAP), Faculty of Science, University of Dschang, Dschang, Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
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Kong ZL, He JL, Sudirman S, Kuo MT, Miao S, Chang KLB, Tsou D. Nanoparticles of Antroquinonol-Rich Extract from Solid-State-Cultured Antrodia cinnamomea Improve Reproductive Function in Diabetic Male Rats. Int J Nanomedicine 2020; 15:4191-4203. [PMID: 32606672 PMCID: PMC7305344 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s252885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To characterize the nanoparticle of antroquinonol from A. cinnamomea and its ameliorative effects on the reproductive dysfunction in the diabetic male rat. Material and Methods The chitosan-silicate nanoparticle was used as the carrier for the delivery of antroquinonol from solid-state-cultured A. cinnamomea extract (AC). The rats were fed with a high-fat diet and intraperitoneally injected with streptozotocin to induce diabetes. The rats were daily oral gavage by water [Diabetes (DM) and Control groups], three different doses of chitosan-silicate nanoparticle of antroquinonol from solid-state-cultured A. cinnamomea (nano-SAC, NAC): (DM+NAC1x, 4 mg/kg of body weight; DM+NAC2x, 8 mg/kg; and DM+NAC5x, 20 mg/kg), solid-state-cultured AC (DM+AC5x, 20 mg/kg), or metformin (DM+Met, 200 mg/kg) for 7 weeks. Results The nano-SAC size was 37.68±5.91 nm, the zeta potential was 4.13±0.49 mV, encapsulation efficiency was 79.29±0.77%, and loading capacity was 32.45±0.02%. The nano-SAC can improve diabetes-induced reproductive dysfunction by regulating glucose, insulin, and oxidative enzyme and by increasing the level of testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and sperm count as well as sperm mobility. In testicular histopathology, the seminiferous tubules of A. cinnamomea-supplemented diabetic rats showed similar morphology with the control group. Conclusion The nanoparticle of antroquinonol from Antrodia cinnamomea can be used as an effective strategy to improve diabetes-induced testicular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zwe-Ling Kong
- Department of Food Science, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung City, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Ling He
- Department of Food Science, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung City, Taiwan
| | - Sabri Sudirman
- Fisheries Product Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sriwijaya, Palembang, Ogan Ilir Regency, Indonesia
| | | | - Song Miao
- Teagasc Food Research Center, Moorepark, Co. Cork, Ireland
| | - Ke-Liang B Chang
- Department of Food Science, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung City, Taiwan
| | - David Tsou
- Department of Food Science, National Taiwan Ocean University, Keelung City, Taiwan
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130
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Owumi SE, Aliyu-Banjo NO, Odunola OA. Selenium attenuates diclofenac-induced testicular and epididymal toxicity in rats. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13669. [PMID: 32510627 DOI: 10.1111/and.13669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 05/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The adverse effect of diclofenac administration on the male reproductive organ in both humans and rats has been reported. Selenium, a trace element vital in nutrition, plays a significant part in cellular redox homeostasis, including male reproduction. However, the impact of selenium on male reproductive toxicity associated with diclofenac administration is lacking in the literature. The current investigation assessed the modulatory effects of selenium on diclofenac-mediated reproductive toxicity in rats. Rats were treated for fourteen consecutive days, either with diclofenac (10 mg/kg) or co-treated with selenium (0.125 and 0.25 mg/kg) body weight. Sperm parameters, enzymes of testicular function, luteinizing, follicle-stimulating hormone and testosterone were assessed in addition to oxidative stress indices and histopathological changes. Selenium significantly alleviated diclofenac-induced decreases in sperm count and motility, testicular function enzymes and levels of luteinizing hormone and testosterone in serum. Moreover, selenium co-administration at 0.125 and 0.25 mg/kg inhibited the diclofenac-induced decrease of antioxidant enzyme activities and increased oxidative stress parameters-lipid peroxidation, reactive nitrogen and oxygen species-in epididymis and testes of rats. Selenium (0.25 mg/kg) alone ameliorated diclofenac-mediated histological injuries in exposed rats. Collectively, selenium enhanced testicular and epididymal function in diclofenac-treated rats by suppressing nitrosative and oxidative stress in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon E Owumi
- Cancer Research and Molecular Biology Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Nazirat O Aliyu-Banjo
- Cancer Research and Molecular Biology Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Oyeronke A Odunola
- Cancer Research and Molecular Biology Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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131
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Mason KA, Schoelwer MJ, Rogol AD. Androgens During Infancy, Childhood, and Adolescence: Physiology and Use in Clinical Practice. Endocr Rev 2020; 41:5770947. [PMID: 32115641 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnaa003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
We provide an in-depth review of the role of androgens in male maturation and development, from the fetal stage through adolescence into emerging adulthood, and discuss the treatment of disorders of androgen production throughout these time periods. Testosterone, the primary androgen produced by males, has both anabolic and androgenic effects. Androgen exposure induces virilization and anabolic body composition changes during fetal development, influences growth and virilization during infancy, and stimulates development of secondary sexual characteristics, growth acceleration, bone mass accrual, and alterations of body composition during puberty. Disorders of androgen production may be subdivided into hypo- or hypergonadotropic hypogonadism. Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism may be either congenital or acquired (resulting from cranial radiation, trauma, or less common causes). Hypergonadotropic hypogonadism occurs in males with Klinefelter syndrome and may occur in response to pelvic radiation, certain chemotherapeutic agents, and less common causes. These disorders all require testosterone replacement therapy during pubertal maturation and many require lifelong replacement. Androgen (or gonadotropin) therapy is clearly beneficial in those with persistent hypogonadism and self-limited delayed puberty and is now widely used in transgender male adolescents. With more widespread use and newer formulations approved for adults, data from long-term randomized placebo-controlled trials are needed to enable pediatricians to identify the optimal age of initiation, route of administration, and dosing frequency to address the unique needs of their patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly A Mason
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | | | - Alan D Rogol
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
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132
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Chen H, Kang Z, Qiao N, Liu G, Huang K, Wang X, Pang C, Zeng Q, Tang Z, Li Y. Chronic Copper Exposure Induces Hypospermatogenesis in Mice by Increasing Apoptosis Without Affecting Testosterone Secretion. Biol Trace Elem Res 2020; 195:472-480. [PMID: 31444770 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-019-01852-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Chronic copper exposure impaired spermatogenesis in adult male mice. The aim of this study was to determine whether chronic copper exposure can induce apoptosis of testicular cell and hypospermatogenesis via disturbing testosterone synthesis in adult male mice. In the present study, sixty CD-1 male mice were randomly divided into four groups, and were continuously administered for 8 weeks by oral gavage with copper sulfate at a dose of 0, 25, 100, and 150 mg/kg/day, respectively. We determined the content of serum and testicular copper, testicular coefficient, testicular histopathology, sperm count and motility, the mRNA and protein levels of Caspase-3, Bax, and Bcl-2, Leydig cell count, testosterone content, testosterone synthetase, and testosterone synthesis-related genes. The results showed that the copper levels in serum increased in a dose-dependent manner, and the copper levels in testes were significantly related to serum copper levels. Male mice given copper sulfate 100 and 150 dosage groups showed significant decreased in sperm motility and sperm number as well as increased in testes damage, and there was no significant change in testicular coefficient in the four groups. The mRNA levels of Bcl-2 decreased and Caspase-3 increased in 150 dosage group, and Bax increased in two higher dosage groups. Meanwhile, Caspase-3 and Bax proteins increased in 150 dosage group, and Bcl-2 protein decreased in three copper treatment groups. Nevertheless, there were no differences on the levels of testosterone content and testosterone synthetase of 3β-HSD, 17β-HSD, 17α-Hyd, and 20α-Hyd, mRNA levels of Cyp11a1, Cyp17a1, and Star, and quantity of Leydig cells in four groups. Overall, these data showed that chronic copper exposure led to copper residues in the testes, and the doses of 100 and 150 mg/kg/day copper sulfate may induce hypospermatogenesis by increasing apoptosis without affecting testosterone secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanming Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Zhenlong Kang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Na Qiao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Gaoyang Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Kebin Huang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Xi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Congying Pang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Qiwen Zeng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
| | - Zhaoxin Tang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
| | - Ying Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
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133
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Owumi SE, Danso OF, Nwozo SO. Gallic acid and omega‐3 fatty acids mitigate epididymal and testicular toxicity in manganese‐treated rats. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13630. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 02/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Solomon E. Owumi
- Cancer Research and Molecular Biology Laboratories Department of Biochemistry Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences University of Ibadan Ibadan Nigeria
| | - Olabisi F. Danso
- Industrial and Nutritional Biochemistry Department of Biochemistry Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences University of Ibadan Ibadan Nigeria
| | - Sarah O. Nwozo
- Industrial and Nutritional Biochemistry Department of Biochemistry Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences University of Ibadan Ibadan Nigeria
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134
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Ilgin S. The adverse effects of psychotropic drugs as an endocrine disrupting chemicals on the hypothalamic-pituitary regulation in male. Life Sci 2020; 253:117704. [PMID: 32339542 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.117704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Adverse effects of drugs on male reproductive system can be categorized as pre-testicular, testicular, and post-testicular. Pre-testicular adverse effects disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, generally by interfering with endocrine function. It is known that the HPG axis has roles in the maintenance of spermatogenesis and sexual function. The hypothalamus secretes gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) which enters the hypophyseal portal system to stimulate the anterior pituitary. The anterior pituitary secretes gonadotropins, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) which are vital for spermatogenesis, into the blood. The FSH stimulates the Sertoli cells for the production of regulatory molecules and nutrients needed for the maintenance of spermatogenesis, while the LH stimulates the Leydig cells to produce and secrete testosterone. Many neurotransmitters influence the hypothalamic-pituitary regulation, consequently the HPG axis, and can consequently affect spermatogenesis and sexual function. Psychotropic drugs including antipsychotics, antidepressants, and mood stabilizers that all commonly modulate dopamine, serotonin, and GABA, can affect male spermatogenesis and sexual function by impairment of the hypothalamic-pituitary regulation, act like endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Otherwise, studies have shown the relationship between decreased sperm quality and psychotropic drugs treatment. Therefore, it is important to investigate the adverse reproductive effects of psychotropic drugs which are frequently used during reproductive ages in males and to determine the role of the hypothalamic-pituitary regulation axis on possible pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sinem Ilgin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Anadolu University, 26470 Eskisehir, Turkey.
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135
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Alghamdi SA. Effect of Nigella sativa and Foeniculum vulgare seeds extracts on male mice exposed to carbendazim. Saudi J Biol Sci 2020; 27:2521-2530. [PMID: 32994708 PMCID: PMC7499112 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2020.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing prevalence of environmental pollutants such as pesticides is a major global problem that affects living organisms. Exposure to environmental pollutants remains a major source of health risk throughout the world. The potential health benefits of various medicinal plants and natural products in relation to protect various diseases are currently receiving considerable attention. A current approach is to develop a new biological compound from natural products that inhibits pain. Ethnopharmacological surveys have been found to be one of the most reliable tools for the discovery of the natural and semi-synthetic drug. The present study was performed to investigate the hematological and biochemical changes induced by carbendazim (CBZ) and the potential protective effect of seeds extracts of Nigella sativa (NSSE) and Foeniculum vulgare (FVSE) against CBZ toxicity in male mice. Mice were distributed into 6 groups. Mice of group 1 were served as control. Group 2 was exposed to CBZ. Group 3 was supplemented with NSSE and exposed to CBZ. Group 4 was treated with FVSE and CBZ. Normal mice of group 5 and 6 were subjected to NSSE and FVSE respectively. Body weight gain was significantly decreased in mice of group 2. In mice of group 2, significant declines of RBC, HB, Hct, WBC, total protein, FSH, LH, testosterone, T4, T3, CAT and SOD were observed. Moreover, the levels of ALT, AST, ALP, total bilirubin, creatinine, BUN, uric acid, glucose, cholesterol, CK, LDH, MDA and GSH were significantly enhanced. Treatment with NSSE and FVSE showed attenuation effects against CBZ induced hematological and biochemical changes. The results suggest that the attenuation effects of NSSE and FVSE attributed to their antioxidant properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameera A Alghamdi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Princess Dr. Najla Bint Saud Al-Saud Center for Excellence Research in Biotechnology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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136
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The Cellular Impact of the ZIKA Virus on Male Reproductive Tract Immunology and Physiology. Cells 2020; 9:cells9041006. [PMID: 32325652 PMCID: PMC7226248 DOI: 10.3390/cells9041006] [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: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) has been reported by several groups as an important virus causing pathological damage in the male reproductive tract. ZIKV can infect and persist in testicular somatic and germ cells, as well as spermatozoa, leading to cell death and testicular atrophy. ZIKV has also been detected in semen samples from ZIKV-infected patients. This has huge implications for human reproduction. Global scientific efforts are being applied to understand the mechanisms related to arboviruses persistency, pathogenesis, and host cellular response to suggest a potential target to develop robust antiviral therapeutics and vaccines. Here, we discuss the cellular modulation of the immunologic and physiologic properties of the male reproductive tract environment caused by arboviruses infection, focusing on ZIKV. We also present an overview of the current vaccine effects and therapeutic targets against ZIKV infection that may impact the testis and male fertility.
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137
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Zahra Z, Khan MR, Majid M, Maryam S, Sajid M. Gonadoprotective ability of Vincetoxicum arnottianum extract against bisphenol A-induced testicular toxicity and hormonal imbalance in male Sprague Dawley rats. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13590. [PMID: 32293051 DOI: 10.1111/and.13590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Vincetoxicum arnottianum (Wight) of family Apocynaceae is a rich source of therapeutic alkaloids, phenolics and flavonoids. Study aims to evaluate the protective potential of methanol extract of Vincetoxicum arnottianum (VAM) on bisphenol A (BPA)-induced testicular toxicity in male Sprague Dawley rat. Quantitative analysis of VAM for total phenolic (TPC), total flavonoid (TFC) and total alkaloid content (TAC) along with HPLC analysis for polyphenolics was carried out. BPA-induced testicular toxicity was determined through analysis of antioxidant enzymes, DNA damages and testicular histopathology along with reproductive hormones in serum of rat. VAM was constituted of TFC (382.50 ± 1.67 μg GAE/mg), TPC (291.17 ± 0.82 μg RE/mg), TAC (16.5 ± 0.5%), ferulic acid (2.2433 μg/mg) and vanillic acid (2.1249 μg/mg). VAM co-administration to BPA-treated rats attenuated the toxic effects of BPA and restored the body and testis weights. Altered level of luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in serum, and level of antioxidants (GSH, POD, CAT and SOD) and nitric oxide in testis tissues of BPA-induced toxicity were significantly restored by VAM. Histological and comet assay studies also sanctioned the protective potential of VAM in BPA-intoxicated rats. The presence of polyphenols and alkaloids might contribute towards the scavenging and ameliorative potential of VAM in testicular toxicity induced by BPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zartash Zahra
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Rashid Khan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Majid
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Sonia Maryam
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Moniba Sajid
- Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Medical University, Islamabad, Pakistan
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138
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Cai Y, Lei X, Chen Z, Mo Z. The roles of cirRNA in the development of germ cells. Acta Histochem 2020; 122:151506. [PMID: 32008790 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2020.151506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Circular RNA (CircRNA), a type of endogenous non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), is generally generated from precursor mRNA (pre-mRNA) by canonical splicing and head-to-tail back splicing. The structure without a polyA tail renders circRNA highly insensitive to ribonuclease. Simultaneously, the distribution of circRNAs is tissue and developmental stage-specific. There are five potential biological functions of circRNAs: 1) promote transcription of their parental genes; 2) function as a miRNA sponge; 3) RNA binding protein (RBP) sponge; 4) encode protein; 5) act as an mRNA trap. Recently, circRNA has attracted attention because studies have shown that circRNAs are associated with follicular development, ovarian senescence, spermatogenesis, and germ cell development process, suggesting that circRNAs may function in germ cells regulation. The investigation of circRNAs in germ cells will provide an excellent opportunity to understand its potential molecular basis, and potentially improving reproduction status in human. In this article, the relationship between circRNA and germ cell development will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqin Cai
- Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine Application Institute, Department of Histology and Embryology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Center for Diabetic Systems Medicine (Guangxi Key Laboratory of Excellence), Guilin Medical University, Guangxi, Guilin, 541100, China
| | - Xiaocan Lei
- Clinical Anatomy & Reproductive Medicine Application Institute, Department of Histology and Embryology, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan, 421001, China
| | - Zhuo Chen
- Hunan Province Innovative Training Base for Medical Postgraduates, University of South China and Yueyang Women & Children's Medical Center, Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Yueyang, Hunan, 416000, China
| | - Zhongcheng Mo
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Center for Diabetic Systems Medicine (Guangxi Key Laboratory of Excellence), Guilin Medical University, Guangxi, Guilin, 541100, China; Hunan Province Innovative Training Base for Medical Postgraduates, University of South China and Yueyang Women & Children's Medical Center, Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Yueyang, Hunan, 416000, China.
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139
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Abdelnour SA, Abd El-Hack ME, Noreldin AE, Batiha GE, Beshbishy AM, Ohran H, Khafaga AF, Othman SI, Allam AA, Swelum AA. High Salt Diet Affects the Reproductive Health in Animals: An Overview. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10040590. [PMID: 32244412 PMCID: PMC7222834 DOI: 10.3390/ani10040590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple summary Halophytic plants are a promising animal feed source. However, the extreme NaCl2 salt content constraints their use. Excess diet salt adversely affects growth performance and animal’s reproduction worldwide. This review focuses on the impact of high salt intake on growth performance and reproduction ability in animals. Abstract Salinity is a reliable issue of crop productivity loss in the world and in certain tropical and subtropical zones. However, tremendous progress in the genetic improvement of plants for salinity tolerance has been made over several decades. In light of this, halophytic plants can be used as animal feeds and have promising features because they are a good feed resource. However, the main constraint of saline pasture systems is the extreme concentration of NaCl salt in drinking water and forage plants for grazing animals. Ecological reports revealed that excess diet salt causes mortality and morbidity worldwide. Animal fed halophytic forages may have adverse effects on growth performance and reproductive function in males and females due to inducing reductions in hormone regulation, such as testosterone, FSH, LH, and leptin. It was indicated that high salt intake promotes circulating inflammatory factors in the placenta and is associated with adversative effects on pregnancy. This review focuses on the scientific evidence related to the effect of high salt intake on growth performance, spermatogenesis, sperm function, and testicular morphology changes in male animals. In addition, the review will also focus on its effect on some female reproductive features (e.g., ovarian follicle developments, placental indices, and granulosa cell function).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh A. Abdelnour
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44511, Egypt;
| | - Mohamed E. Abd El-Hack
- Department of Poultry, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44511, Egypt
- Correspondence:
| | - Ahmed E. Noreldin
- Histology and Cytology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt;
| | - Gaber Elsaber Batiha
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Nishi 2-13, Inada-cho, 080-8555, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan; (G.E.B.); (A.M.B.)
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, AlBeheira, Egypt
| | - Amani Magdy Beshbishy
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Nishi 2-13, Inada-cho, 080-8555, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan; (G.E.B.); (A.M.B.)
| | - Husein Ohran
- Department of Physiology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, Zmaja od Bosne 90, 71 000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina;
| | - Asmaa F. Khafaga
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Edfina 22758, Egypt;
| | - Sarah I. Othman
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 84428, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ahmed A. Allam
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Beni-suef University, Beni-suef, 65211 Egypt;
| | - Ayman A. Swelum
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia (AAS);
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44511, Egypt
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140
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LCZ696 (sacubitril/valsartan) protects against cyclophosphamide-induced testicular toxicity in rats: Role of neprilysin inhibition and lncRNA TUG1 in ameliorating apoptosis. Toxicology 2020; 437:152439. [PMID: 32197949 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2020.152439] [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: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CP) is widely used as chemotherapy in various cancers; however, testicular atrophy has been encountered as an associated adverse effect. Oxidative stress, enhanced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and subsequent apoptosis are involved in the molecular mechanisms of CP-induced testicular toxicity. In addition to the cardiovascular benefits of LCZ696 (sacubitril/valsartan (VAL)), neprilysin inhibition was shown to mediate Ca2+ sequestration inside the ER. Furthermore, long noncoding RNA taurine-upregulated gene 1 (lncRNA TUG1) was shown to ameliorate apoptosis in various diseases. This tempted us to investigate the possible benefit of LCZ696 against CP-induced testicular dysfunction in rats through neprilysin inhibition axis, and the downstream apoptotic cascade, with highlighting the impact of lncRNA TUG1 in regulating testicular toxicity. Sixty adult male Wistar rats were randomly allocated as control, LCZ696, VAL, CP, CP + LCZ696, and CP + VAL. Testicular atrophy was induced by single-dose injection of CP (200 mg/kg; i.p.). LCZ696 treated group received LCZ696 (30 mg/kg; p.o.) for 6 days, with CP (200 mg/kg; i.p.) single-dose on day 5. LCZ696 increased lncRNA TUG1 expression, improved sperm characteristics, hormonal profile, testicular function, antioxidant defences, and Bcl-2. The histopathological picture and reduced oxidative and ER stress markers, aligned with declined Bax, caspase-3 and the expression of CHOP, PUMA, Noxa, Bim, and p53, with a subtle superior effect over VAL-treated group. In conclusion, the current study highlights the promising impact of LCZ696 in ameliorating chemotherapy-induced testicular atrophy; yet, further investigation regarding longer duration and different doses of LCZ696 is warranted.
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141
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Long S, Dawe S, Woodward B. Reduced sperm concentration in a patient from a suspected post-operative infection: a case study. Br J Biomed Sci 2020; 77:148-151. [DOI: 10.1080/09674845.2020.1732638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- S Long
- University Hospitals Birmingham, Good Hope Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - S Dawe
- University Hospitals Birmingham, Good Hope Hospital, Birmingham, UK
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142
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Selvaraj K, Manickam N, Kumaran E, Thangadurai K, Elumalai G, Sekar A, Radhakrishnan RK, Kandasamy M. Deterioration of neuroregenerative plasticity in association with testicular atrophy and dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis in Huntington's disease: A putative role of the huntingtin gene in steroidogenesis. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 197:105526. [PMID: 31715317 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2019.105526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is an autosomal dominant progressive neurodegenerative disorder mainly affecting the structure and functions of the striatum, cerebral cortex and hippocampus leading to movement disorders, cognitive dysfunctions and emotional disturbances. The onset of HD has been linked to a pathogenic CAG repeat expansion in the huntingtin (HTT) gene that encodes for the polyglutamine (polyQ) stretches in the huntingtin (Htt) protein. Notably, the neuropathogenic events of the mutant HTT gene appear to be primed during adulthood and magnified along the ageing process. While the normal Htt protein is vital for the neuronal differentiation and neuroprotection, experimental HD models and postmortem human HD brains have been characterized by neurodegeneration and defects in neuroregenerative plasticity in the basal ganglia and limbic system including the hippocampus. Besides gonadal dysfunctions, reduced androgen levels and abnormal hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis have increasingly been evident in HD. Recently, ageing-related changes in levels of steroid sex hormones have been proposed to play a detrimental effect on the regulation of hippocampal neurogenesis in the adult brain. Considering its adult-onset nature, a potential relationship between dysregulation in the synthesis of sex steroid hormones and the pathogenesis of the mutant HTT gene appears to be an important clinical issue in HD. While the hippocampus and testis are the major sites of steroidogenesis, the presence of Htt in both areas is conclusively evident. Hence, the expression of the normal HTT gene may take part in the steroidogenic events in aforementioned organs in the physiological state, whereas the mutant HTT gene may cause defects in steroidogenesis in HD. Therefore, this review article comprehends the potential relationship between the gonadal dysfunctions and abnormal hippocampal plasticity in HD and represents a hypothesis for the putative role of the HTT gene in the regulation of steroidogenesis in gonads and in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaviya Selvaraj
- School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Nivethitha Manickam
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Elamathi Kumaran
- School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Kayalvizhi Thangadurai
- Department of Bio-Medical Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, 620024, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Gokul Elumalai
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Aravinthan Sekar
- Department of Biotechnology, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Risna Kanjirassery Radhakrishnan
- Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mahesh Kandasamy
- School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, Tamil Nadu, India; Laboratory of Stem Cells and Neuroregeneration, Department of Animal Science, School of Life Sciences, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli 620024, Tamil Nadu, India; Faculty Recharge Programme, University Grants Commission (UGC-FRP), New Delhi, India.
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143
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Li F, Huang D, Yang W, Liu X, Nie S, Xie M. Polysaccharide from the seeds of Plantago asiatica L. alleviates nonylphenol induced reproductive system injury of male rats via PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. J Funct Foods 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2020.103828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
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144
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Yang X, Zhao Y, Sun Q, Yang Y, Gao Y, Ge W, Liu J, Xu X, Zhang J. Adenosine accumulation causes metabolic disorders in testes and associates with lower testosterone level in obese mice. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:241-250. [PMID: 32026564 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Overweight and obese men face numerous health problems, including type 2 diabetes, subfertility, and even infertility. However, few studies have focused on the effects of nutritional status and obesity-related regulatory signals on fertility deficiency. Our previous observations have shown that the elevation of plasma 5'-adenosine monophosphate (5'-AMP) and the accumulation of adenosine in liver and muscle of obese diabetic db/db mice are related to insulin resistance. Here, we found that adenosine accumulation in testis is a common marker of both genetic obesity and high-fat-diet induced obese mice. An messenger RNA sequencing analysis indicated that 78 upregulated genes and 155 downregulated genes in the testis of 5'-AMP-treated mice overlapped with the same genes in the testis of ob/ob mice, and these genes belonged to the clusters of steroid metabolic process and regulation of hormone levels, respectively. Serum testosterone was reduced in ob/ob and 5'-AMP-treated mice. Metabolomic analysis based on 1 H nuclear magnetic resonance showed that the testicular metabolic profiles of ob/ob mice were similar to those of 5'-AMP treated mice. Exogenous 5'-AMP inhibited the phosphorylation of AKT and mammalian target of rapamycin signal transduction and reduced the proliferating cell nuclear antigen expressions in testes. Our results suggest that the accumulation of adenosine causes metabolic disorders in testes and associates lower testosterone level in obese mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Yang
- Center for Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- Center for Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
| | - Qi Sun
- Center for Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
| | - Yunxia Yang
- Center for Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Center for Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenhao Ge
- Center for Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
| | - Junhao Liu
- Center for Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
| | - Xi Xu
- Center for Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianfa Zhang
- Center for Molecular Metabolism, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, China
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145
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Ajuogu PK, Al-Aqbi MA, Hart RA, Wolden M, Smart NA, McFarlane JR. The effect of dietary protein intake on factors associated with male infertility: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis of animal clinical trials in rats. Nutr Health 2020; 26:53-64. [PMID: 31992124 DOI: 10.1177/0260106019900731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have shown that the amount of protein in the diet affects the hypothalamic-pituitary-testis axis and sub-optimal quantity reduces male fertility potential in both animals and humans. However, individual research reports on the factors associated with male infertility are collectively uncharacterized. AIM We systematically reviewed, and meta-analysed animal (rats) studies on the effect of low protein diet on factors associated with male infertility. METHODS PubMed Central, EMBASE and Scopus databases were searched from inception to 30 March 2019 for the study concepts and related keywords in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol. Data on the outcome measures were extracted and pooled across trials using random-effects model and expressed as mean differences (MD) at a 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS Twelve trials identified from 3327 studies, met our inclusion criteria in the comparison of a low protein diet (2-10% protein) vs control protein diet (17-23% protein). The results showed that a low protein diet caused a significant reduction in the body weight (P = 0.0001) testis weight (P = 0.0001), seminal vesicle weight (P = 0.0003), epididymis weight P = 0.02), serum testosterone (P = 0.001) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentrations (P = 0.04) compared with the control treatments. No effect on luteinizing hormone (LH) plasma concentration (P = 0.13) was observed. CONCLUSION This study revealed that low protein diet caused significant reductions in body weight, testis, epididymis and seminal vesicle weights, serum testosterone and FSH concentration in rats. We infer that sub-optimal protein consumption reduces the gonadal and endocrine function, and consequently male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammed Ak Al-Aqbi
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Australia.,College of Agriculture, Wasit University, Iraq
| | - Robert A Hart
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Australia
| | | | - Neil A Smart
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Australia
| | - James R McFarlane
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Australia
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146
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Padmanabhan V, Cardoso RC. Neuroendocrine, autocrine, and paracrine control of follicle-stimulating hormone secretion. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 500:110632. [PMID: 31682864 PMCID: PMC7433377 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a glycoprotein hormone produced by gonadotropes in the anterior pituitary that plays a central role in controlling ovarian folliculogenesis and steroidogenesis in females. Moreover, recent studies strongly suggest that FSH exerts extragonadal actions, particularly regulating bone mass and adiposity. Despite its crucial role, the mechanisms regulating FSH secretion are not completely understood. It is evident that hypothalamic, ovarian, and pituitary factors are involved in the neuroendocrine, paracrine, and autocrine regulation of FSH production. Large animal models, such as the female sheep, represent valuable research models to investigate specific aspects of FSH secretory processes. This review: (i) summarizes the role of FSH controlling reproduction and other biological processes; (ii) discusses the hypothalamic, gonadal, and pituitary regulation of FSH secretion; (iii) considers the biological relevance of the different FSH isoforms; and (iv) summarizes the distinct patterns of FSH secretion under different physiological conditions.
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147
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Salama N, Blgozah S. Serum estradiol levels in infertile men with non-obstructive azoospermia. Ther Adv Reprod Health 2020; 14:2633494120928342. [PMID: 32647832 PMCID: PMC7325549 DOI: 10.1177/2633494120928342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To report the different patterns of estradiol levels in infertile men with non-obstructive azoospermia and correlate these levels with their clinical and laboratory findings. MATERIALS AND METHODS A retrospective study was launched, and a retrieval of data for infertile men with non-obstructive azoospermia (n = 166) and fertile controls (n = 40) was performed. The retrieved data included demographics, clinical findings, scrotal duplex, semen analysis, and hormonal assay (testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, prolactin, and estradiol). RESULTS Our findings showed a wide spectrum of estradiol concentrations. The patients were arranged into three groups (high, normal, and low estradiol groups). The normal estradiol group was the most prevalent (71.1%). Testosterone, gonadotrophins, testicular volumes, and the number of patients with jobs in polluted workplaces showed significant differences among the study groups (p = 0.001, <0.001, <0.001, and 0.004, respectively). Age, body mass index, varicocele prevalence, prolactin, and smoking habits did not show any significant differences among the groups. Obesity was lacking in the low estradiol group, but it had significantly higher prevalence in the normal (p = 0.013) or high group (p = 0.023) compared with the controls. CONCLUSION Serum estradiol, in infertile men with non-obstructive azoospermia, may be present at different levels. It is recommended that estradiol be measured in infertile men with non-obstructive azoospermia when there is an alteration in testosterone concentration, obesity, a polluted workplace occupation, or before trying hormonal therapy. Extended studies are highly recommended to provide a clear clue whether alterations in estradiol concentrations in men with non-obstructive azoospermia are the cause or a consequence of the condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nader Salama
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Saeed Blgozah
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Hadhramout University, P.O. Box 50512-50511, Mukalla, Yemen
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148
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Ghosh C, Mallick C. Protective effect of ethanolic extract ofHygrophila auriculataseeds in cyproterone acetate‐induced sexual dysfunction in male albino rats. Andrologia 2019; 52:e13482. [PMID: 31815317 DOI: 10.1111/and.13482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chaitali Ghosh
- Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics, Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science and Management Vidyasagar University Midnapore West Bengal India
| | - Chhanda Mallick
- Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics, Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science and Management Vidyasagar University Midnapore West Bengal India
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149
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Lerchbaum E, Trummer C, Theiler-Schwetz V, Kollmann M, Wölfler M, Heijboer AC, Pilz S, Obermayer-Pietsch B. Effects of vitamin D supplementation on androgens in men with low testosterone levels: a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Nutr 2019; 58:3135-3146. [PMID: 30460609 PMCID: PMC6842386 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-018-1858-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE It has been hypothesized that vitamin D is associated with androgen levels in men. We, therefore, aimed to evaluate whether vitamin D supplementation increases serum total testosterone (TT) levels in men with low TT levels at baseline. METHODS The Graz Vitamin D&TT-RCT is a single-center, double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial conducted between March 2013 and November 2017 at the endocrine outpatient clinic at the Medical University of Graz, Austria. One-hundred healthy men with serum TT levels < 10.4 nmol/l and 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels < 75 nmol/l participated in the trial. Subjects were randomized to receive 20,000 IU of vitamin D3/week (n = 50) or placebo (n = 50) for 12 weeks. Primary outcome was TT measured using mass spectrometry. Secondary outcomes were free testosterone, free androgen index, sex hormone-binding globulin, estradiol, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, metabolic characteristics, and body composition. RESULTS Ninety-four men [mean age and 25(OH)D: 47 (± 12) years and 56.3 (± 18.3) nmol/l, respectively] completed the study. We found no significant treatment effect on serum TT or on the remaining secondary outcome variables. CONCLUSION Vitamin D treatment had no effect on serum TT levels in middle-aged healthy men with low TT levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Lerchbaum
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria.
| | - Christian Trummer
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Verena Theiler-Schwetz
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Martina Kollmann
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 14, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Monika Wölfler
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 14, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Annemieke C Heijboer
- Endocrine Laboratory, Department of Clinical Chemistry, VU University Medical Center, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Endocrinology, Academic Medical Center, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan Pilz
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria
| | - Barbara Obermayer-Pietsch
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, 8036, Graz, Austria
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150
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Noya A, Ripoll G, Casasús I, Sanz A. Effects of immunocastration performed at two live weights on the growth physiology, temperament and testicular development of feral beef bulls. Anim Sci J 2019; 91:e13307. [PMID: 31692164 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13307] [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: 06/24/2019] [Revised: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the effect of administering an anti-gonadotropin-releasing hormone vaccine (Improvac® , developed for pigs) on the performance, temperament, testicular development, and hormone and metabolite profiles of feral bulls (Bos taurus) vaccinated at two different live weights (LW). In all, 16 Serrana de Teruel animals were involved in this 2 x 2 factorial design using the factors LW (LIGHT vs. HEAVY) and vaccine treatment (control, C vs. vaccinated, VA). All animals received the same diet (ad libitum concentrate plus straw) over a 164-day fattening period. Temperament was assessed using chute and flight speed tests. Testicular diameter and subcutaneous fat thickness were recorded. Testosterone, IGF-1, urea, NEFA, and creatinine profiles were analyzed. Bull weight gain was reduced in VA compared to C animals, regardless of the initial LW. The vaccine did not affect the temperament tests, subcutaneous fat thickness or NEFA and creatinine concentrations and had minor effects on linear body measures. The vaccine inhibited testicular growth, reduced plasma testosterone to residual levels, and increased urea concentrations. LIGHT-C animals exhibited increased mean plasma IGF-1 concentrations compared to LIGHT-VA animals. In conclusion, vaccination reduced bull growth and sexual development irrespective of LW at immunization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustí Noya
- Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria (CITA) de Aragón, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Guillermo Ripoll
- Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria (CITA) de Aragón, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Isabel Casasús
- Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria (CITA) de Aragón, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Albina Sanz
- Centro de Investigación y Tecnología Agroalimentaria (CITA) de Aragón, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón - IA2 (CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza), Zaragoza, Spain
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