301
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Barraud-Lange V, Pont JC, Ziyyat A, Pocate K, Sifer C, Cedrin-Durnerin I, Fechtali B, Ducot B, Wolf JP. Seminal leukocytes are Good Samaritans for spermatozoa. Fertil Steril 2011; 96:1315-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2011] [Revised: 08/26/2011] [Accepted: 09/20/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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302
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Cytogenetic and Molecular Aspects of Absolute Teratozoospermia: Comparison Between Polymorphic and Monomorphic Forms. Urology 2011; 78:1313-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2011.08.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2011] [Revised: 08/23/2011] [Accepted: 08/30/2011] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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303
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Khan S, Ahmad T, Parekh CV, Trivedi PP, Kushwaha S, Jena G. Investigation on sodium valproate induced germ cell damage, oxidative stress and genotoxicity in male Swiss mice. Reprod Toxicol 2011; 32:385-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2011.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2011] [Revised: 08/05/2011] [Accepted: 09/28/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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304
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de Mateo S, Ramos L, van der Vlag J, de Boer P, Oliva R. Improvement in chromatin maturity of human spermatozoa selected through density gradient centrifugation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 34:256-67. [PMID: 20569271 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2010.01080.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
A two-step gradient density centrifugation system has been set up to isolate two contrasting sperm populations of normozoospermic and oligoasthenoteratozoospermic (OAT) men. High- and low-density fractions were characterized by total and free thiol fluorescence as determined by monobromobimane-flow cytometry and by protamine/DNA ratios after protamine extraction and polyacrylamide acid-urea gel electrophoresis. Further chromatin characterization was performed through immunofluorescence (IF) with specific antibodies to nucleosomes, histone subtypes (H3.1/H3.2 and TH2B), histone modifications (KM-2 and H4K8ac) and precursor protamine 2. The native sperm samples from normozoospermic and OAT patients showed a biphasic distribution of total thiol levels, which changed in the sperm fractions obtained using the density isolation protocol presented here. Moreover, significant differences were detected in the protamine content in the different fractions of OAT and fertile donor samples. In addition, in the high-density fractions from OAT and normozoospermics, higher IF levels for H4K8ac and TH2B were seen. These results would be consistent with the intended beneficial effect on chromatin maturity of the density selection techniques currently being used in assisted fertilization procedures. However, most nucleosome and related proteins/modifications differ between OAT and normozoospermic men, even after gradient centrifugation, providing evidence for incomplete nuclear maturity in OAT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- S de Mateo
- Human Genetics Research Group, IDIBAPS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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305
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Voet T, Vanneste E, Van der Aa N, Melotte C, Jackmaert S, Vandendael T, Declercq M, Debrock S, Fryns JP, Moreau Y, D'Hooghe T, Vermeesch JR. Breakage-fusion-bridge cycles leading to inv dup del occur in human cleavage stage embryos. Hum Mutat 2011; 32:783-93. [PMID: 21412953 DOI: 10.1002/humu.21502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Recently, a high incidence of chromosome instability (CIN) was reported in human cleavage stage embryos. Based on the copy number changes that were observed in the blastomeres it was hypothesized that chromosome breakages and fusions occur frequently in cleavage stage human embryos and instigate subsequent breakage-fusion-bridge cycles. In addition, it was hypothesized that the DNA breaks present in spermatozoa could trigger this CIN. To test these hypotheses, we genotyped both parents as well as 93 blastomeres from 24 IVF embryos and developed a novel single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array-based algorithm to determine the parental origin of (aberrant) loci in single cells. Paternal as well as maternal alleles were commonly rearranged in the blastomeres indicating that sperm-specific DNA breaks do not explain the majority of these structural variants. The parent-of-origin analyses together with microarray-guided FISH analyses demonstrate the presence of inv dup del chromosomes as well as more complex rearrangements. These data provide unequivocal evidence for breakage-fusion-bridge cycles in those embryos and suggest that the human cleavage stage embryo is a major source of chromosomal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thierry Voet
- Center for Human Genetics, KULeuven-UZ Gasthuisberg, Herestraat 49, Leuven, Belgium
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306
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Ioannou D, Meershoek EJ, Christopikou D, Ellis M, Thornhill AR, Griffin DK. Nuclear organisation of sperm remains remarkably unaffected in the presence of defective spermatogenesis. Chromosome Res 2011; 19:741-53. [PMID: 21947956 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-011-9238-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2011] [Revised: 08/24/2011] [Accepted: 08/25/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Organisation of chromosome territories in interphase nuclei has been studied in many systems and positional alterations have been associated with disease phenotypes (e.g. laminopathies, cancer) in somatic cells. Altered nuclear organisation is also reported in developmental processes such as mammalian spermatogenesis where a "chromocentre" model is proposed with the centromeres and sex chromosomes repositioning to the nuclear centre. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that alterations in nuclear organisation of human spermatozoa are associated with defects upstream in spermatogenesis (as manifest in certain infertility phenotypes). The nuclear address of (peri-) centromeric loci for 18 chromosomes (1-4, 6-12, 15-18, 20, X and Y) was assayed in 20 males using established algorithms for 3D extrapolations of 2D data. The control group comprised 10 fertile sperm donors while the test group was 10 patients with severely compromised semen parameters including high sperm aneuploidy. All loci examined in the control group adopted defined, interior positions thus providing supporting evidence for the presence of a chromocentre and interior sex chromosome territories. In the test group however there were subtle alterations in the nuclear address for certain centromeres in individual patients and, when all patient results were pooled, some different nuclear addresses were observed for chromosomes 3, 6, 12 and 18. Considering the extensive impairment of spermatogenesis in the test group (evidenced by compromised semen parameters and increased chromosome abnormalities), the observed differences in nuclear organisation for centromeric loci compared to the controls were modest. A defined pattern of nuclear reorganisation of centromeric loci in sperm heads therefore appears to be a remarkably robust process, even if spermatogenesis is severely compromised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitris Ioannou
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT27NJ, UK
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307
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Sperm DNA integrity assays: diagnostic and prognostic challenges and implications in management of infertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2011; 28:1073-85. [PMID: 21904910 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-011-9631-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2011] [Accepted: 08/24/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm is not a simple carrier of paternal genetic information but its role extends clearly beyond fertilization. Integrity of sperm genome is an essential pre-requisite for birth of healthy offspring and evaluation of sperm should entail DNA integrity analysis. DNA integrity analysis is a better diagnostic and prognostic marker of sperm reproductive potential. Conventional semen analysis emphasizes on sperm concentration, viability, motility and morphology and has been proven to be a poor indicator of reproductive potential and pregnancy outcome. To overcome the drawbacks associated with conventional semen analysis more useful fertility tests and molecular biomarkers have been explored. Among the different tests which have evolved for assessing the sperm reproductive potential, tests for sperm DNA quality are most promising. Sperm DNA damage has been closely associated with numerous indicators of reproductive health including fertilization, embryo quality, implantation, spontaneous abortion, congenital malformations and childhood diseases. It therefore has great potential as a prognostic test for both in vitro and in vivo conception. This review presents an updated account of tests that have better diagnostic and prognostic implications in the evaluation of sperm DNA damage. The basic principles, outline of methodology, advantage, disadvantage, clinical significance of each technique and implications of these tests have been discussed. The logistics of each test with respect to available resources and equipment in an andrology laboratory, the feasibility of performing these tests in routine diagnostic workup of infertile men and the opportunities and challenges provided by DNA testing in male fertility determination are also presented.
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308
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Ferguson KK, Loch-Caruso R, Meeker JD. Urinary phthalate metabolites in relation to biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress: NHANES 1999-2006. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2011; 111:718-26. [PMID: 21349512 PMCID: PMC3110976 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2011.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2010] [Revised: 01/28/2011] [Accepted: 02/03/2011] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Phthalate esters are a class of compounds utilized extensively in widely-distributed consumer goods, and have been associated with various adverse health outcomes in previous epidemiologic research. Some of these health outcomes may be the result of phthalate-induced increases in oxidative stress or inflammation, which have been demonstrated in animal studies. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between urinary phthalate metabolite concentrations and serum markers of inflammation and oxidative stress (C-reactive protein (CRP) and gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT), respectively). Subjects were participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between the years 1999 and 2006. In multivariable linear regression models, we observed significant positive associations between CRP and mono-benzyl phthalate (MBzP) and mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP). There were CRP elevations of 6.0% (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.7-10.8%) and 8.3% (95% CI 2.9-14.0%) in relation to interquartile range (IQR) increases in urinary MBzP and MiBP, respectively. GGT was positively associated with mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP) and an MEHP% variable calculated from the proportion of MEHP in comparison to other di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) metabolites. IQR increases in MEHP and MEHP% were associated with 2.5% (95% CI 0.2-4.8%) and 3.7% (95% CI 1.7-5.7%) increases in GGT, respectively. CRP and GGT were also inversely related to several phthalate metabolites, primarily oxidized metabolites. In conclusion, several phthalate monoester metabolites that are detected in a high proportion of urine samples from the US general population are associated with increased serum markers of inflammation and oxidative stress. On the other hand, several oxidized phthalate metabolites were inversely associated with these markers. These relationships deserve further exploration in both experimental and observational studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly K Ferguson
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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309
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Physical exercise at high altitude is associated with a testicular dysfunction leading to reduced sperm concentration but healthy sperm quality. Fertil Steril 2011; 96:28-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.03.111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2011] [Revised: 03/18/2011] [Accepted: 03/30/2011] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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310
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Aitken RJ, Hanson AR, Kuczera L. Electrophoretic sperm isolation: optimization of electrophoresis conditions and impact on oxidative stress. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:1955-64. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
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311
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Oehninger S. Clinical management of male infertility in assisted reproduction: ICSI and beyond. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 34:e319-29. [PMID: 21651569 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2011.01143.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The advent of in vitro fertilization and its augmentation with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has allowed a large number of couples suffering from moderate to severe male infertility, and also presenting with female pathologies, to achieve their reproductive dreams. Notwithstanding the existence of fundamental questions about the pathophysiological mechanisms leading to sperm dysfunction, and still unanswered concerns about health risks following ICSI, it appears that overall ICSI is safe and here to stay. Although on one hand ICSI possibly hampered advances of the knowledge in some areas of gamete biology and interaction, on the other it definitely gave impulse to studies designed to unveil the sperm contributions during and beyond fertilization, including the normalcy of the DNA/chromatin as well as molecular mechanisms of genetic/epigenetic control and nuclear organization status. In all, almost entering the fourth decade of assisted reproductive technologies, we should continue monitoring the safety of the technique and long-term development of offspring, whereas at the same time prioritizing areas of research addressing these fundamental questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Oehninger
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA.
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312
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Kumar D, Kalthur G, Mascarenhas C, Kumar P, Adiga SK. Ejaculate fractions of asthenozoospermic and teratozoospermic patients have differences in the sperm DNA integrity. Andrologia 2011; 43:416-21. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2010.01105.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
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313
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Relationship between DNA damage and sperm head birefringence. Reprod Biomed Online 2011; 22:583-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2011.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2010] [Revised: 02/14/2011] [Accepted: 03/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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314
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Phosphoinositide 3-kinase signalling pathway involvement in a truncated apoptotic cascade associated with motility loss and oxidative DNA damage in human spermatozoa. Biochem J 2011; 436:687-98. [DOI: 10.1042/bj20110114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 156] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Human spermatozoa are characterized by poor functionality and abundant DNA damage that collude to generate the high incidences of male infertility and miscarriage seen in our species. Although apoptosis has been suggested as a possible cause of poor sperm quality, the ability of these cells to enter an apoptotic state and the factors that might trigger such an event are unresolved. In the present study we provide evidence that the commitment of these cells to apoptosis is negatively regulated by PI3K (phosphoinositide 3-kinase)/AKT. If PI3K activity is inhibited, then spermatozoa default to an apoptotic cascade characterized by rapid motility loss, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species generation, caspase activation in the cytosol, annexin V binding to the cell surface, cytoplasmic vacuolization and oxidative DNA damage. However, the specialized physical architecture of spermatozoa subsequently prevents endonucleases activated during this process from penetrating the sperm nucleus and cleaving the DNA. As a result, DNA fragmentation does not occur as a direct result of apoptosis in spermatozoa as it does in somatic cells, even though oxidative DNA adducts can clearly be detected. We propose that this unusual truncated apoptotic cascade prepares spermatozoa for silent phagocytosis within the female tract and prevents DNA-damaged spermatozoa from participating in fertilization.
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315
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Aitken RJ, Henkel RR. Sperm cell biology: current perspectives and future prospects. Asian J Androl 2011; 13:3-5. [PMID: 21102477 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2010.155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
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316
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Linschooten JO, Laubenthal J, Cemeli E, Baumgartner A, Anderson D, Sipinen VE, Brunborg G, Haenen GRMM, Fthenou E, Briedé JJ, van Schooten FJ, Godschalk RWL. Incomplete protection of genetic integrity of mature spermatozoa against oxidative stress. Reprod Toxicol 2011; 32:106-11. [PMID: 21621604 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2011.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2010] [Revised: 03/25/2011] [Accepted: 05/12/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Although DNA damage in human spermatozoa is associated with adverse health effects, its origin is not fully understood. Therefore, we assessed biomarkers in ejaculates that retrospectively reflect processes that occurred in the epididymis or testis. Smoking increased the amount of DNA strand breaks (P<0.01), and enhanced the presence of vitamin C radicals in seminal plasma. In vitro, vitamin C protected mature spermatozoa against DNA damage, but this protection appeared to be insufficient in vivo. CAT and DDIT4 expression in spermatozoa were higher in smokers than in nonsmokers, but were not related to DNA damage. CAT and DDIT4 expression were inversely related with sperm count (P=0.039 and 0.024 resp.), but no effect was observed for SOD2 expression. These data indicate that spermatozoa of smokers encounter higher levels of oxidative stress. Expression of antioxidant enzymes and seminal vitamin C were insufficient to provide full protection of spermatozoa against DNA damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joost O Linschooten
- Department of Toxicology, Maastricht University, PO Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands
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317
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Riel JM, Yamauchi Y, Huang TTF, Grove J, Ward MA. Short-term storage of human spermatozoa in electrolyte-free medium without freezing maintains sperm chromatin integrity better than cryopreservation. Biol Reprod 2011; 85:536-47. [PMID: 21593474 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.091322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous attempts to maintain human spermatozoa without freezing were based on short-term storage in component-rich medium and led to fast decline in motility and increased incidence of chromosome breaks. Here we report a new method in which sperm are maintained without freezing in an electrolyte-free medium (EFM) composed of glucose and bovine serum albumin. Human sperm were stored in EFM or human tubal fluid medium (HTFM) or were cryopreserved, and their motility, viability, and DNA integrity were examined at different intervals. Cryopreservation led to significant decline in sperm motility and viability and induced DNA fragmentation. Sperm stored in EFM maintained motility and viability for up to 4 and 7 wk, respectively, much longer than sperm stored in HTFM (<2 and <4 wk, respectively). DNA integrity, assessed with comet assay, was also maintained significantly better in EFM than in HTFM. One-week storage in EFM yielded motility and viability similar to that of cryopreserved sperm, but DNA integrity was significantly higher, resembling that of fresh sperm. After several weeks of storage in EFM, sperm were able to activate oocytes, undergo chromatin remodeling, and form normal zygotic chromosomes after intracytoplasmic sperm injection. This study demonstrated that human spermatozoa can be stored in EFM without freezing for several weeks while maintaining motility, viability, and chromatin integrity and that 1-wk storage in EFM offers better protection of sperm DNA integrity than cryopreservation. Sperm storage in EFM may become a viable option for the physicians working in assisted reproduction technology clinics, which would avoid cryodamage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan M Riel
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
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318
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Gharagozloo P, Aitken RJ. The role of sperm oxidative stress in male infertility and the significance of oral antioxidant therapy. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:1628-40. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 331] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
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319
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Jenkins TG, Aston KI, Carrell DT. Supplementation of cryomedium with ascorbic acid–2-glucoside (AA2G) improves human sperm post-thaw motility. Fertil Steril 2011; 95:2001-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2010] [Revised: 02/07/2011] [Accepted: 02/08/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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320
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Hossain MS, Johannisson A, Wallgren M, Nagy S, Siqueira AP, Rodriguez-Martinez H. Flow cytometry for the assessment of animal sperm integrity and functionality: state of the art. Asian J Androl 2011; 13:406-19. [PMID: 21478895 PMCID: PMC3739346 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2011.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2010] [Revised: 11/19/2010] [Accepted: 01/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Flow cytometry is now a recognized methodology within animal spermatology, and has moved from being a research tool to become routine in the assessment of animal semen destined to breeding. The availability of 'bench-top' flow cytometers and of newer and versatile markers for cell structure and function had allowed the instrumentation to measure more sperm parameters, from viability to reactiveness when exposed to exogenous stimuli, and to increase our capabilities to sort spermatozoa for potential fertilizing capacity, or chromosomal sex. The present review summarizes the state of the art regarding flow cytometry applied to animal andrology, albeit keeping an open comparative intent. It critically evaluates the present and future capabilities of flow cytometry for the diagnostics of potential fertility and for the development of current reproductive technologies such as sperm freezing, sperm selection and sperm sorting. The flow cytometry methods will probably further revolutionize our understanding of the sperm physiology and their functionality, and will undoubtedly extend its application in isolating many uncharacterized features of spermatozoa. However, continuous follow-up of the methods is a necessity owing to technical developments and the complexity of mapping spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Sharoare Hossain
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
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321
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García-Peiró A, Oliver-Bonet M, Navarro J, Abad C, Guitart M, Amengual MJ, Gosálvez J, Benet J. Dynamics of sperm DNA fragmentation in patients carrying structurally rearranged chromosomes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 34:e546-53. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2011.01153.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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322
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Sperm chromatin dispersion test in the assessment of DNA fragmentation and aneuploidy in human spermatozoa. Reprod Biomed Online 2011; 22:428-36. [PMID: 21397561 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2011.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2010] [Revised: 11/17/2010] [Accepted: 01/27/2011] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Sperm DNA damage is thought to be increased in men with male factor infertility. Previous studies suggest a correlation between sperm DNA fragmentation and aneuploidy. The sperm chromatin dispersion (SCD) test was modified to produce the Halosperm Kit. The SCD-fluorescent in-situ hybridization (FISH) test allows the simultaneous detection of DNA fragmentation and aneuploidy on the same sperm cell. The objectives of this study were to validate the SCD, SCD-FISH and Halosperm tests for the analysis of sperm DNA fragmentation and compare them to the sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA). Semen samples from 20 males undergoing IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection were processed using FISH, SCD-FISH, SCD and Halosperm, and compared with SCSA results. There was a significant difference between FISH and SCD-FISH results in the detection of aneuploidy (P=0.000) and the level of sperm DNA fragmentation in the samples subjected to SCSA and SCD (P=0.001) or SCSA and SCD-FISH (P=0.001). There was no significant correlation between DNA fragmentation and aneuploidy. If sperm aneuploidy is to be determined, more reliable results will be obtained if FISH is performed rather than SCD-FISH. A lack of validation and unknown clinical significance question the value of DNA fragmentation assays. DNA damage in the male germ line may result in adverse clinical outcomes and the pathophysiology and clinical consequences of sperm DNA damage are being actively researched. Many DNA fragmentation assays such as the Halosperm Kit have been developed recently and are now available at a commercial level. Unfortunately, aimed at vulnerable couples with difficulty conceiving, many of these tests have not been clinically validated. Despite its plausible appeal and fervour of its supporters, the benefits of widespread DNA testing that only achieves the distressing of couples with the knowledge that effectual therapeutic strategies are absent are questionable. Commercially, however, it is no doubt lucrative. Analysis of gametes prior to the initiation of an IVF cycle may improve the quality of embryos transferred. The clinical and scientific community considers it a matter of urgency to translate the basic science behind how a cell prepares for fertilization into routine clinical practice. However, it is equally important, if not more, to allow the science behind such applications to draw level with its practice before its widespread implementation.
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323
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Meeker JD, Yang T, Ye X, Calafat AM, Hauser R. Urinary concentrations of parabens and serum hormone levels, semen quality parameters, and sperm DNA damage. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2011; 119:252-7. [PMID: 20876036 PMCID: PMC3040614 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1002238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 237] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2010] [Accepted: 09/28/2010] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parabens are commonly used as antimicrobial preservatives in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverage processing. Widespread human exposure to parabens has been recently documented, and some parabens have demonstrated adverse effects on male reproduction in animal studies. However, human epidemiologic studies are lacking. OBJECTIVE We investigated relationships between urinary concentrations of parabens and markers of male reproductive health in an ongoing reproductive epidemiology study. METHODS Urine samples collected from male partners attending an infertility clinic were analyzed for methyl paraben (MP), propyl paraben (PP), butyl paraben (BP), and bisphenol A (BPA). Associations with serum hormone levels (n = 167), semen quality parameters (n = 190), and sperm DNA damage measures (n = 132) were assessed using multivariable linear regression. RESULTS Detection rates in urine were 100% for MP, 92% for PP, and 32% for BP. We observed no statistically significant associations between MP or PP and the outcome measures. Categories of urinary BP concentration were not associated with hormone levels or conventional semen quality parameters, but they were positively associated with sperm DNA damage (p for trend = 0.03). When urinary BPA quartiles were added to the model, BP and BPA were both positively associated with sperm DNA damage (p for trend = 0.03). Assessment of paraben concentrations measured on repeated urine samples from a subset of the men (n = 78) revealed substantial temporal variability. CONCLUSIONS We found no evidence for a relationship between urinary parabens and hormone levels or semen quality, although intraindividual variability in exposure and a modest sample size could have limited our ability to detect subtle relationships. Our observation of a relationship between BP and sperm DNA damage warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Meeker
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA.
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324
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Mulholland J, Mallidis C, Agbaje I, McClure N. Male diabetes mellitus and assisted reproduction treatment outcome. Reprod Biomed Online 2011; 22:215-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2010.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2010] [Revised: 10/05/2010] [Accepted: 10/06/2010] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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325
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Aitken RJ, Curry BJ. Redox regulation of human sperm function: from the physiological control of sperm capacitation to the etiology of infertility and DNA damage in the germ line. Antioxid Redox Signal 2011; 14:367-81. [PMID: 20522002 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2010.3186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Defective sperm function is the largest single defined cause of human infertility and one of the major reasons we are witnessing an exponential increase in the uptake of assisted conception therapy in the developed world. A major characteristic of defective human spermatozoa is the presence of large amounts of DNA damage, which is, in turn, associated with reduced fertility, increased rates of miscarriage, and an enhanced risk of disease in the offspring. This DNA damage is largely oxidative and is closely associated with defects in spermiogenesis. To explain the origins of this DNA damage, we postulate that spermiogenesis is disrupted by oxidative stress, leading to the creation of defective gametes with poorly remodeled chromatin that are particularly susceptible to free radical attack. To compound the problem, these defective cells have a tendency to undergo an unusual truncated form of apoptosis associated with high amounts of superoxide generation by the sperm mitochondria. This leads to significant oxidative DNA damage that eventually culminates in the DNA fragmentation we see in infertile patients. In light of the significance of oxidative stress in the etiology of defective sperm function, a variety of antioxidant therapies are now being assessed for their therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Aitken
- Discipline of Biological Sciences and ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia.
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326
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Abstract
Apoptosis is a critical process for regulating both the size and the quality of the male and female germ lines. In this review, we examine the importance of this process during embryonic development in establishing the pool of spermatogonial stem cells and primordial follicles that will ultimately define male and female fertility. We also consider the importance of apoptosis in controlling the number and quality of germ cells that eventually determine reproductive success. The biochemical details of the apoptotic process as it affects germ cells in the mature gonad still await resolution, as do the stimuli that persuade these cells to commit to a pathway that leads to cell death. Our ability to understand and ultimately control the reproductive potential of male and female mammals depends upon a deeper understanding of these fundamental processes.
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327
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Meyer-Ficca ML, Lonchar JD, Ihara M, Meistrich ML, Austin CA, Meyer RG. Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases PARP1 and PARP2 modulate topoisomerase II beta (TOP2B) function during chromatin condensation in mouse spermiogenesis. Biol Reprod 2011; 84:900-9. [PMID: 21228215 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.110.090035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
To achieve the specialized nuclear structure in sperm necessary for fertilization, dramatic chromatin reorganization steps in developing spermatids are required where histones are largely replaced first by transition proteins and then by protamines. This entails the transient formation of DNA strand breaks to allow for, first, DNA relaxation and then chromatin compaction. However, the nature and origin of these breaks are not well understood. We previously reported that these DNA strand breaks trigger the activation of poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) polymerases PARP1 and PARP2 and that interference with PARP activation causes poor chromatin integrity with abnormal retention of histones in mature sperm and impaired embryonic survival. Here we show that the activity of topoisomerase II beta (TOP2B), an enzyme involved in DNA strand break formation in elongating spermatids, is strongly inhibited by the activity of PARP1 and PARP2 in vitro, and this is in turn counteracted by the PAR-degrading activity of PAR glycohydrolase. Moreover, genetic and pharmacological PARP inhibition both lead to increased TOP2B activity in murine spermatids in vivo as measured by covalent binding of TOP2B to the DNA. In summary, the available data suggest a functional relationship between the DNA strand break-generating activity of TOP2B and the DNA strand break-dependent activation of PARP enzymes that in turn inhibit TOP2B. Because PARP activity also facilitates histone H1 linker removal and local chromatin decondensation, cycles of PAR formation and degradation may be necessary to coordinate TOP2B-dependent DNA relaxation with histone-to-protamine exchange necessary for spermatid chromatin remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirella L Meyer-Ficca
- Department of Animal Biology and Mari Lowe Center for Comparative Oncology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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328
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Aitken RJ, Koppers AJ. Apoptosis and DNA damage in human spermatozoa. Asian J Androl 2011; 13:36-42. [PMID: 20802502 PMCID: PMC3739394 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2010.68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 223] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2010] [Accepted: 06/25/2010] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA damage is frequently encountered in spermatozoa of subfertile males and is correlated with a range of adverse clinical outcomes including impaired fertilization, disrupted preimplantation embryonic development, increased rates of miscarriage and an enhanced risk of disease in the progeny. The etiology of DNA fragmentation in human spermatozoa is closely correlated with the appearance of oxidative base adducts and evidence of impaired spermiogenesis. We hypothesize that oxidative stress impedes spermiogenesis, resulting in the generation of spermatozoa with poorly remodelled chromatin. These defective cells have a tendency to default to an apoptotic pathway associated with motility loss, caspase activation, phosphatidylserine exteriorization and the activation of free radical generation by the mitochondria. The latter induces lipid peroxidation and oxidative DNA damage, which then leads to DNA fragmentation and cell death. The physical architecture of spermatozoa prevents any nucleases activated as a result of this apoptotic process from gaining access to the nuclear DNA and inducing its fragmentation. It is for this reason that a majority of the DNA damage encountered in human spermatozoa seems to be oxidative. Given the important role that oxidative stress seems to have in the etiology of DNA damage, there should be an important role for antioxidants in the treatment of this condition. If oxidative DNA damage in spermatozoa is providing a sensitive readout of systemic oxidative stress, the implications of these findings could stretch beyond our immediate goal of trying to minimize DNA damage in spermatozoa as a prelude to assisted conception therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- R John Aitken
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development, Priority Research Centre in Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
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329
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O'Donnell L, Nicholls PK, O'Bryan MK, McLachlan RI, Stanton PG. Spermiation: The process of sperm release. SPERMATOGENESIS 2011; 1:14-35. [PMID: 21866274 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.1.1.14525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 244] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2010] [Revised: 12/16/2010] [Accepted: 12/17/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Spermiation is the process by which mature spermatids are released from Sertoli cells into the seminiferous tubule lumen prior to their passage to the epididymis. It takes place over several days at the apical edge of the seminiferous epithelium, and involves several discrete steps including remodelling of the spermatid head and cytoplasm, removal of specialized adhesion structures and the final disengagement of the spermatid from the Sertoli cell. Spermiation is accomplished by the co-ordinated interactions of various structures, cellular processes and adhesion complexes which make up the "spermiation machinery". This review addresses the morphological, ultrastructural and functional aspects of mammalian spermiation. The molecular composition of the spermiation machinery, its dynamic changes and regulatory factors are examined. The causes of spermiation failure and their impact on sperm morphology and function are assessed in an effort to understand how this process may contribute to sperm count suppression during contraception and to phenotypes of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liza O'Donnell
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research; Clayton, VIC Australia
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330
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Trivedi P, Kushwaha S, Tripathi D, Jena G. Evaluation of male germ cell toxicity in rats: Correlation between sperm head morphology and sperm comet assay. MUTATION RESEARCH-GENETIC TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MUTAGENESIS 2010; 703:115-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2010.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2010] [Revised: 07/07/2010] [Accepted: 08/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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331
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Wnuk M, Lewinska A, Oklejewicz B, Bartosz G, Tischner M, Bugno-Poniewierska M. Redox status of equine seminal plasma reflects the pattern and magnitude of DNA damage in sperm cells. Theriogenology 2010; 74:1677-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2010] [Revised: 07/03/2010] [Accepted: 07/03/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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332
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333
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334
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Ioannou D, Griffin DK. Male fertility, chromosome abnormalities, and nuclear organization. Cytogenet Genome Res 2010; 133:269-79. [PMID: 21088381 DOI: 10.1159/000322060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies have implicated the role of gross genomic rearrangements in male infertility, e.g., constitutional aneuploidy, translocations, inversions, Y chromosome deletions, elevated sperm disomy, and DNA damage. The primary purpose of this paper is to review male fertility studies associated with such abnormalities. In addition, we speculate whether altered nuclear organization, another chromosomal/whole genome-associated phenomenon, is also concomitant with male factor infertility. Nuclear organization has been studied in a range of systems and implicated in several diseases. For many applications the measurement of the relative position of chromosome territories is sufficient to determine patterns of nuclear organization. Initial evidence has suggested that, unlike in the more usual 'size-related' or 'gene density-related' models, mammalian (including human) sperm heads display a highly organized pattern including a chromocenter with the centromeres located to the center of the nucleus and the telomeres near the periphery. More recent evidence, however, suggests there may be size- and gene density-related components to nuclear organization in sperm. It seems reasonable to hypothesize therefore that alterations in this pattern may be associated with male factor infertility. A small handful of studies have addressed this issue; however, to date it remains an exciting avenue for future research with possible implications for diagnosis and therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Ioannou
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
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335
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Hammadeh M, Hamad M, Montenarh M, Fischer-Hammadeh C. Protamine contents and P1/P2 ratio in human spermatozoa from smokers and non-smokers. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:2708-20. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deq226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
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336
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Villani P, Eleuteri P, Grollino MG, Rescia M, Altavista P, Spanò M, Pacchierotti F, Cordelli E. Sperm DNA fragmentation induced by DNAse I and hydrogen peroxide: an in vitro comparative study among different mammalian species. Reproduction 2010; 140:445-52. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-10-0176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Sperm DNA damage may have adverse effects on reproductive outcome. Sperm DNA breaks can be detected by several tests, which evaluate DNA integrity from different and complementary perspectives and offer a new class of biomarkers of the male reproductive function and of its possible impairment after environmental exposure. The remodeling of sperm chromatin produces an extremely condensed nuclear structure protecting the nuclear genome from adverse environments. This nuclear remodeling is species specific, and differences in chromatin structure may lead to a dissimilar DNA susceptibility to mutagens among species. In this study, the capacity of the comet assay in its two variants (alkaline and neutral) to detect DNA/chromatin integrity has been evaluated in human, mouse, and bull sperm. The hypothesis that chromatin packaging might influence the amount of induced and detectable DNA damage was tested by treating sperm in vitro with DNAse I, whose activity is strictly dependent upon its DNA accessibility. Furthermore, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was used to assess whether spermatozoa of the three species showed a different sensitivity to oxidative stress. DNAse I-induced damage was also assessed by the sperm chromatin structure assay and the TUNEL assay, and the performances of these two assays were compared and correlated with the comet assay results. Results showed a different sensitivity to DNAse I treatment among the species with human sperm resulting the most susceptible. On the contrary, no major differences among species were observed after H2O2 treatment. Furthermore, the three tests show a good correlation in revealing sperm with DNA strand breaks.
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337
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Avilés M, Gutiérrez-Adán A, Coy P. Oviductal secretions: will they be key factors for the future ARTs? Mol Hum Reprod 2010; 16:896-906. [PMID: 20584881 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaq056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
A variety of evolutionary processes has led to the development of different organs to ensure that internal fertilization occur successfully. Fallopian tubes are a particularly interesting example of such organs. Some of the key events during fertilization and early embryo development occur in the oviduct. Knowledge of the different components described in the oviduct is extensive. Oviductal components include hormones, growth factors and their receptors that have important roles in the physiology of the oviduct and embryo development. Other oviductal factors protect the gamete and the embryos against oxidative stress and pathogens. Different proteins and enzymes are present in the oviductal fluid and have the ability to interact with the oocyte and the sperm before the fertilization occurs. Of special interest is the oviduct-specific glycoprotein (OVGP1), a glycoprotein that is conserved in different mammals, and its association with the zona pellucida (ZP). Interaction of the oocyte with oviductal secretions leads us to emphasize the concept of 'ZP maturation' within the oviduct. The ZP changes produced in the oviduct result in an increased efficiency of the in vitro fertilization technique in some animal models, contributing in particular to the control of polyspermy and suggesting that a similar role could be played by oviductal factors in human beings. Finally, attention should be given to the presence in the oviductal fluid of several embryotrophic factors and their importance in relation to the in vivo versus in vitro developmental ability of the embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Avilés
- Department of Cell Biology and Histology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.
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338
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Yamauchi Y, Riel JM, Stoytcheva Z, Burgoyne PS, Ward MA. Deficiency in mouse Y chromosome long arm gene complement is associated with sperm DNA damage. Genome Biol 2010; 11:R66. [PMID: 20573212 PMCID: PMC2911114 DOI: 10.1186/gb-2010-11-6-r66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2010] [Revised: 06/11/2010] [Accepted: 06/23/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mice with severe non-PAR Y chromosome long arm (NPYq) deficiencies are infertile in vivo and in vitro. We have previously shown that sperm from these males, although having grossly malformed heads, were able to fertilize oocytes via intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and yield live offspring. However, in continuing ICSI trials we noted a reduced efficiency when cryopreserved sperm were used and with epididymal sperm as compared to testicular sperm. In the present study we tested if NPYq deficiency is associated with sperm DNA damage - a known cause of poor ICSI success. Results We observed that epididymal sperm from mice with severe NPYq deficiency (that is, deletion of nine-tenths or the entire NPYq gene complement) are impaired in oocyte activation ability following ICSI and there is an increased incidence of oocyte arrest and paternal chromosome breaks. Comet assays revealed increased DNA damage in both epididymal and testicular sperm from these mice, with epididymal sperm more severely affected. In all mice the level of DNA damage was increased by freezing. Epididymal sperm from mice with severe NPYq deficiencies also suffered from impaired membrane integrity and abnormal chromatin condensation and suboptimal chromatin protamination. It is therefore likely that the increased DNA damage associated with NPYq deficiency is a consequence of disturbed chromatin remodeling. Conclusions This study provides the first evidence of DNA damage in sperm from mice with NPYq deficiencies and indicates that NPYq-encoded gene/s may play a role in processes regulating chromatin remodeling and thus in maintaining DNA integrity in sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Yamauchi
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, 1960 East-West Rd, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
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339
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Speyer BE, Pizzey AR, Ranieri M, Joshi R, Delhanty JDA, Serhal P. Fall in implantation rates following ICSI with sperm with high DNA fragmentation. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:1609-18. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deq116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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340
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Saalu LC. The incriminating role of reactive oxygen species in idiopathic male infertility: an evidence based evaluation. Pak J Biol Sci 2010; 13:413-422. [PMID: 20973394 DOI: 10.3923/pjbs.2010.413.422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The male factor is considered a major contributory factor to infertility. Apart from the conventional causes for male infertility such as varicocoele, cryptorchidism, infections, obstructive lesions, cystic fibrosis, trauma and tumours, a new and important cause has been identified as being responsible for the so-called idiopathic male infertility: oxidative stress. Oxidative Stress (OS) is a condition that occurs when the production of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) overwhelms the antioxidant defense produced against them. In male reproductive pathological conditions, the OS significantly impairs spermatogenesis and sperm function, which may lead to male infertility. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) known as free radicals are oxidizing agents generated as a result of metabolism of oxygen and have at least one unpaired electron that make them very reactive species. Spermatozoa generate Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in physiological amounts, which play a role in sperm functions during sperm capacitation, Acrosome Reaction (AR) and oocyte fusion, but they need to be controlled and their concentrations maintained at a level that is not deleterious to the cells. Administration of antioxidants in patients with 'male factor' infertility has begun to attract considerable interest. The main difficulty of such an approach is our incomplete understanding of the role of free radicals in normal and abnormal sperm function leading to male infertility. The purpose of the present review is to address the relationship between ROS and idiopathic male factor infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Saalu
- Department of Anatomy, Lagos State University College of Medicine, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
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341
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Pujianto DA, Curry BJ, Aitken RJ. Prolactin exerts a prosurvival effect on human spermatozoa via mechanisms that involve the stimulation of Akt phosphorylation and suppression of caspase activation and capacitation. Endocrinology 2010; 151:1269-79. [PMID: 20032052 DOI: 10.1210/en.2009-0964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of prolactin (PRL) on human sperm function, in light of a recent proteomic analysis indicating that these cells express the PRL receptor (PRLR). Immunocytochemical analyses confirmed the presence of PRLR in human spermatozoa and localized this receptor to the postacrosomal region of the sperm head as well as the neck, midpiece, and principal piece of the sperm tail. Nested PCR analysis indicated that these cells possess four splice variants of the PRLR: the long form and three short isoforms, one of which is reported for the first time. A combination of Western blot analyses and immunocytochemistry demonstrated that PRL inhibited sperm capacitation in a dose-dependent manner, suppressing SRC kinase activation and phosphotyrosine expression, two hallmarks of this process. The suppression of sperm capacitation was accompanied by a powerful prosurvival effect, supporting the prolonged motility of these cells and preventing the formation of spontaneous DNA strand breaks via mechanisms that involved the concomitant suppression of caspase activation. Western blot analyses indicated that the prosurvival effect of PRL on human spermatozoa involved the stimulation of Akt phosphorylation, whereas inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol-3-OH kinase and Akt negated this effect, as did the direct induction of sperm capacitation with cAMP analogues. We conclude that PRL is a prosurvival factor for human spermatozoa that prevents these cells from defaulting to an intrinsic apoptotic pathway associated with cell senescence. These findings have implications for preservation of sperm integrity in vivo and in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dwi Ari Pujianto
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, University Drive Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia
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342
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Barratt CLR, Aitken RJ, Björndahl L, Carrell DT, de Boer P, Kvist U, Lewis SEM, Perreault SD, Perry MJ, Ramos L, Robaire B, Ward S, Zini A. Sperm DNA: organization, protection and vulnerability: from basic science to clinical applications--a position report. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:824-38. [PMID: 20139429 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dep465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 192] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
This article reports the results of the most recent in a series of EHSRE workshops designed to synthesize the current state of the field in Andrology and provide recommendations for future work (for details see Appendix). Its focus is on methods for detecting sperm DNA damage and potential application of new knowledge about sperm chromatin organization, vulnerability and repair to improve the diagnosis and treatment of clinical infertility associated with that damage. Equally important is the use and reliability of these tests to identify the extent to which environmental contaminants or pharmaceutical agents may contribute to the incidence of sperm DNA damage and male fertility problems. A working group (for workshop details, see Appendix) under the auspices of ESHRE met in May 2009 to assess the current knowledgebase and suggest future basic and clinical research directions. This document presents a synthesis of the working group's understanding of the recent literature and collective discussions on the current state of knowledge of sperm chromatin structure and function during fertilization. It highlights the biological, assay and clinical uncertainties that require further research and ends with a series of 5 key recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L R Barratt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Maternal and Child Health Science Laboratories, Centre for Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK.
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343
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Koppers AJ, Garg ML, Aitken RJ. Stimulation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production by unesterified, unsaturated fatty acids in defective human spermatozoa. Free Radic Biol Med 2010; 48:112-9. [PMID: 19837155 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2009.10.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2009] [Revised: 09/25/2009] [Accepted: 10/12/2009] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Male infertility is a relatively common condition affecting 1 in 20 men of reproductive age. The etiology of this condition is thought to involve the excessive generation of reactive oxygen species by human spermatozoa; however, the cause of this aberrant activity is unknown. In this study we demonstrate that defective human sperm populations are characterized by high cellular contents of both esterified and unesterified fatty acids and a decrease in the proportion of the total fatty acid pool made up by docosahexaenoic acid. The free unsaturated fatty acid content of these cells was positively correlated with the induction of mitochondrial superoxide generation (P<0.001). This relationship was causal and mediated by the range of unesterified, unsaturated fatty acids that are present in human spermatozoa. Thus direct exposure of these cells to free unsaturated fatty acids stimulated mitochondrial superoxide generation and precipitated a loss of motility and an increase in oxidative DNA damage, two key attributes of male infertility. We conclude that defective human spermatozoa are characterized by an abnormally high content of fatty acids that, in their unesterified, unsaturated form, promote ROS generation by sperm mitochondria, creating a state of oxidative stress and a concomitant loss of functional competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J Koppers
- Discipline of Biological Sciences and ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development, Faculty of Science and IT, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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