Oxidative stress and male infertility

Ferrostatin-1 alleviates angiotensin II (Ang II)- induced inflammation and ferroptosis in astrocytes

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Inflammation and ferroptosis in astrocytes can be induced by external injuries, which results in excessive production of inflammatory factors and further injury on neurons. Alleviating ferroptosis might be an effective way to protect the brain from external injuries. The present study aims to explore the protective effects of Ferrostatin-1 against ferroptosis induced by Angiotensin II and the underlying mechanism.

METHODS

The mouse primary astrocytes were isolated from the cortices of mice. The astrocytes were stimulated using 10 µM angiotensin II in the presence or absence of 1 or 2 μM Ferrostatin-1. The gene expression levels of AT1R, IL-6, IL-1β, COX-2, GFAP, and GPx4 were evaluated using qRT-PCR. Western Blot was used to determine the protein levels of AT1R, COX-2, GFAP, GPx4, Nrf2, and HO-1 and ELISA was used to detect the concentrations of IL-6, IL-1β, and PGE₂. The ROS levels were evaluated using DHE staining and the reduced GSH level was determined using GSH detection kits.

RESULTS

The expression levels of AT1R, IL-6, IL-1β, COX-2, and GFAP in the astrocytes were significantly elevated by stimulation with Ang II and greatly suppressed by the introduction of Ferrostatin-1 in a dose-dependent manner. The promoted ROS level and inhibited GSH level in the astrocytes by the stimulation with Ang II were significantly reversed by Ferrostatin-1. Down-regulated GPx4, Nrf2, and HO-1 in the astrocytes induced by Ang II were extremely up-regulated by the treatment of Ferrostatin-1 in a dose-dependent manner.

CONCLUSION

Ferrostatin-1 alleviates angiotensin II (Ang II)- induced inflammation and ferroptosis by suppressing the ROS levels and activating the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.

A comprehensive review of the impact of COVID-19 on human reproductive biology, assisted reproduction care and pregnancy: a Canadian perspective

Currently, the world is in the seventh month of the COVID-19 pandemic. Globally, infections with novel SARS-CoV-2 virus are continuously rising with mounting numbers of deaths. International and local public health responses, almost in synchrony, imposed restrictions to minimize spread of the virus, overload of health system capacity, and deficit of personal protective equipment (PPE). Although in most cases the symptoms are mild or absent, SARS-CoV-2 infection can lead to serious acute respiratory disease and multisystem failure. The research community responded to this new disease with a high level of transparency and data sharing; with the aim to better understand the origin, pathophysiology, epidemiology and clinical manifestations. The ultimate goal of this research is to develop vaccines for prevention, mitigation strategies, as well as potential therapeutics.The aim of this review is to summarize current knowledge regarding the novel SARS CoV-2, including its pathophysiology and epidemiology, as well as, what is known about the potential impact of COVID-19 on reproduction, fertility care, pregnancy and neonatal outcome. This summary also evaluates the effects of this pandemic on reproductive care and research, from Canadian perspective, and discusses future implications.In summary, reported data on pregnant women is limited, suggesting that COVID-19 symptoms and severity of the disease during pregnancy are similar to those in non-pregnant women, with pregnancy outcomes closely related to severity of maternal disease. Evidence of SARS-CoV-2 effects on gametes is limited. Human reproduction societies have issued guidelines for practice during COVID-19 pandemic that include implementation of mitigation practices and infection control protocols in fertility care units. In Canada, imposed restrictions at the beginning of the pandemic were successful in containing spread of the infection, allowing for eventual resumption of assisted reproductive treatments under new guidelines for practice. Canada dedicated funds to support COVID-19 research including a surveillance study to monitor outcomes of COVID-19 during pregnancy and assisted reproduction. Continuous evaluation of new evidence must be in place to carefully adjust recommendations on patient management during assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and in pregnancy.

Melatonin protects mouse testes from palmitic acid-induced lipotoxicity by attenuating oxidative stress and DNA damage in a SIRT1-dependent manner

Palmitic acid (PA), the main component of dietary saturated fat, has been known to increase in patients with obesity, and PA-induced lipotoxicity may contribute to obesity-related male infertility. Melatonin has beneficial effects on reproductive processes; however, the effect and the underlying molecular mechanism of melatonin's involvement in PA-induced cytotoxicity in the testes are poorly understood. Our findings showed that lipotoxicity was observed in mouse testes after long-term PA treatment and that melatonin therapy restored spermatogenesis and fertility in these males. Moreover, melatonin therapy suppressed PA-induced apoptosis by modulating apoptosis-associated proteins such as Bcl2, Bax, C-Caspase3, C-Caspase12, and CHOP in type B spermatogonial stem cells. Changes in the expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress markers (p-IRE1, p-PERK, ATF4) and intracellular Ca²⁺ levels showed that melatonin relieved PA-induced ER stress. Mechanistically, melatonin stimulated the expression and nuclear translocation of SIRT1 through its receptors and prevented PA-induced ROS production and mitochondrial dysfunction via SIRT1 signaling pathway. Furthermore, melatonin promoted SIRT1-mediated p53 deacetylation, thereby relieving G2/M arrest in response to PA-stimulated DNA damage. Collectively, these findings indicate that melatonin protects the testes from PA-induced lipotoxicity through the activation of SIRT1, which alleviates oxidative stress, ER stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and DNA damage.

The role of Interleukin-4 in COVID-19 associated male infertility - A hypothesis

COVID-19 is a present-day complex pandemic infection with unpredictable levels of morbidity and mortality in various global populations. COVID-19 is associated with the different comorbidities with its change in biological function such as causing heart dysfunction via deregulating ACE-2 receptor, gastrointestinal risk via causing vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, chronic kidney disease via proteinuria and hematuria, diabetes mellitus, liver injury via increasing ALT, AST and bilirubin level, lung injury, CNS risk, ocular risk, and cancer risk. In this, we are focused on the COVID-19 connected with male infertility. Some of the studies show that the patients of COVID-19 are associated with impaired spermatogenesis. Impaired spermatogenesis via COVID-19 decreases the level of testosterone by disturbing cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-4, IL-6, and IL-12 and further, attenuates the sperm count. COVID-19 is causing inflammation via TNF-α and interferons. IL-4 plays an eminent role in the activation of the JAK-STAT pathway and leads to the disturbing pro-inflammatory cytokine as well as further cause's male infertility. Th2 activates the IL-4 through IgG and IgE and mediates apoptosis with the triggering of STAT signaling. The activated STAT signaling augments Batf/Irf4, and the Bach2/Batf pathway. On the other hand, SARS-CoV-2 is activating the level of Th2 cells. So, we hypothesized that the augmented Th2 cells would disturb the level of IL-4, JAK-STAT signaling, Batf/Irf4, and Bach2/Batf pathway. The disturbed IL-4 decreases the level of the ACE-2 with the inflammation. This further leads to male infertility in COVID-19 patients. So, in this hypothesis, we focused on the role of IL-4 in COVID-19 patients associated with male infertility via Th2 cells and JAK-STAT signaling.

PFAS Environmental Pollution and Antioxidant Responses: An Overview of the Impact on Human Field

Due to their unique properties, perfluorinated substances (PFAS) are widely used in multiple industrial and commercial applications, but they are toxic for animals, humans included. This review presents some available data on the PFAS environmental distribution in the world, and in particular in Europe and in the Veneto region of Italy, where it has become a serious problem for human health. The consumption of contaminated food and drinking water is considered one of the major source of exposure for humans. Worldwide epidemiological studies report the negative effects that PFAS have on human health, due to environmental pollution, including infertility, steroid hormone perturbation, thyroid, liver and kidney disorders, and metabolic disfunctions. In vitro and in vivo researches correlated PFAS exposure to oxidative stress effects (in mammals as well as in other vertebrates of human interest), produced by a PFAS-induced increase of reactive oxygen species formation. The cellular antioxidant defense system is activated by PFAS, but it is only partially able to avoid the oxidative damage to biomolecules.

Neurotrophic, anti-neuroinflammatory, and redox balance mechanisms of chalcones

The passage of time that evoke aging; the tilted redox balance that contribute oxidative entropy; the polarization of microglia cells that produce inflammatory phenotype; all represent the intricacies of CNS-dependent disease progression. Neurological diseases that result from CNS injury raise social concerns and the available therapeutic strategies are frustrated by low efficacy, high toxicity, and multiple side effects. However, emergent studies have shown the neuroprotective role of natural compounds - including chalcones - with high efficacy in the protection of CNS structures. These compounds reportedly demonstrate neurotrophic mechanism through the upregulation of neurotrophic factors, anti-apoptotic Bcl-2, and downregulation of Bax protein; anti-neuroinflammatory mechanism via the inhibition of neuroinflammatory pathways, attenuated secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, prevention of blood brain barrier (BBB) disruption, and protection against nerve senescence; antioxidant mechanism through the upregulation of Nrf2 activities, inhibition of Keap1, synthesis of antioxidant enzymes, and maintenance of high antioxidant/oxidant ratio. All these mechanisms represent chalcones' neuroprotective mechanisms. In this review, we highlight different pathways involved in CNS-related diseases and elucidate various mechanisms by which chalcones can perturb these shunts as a potential therapeutic modality.

Simple and reliable determination of Zn and some additional elements in seminal plasma samples by using total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy

Trace elements are essential for the normal spermatogenesis of mammals and play a critical role in sperm quality and pathological processes e.g. inflammation. Consequently, multi-elemental analysis of seminal plasma (SP) may provide significant information on physiological and pathophysiological processes occurring in the male reproductive tract. Therefore, the development of a simple, fast and reliable method for seminal plasma (SP) analysis by total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (TXRF) could be useful for both, scientific and clinical studies. In this study, a detailed assessment of the sample preparation parameters and measurement conditions, including analysis of the shape and element distribution of the deposited residue on the reflector by micro X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, was carried out. Using the best analytical conditions, limits of detection for trace elements were found to be in the range of 0.04-0.3 mg kg-1. Trueness and precision of the results, evaluated by spiked SP sample analysis, were in most cases acceptable with recovery values in the range of 87-109% and relative standard deviations 3-12% (n = 5). The developed TXRF method was applied for the analysis of several SP samples from patients with different diagnoses and the results were compared with those obtained by ICP-OES. Among the studied trace elements with a role in the antioxidant defence system only Zn could be quantified and some differences in Zn concentrations among studied groups were observed. However, further studies on a large number of samples are required to define the exact relationship between the element composition and semen quality.

The Male Is Significantly Implicated as the Cause of Unexplained Infertility

Male infertility is recognized as a relatively common, complex condition, generated by a broad array of environmental and genetic factors. Historical reliance on the conventional semen profile has tended to underestimate the true contribution of "the male factor" to human infertility. This review highlights the importance of genetic and epigenetic factors in the etiology of male infertility, identifying a range of mutations responsible for primary testicular failure and impaired fertilizing potential. More than three quarters of all de novo mutations arise in the male germline via mechanisms that involve the inefficient or defective repair of DNA damage. Understanding the range of factors capable of creating genetic turmoil in the paternal germline is essential, if we are to gain a deep understanding of the causes of male infertility, rather than just the symptoms that characterize its presence. High levels of DNA fragmentation induced by oxidative stress are part of this equation. Oxidative stress is, in turn, driven by biological (age, ejaculation frequency, varicocele, infection), lifestyle (smoking, obesity), and environmental factors (heat, other forms of electromagnetic radiation, and toxins) that can impair the fertilizing potential of the spermatozoa and influence the incidence of spontaneous mutations that may cause infertility in the offspring.

Jambul (Syzygium cumini) Pulp Extract Enhances Viability, Motility, and In Vitro Fertilizability of Cryopreserved Bovine Semen

To study the ameliorative capacity of Syzygium cumini fruit Pulp Extract (SPE) on cryopreserved bovine semen, three ejaculates each of three fertile bulls (total nine samples) were collected. Each sample was mixed with semen dilution medium in 1:2 ratios, centrifuged, and 50% of the supernatant was discarded. The remaining sample was mixed with semen cryopreservation extender (SCE) in 1:4 ratios. Three aliquots (0.3 mL) of each extended semen sample were further diluted with (1) 0.7 mL SCE (SCE group), (2) 0.7 mL SCE containing SPE equivalent to 7 ppm total antioxidants (SPE7 group), and (3) 0.7 mL SCE equivalent to 14 ppm antioxidants (SPE14 group). For each aliquot, semen quality was analyzed in situ as well as after cryopreservation. Results show significant improvement in sperm membrane integrity, motility, and fertilizability in SPE7 (63.5% ± 2.04%, 56.22% ± 1.7%, 51.1%, respectively) and SPE14 (68% ± 1.12%, 63.67% ± 1.06%, 57.7%, respectively) than the SCE group (62.33% ± 1.22%, 54.9% ± 1.34%, 48.8%, respectively). Similarly, significant improvement in the mean percent number of progressively motile sperm at the expense of the mean percent twitching, shaking, and whirling spermatozoa, both before and after cryopreservation, were observed in SPE7 (72 ± 1.06, 61.2 ± 1.2) and SPE14 (78.89 ± 1.12, 67 ± 1.32) groups to that of the SCE (59.6 ± 0.97, 52.3 ± 3.5). In addition, the mean percent of progressively motile spermatozoa showing 20 μm/s or above velocity, before and after cryopreservation, were significantly higher in SPE7 (58.9 ± 4.7, 43.6 ± 1.5) and SPE14 (66.9 ± 0.8, 51.3 ± 0.8) groups than that of the SCE (42.3 ± 3.1, 30 ± 2.4). These findings indicate that SPE can significantly improve various quality parameters of the cryopreserved bovine semen.

The Effect of N-Acetyl-Cysteine on NRF2 Antioxidant Gene Expression in Asthenoteratozoospermia Men: A Clinical Trial Study

Background

One of the important factor associated with male infertility is high production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). The main function of Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) is to activate the cellular anti- oxidant response by inducing the transcription of a wide array of genes that can combat the harmful effects of factors such as oxidative stress. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), as an antioxidant drug, on NRF2 Gene Expression in Asthenoteratozoospermia Men.

Materials and Methods

In this randomized, blinded clinical trial study, included 50 infertile men with asthenoteratozoo- spermia, who received NAC (600 mg, three times daily). Sperm parameters analyzed according to the world health organiza- tion (WHO; 2010). Sperm DNA fragmentation, relative NRF2 expression, and seminal plasma level of antioxidant enzymes were measured by TUNEL assay, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and ELISA test, respectively.

Results

After NAC treatment, findings showed a significant increase in sperm concentration and motility compared to pre-treatment status, whereas the percentage of abnormal morphology and DNA fragmentation was significantly decreased (P<0.05). A significant improvement in expression of NRF2 gene and antioxidant enzyme levels were ob- served compared to pre-treatment by NAC (P<0.05). Significant correlations were observed between NRF2 mRNA expression level, specific sperm parameters and level of antioxidant enzymes (P<0.05).

Conclusion

The results demonstrated that NAC oral supplementation protected against oxidative stress by enhancing NRF2 expression. This could improve semen parameters quality parameters in asthenoteratozoospermia men (Regis- tration number: IRCT20170830035998N4).

Role of Antioxidant Natural Products in Management of Infertility: A Review of Their Medicinal Potential

Infertility, a couple's inability to conceive after one year of unprotected regular intercourse, is an important issue in the world. The use of natural products in the treatment of infertility has been considered as a possible alternative to conventional therapies. The present study aimed to investigate the effects and the mechanisms of various natural products on infertility. We collected articles regarding infertility and natural products using the research databases PubMed and Google Scholar. Several natural products possess antioxidant properties and androgenic activities on productive factors and hormones. Antioxidants are the first defense barrier against free radicals produced by oxidative stress (OS). They remove reactive oxygen stress (ROS), reducing insulin resistance, total cholesterol, fat accumulation, and cancer growth. Moreover, various natural products increase endometrial receptivity and fertility ability showing androgenic activities on productive factors and hormones. For example, Angelica keiskei powder and Astragalus mongholicus extract showed anti-infertility efficacies in males and females, respectively. On the other hand, adverse effects and acute toxicity of natural products were also reported. Tripterygium glycoside decreased fertility ability both in males and females. Results indicate that management of infertility with natural products could be beneficial with further clinical trials to evaluate the safety and effect.

The effect of maternal high-fat-diet mediated oxidative stress on ovarian function in mice offspring

A maternal high-fat diet (HFD) has been shown to exert deleterious effects on fetal programming by impairing embryo growth, and exerts a long-term effect on the health of offspring. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of a maternal HFD on the ovaries of offspring from the perspective of oxidative stress. Female C57BL/6J mice were randomly assigned to four groups fed various HFDs during the preconception (4 weeks) and gestation-lactation periods. Offspring were fed a normal diet after weaning, and serum and ovaries were collected at 10 weeks of age. The developmental status of follicles was observed using hematoxylin and eosin staining. The serum oxidative stress levels and insulin resistance were detected using ELISA test kits. The expression of phosphorylated form of H2AX histone variant (γH2AX), forkhead box protein O3a (FOXO3a), Bcl-2-like protein 11 (Bim)and insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1 in ovarian tissue was analyzed using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blot analyses to further explore the pathogenic mechanism. Prenatal exposure to a maternal HFD resulted in a reduced number of primordial and preantral follicles in the ovaries of offspring. Exposure to an HFD in the preconception period exerted a greater effect on the offspring compared with exposure to an HFD in the gestation-lactation period. A reduction in fat intake during the preconception, gestation and lactation periods significantly reduced the associated adverse outcomes. The expression of genes (FOXO3a, IGF-1, γH2AX and Bim) involved in oxidative stress showed a decreasing trend (high-fat/high-fat>high-fat/control>control/high-fat >control/control) in the ovaries of offspring. Overall, HFD exposure during the preconception period exerted a greater effect on offspring compared with HFD exposure during the gestation-lactation period. The long-term effect on follicular growth and development may be associated with increased oxidative stress and the activation of the insulin/PI3K/Akt pathway.

Selenium and L-Carnitine Ameliorate Reproductive Toxicity Induced by Cadmium in Male Mice

Cadmium (Cd) has been reported to reduce male fertility, impair reproductive capacity, and play a major role in the pathogenesis of infertility. This study was conducted to investigate the possible protective role of Selenium (Se) and L-carnitine (LC) against the adverse effects induced by Cd on the male reproductive system in mice. Animals were randomly divided into seven groups (n = 10); control group and six treated groups, as follows: Cd (0.35 mg/kg), Se (0.87 mg/kg), LC (10 mg/kg), and a combination of either Se or LC and then a combination of both with Cd, and all animals were injected for a period of 30 days. Exposure of Cd showed a significant decrease in enzymatic antioxidant activities, deficiency in reproductive performance, decrease serum testosterone level, severe changes in the histopathological architecture, and higher degree of damages and appearance of unblemished DNA strands. Treatment with Se and LC has the highly synergistic and ameliorates the damaging effect of Cd on the testis through the elevation of the enzymatic antioxidant and diminish histopathological abnormalities and DNA damage.

A Comparative Analysis of Fluoride-Contaminated Groundwater and Sodium Fluoride-Induced Reproductive Toxicity and Its Reversibility in Male Rats

The present study was undertaken to investigate the toxic effect of sodium fluoride (NaF)- and fluoride (F)-contaminated groundwater on male reproduction and it's reversibility in male rats. Adult male rats were orally treated with different concentrations of NaF- (1 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg/kg/bw/rat) and F-contaminated groundwater for 52 days and after the confirmation of F-induced damage, the rats were allowed for recovery studies for 52 days. Exposure of NaF- and F-contaminated groundwater caused significant decline in total sperm count, sperm motility, serum concentration of testosterone, activities of testicular 3β-HSDH, counts of type A spermatogonia, preleptotene spermatocytes, midpachytene spermatocytes, elongated spermatids and round spermatids, activities of testicular and spermatozoa SOD and CAT, and increase in sperm abnormality and concentration of MDA of testis and spermatozoa compared to controls. Further, significant histological alterations characterized by shrunken seminiferous tubules and degeneration of different stages of spermatogonial cells were observed in rats treated with NaF of 10 mg/kg/bw and F-contaminated groundwater Majority of parameter studied showed severe damage in 10 mg/kg/bw of NaF-treated rats compared to that of F-contaminated groundwater. Further, dose-dependent alterations were observed with increase in concentration of NaF in most of the parameters. In recovery group rats of NaF- and F-contaminated groundwater, all the parameters were restored to control levels. The present study revealed the toxic effect of NaF and F-contaminated groundwater on male reproductive system of rats and the effects induced by NaF were dose-dependent. In addition, the study clearly revealed that F-induced toxicity on male reproduction is reversible in short-term exposure.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) addition as an antioxidant in a cryo-diluent media improves microscopic parameters, and fertility potential, and alleviates oxidative stress parameters of buffalo spermatozoa

The disparity between the endogenous antioxidants concentration and free radicals in spermatozoa results in reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. In this prospect, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) preserves vigorous antioxidant features. Current study explored the influence of EGCG in a cryo-diluent media on microscopic parameters, oxidative stress parameters, and fertility potential of buffalo spermatozoa during cryopreservation. Concisely, collected semen from three donor bulls for four times were then evaluated for volume, motility, concentrations and then dilution in a cryo-diluent media with different concentrations of EGCG (EGCG-0 = control; EGCG-50 = 50 μM, EGCG-100 = 100 μM, EGCG-200 = 200 μM, and EGCG-300 = 300 μM) at 37 °C, cooled to 4 °C in 2 h, equilibrated for 4 h at 4 °C, and cryopreserved. At post-thawing, Computer-Assisted Sperm motion Analysis motilities (total and progressive, %) and rapid velocity (%), plasma membrane functionality, supravital plasma membrane integrity, and mitochondrial potential (%) were found higher (P < 0.05) in EGCG-200, and EGCG-300 than control, whereas average-path, straight-line, and curved-linear velocities (μm/sec), and acrosome integrity (%) were recorded higher in EGCG-300 than control. Further, comet length (μm), and tail length (μm), LPO (lipid peroxidation, μM/mL), and apoptosis-like changes (%) in spermatozoa were significantly decreased in EGCG-300 than control. Seminal plasma antioxidant enzymes activities (glutathione peroxidase, U/mL, and superoxide dismutase, U/mL) were increased with EGCG-300 than control. Moreover, EGCG-300 addition in a cryo-diluent media improves the fertility potential (%) of buffalo spermatozoa. In a nutshell, the inclusion of EGCG-300 in a cryo-diluent media enhances post-thaw microscopic parameters, and fertility potential, whereas decreases oxidative stress parameters in buffalo spermatozoa.

Sperm impairing microbial factor: potential candidate for male contraception

BACKGROUND

Despite significant advances in contraceptive options for women, vasectomy and condoms are the only options available for male contraception. Due to this limitation, the burden of contraception resides on the shoulders of females only. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a safe, effective and reversible method of contraception for men. Amongst the alternative approaches, microbial derived products are gaining attention of the scientific world to combat unintended pregnancies. Earlier in our laboratory, sperm impairing microbial factor (Sperm immobilization factor) isolated from Staphylococcus aureus has shown excellent contraceptive efficacy in female mice. Keeping this in mind, the present study was carried out to exploit the sperm immobilization factor (SIF) as potential male contraceptive using vas deferens for administration in mouse model.

METHODS

SIF (10, 50, 100 or 200 μg) was inoculated in the lumen of right vas deferens whereas the left vas deferens served as control. The mice were sacrificed at Day 3, 7, 14, 21, 30, 45, 60 and 90 after inoculation and the results in terms of change in body weight, seminal parameters, Tissue somatic indices (TSI), haematological parameters, serum level of testosterone, lipid peroxidation and histology were studied. In order to ratify the SIF induced azoospermia SIF (200 μg) was administered with different doses viz. 100, 200, 300, 400 or 500 μg of SIF binding receptor extracted from mouse spermatozoa.

RESULTS

The weight profile studies of all the experimental groups showed no significant change in the initial and final body weight. In case of seminal parameters, the results revealed that right vas deferens treated with SIF showed azoospermia and with 200 μg of SIF it persisted up to 90 days. TSI of reproductive organs and non-reproductive organs showed no significant change in all the experimental groups. The haematological indices were found to be unaltered throughout the course of investigation however significant decrease in testosterone level was observed in the treated mice. The treatment also affected the oxidative status of the testis. Further, histological studies revealed hypospermatogenesis and late maturation arrest on treated side whereas the left side which served as control showed normal tissue histology. SIF induced azoospermia was ameliorated when administered with 400 μg of SIF binding receptor from mouse spermatozoa.

CONCLUSION

SIF, when administered via intra vas deferens route, could lead to complete azoospermia. Therefore, it could be considered as a potential male contraceptive.

Supplementing post-wash asthenozoospermic human spermatozoa with coenzyme Q10 for 1 hr in vitro improves sperm motility, but not oxidative stress

We investigated the effect of supplementing post-wash asthenozoospermic spermatozoa with coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) in vitro, which may reduce oxidative stress and improve sperm motility. Semen samples were collected from 39 men with asthenozoospermia, and their spermatozoa were isolated by two-layer Percoll density-gradient centrifugation. Kinetic parameters of the isolated spermatozoa (baseline before intervention) were determined immediately by computer-aided semen analysis. Total anti-oxidant capacity and protein carbonyl levels, as markers of oxidative stress, were also measured in the baseline spermatozoa. The baseline spermatozoa suspension was divided equally into two portions, one for CoQ10 supplementation (50 µg/ml for 1 hr) and the other as an un-supplemented vehicle control. The total motility of the CoQ10-supplemented spermatozoa was significantly higher than in the control (p = .009) and progressive motility tended to be higher (p = .053). Immotile sperm concentration in the CoQ10-supplemented spermatozoa was significantly lower than in both the baseline (p = .026) and control (p = .009). Total anti-oxidant capacity and protein carbonyl levels between the baseline, CoQ10-supplemented and control spermatozoa were not significantly different. Our data suggest that CoQ10 treatment reactivated sperm motility. We propose short-term supplementation of post-wash asthenozoospermic spermatozoa with CoQ10 before intrauterine insemination.

Comparison of the Effect of Ceratonia siliqua L. (Carob) Syrup and Vitamin E on Sperm Parameters, Oxidative Stress Index, and Sex Hormones in Infertile Men: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Herbal products with an antioxidant capacity can boost male reproductive functions. The empiric use of Ceratonia siliqua (carob) for its antioxidant properties is common among infertile men in Iran and Turkey. The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of C. siliqua (carob) on semen parameters, oxidative stress markers, and pregnancy rate in a parallel randomized, controlled study. A total of 60 infertile men with oligozoospermia, asthenospermia, and teratospermia were recruited from April 2018 to March 2019. Participants were divided randomly into the following two groups: carob syrup twice a day or vitamin E 100 mg twice a day for 3 months. Semen analysis was performed and hormonal levels and stress oxidative markers were measured in each treatment arm after 3 months. The quality of semen parameters improved in the carob group compared with Vit E semen count (p = 0.04 Cohen's d = .51), morphology (p = 0.001 Cohen's d = .93) and motility parameters (p = 0.002 Cohen's d = .90) were significantly higher in the carob group. No significant difference can be detected in post-treatment hormonal parameters and oxidative markers between groups, except for total antioxidant capacity(TAC) which was higher after post-treatment in carob group. A significantly higher pregnancy rate was found among the carob group. The administration of carob may be an effective agent for the improvement of semen parameters, probably related both to its involvement in the changing of testosterone level and to its antioxidant properties. Nevertheless, additional studies to evaluate the optimal dose and duration of treatment are needed. The trial has been registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (Registration number: IRCT20171209037794N1.

Male preconception antioxidant supplementation may lower autism risk: a call for studies

Current research indicates that a sizable number of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) cases arise from de novo mutations (DNMs) occurring within the paternal germline, usually in an age-dependent manner. Andrologists have reported that somatic cells and gametes share the same pathologies that generate these DNMs-specifically, DNA hypomethylation caused by oxidative nucleoside base damage. Because many ASD researchers seek to identify genetic risk factors, teams are developing methods of assessing aberrant DNA patterns, such as parental gonadal mosaicism. Several studies propose antioxidant supplementation as a strategy to lower autism risk, and/or suggest connections between childhood neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and paternally-derived DNMs. Actual data, however, are currently not available to determine whether male preconception antioxidant supplementation effectively lowers autism risk. The purpose of this paper is to (1) explore the mechanisms causing DNMs, specifically DNA hypomethylation; (2) explain how antioxidant supplementation may lower the risk of having a child with ASD; and, (3) advocate for the implementation of large prospective studies testing (2). These studies may very well find that male preconception supplementation with antioxidants prevents neurodevelopmental disorders in offspring, in much the same way that female prenatal consumption of folate was found to decrease the risk of birth defects. If this is indeed the case, the alarming rise in autism prevalence rates of the past few decades will slow-or even cease-upon the initiation of public awareness campaigns.

Vitamin K in Vertebrates' Reproduction: Further Puzzling Pieces of Evidence from Teleost Fish Species

Vitamin K (VK) is a fat-soluble vitamin that vertebrates have to acquire from the diet, since they are not able to de novo synthesize it. VK has been historically known to be required for the control of blood coagulation, and more recently, bone development and homeostasis. Our understanding of the VK metabolism and the VK-related molecular pathways has been also increased, and the two main VK-related pathways-the pregnane X receptor (PXR) transactivation and the co-factor role on the γ-glutamyl carboxylation of the VK dependent proteins-have been thoroughly investigated during the last decades. Although several studies evidenced how VK may have a broader VK biological function than previously thought, including the reproduction, little is known about the specific molecular pathways. In vertebrates, sex differentiation and gametogenesis are tightly regulated processes through a highly complex molecular, cellular and tissue crosstalk. Here, VK metabolism and related pathways, as well as how gametogenesis might be impacted by VK nutritional status, will be reviewed. Critical knowledge gaps and future perspectives on how the different VK-related pathways come into play on vertebrate's reproduction will be identified and proposed. The present review will pave the research progress to warrant a successful reproductive status through VK nutritional interventions as well as towards the establishment of reliable biomarkers for determining proper nutritional VK status in vertebrates.

Chlorpyrifos inhibits sperm maturation and induces a decrease in mouse male fertility

BACKGROUND

Pesticides, especially organophosphorus pesticides such as chlorpyrifos (CPF), play an important role in modern agriculture. Studies have shown that pesticide residues are an important cause of male reproductive injury in mammal.

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the reproductive damage caused by CPF in male mice and investigate the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

In vivo, C57BL/6 mice (6-8 weeks old) were treated with CPF for 14, 70, and 80 days by intraperitoneal injection, intragastric administration, and dietary supplementation, respectively. Then, sperm from the cauda epididymidis was cultured in vitro to confirm the deleterious effects of CPF.

RESULTS

The in vivo results indicated that, after treatment with CPF by dietary supplementation and intraperitoneal injection, the expression of reproduction-related genes in the mouse testes was altered, although the mice were fertile and the testes presented no morphological abnormalities. Notably, mating experiments revealed that the fertility of male mice was decreased following CPF administration by gavage. Sperm motility within the cauda epididymidis declined significantly after CPF treatment, which was accompanied by a decrease in sperm density, upregulation of relative reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and downregulation of glutathione reductase activity. In vitro incubation experiments showed that sperm rapidly lost their capacity for linear movement; the relative ROS levels also increased significantly, while the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) showed a significant decrease. However, the integrity of the plasma membrane was not affected by CPF administration.

CONCLUSIONS

The above data indicated that exposure to CPF reduces sperm motility by disrupting mitochondrial function and increasing the level of oxidative stress during sperm maturation, thereby reducing the fecundity of male mice.

A High Phosphorus Diet Impairs Testicular Function and Spermatogenesis in Male Mice with Chronic Kidney Disease

Hyperphosphatemia is a serious complication in chronic kidney disease (CKD) that occurs due to insufficient excretion of phosphorus during failure of renal function. Both CKD and an excessive phosphorus intake have been reported to increase oxidative stress and result in poor male fertility, but little is known about the reproductive function of the CKD under a poorly controlled phosphate intake. Eight-week-old C57BL/6 mice (n = 66) were randomly divided into four groups: a sham operation group received a chow diet as control (SC group, n = 14), CKD-induced mice received a chow diet (CKDC group, n = 16), control mice received a high phosphorus (HP) diet (SP group, n = 16), and CKD-induced mice received a HP diet (CKDP group, n = 20). CKD was induced by performing a 5/6 nephrectomy. The chow diet contained 0.6% phosphorus, while the HP diet contained 2% phosphorus. Impaired testicular function and semen quality found in the CKD model may result from increased oxidative stress, causing apoptosis and inflammation. The HP diet aggravated the negative effects of testicular damage in the CKD-induced mice.

Role of isoprostanes in human male infertility

One of the major causes of defective sperm function is oxidative stress, which limits the fertilizing potential of these cells as the result of collateral damage to proteins and lipids in the sperm plasma membrane. On this point, a derangement of both generation and neutralization of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a recognized cause of male infertility. Antioxidant protection in sperm has been widely investigated, as well as the sperm composition of fatty acids (FA), which represents the preferred substrate for ROS, most frequently linked to the disease-related infertility. Isoprostanes are compounds derived from free radical-mediated oxidation of FAs. As such, they are considered an index of lipid oxidative damage and lipid mediators. This article discusses the role of isoprostanes as relevant factors both to sperm FA composition and sperm membrane integrity. Additionally, isoprostane's influence on sperm quality is reviewed. With reference to male reproductive dysfunction, increasing evidence indicates isoprostanes, detectable in biological fluids or sperm membrane, as the specific index of 1) exposure to chemical etiological agents, 2) oxidative damage, 3) reduced antioxidant response, and 4) sperm immaturity.

ABBREVIATIONS

OS: oxidative stress; ROS: reactive oxygen species; PUFAs: polyunsaturated fatty acids; ARA: arachidonic acid, F₂-IsoPs; F₂-isoprostanes, PLA₂: phospholipase A₂; NADPH: nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate; IVF: in vitro fertilization.

Histomorphological and Redox Delineations in the Testis and Epididymis of Albino Rats Fed with Green-Synthesized Cellulose

It has also become increasingly necessary to diversify the production of cellulose for biomedical applications. In this study, cellulose-green-synthesized from Sesamum indicum (GSC)—was administered orally to rats for 14 days as follows: control, 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg GSC. The impact of GSC on the antioxidant status and histomorphology of the testes and epididymis were studied. GSC had no effects on organ weights and organosomatic indices. In the testes, GSC caused nonsignificant changes in superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione and nitric oxide levels, whereas it significantly decreased glutathione peroxidase and malondialdehyde levels. In the epididymis, GSC significantly decreased superoxide dismutase and nitric oxide levels, but caused a significant increase in glutathione peroxidase and reduced glutathione levels. Furthermore, at ×200 magnification, testicular morphology appeared normal at all doses, however, extravasation of the germinal epithelium of the epididymis was observed at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg GSC. Conversely, at ×400 magnification, spermatogenic arrest (testes) and chromatolytic alterations (epididymis) were observed at the higher doses (200 and 400 mg/kg GSC). This study reports on the effect of green-synthesized cellulose on testicular and epididymal histology and redox status and further extends the frontiers of research on cellulose.

"Emerging role of Novel Seminal Plasma Bio-markers in Male Infertility: A Review"

Male infertility has emerged as an important cause of infertility worldwide. There are many factors affecting male fertility and research is going on to know impact of various factors on sperm functions. Semen analysis is gold standard diagnostic test for male infertility, but it is crude method for estimation of male infertility as seminal composition gets affected by environmental factors, infections, other pathologies, hence, results of semen analysis either becomes normal/ambiguous, leading to failure of diagnosis and delayed treatment. Hence, with need of newer, better tests for assessing male factor infertility, seminal plasma is being tested for biomarkers. Seminal plasma is considered gold mine for male fertility as it contains molecules from male reproductive glands which play important role in sperm function. Study of seminal plasma molecules can give an idea about sperm concentration, motility, morphology and cause of infertility and can serve as biomarkers for male infertility. Present review briefs on some of these novel seminal plasma biomarkers which may play significant role in male fertility and can be used in future for better identification, assessment of infertile males.

METHODOLOGY

Literature from 1985 to 2019 was searched from various databases including PUBMED, SCOPUS, Google Scholar on seminal plasma biomarkers using keywords: "seminal plasma protein biomarkers", "novel seminal plasma markers and male infertility", "hormones in seminal plasma and male infertility", "oxidative stress and male infertility", "Reactive Oxygen Species and sperm DNA", "immunoinfertility".

INCLUSION CRITERIA

All full length original or review articles or abstracts on seminal plasma markers and male infertility published in English language in various peer-reviewed journals were considered.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA

Articles published in languages other than English were excluded from the study.

RESULTS

Seminal plasma is a big reservoir of molecules derived from the various male reproductive glands which can be used as potential biomarkers of male fertility.

CONCLUSION

Hence, seminal plasma biomarkers can be used in future for better assessment of male factor infertility, its causes and may play an important role in management of male factor infertility.

Transcriptomic and biochemical effects of pycnogenol in ameliorating heat stress-related oxidative alterations in rats

BACKGROUND

Heat stress is a condition that is due to extreme heat exposure. It occurs when the body cannot keep its temperature healthy in response to a hot climate and associated with oxidative stress. Testicular hyperthermia can induce apoptosis of sperm cells, affect sperm production and decrease sperm concentration, leading to sperm disorder, for this reason, we examined the protective impact of pycnogenol that it has a wide range of biological benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities against the oxidative alterations that happen in testicular and brain tissues due to heat stress in rats.

STUDY DESIGN

Forty-eight Wistar male rats, approximately around 6 weeks age were allocated randomly into four groups (12 in each) of control, HS (subjected to heat stress and supplemented orally with 50 mg of pycnogenol/kg b. w./day dissolved in saline for 21 days), and pycnogenol (rats supplemented orally with 50 mg of pycnogenol/kg b. w./day dissolved in saline for 21 days).

RESULTS

Data revealed a promising role of pycnogenol as an antioxidant, natural product to successfully reverse the heat-induced oxidative alterations in testicular and brain tissues of rats through significant upregulation of superoxide dismutase-2, catalase, reduced glutathione, and anti-apoptotic gene, while downregulating pro-apoptotic, and heat shock protein70. Pycnogenol treatment also reversed the reproductive hormone level and spermatogenesis to their normal values.

CONCLUSION

Pycnogenol as a natural protective supplement could recover these heat stress-induced oxidative changes in testes and hypothalamus.

Scientific landscape of oxidative stress in male reproductive research: A scientometric study

Unraveling the role of reactive oxygen species and associated oxidative stress (OS) in male reproduction is one of the key areas of male reproductive research. This article illustrates the scientific landscape of OS in male reproductive research over the past several decades (1941-2018) using a scientometric approach. Scientometric data (articles per year, authors, affiliations, journals, and countries) on OS related to male reproduction were retrieved from the Scopus database and analyzed for each decade. Our analysis revealed an increasing trend in OS-based male reproductive research from 1941 to 2018 with a steep raise in publications and research collaborations starting from the period 1991-2000 (R² = 0.81). Semen abnormalities and varicocele were the major areas investigated in relation to OS with the highest positive trend in publications from the time interval 1981-1990 to 2011-2018. Analysis of publications based on OS assessment techniques revealed chemiluminescence (n = 180) and evaluation of antioxidants (n = 300) as the most widely used direct and indirect tests, respectively. Furthermore, prognostic/diagnostic studies on OS evaluation increased significantly over the time. Our analysis highlights the evolution of OS in male reproductive research and its emergence as an important prognostic and diagnostic tool in the evaluation of male infertility.

An update on the techniques used to measure oxidative stress in seminal plasma

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced in significant amounts by spermatozoa and leucocytes. They are necessary to carry out various physiological functions such as sperm capacitation, hyperactivation, acrosome reaction, sperm-zona binding and cellular signalling pathways. Oxidative stress (OS) results when the ROS levels overwhelm the available antioxidant reserve. A number of direct and indirect tests have been developed to assess oxidative stress. In this manuscript, we discuss these common direct and indirect tests as well as their advantages and disadvantages. Tests measuring sperm dysfunction secondary to oxidative stress such as lipid peroxidation, DNA fragmentation and protein alterations are also described.

Ionizing Radiation as a Source of Oxidative Stress-The Protective Role of Melatonin and Vitamin D

Ionizing radiation (IR) has found widespread application in modern medicine, including medical imaging and radiotherapy. As a result, both patients and healthcare professionals are exposed to various IR doses. To minimize the negative side effects of radiation associated with oxidative imbalance, antioxidant therapy has been considered. In this review, studies on the effects of melatonin and vitamin D on radiation-induced oxidative stress are discussed. According to the research data, both substances meet the conditions for use as agents that protect humans against IR-induced tissue damage. Numerous studies have confirmed that melatonin, a hydro- and lipophilic hormone with strong antioxidant properties, can potentially be used as a radioprotectant in humans. Less is known about the radioprotective effects of vitamin D, but the results to date have been promising. Deficiencies in melatonin and vitamin D are common in modern societies and may contribute to the severity of adverse side effects of medical IR exposure. Hence, supporting supplementation with both substances seems to be of first importance. Interestingly, both melatonin and vitamin D have been found to selectively radiosensitise cancer cells, which makes them promising adjuvants in radiotherapy. More research is needed in this area, especially in humans.

COVID-19 and fertility: a virtual reality

The COVID-19 pandemic is an extraordinary global situation, and all countries have adopted their own strategies to diminish and eliminate the spread of the virus. All measures are in line with the recommendations provided by the World Health Organization. Scientific societies, such as the European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology and American Society for Reproductive Medicine, have provided recommendations and guidance to overcome and flatten the growing curve of infection in patients who undergo IVF treatments. Although there is as yet no evidence that the virus causing COVID-19 might have negative effects on IVF outcomes, fertility treatments have been postponed in order to support healthcare systems by avoiding placing them under additional stress. The possibility of the virus affecting sperm function and egg performance cannot be excluded. In addition, an indirect effect of the virus on gametes and embryos during their manipulation cannot be ruled out. This commentary aims to provide some ideas on the possible effect of the virus on gametes and embryos, as well as how it could affect the normal functioning of the embryology laboratory.

Early Life Oxidative Stress and Long-Lasting Cardiovascular Effects on Offspring Conceived by Assisted Reproductive Technologies: A Review

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) has rapidly developed and is now widely practised worldwide. Both the characteristics of ART (handling gametes/embryos in vitro) and the infertility backgrounds of ART parents (such as infertility diseases and unfavourable lifestyles or diets) could cause increased oxidative stress (OS) that may exert adverse influences on gametogenesis, fertilisation, and foetation, even causing a long-lasting influence on the offspring. For these reasons, the safety of ART needs to be closely examined. In this review, from an ART safety standpoint, the origins of OS are reviewed, and the long-lasting cardiovascular effects and potential mechanisms of OS on the offspring are discussed.

High fat diet causes distinct aberrations in the testicular proteome

Diet has important effects on normal physiology and the potential deleterious effects of high fat diets and obesity on male reproductive health are being increasingly described. We conducted a histological review of the effects of chronic high fat (HF) diet (using a mouse model fed a 45% fat diet for 21 weeks) with a discovery proteomic study to assess for changes in the abundance of proteins in the testis. Mice on a HF diet became obese and developed glucose intolerance. Using mass spectrometry, we identify 102 proteins affected in the testis of obese mice. These included structural proteins important for the blood testis barrier (filamin A, FLNA), proteins involved in oxidative stress responses (spermatogenesis associated 20, SPATA-20) and lipid homoeostasis (sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2, SREBP2 and apolipoprotein A1, APOA1). In addition, an important regulator protein paraspeckle component 1, PSPC-1, which interacts with the androgen receptor was significantly downregulated. Proteomic data was validated using both Western blotting and immunostaining which confirmed and localised protein expression in both mouse and human testis using biopsy specimens. This study focused mainly on the abnormalities that occurred at the protein level and as a result, we have identified several candidate proteins and conducted pathway analysis around the effects of HF diet on the testis providing novel insights not previously described. Some of the identified targets could be targeted therapeutically and future work is directed in this area.

Human amnion mesenchymal stem cells restore spermatogenesis in mice with busulfan-induced testis toxicity by inhibiting apoptosis and oxidative stress

Background

Before starting gonadotoxic therapies, cryopreservation of mature sperm has been proposed worldwide as a method for male fertility preservation and for enabling the conception of a healthy baby with assisted reproductive technology (ART); however, these technologies are not feasible for prepubertal boys and men with spermatogenic failure. Transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells has exhibited successful therapeutic benefits in restoring spermatogenesis via gonadal graft angiogenesis, transplanted cell clonogenesis, and disordered somatic compartment recovery. This study aimed to elucidate the fertility protective effects and the underlying mechanisms of human amnion mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) against busulfan-induced testis toxicity.

Methods

An in vivo busulfan-induced testis toxicity mouse model and an in vitro busulfan-administered mouse Sertoli cell line were employed to evaluate the efficacy and mechanisms of hAMSC transplantation on male fertility preservation. The process of spermatogenesis was evaluated histologically, and the percentage of seminiferous tubules with vacuoles was evaluated by HE staining. Semen parameters were calculated by computer-assisted semen analysis. ELISA was employed to test the testosterone concentration and the levels of oxidative- and antioxidative-associated substances LDH, MDA, GR, SOD, GPx, and CAT. The rates of proliferation (Ki67), apoptosis (Annexin V), and ROS were measured by FACS. The fluorescence intensity of a marker of apoptosis (TUNEL) and a meiosis gene in spermatogenesis (SCP3) were detected by immunofluorescence assay. The expression of mRNA in germ cell-specific (GCS) genes (Dazl, Ddx4, and Miwi) and meiosis genes (Scp3, Cyclin A1, and Stra8) was tested by qPCR. The expression of antiapoptotic proteins (SURVIVIN and BCL2), apoptotic proteins (CASPASE3 and CASPASE9), GCS proteins (Dazl, Ddx4, and Miwi), and meiosis proteins (Scp3, Cyclin A1, and Stra8) was tested by western blotting.

Results

hAMSC transplantation following disruption by busulfan-induced testis toxicity restored spermatogenesis, elevating testosterone levels and enhancing testicular weight, size, and semen parameters in vivo. In addition, hAMSCs clearly ameliorated cell apoptosis, enhanced cell proliferation, repressed oxidative damage, and augmented oxidative defense in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, hAMSCs distinctly increased the expression of the GCS genes Dazl, Ddx4, and Miwi and the meiosis genes Scp3, Cyclin A1, and Stra8 in vivo.

Conclusions

hAMSCs might represent a promising tool for the use in regenerative medicine, as these cells can restore spermatogenesis in a busulfan-induced testis toxicity mouse model and facilitate activity in a busulfan-administered mouse Sertoli cell line by resisting apoptosis and oxidative stress.

The association between mitochondrial DNA copy number, telomere length, and tubal pregnancy

Growing evidence has demonstrated association between the occurrence of tubal ectopic pregnancy (TP) and oxidative stress (OS) status, in which mitochondria and telomeres play important roles. However, little is known about the underlying correlation between TP and the mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) or telomere length (TL) abnormalities. In this study, we found OS level was elevated in TP patients. We hierarchically detected the relative mtDNAcn and TL of villi from normal pregnancy (NP) and TP samples according to different gestational age, fetal sex, maternal age, and BMI. The results revealed that the relative mtDNAcn was significantly lower in the villi in the TP group compared with the NP cohort, which was negatively correlated with OS status. In the NP group, the mtDNAcn in the female subgroup was apparently lower than that in the male subgroup, while no statistical difference was found in the mtDNAcn in the TP group between the female and male subgroups. Moreover, the relative TL in the TP group was at a similar level to the NP group, and no statistical correlation was observed between relative TL and OS level. In summary, our findings indicate that the abnormal level of mtDNAcn rather than TL is correlated with TP, which provides new insights into the mechanism of TP.

GPx6 is involved in the in vitro induced capacitation and acrosome reaction in porcine sperm

Glutathione peroxidases (GPxs) are regarded as important protectors against oxidative stress. Some members of this protein family were reported to play key roles in protecting sperm against oxidative stress. Whether GPx6 a member of the GPx family also plays a role in protection against oxidative stress is not known to date. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the localization and function of glutathione peroxidase 6 (GPx6) in boar accessory sex glands, seminal plasma, and sperm, as well as the effect of GPx6 on vitality and capacitation in boar sperm. qPCR and Western blot analysis demonstrated the presence of GPx6 in testis, epididymis, bulbourethral glands, prostate, seminal vesicle, sperm and seminal plasma. Incubation of sperm with an GPx6 antibody had no significant effect on the viability of boar sperm prior to capacitation. Surprisingly, when capacitated sperm was incubated with the GPx6 antibody for 240 min, sperm vitality was significantly improved. Western blotting showed that in capacitated sperm without prior pretreatment, GPx6 protein content was reduced compared to sperm before capacitation. To further confirm a role for GPx6 in sperm capacitation, we tested sperm acrosome reaction by ACR.2 and FITC-PSA. The results showed that treatment of sperm with the GPx6 antibody significantly increased sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction. Furthermore, we examined the concentration of cAMP in sperm after capacitation. ELISA demonstrated that the cAMP concentration in the sperm exposed to the GPx6 antibody was significantly higher than that of the control group. In addition, the exposure of sperm to the GPx6 antibody significantly increased the concentration of H₂O₂, while the expression of SOD3 and CAT were decreased. Based on these observations we would like to postulate that in the boar reproductive tract the GPx6 protein becomes attached to the sperm head preventing the sperm to undergo premature capacitation by affecting components of the antioxidant pathway. How GPx6 expression following ejaculation becomes suppressed to allow sperm capacitation to take place needs further investigation.

A Brazilian pulp and paper mill effluent disrupts energy metabolism in immature rat testis and alters Sertoli cell secretion and mitochondrial activity

Our objective was to investigate whether the pulp and paper mill industry effluent could affect the testis and Sertoli cells in a fast exposure period. For this, the present study was carried out in immature rats at 10-day-old. Testis treated in vitro with 4% effluent for 1 h presented changes in energy metabolism in terms of a decrease in lactate content and glucose uptake. Elevation in GSH content, as an antioxidant defense mechanism, was also detected. Sertoli cells treated with 4% effluent for 1 hour showed alterations in the mitochondrial metabolism that favor the decoupling of oxidative phosphorylation and the generation of oxygen reactive species and also a time and concentration-dependent delay secretion of acidic vesicles. Our results showed that pollutants present in the pulp and paper mill effluents, in a short time of exposure, are capable of inducing alterations in important metabolic functions in the testis and in Sertoli cells that are crucial for the correct progression of spermatogenesis and fertility.

Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitior (thiorphan/irbesartan) decreased ischemia-reperfusion induced ventricular arrhythmias in rat; in vivo study

Ventricular arrhythmias are considered as a major risk of sudden cardiac death. This study was designed to investigate the potential effects of angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor; thiorphan/irbesartan (TH/IRB) combination therapy on myocardial ischemic-reperfusion (I/R)-induced arrhythmia. Fifty male Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups; (I, II): Sham, I/R both received DMSO intraperitoneally before the procedure. (III, IV, V): TH/IRB + IR (0.1/5 mg/kg, 0.1/10 mg/kg and 0.1/15 mg/kg). The drugs were injected intraperitoneally 15 min before I/R induction. Electrocardiograms changes, mean arterial blood pressure, incidence of ventricular tachycardia (VT), incidence of ventricular fibrillation (VF) and arrhythmia score were assessed. Cardiac levels of creatinine kinase-MB (CK-MB), Malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), endothelin-1 (ET-1), ATP content, and Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase pump activity were measured. TH (0.1 mg/kg) in combination with IRB (5, 10 and 15 mg/kg) produced significant decrease in QTc interval duration, ST height, incidence of VT and VF, duration of VT + VF, and arrhythmia score compared to I/R group. All treated groups showed significant decrease in the cardiac levels of: CK-MB, MDA and ET-1 and significant increase in SOD, ATP content, and Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase pump activity compared to I/R. TH/IRB + IR (0.1/10 mg/kg) group produced significant decrease in CK-MB, MDA and ET-1 and a significant increase in SOD, ATP content, and Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase pump activity compared to other treated groups. In conclusion, angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor (thiorphan/irbesartan) decreased arrhythmia score and decreased cardiac damage. These could be explained in part by its ability to decrease oxidative stress and ET-1, increase ATP, and Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase pump activity in this rat model of I/R-induced arrhythmia.

TBC1D20 deficiency induces Sertoli cell apoptosis by triggering irreversible endoplasmic reticulum stress in mice

Male 'blind sterile' mice with the causative TBC1 domain family member 20 (TBC1D20) deficiency are infertile with excessive germ cell apoptosis and spermatogenesis arrest at the spermatid stage. Sertoli cells are characterised as 'nurse cells' essential for normal spermatogenesis, but the role and corresponding molecular mechanisms of TBC1D20 deficiency in Sertoli cells of mice are not clear to date. In the present study, the histopathology of the testis and Sertoli cell proliferation and apoptosis were determined, and the corresponding molecular mechanisms were investigated by western blotting. Our data showed that TBC1D20 exhibits a testis-abundant expression pattern, and its expression level is positively associated with spermatogenesis. TBC1D20 is assembled in the Golgi and endoplasmic reticulum and is widely expressed by various germ cell subtypes and Sertoli cells. TBC1D20 deficiency in Sertoli cells led to an excessive apoptosis ratio and G1/S arrest. The increased apoptosis of TBC1D20-deficient Sertoli cells resulted from caspase-12 activation. TBC1D20-deficient Sertoli cells had an abnormal Golgi-endoplasmic reticulum structure, which led to endoplasmic reticulum stress, resulting in cell cycle arrest and excessive apoptosis. It suggested that TBC1D20 deficiency triggers irreversible endoplasmic reticulum stress resulting in G1/S arrest and excessive apoptosis in TBC1D20-deficient Sertoli cells, and TBC1D20 deficiency in Sertoli cells may also contribute to the infertility phenotype in 'blind sterile' male mice.

Pulmonary Emphysema Impairs Male Reproductive Physiology Due To Testosterone and Oxidative Stress Imbalance in Mesocricetus auratus

This study evaluated whether pulmonary emphysema affects sperm quality, male reproductive organs, and testosterone levels in adult male hamsters. Mesocricetus auratus males (130-150 g) were subdivided into a control group (C group) and an emphysema group (E group). The C group received an intratracheal instillation of saline solution (0.3 mL/100 g of body weight), and the E group received papain (40 mg/100 g of body weight). After 60 days, the biometric, pulmonary, and reproductive parameters of each group were evaluated. The E group developed pulmonary emphysema, which decreased body weight and sperm quality compared to the C group. In oxidative stress-related assays, lipid peroxidation was increased in the testis and epididymis (caput and cauda) in the E group compared with the C group. However, only the caput epididymis showed a reduction in glutathione levels. Pulmonary emphysema also affected the testicle by inducing an increase in abnormal seminiferous tubules, accompanied by a decrease in seminiferous epithelium height. Spermatogenesis kinetics were also modified by pulmonary emphysema. The number of Leydig and Sertoli cells decreased in the E group, accompanied by an increase in the nuclear volume of Leydig cells. Testosterone concentration was increased in the E group. Similarly, pulmonary emphysema altered epididymal components in all regions. In conclusion, pulmonary emphysema affected the reproductive system in this experimental model, as shown by testicular and epididymal morphophysiology changes, hormonal alteration, and oxidative stress imbalance, inducing the loss of correct function in the male reproductive system.

Current perspectives on the clinical implications of oxidative RNA damage in aging research: challenges and opportunities

Ribonucleic acid (RNA) molecules can be easily attacked by reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are produced during normal cellular metabolism and under various oxidative stress conditions. Numerous findings report that the amount of cellular 8-oxoG, the most abundant RNA damage biomarker, is a promising target for the sensitive measurement of oxidative stress and aging-associated diseases, including neuropsychiatric disorders. Most importantly, available data suggest that RNA oxidation has important implications for various signaling pathways and gene expression regulation in aging-related diseases, highlighting the necessity of using combinations of RNA oxidation adducts in both experimental studies and clinical trials. In this review, we primarily describe evidence for the effect of oxidative stress on RNA integrity modulation and possible quality control systems. Additionally, we discuss the profiles and clinical implications of RNA oxidation products that have been under intensive investigation in several aging-associated medical disorders.

Endogenous and Exogenous Antioxidants As a Tool to Ameliorate Male Infertility Induced by Reactive Oxygen Species

Significance: Antioxidants are essential for the maintenance of cellular redox homeodynamics in the male reproductive tract, playing a key role in fertilizing potential. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), at physiological levels, are essential for sperm function and fertilization. Under pathological conditions, abnormal production of ROS may occur. Redox control is primarily regulated by the inner antioxidant system. However, these endogenous antioxidants may be present at abnormal amounts or may be insufficient. Exogenous antioxidants obtained through the diet may have an important role, particularly in specific pathological conditions. This review addresses the regulation of redox homeodynamics in the male reproductive tract by endogenous and exogenous antioxidants and the importance of their cooperation for the maintenance of fertility. Recent Advances: Many studies have shown the importance of antioxidants for the preservation of male fertility, mostly under pathological conditions. Excessive antioxidants can inhibit ROS-induced signaling pathways that are essential for the reproductive system. The challenge is to keep the balance between oxidants and antioxidants to maintain ROS-amount at physiological concentration. Critical Issues: Although antioxidant therapies are gaining popularity and showing promising results in the improvement of male fertility, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the type of exogenous antioxidant, the doses and time to be administered. Future Directions: It would be of great importance to find a way to restore redox homeostasis under stress conditions. Understanding the poorly studied mechanisms by which exogenous antioxidants cooperate with the inner cellular antioxidant system to counteract free radicals may help in the development of new fertility therapies.

Are antioxidants a viable treatment option for male infertility?

Oxidative stress is caused by an imbalance between ROS and antioxidants, which plays a significant role in the pathophysiology of many human diseases. There is extensive evidence highlighting the role of oxidative stress in male infertility due to elevated levels of sperm DNA fragmentation and abnormal semen parameters. The use of antioxidants is a potential therapeutic option to reduce ROS and improve semen quality. The appeal is that antioxidants can be easily obtained over the counter and are considered all-natural and therefore healthy. The hypothesis has been that by decreasing oxidative stress, antioxidants may be used for the treatment of male infertility. While initial studies of antioxidant supplementation suggested a beneficial role in the management of male subfertility, additional research has questioned the benefit of these therapies. The focus of this article is to present recent evidence assessing the viability of antioxidant therapy in the treatment of male infertility.

Oxidative Stress and BPA Toxicity: An Antioxidant Approach for Male and Female Reproductive Dysfunction

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a non-persistent anthropic and environmentally ubiquitous compound widely employed and detected in many consumer products and food items; thus, human exposure is prolonged. Over the last ten years, many studies have examined the underlying molecular mechanisms of BPA toxicity and revealed links among BPA-induced oxidative stress, male and female reproductive defects, and human disease. Because of its hormone-like feature, BPA shows tissue effects on specific hormone receptors in target cells, triggering noxious cellular responses associated with oxidative stress and inflammation. As a metabolic and endocrine disruptor, BPA impairs redox homeostasis via the increase of oxidative mediators and the reduction of antioxidant enzymes, causing mitochondrial dysfunction, alteration in cell signaling pathways, and induction of apoptosis. This review aims to examine the scenery of the current BPA literature on understanding how the induction of oxidative stress can be considered the "fil rouge" of BPA's toxic mechanisms of action with pleiotropic outcomes on reproduction. Here, we focus on the protective effects of five classes of antioxidants-vitamins and co-factors, natural products (herbals and phytochemicals), melatonin, selenium, and methyl donors (used alone or in combination)-that have been found useful to counteract BPA toxicity in male and female reproductive functions.

Diet and Nutritional Factors in Male (In)fertility-Underestimated Factors

In up to 50% of cases, infertility issues stem solely from the male. According to some data, the quality of human semen has deteriorated by 50%–60% over the last 40 years. A high-fat diet and obesity, resulting from an unhealthy lifestyle, affects the structure of spermatozoa, but also the development of offspring and their health in later stages of life. In obese individuals, disorders on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis are observed, as well as elevated oestrogen levels with a simultaneous decrease in testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels. Healthy dietary models clearly correlate with better sperm quality and a smaller risk of abnormalities in parameters such as sperm count, sperm concentration and motility, and lower sperm DNA fragmentation. Apart from mineral components such as zinc and selenium, the role of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidant vitamins should be emphasized, since their action will be primarily based on the minimization of oxidative stress and the inflammation process. Additionally, the incorporation of carnitine supplements and coenzyme Q10 in therapeutic interventions also seems promising. Therefore, it is advisable to have a varied and balanced diet based on vegetables and fruit, fish and seafood, nuts, seeds, whole-grain products, poultry, and low-fat dairy products.

Large-scale mtDNA deletions as genetic biomarkers for susceptibility to male infertility: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Several complex rearrangements such as deletions in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) have been identified in sperm deficiencies. This study aimed to investigate the association of common mtDNA deletions with male infertility using a meta-analysis approach. Standard databases were systematically searched to discover relevant studies. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated to analyze the association of mtDNA deletions with male infertility. Our data revealed a significant association between a common 4977-bp deletion and an increased risk of male infertility. A similar association was observed in an Asian population. Stratified analysis by infertility phenotype showed significant associations between the 4977-bp deletion and increased risk of asthenozoospermia, oligoasthenoteratozoospermia, and asthenoteratozoospermia. In addition, significant associations were found in studies with sample sizes >100, age of participants <45 years, subject selection according to WHO criteria, and studies of moderate to high quality. Regarding the other common mtDNA deletions, significant associations were observed between 7436-bp, 7599-bp, and 4866-bp deletions and the risk of male infertility. Our findings suggest that the 4977-bp deletion might be a risk factor for male infertility, especially in an ethnic and infertility phenotype dependent manner.

Oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of male infertility

The effects of reactive oxygen species on male fertility are governed by the oxidative paradox, defined by a delicate balance between oxidative stress and antioxidant capacity. When regulated appropriately, reactive oxygen species ensure effective function; however, when uninhibited, they represent key players in male factor infertility. Mechanisms responsible for this include oxidative destruction of sperm lipid membranes, damage to gamete DNA both by gene mutation and by direct breakdown of the DNA backbone, mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptotic cell death. Utilizing various male pathologies as case studies, we see ways in which oxidative stress has the potential to impact fertility in a negative way. Varicocele, erectile dysfunction, testicular cancer and even idiopathic male infertility highlight common mechanistic pathways, as well as subtle variations in the ways reactive oxygen species can operate. Oxidative biomarkers have emerged to better study male infertility, predict reproductive success and modify assisted reproductive technologies to minimize oxidative stress.

Coenzyme Q10 effect on semen parameters: Profound or meagre?

Coenzyme Q10 has shown promise in treating male infertility; however, there are inconsistencies across the published data. We undertook a quantitative meta-analysis by pooling data from three placebo-controlled randomised clinical trials (RCTs) in order to evaluate the efficacy of CoQ10 in improving semen parameters. Sperm count, sperm motility, sperm forward motility, sperm morphology and CoQ10 level in the seminal plasma were measured and quantitatively correlated with CoQ10 oral administration. Pooled analysis showed a significant impact of CoQ10 in improving sperm motility and forward motility, without a significant impact on sperm count, sperm morphology, ejaculate volume or seminal plasma level of CoQ10. Efficacy assessment suggested that CoQ10 shows better results at higher doses and when administered for a period of more than 3 months but not longer than 6 months. We conclude that CoQ10 has a profound effect on sperm motility and a meagre effect on all other parameters. Therefore, CoQ10 can be used for treating asthenozoospermic infertility with the dosage and duration depending upon the severity of the disorder and the patient's response to the treatment.