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Farag MR, El-Naseery NI, El Behery EI, Nouh DS, El-Mleeh A, Mostafa IMA, Alagawany M, Di Cerbo A, Azzam MM, Mawed SA. The Role of Chlorella vulgaris in Attenuating Infertility Induced by Cadmium Chloride via Suppressing Oxidative Stress and Modulating Spermatogenesis and Steroidogenesis in Male Rats. Biol Trace Elem Res 2024; 202:4007-4020. [PMID: 38114777 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03971-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is an environmental pollutant known as endocrine disruptor . Cd has been reported to induce perturbations of the testicular functions and the subsequent decline of the male fertility of both animals and humans. Chlorella vulgaris (ChV) a species of green microalga has been reported to have multiple beneficial activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic effects. Thus, this work was conducted to declare the benefits of Chlorella vulgaris (ChV) (500 mg/kg doses) against cadmium chloride CdCl2 (2 mg/kg doses) toxicity on the main and accessory reproductive organs' weight, structure, and function of male rats. Briefly, 40 adult male rats in 4 groups (n = 10) were used as follows; control, ChV, CdCl2, and CdCl2+ChV. (i) The 1st group was kept as control fed on pellet chow and water ad libitum. (ii) The second group is Chlorella vulgaris (ChV) group fed with C. vulgaris alga for 10 days (500 mg/kg BW). (iii) The third group was administrated CdCl2 (2mg/kg BW) via subcutaneous injection (S/C) daily for 10 days. (iv) The fourth group administered both CdCl2 and ChV with the abovementioned doses daily for successive 10 days. Our observations declared that cadmium exhibited an adverse influence on the testes and prostate gland architecture indicated by seminiferous tubule destruction, testicular edema, degeneration of Leydig cells, and prostate acini damage. All together affect the epididymal semen quality and quantity including sperm viability, motility, and count. Interestingly, ChV could restore the testicular architecture and spermatozoa regeneration accompanied by semen quality improvement and increased reproductive hormones including testosterone. On the other side, ChV suppresses reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation via enhancement the antioxidant-related genes in the testicular tissue including SOD, CAT, GSH, and MDA and maintaining spermatocyte survival via suppression of apoptotic related genes including caspase3 and activating steroidogenic related genes including StAR and HSD17β3 in the cadmium-treated testes. In this study, ChV could enhance male fertility under normal or stressful conditions and ameliorate the adverse effects of hazardous heavy metals that are widely distributed in our environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayada R Farag
- Forensic Medicine and Toxicology Department, Veterinary Medicine Faculty, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt.
| | - Nesma I El-Naseery
- Department of Histology and Cytology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
| | - Eman I El Behery
- Anatomy and Embryology Department, Veterinary Medicine Faculty, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
| | - Doaa S Nouh
- Anatomy and Embryology Department, Veterinary Medicine Faculty, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
| | - Amany El-Mleeh
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin Elkoum, 32511, Egypt
| | - Ismail M A Mostafa
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Alagawany
- Poultry Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
| | - Alessandro Di Cerbo
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, Matelica, Italy
| | - Mahmoud M Azzam
- Department of Animal Production College of Food & Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Suzan A Mawed
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt.
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Wu J, Yin Q, Wang Y, Wang R, Gong W, Chen Y, Zhang M, Liu Y, Ji Y. Integrated transcriptome and metabolomic analyses uncover the mechanism of cadmium-caused mouse spermatogonia apoptosis via inducing endoplasmic reticulum stress. Reprod Toxicol 2024:108664. [PMID: 39038763 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a well-recognized male reproductive toxicant that can cause testicular germ cell apoptosis. However, the underlying mechanism needs investigation. CG-1 mouse spermatogonia (spg) cells were treated with 20μM cadmium chloride (CdCl2) for 24h. Cell apoptosis was measured, and the expressions of key genes and protein biomarkers involved in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress were detected, respectively. Untargeted metabolomics was performed to identify different metabolites, and transcriptome analysis was conducted to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Our results indicated that CdCl2 exposure caused cell apoptosis, and DEGs were involved in several apoptosis-related pathways. Moreover, CdCl2 exposure apparently increased the mRNA and protein expressions levels of both GRP78 and ATF6α, disrupting the expression of various metabolites, particularly amino acids. Conclusively, our study reveals the pathway of CdCl2 toxicity on mouse spg, providing a deep understanding of CdCl2-induced testicular toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wu
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Qizi Yin
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Rong Wang
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Wenjing Gong
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yihang Chen
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Mingming Zhang
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yehao Liu
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.
| | - Yanli Ji
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.
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Yalçın T, Kaya S. Therapeutic potential of the linalool against cadmium-induced testicular tissue damage. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2024; 84:127455. [PMID: 38657337 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2024.127455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a heavy metal that has harmful effects and is one of the contaminants found in the environment. Cd exposure causes important pathophysiological processes, such as reproductive toxicity. Linalool (Lnl) is a monoterpene, a component of essential oils known to be produced synthetically. Additionally, Lnl has many important beneficial effects, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The objective of this study is to determine whether Lnl has a healing impact in opposition to testicular tissue damage due to Cd exposure. In the study, 28 male rats were divided at random into four equal groups (n = 7). No treatment was applied to the control group. CdCl2 was applied intraperitoneally to the Cd group at a dose of 3 mg/kg for the first 7 days of the trial. For the Cd + Lnl group, 3 mg/kg CdCl2 was applied intraperitoneally for the first 7 days of the trial, and 100 mg/kg/day Lnl was applied. Upon completion of all applications, the rats were sacrificed and blood samples and testicular tissue were taken. Cd exposure caused histopathological changes, oxidative stress, inflammation, and an increase in apoptotic cells in testicular tissue. However, Cd altered endocrine hormones in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonad axis. However, Lnl application against Cd exposure was able to regulate the negativity caused by Cd in both testicular tissue and endocrine hormone levels. In conclusion, Lnl may be a potential therapeutic strategy against Cd-induced reproductive toxicity. We believe that Lnl has a high potential for further studies to determine its detailed mechanisms of action and cellular signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuba Yalçın
- Vocational Higher School of Healthcare Studies, Batman University, Batman, Turkey.
| | - Sercan Kaya
- Vocational Higher School of Healthcare Studies, Batman University, Batman, Turkey.
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4
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Zhang Q, Yang Y, Liu J, Wu Y, Liu Y, Zhang J. Testicular dysfunction and "its recovery effect" after cadmium exposure. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 188:114656. [PMID: 38615797 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, with the acceleration of industrialization, the decline of male fertility caused by heavy metal pollution has attracted much attention. However, whether the inhibition of testicular function after cadmium exposure is reversible remains to be studied. In this study, we constructed rat models of cadmium exposure and dis-exposure, and collected relative samples to observe the changes of related indicators. The results showed that cadmium exposure could reduce the fertility, inhibit the hypothalamic-pituitary-testis axis and activate hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis function, the testicular GR/PI3K-AKT/AMPK signal was abnormal, cell proliferation was inhibited and apoptosis was enhanced. Four weeks after the exposure was stopped, the fertility was still decreased, testicular testosterone synthesis and spermatogenesis were inhibited, cell proliferation was inhibited and apoptosis was enhanced, but all of them were reversed. After eight weeks of cadmium exposure, the above indicators were observed to return to normal. At the same time, by giving different concentrations of corticosterone to spermatogonium, we confirmed that corticosterone may regulate the proliferation and apoptosis of spermatogonium through GR/PI3K-AKT/AMPK signal. In this study, the reproductive toxicity of cadmium, a metal environmental pollutant, was analyzed in depth to provide a new theoretical and experimental basis for ensuring male reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, Hubei, 445000, China
| | - YanLing Yang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, Hubei, 445000, China
| | - Juan Liu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, Hubei, 445000, China
| | - YuJiao Wu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, Hubei, 445000, China
| | - Yi Liu
- WuHan University, WuHan, Hubei, 430070, China.
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, The Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Enshi, Hubei, 445000, China.
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Chen Z, Mo J, Yang Q, Guo Z, Li X, Xie D, Deng C. MSC-derived exosomes mitigate cadmium-induced male reproductive injury by ameliorating DNA damage and autophagic flux. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 276:116306. [PMID: 38631218 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Cadmium, an environmental toxicant, severely impairs male reproductive functions and currently lacks effective clinical treatments. Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-Exos) are increasingly recognized as a potential alternative to whole-cell therapy for tissue injury and regeneration. This study aims to investigate the protective effects of MSC-Exos against cadmium toxicity on male reproduction. Our findings reveal that MSC-Exos treatment significantly promotes spermatogenesis, improves sperm quality, and reduces germ cell apoptosis in cadmium-exposed mice. Mechanistically, MSC-Exos dramatically mitigate cadmium-induced cell apoptosis in a spermatogonia cell line (GC-1 spg) in vitro by reducing DNA damage and promoting autophagic flux. These results suggest that MSC-Exos have a protective effect on cadmium-induced germ cell apoptosis by ameliorating DNA damage and autophagy flux, demonstrating the therapeutic potential of MSC-Exos for cadmium toxicity on male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihong Chen
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, CN 510080, China
| | - Jiahui Mo
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, CN 510080, China
| | - Qiyun Yang
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, CN 510080, China
| | - Zexin Guo
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, CN 510080, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, CN 510080, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, CN 510080, China
| | - Dongmei Xie
- Department of Cardiology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, CN 510080, China.
| | - Chunhua Deng
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, CN 510080, China.
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Yang W, Hua R, Cao Y, He X. A metabolomic perspective on the mechanisms by which environmental pollutants and lifestyle lead to male infertility. Andrology 2024; 12:719-739. [PMID: 37815095 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of male infertility (MI) is rising annually. According to epidemiological studies, environmental pollution (e.g., organic, inorganic, and air pollutants), occupational exposure (e.g., high temperature, organic solvents, and pesticides), and poor lifestyle (e.g., diet, sleep, smoking, alcohol consumption, and exercise) are important non-genetic causative factors of MI. Due to multiple and complex causative factors, the dose-effect relationship, and the uncertainty of pathogenicity, the pathogenesis of MI is far from fully clarified. Recent data show that the pathogenesis of MI can be monitored by the metabolites in serum, seminal plasma, urine, testicular tissue, sperm, and other biological samples. It is considered that these metabolites are closely related to MI phenotypes and can directly reflect the individual pathological and physiological conditions. Therefore, qualitative and quantitative analysis of the metabolome, the related metabolic pathways, and the identification of biomarkers will help to explore the MI-related metabolic problems and provide valuable insights into its pathogenic mechanisms. Here, we summarized new findings in MI metabolomics biomarkers research and their abnormal metabolic pathways triggered by the presented non-genetic risk factors, providing a metabolic landscape of semen and seminal plasma in general MI patients. Then, we compared the similarities and differences in semen and seminal plasma biomarkers between MI patients exposed to environmental and poor lifestyle factors and MI patients in general, and summarized some common biomarkers. We provide a better understanding of the biological underpinnings of MI pathogenesis, which might offer novel diagnostic, prognostic, and precise treatment approaches to MI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Rong Hua
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaojin He
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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Zhou K, Tang M, Zhang W, Chen Y, Guan Y, Huang R, Duan J, Liu Z, Ji X, Jiang Y, Hu Y, Zhang X, Zhou J, Chen M. Exposure to Molybdate Results in Metabolic Disorder: An Integrated Study of the Urine Elementome and Serum Metabolome in Mice. TOXICS 2024; 12:288. [PMID: 38668511 PMCID: PMC11053804 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12040288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
The increasing use of molybdate has raised concerns about its potential toxicity in humans. However, the potential toxicity of molybdate under the current level of human exposure remains largely unknown. Endogenous metabolic alterations that are caused in humans by environmental exposure to pollutants are associated with the occurrence and progression of many diseases. This study exposed eight-week-old male C57 mice to sodium molybdate at doses relevant to humans (0.01 and 1 mg/kg/day) for eight weeks. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS) were utilized to assess changes in urine element levels and serum metabolites in mice, respectively. A total of 838 subjects from the NHANES 2017-2018 population database were also included in our study to verify the associations between molybdenum and cadmium found in mice. Analysis of the metabolome in mice revealed that four metabolites in blood serum exhibited significant changes, including 5-aminolevulinic acid, glycolic acid, l-acetylcarnitine, and 2,3-dihydroxypropyl octanoate. Analysis of the elementome revealed a significant increase in urine levels of cadmium after molybdate exposure in mice. Notably, molybdenum also showed a positive correlation with cadmium in humans from the NHANES database. Further analysis identified a positive correlation between cadmium and 2,3-dihydroxypropyl octanoate in mice. In conclusion, these findings suggest that molybdate exposure disrupted amino acid and lipid metabolism, which may be partially mediated by molybdate-altered cadmium levels. The integration of elementome and metabolome data provides sensitive information on molybdate-induced metabolic disorders and associated toxicities at levels relevant to human exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (K.Z.); (M.T.); (Y.C.); (Y.G.); (R.H.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (X.J.); (Y.J.); (J.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Miaomiao Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (K.Z.); (M.T.); (Y.C.); (Y.G.); (R.H.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (X.J.); (Y.J.); (J.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Sir Run Run Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (W.Z.); (Y.H.)
| | - Yanling Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (K.Z.); (M.T.); (Y.C.); (Y.G.); (R.H.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (X.J.); (Y.J.); (J.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Yusheng Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (K.Z.); (M.T.); (Y.C.); (Y.G.); (R.H.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (X.J.); (Y.J.); (J.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Rui Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (K.Z.); (M.T.); (Y.C.); (Y.G.); (R.H.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (X.J.); (Y.J.); (J.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Jiawei Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (K.Z.); (M.T.); (Y.C.); (Y.G.); (R.H.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (X.J.); (Y.J.); (J.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Zibo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (K.Z.); (M.T.); (Y.C.); (Y.G.); (R.H.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (X.J.); (Y.J.); (J.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Xiaoming Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (K.Z.); (M.T.); (Y.C.); (Y.G.); (R.H.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (X.J.); (Y.J.); (J.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Yingtong Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (K.Z.); (M.T.); (Y.C.); (Y.G.); (R.H.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (X.J.); (Y.J.); (J.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Yanhui Hu
- Sir Run Run Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (W.Z.); (Y.H.)
| | - Xiaoling Zhang
- Department of Hygienic Analysis and Detection, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China;
| | - Jingjing Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (K.Z.); (M.T.); (Y.C.); (Y.G.); (R.H.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (X.J.); (Y.J.); (J.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Minjian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China; (K.Z.); (M.T.); (Y.C.); (Y.G.); (R.H.); (J.D.); (Z.L.); (X.J.); (Y.J.); (J.Z.)
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
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Zafar S, Ashraf A, Hayat S, Siddique MH, Waseem M, Hassan M, Qaisar H, Muzammil S. Isolation and characterization of novel cadmium-resistant Escherichia fergusonii ZSF-15 from industrial effluent for flocculant production and antioxidant enzyme activity. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2024; 196:412. [PMID: 38565815 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-024-12545-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a highly toxic metal that frequently contaminates our environment. In this study, the bioflocculant-producing, cadmium-resistant Escherichia fergusonii ZSF-15 was characterized from Paharang drain, Bawa Chak, Faisalabad, Pakistan. The Cd-resistant E. fergusonii was used to determine the bioflocculant production using yeast-peptone-glycerol medium (pH 6.5) supplemented with 50 mg L-1 of Cd. The culture was incubated for 3 days at 37 °C in a rotary shaker at 120 rpm. The fermentation broth was centrifuged at 4000 g for 10 min after the incubation period. The maximum flocculating activity by isolate ZSF-15 was found to be 71.4% after 48 h of incubation. According to the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, the bioflocculant produced by strain ZSF-15 was comprised of typical polysaccharide and protein, i.e. hydroxyl, carboxyl, and amino groups. The strain ZSF-15 exhibited bioflocculant activity at range of pH (6-8) and temperature (35-50℃). Maximum flocculation activity (i.e. 71%) was observed at 47℃, whereas 63% flocculation production was observed at pH 8. In the present study, antioxidant enzyme profile of ZSF-15 was also evaluated under cadmium stress. A significant increase in antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (118%) and ascorbate peroxidase (28%) was observed, whereas contents of catalase (86%), glutathione transferase (13%), and peroxidase (8%) were decreased as compared to control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saima Zafar
- Department of Zoology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, 38000, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Asma Ashraf
- Department of Zoology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, 38000, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Sumreen Hayat
- Institute of Microbiology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, 38000, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Hussnain Siddique
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, 38000, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Waseem
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, 38000, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Mudassir Hassan
- Department of Zoology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, 38000, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Hira Qaisar
- Department of Zoology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, 38000, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Saima Muzammil
- Institute of Microbiology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, 38000, Punjab, Pakistan.
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Motta CM, Rosati L, Cretì P, Montinari MR, Denre P, Simoniello P, Fogliano C, Scudiero R, Avallone B. Histopathological effects of long-term exposure to realistic concentrations of cadmium in the hepatopancreas of Sparus aurata juveniles. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2024; 268:106858. [PMID: 38325058 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2024.106858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
In recent decades, cadmium has emerged as an environmental stressor in aquatic ecosystems due to its persistence and toxicity. It can enter water bodies from various natural and anthropogenic sources and, once introduced into aquatic systems, can accumulate in sediments and biota, leading to bioaccumulation and biomagnification in the food chain. For this reason, the effects of cadmium on aquatic life remain an area of ongoing research and concern. In this paper, a multidisciplinary approach was used to assess the effects of long-term exposure to an environmental concentration on the hepatopancreas of farmed juveniles of sea bream, Sparus aurata. After determining metal uptake, metallothionein production was assessed to gain insight into the organism's defence response. The effects were also assessed by histological and ultrastructural analyses. The results indicate that cadmium accumulates in the hepatopancreas at significant concentrations, inducing structural and functional damage. Despite the parallel increase in metallothioneins, fibrosis, alterations in carbohydrate distribution and endocrine disruption were also observed. These effects would decrease animal fitness although it did not translate into high mortality or reduced growth. This could depend on the fact that the animals were farmed, protected from the pressure deriving from having to search for food or escape from predators. Not to be underestimated is the return to humans, as this species is edible. Understanding the behaviour of cadmium in aquatic systems, its effects at different trophic levels and the potential risks to human health from the consumption of contaminated seafood would therefore be essential for informed environmental management and policy decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luigi Rosati
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Patrizia Cretì
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Montinari
- Chair of History of Medicine, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Technologies, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy
| | - Pabitra Denre
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Palma Simoniello
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Naples Parthenope, Naples, Italy
| | - Chiara Fogliano
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Rosaria Scudiero
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Bice Avallone
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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10
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Panga MJ, Zhao Y. Male Reproductive Toxicity of Antifouling Chemicals: Insights into Oxidative Stress-Induced Infertility and Molecular Mechanisms of Zinc Pyrithione (ZPT). Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:173. [PMID: 38397771 PMCID: PMC10886347 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13020173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Zinc pyrithione (ZPT), a widely utilized industrial chemical, is recognized for its versatile properties, including antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal, and antifouling activities. Despite its widespread use, recent research has shed light on its toxicity, particularly towards the male reproductive system. While investigations into ZPT's impact on male reproduction have been conducted, most of the attention has been directed towards marine organisms. Notably, ZPT has been identified as a catalyst for oxidative stress, contributing to various indicators of male infertility, such as a reduced sperm count, impaired sperm motility, diminished testosterone levels, apoptosis, and degenerative changes in the testicular tissue. Furthermore, discussions surrounding ZPT's effects on DNA and cellular structures have emerged. Despite the abundance of information regarding reproductive toxicity, the molecular mechanisms underlying ZPT's detrimental effects on the male reproductive system remain poorly understood. This review focuses specifically on ZPT, delving into its reported toxicity on male reproduction, while also addressing the broader context by discussing other antifouling chemicals, and emphasizing the need for further exploration into its molecular mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ye Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
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11
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Zhou J, Zhang Y, Zeng L, Wang X, Xiang W, Su P. Cadmium exposure induces pyroptosis of TM4 cells through oxidative stress damage and inflammasome activation. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 270:115930. [PMID: 38184979 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.115930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a harmful metal that seriously affects the male reproductive system, but the mechanism of how Cd exposure damages Sertoli cells is not fully understood. This study used TM4 cells to explore the mechanism of Cd damage to Sertoli cells. We found that Cd was concentration- and time-dependent on TM4 cell viability. Cd exposure increased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) release in TM4 cells, decreased mitochondrial function, and increased pyroptosis. N-acetylcysteine (NAC), MCC950 and BAY 11-7082 (BAY) alleviate the release of IL-1β and LDH induced by Cd. NAC reduced Cd induced increases in ROS, NLRP3, Caspase-1, Heme oxygenase-1(HO-1), superoxide dismutase (SOD2), and increased mitochondrial function. The activation of GSDMD is the main causes of pyroptosis, and NAC significantly inhibit its activation and formation. Our results suggest that Cd exposure induces a toxic mechanism of GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis in TM4 cells by increasing ROS levels and activating the inflammasome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinzhao Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yanwei Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Ling Zeng
- Medical Genetics Center, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaofei Wang
- The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, China
| | - Wenpei Xiang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Wuhan HuaKe Reproductive Hospital, Wuhan, China.
| | - Ping Su
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China; Wuhan HuaKe Reproductive Hospital, Wuhan, China.
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12
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Panigrahi AK, Pal PK, Sarkar Paria D. Melatonin as an Ameliorative Agent Against Cadmium- and Lead-Induced Toxicity in Fish: an Overview. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2024:10.1007/s12010-023-04723-3. [PMID: 38224395 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-023-04723-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Diverse anthropogenic activities and lack of knowledge on its consequences have promoted serious heavy metal contaminations in different aquatic systems throughout the globe. The non-biodegradable nature of most of these toxic heavy metals has increased the concern on their possible bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms as well as in other vertebrates. Among these aquatic species, fish are most sensitive to such contaminated water that not only decreases their chance of survivability in the nature but also increases the probability of biomagnifications of these heavy metals in higher order food chain. After entering the fish body, heavy metals induce detrimental changes in different vital organs by impairing multiple physiological and biochemical pathways that are essential for the species. Such alterations may include tissue damage, induction of oxidative stress, immune-suppression, endocrine disorders, uncontrolled cell proliferation, DNA damage, and even apoptosis. Although uncountable reports have explored the toxic effects of different heavy metals in diverse fish species, but surprisingly, only a few attempts have been made to ameliorate such toxic effects. Since, oxidative stress seems to be the underlying common factor in such heavy metal-induced toxicity, therefore, a potent and endogenous antioxidant with no side effect may be an appropriate therapeutic solution. Apart from summarizing the toxic effects of two important toxicants, i.e., cadmium and lead in fish, the novelty of the present treatise lies in its arguments in favor of using melatonin, an endogenous free radical scavenger and indirect antioxidant, in ameliorating the toxic effects of heavy metals in any fish species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashis Kumar Panigrahi
- The University of Burdwan, Burdwan, West Bengal, 713104, India
- Eco-toxicology, Fisheries & Aquaculture Extension Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, West Beng, al-741235, India
| | - Palash Kumar Pal
- Oxidative Stress and Free Radical Biology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, University of Calcutta, 92, A.P.C. Road, Kolkata, 700009, India
| | - Dipanwita Sarkar Paria
- Department of Zoology, Chandernagore College, The University of Burdwan, Chandernagore, West Beng, al-712136, India.
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13
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Bhardwaj JK, Bikal P, Sachdeva SN. Cadmium as an ovarian toxicant: A review. J Appl Toxicol 2024; 44:129-147. [PMID: 37587800 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a ubiquitous heavy metal toxicant with no biological function in the human body. Considerably, because of its long biological half-life and very low excretion rate, Cd is inclined to accumulate and cause deleterious effects on various body organs (e.g., liver, kidney, and ovary) in humans and animals. Ovaries are the most vulnerable targets of Cd toxicity. Cd has been shown to induce oxidative stress, follicular atresia, hormonal imbalance, and impairment of oocyte growth and development. Moreover, Cd toxicity has been associated with increasing incidences of menstrual disorders, pregnancy loss, preterm births, delayed puberty, and female infertility. Therefore, it is crucial to understand how Cd poisoning impacts specific ovarian processes for the development of preventive interventions to enhance female fertility. The current review attempts to collate the recent findings on Cd-induced oxidative stress, follicular apoptosis, steroid synthesis inhibition, and teratogenic toxicity, along with their possible mechanisms in the ovarian tissue of different animal species. Additionally, the review also summarizes the studies related to the use of many antioxidants, medicinal herbs, and other compounds as remedial approaches for managing Cd-induced ovarian toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitender Kumar Bhardwaj
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India
| | - Prerna Bikal
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India
| | - Som Nath Sachdeva
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology Kurukshetra, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana, India
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14
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Yu W, Zhu H, Huang R, Yan B, Xu B, Shi Y, Mao J, Liu Z, Wang J. Roles of Cyt-c/Caspase-9/Caspase-3/Bax/Bcl-2 pathway in Cd-induced testicular injury in rats and the protective effect of quercetin. Toxicon 2024; 237:107561. [PMID: 38092195 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2023.107561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) exposure causes oxidative damage to mitochondria, which would adversely affect rat testicular tissue. Quercetin (Que) is a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects. However, the mechanism by which Que inhibits Cd-induced apoptosis of testicular cells remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of mitochondrial apoptosis pathway (Cyt-c/Caspase-9/Caspase-3/Bax/Bcl-2 pathway) in inhibiting Cd-induced apoptosis of testicular cells by Que. We used SD rats to simulate Cd chloride exposure by treating all sides of the rats with CdCl2 and/or Que. The levels of GSH and MDA in rat testis were detected using reagent kits. The effects of CdCl2 and/or Que on tissue damage, apoptosis, and gene and protein expression of the Cyt-c/Caspase-9/Caspase-3/Bax/Bcl-2 pathway in rat testis were examined by HE, TUNEL, RNA extraction and reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and Western blot (Wb). The results show that Cd significantly increased the contents of GSH and MDA in rat testis (P < 0.01); conversely, Que significantly reduced the contents of GSH and MDA (P < 0.01). Cd inflicted damage to testicular tissue, and Que addition significantly reduced the damage. Cd increased the number of apoptosis of testicle cells, and Que inhibited testicle-cell apoptosis. In addition, the results of reverse transcription PCR and Wb assays confirmed that, as expected, Cd increased the expression levels of Cyt-c, Caspase-9, Caspase-3, and Bax mRNAs as well as proteins. And at the same time decreased the expression of the anti-apoptotic factor Bcl-2 in the cells. Surprisingly, these effects were reversed when Que was added. Therefore, Que can play an antioxidant and anti-apoptotic role in reducing the testicular tissue damage caused by Cd exposure. This provides a conceptual basis for the later development and utilization of Que as well as the prevention and treatment of tissue damage caused by Cd exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China
| | - Huali Zhu
- Law Hospital, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China
| | - Ruxue Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China
| | - Bingzhao Yan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China
| | - Bing Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China
| | - Yaning Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China
| | - Junbing Mao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China
| | - Zongping Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, No.12, East Wenhui Road, 225009, Yangzhou, PR China
| | - Jicang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China.
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15
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Panchal H, Bhardwaj JK. Quercetin Supplementation Alleviates Cadmium Induced Genotoxicity-Mediated Apoptosis in Caprine Testicular Cells. Biol Trace Elem Res 2023:10.1007/s12011-023-04038-8. [PMID: 38158459 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-04038-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Being a common environmental pollutant, cadmium causes detrimental health effects, including testicular injury. Herein, we document the ameliorative potential of quercetin, a potent antioxidant, against cadmium-induced geno-cytotoxicity and steroidogenic toxicity in goat testicular tissue. Cadmium induced different comet types (Type 0 - Type 4), indicating the varying degree of DNA-damage in testicular cells. The quantitative analysis at 50 and 100 µM cadmium concentration revealed the DNA damage with per cent tail DNA as 75.78 ± 1.49 and 94.65 ± 0.95, respectively, in comparison to the control group (8.87 ± 0.48) post 8 h exposure duration. Cadmium caused a substantial decrease in the activity of key steroidogenic enzymes' (3β-HSD and 17β-HSD) along with reduction of testosterone level in testicular tissue. Furthermore, cadmium treatment induced various types of deformities in sperm, altered the Bax/Bcl-2 expression ratio in testicular tissue and thus suggesting the apoptosis-mediated death of testicular cells. Simultaneous quercetin supplementation, however, significantly (p < 0.05) averted the aforementioned cadmium-mediated damage in testicular tissue. Conclusively, the cadmium-induced DNA-damage and decrease in steroidogenic potential results in death of testicular cells via apoptosis, which was significantly counteracted by quercetin co-supplementation, and thus preventing the cadmium-mediated cytotoxicity of testicular cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harish Panchal
- Department of Zoology, Shri Ramasamy Memorial University, Sikkim, 737102, India
| | - Jitender Kumar Bhardwaj
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana, 136119, India.
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16
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Xie J, Wang J, Shao J, Fang H, Liu Y, Xiao X, Wen X, Guan X, Su Z, Duan P, Chen H, Chen C. Transcriptomic characterization of interactions between sodium selenite and coenzyme Q10 on preventing cadmium-induced testicular defects. Food Chem Toxicol 2023; 182:114180. [PMID: 37967787 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2023.114180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
The effect of heavy metal cadmium (Cd) on testicular function is recognized. However, the mechanism involved is not well-established. In the present study, we analyzed the testicular transcriptomic changes induced by acute Cd exposure of adult rats with and without supplementation of antioxidants selenium (Se) and/or coenzyme Q10 (CoQ). Cd significantly decreased serum testosterone and two steroidogenic proteins SCARB1 and STAR. RNA-Seq analyses of testicular RNAs revealed specific activation of oxidative stress-, inflammation-, MAPK- and NF-κB-related signaling molecules. In addition, Cd treatment down-regulated gene for I, III and IV complexes of mitochondrial electron transport chain and up-regulated genes for NADPH-oxidase, major cascade in ROS production. The decrease in steroidogenesis and increase in inflammation may result from oxidative stress since supplementation of Se and CoQ, but not with either alone, almost completely prevented these changes, including overall alterations in transcriptome. Cd exposure induced total of 1192 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which was reduced to 29 without considering confounding factors associated with Se/CoQ, a 97.6% protection rate. In conclusion, Cd exposure inhibited Leydig cell steroidogenesis by down-regulating SCARB1 and STAR through increasing oxidative stress and inflammation, but Se plus CoQ synergistically prevented all the changes induced by the Cd exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Xie
- Department of Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jiexia Wang
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital andYuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jingjing Shao
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hangping Fang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital andYuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yijia Liu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xue Xiao
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Wen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital andYuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoju Guan
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zhijian Su
- Department of Cell Biology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ping Duan
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital andYuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haolin Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital andYuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Congde Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China; Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou City, Key Laboratory of Structural Malformations in Children of Zhejiang Province, Department of Pediatric Urology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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17
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Wang Y, Liang Y, Yuan Z, Mai W, Leng Y, Zhang R, Chen J, Lai C, Chen H, Wu X, Sheng C, Zhang Q. Cadmium facilitates the formation of large lipid droplets via PLCβ2-DAG-DGKε-PA signal pathway in Leydig cells. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 266:115610. [PMID: 37866036 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) exposure damages the reproductive system. Lipid droplets (LDs) play an important role in steroid-producing cells to provide raw material for steroid hormone. We have found that the LDs of Leydig cells exposed to Cd are bigger than those of normal cells, but the effects on steroidogenesis and its underlying mechanism remains unclear. Using Isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantitation (iTARQ) proteomics, phosphodiesterase beta-2 (PLCβ2) was identified as the most significantly up-regulated protein in immature Leydig cells (ILCs) and adult Leydig cells (ALCs) derived from male rats exposed to maternal Cd. Consistent with high expression of PLCβ2, the size of LDs was increased in Leydig cells exposed to Cd, accompanied by reduction in cholesterol and progesterone (P4) levels. However, the high PLCβ2 did not result in high diacylglycerol (DAG) level, because Cd exposure up-regulated diacylglycerol kinases ε (DGKε) to promote the conversion from DAG to phosphatidic acid (PA). Exogenous PA, which was consistent with the intracellular PA concentration induced by Cd, facilitated the formation of large LDs in R2C cells, followed by reduced P4 level in the culture medium. When PLCβ2 expression was knocked down, the increased DGKε caused by Cd was reversed, and then the PA level was decreased to normal. As results, large LDs returned to normal size, and the level of total cholesterol was improved to restore steroidogenesis. The accumulation of PA regulated by PLCβ2-DAG-DGKε signal pathway is responsible for the formation of large LDs and insufficient steroid hormone synthesis in Leydig cells exposed to Cd. These data highlight that LD is an important target organelle for Cd-induced steroid hormone deficiency in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youjin Wang
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yuqing Liang
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Zansheng Yuan
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Wanwen Mai
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yang Leng
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Runze Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Jiayan Chen
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Caiyong Lai
- Department of Urology, The sixth affiliated hospital of Jinan University, Dongguan 523570, China
| | - Hongxia Chen
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangzhou Biopharmaceutical R&D Center of Jinan University Co., Ltd, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaoping Wu
- Institute of Tissue Transplantation and Immunology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
| | - Chao Sheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Qihao Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangzhou Biopharmaceutical R&D Center of Jinan University Co., Ltd, Guangzhou 510632, China.
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18
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Zhou L, Chen Y, Sun Y, Li N, Liu Y, Tan W, Zhang L. Cadmium induces apoptosis of mouse spermatocytes through JNK activation and disruption of autophagic flux. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 265:115505. [PMID: 37742578 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium has been reported to accumulate primarily in spermatogonia and spermatocytes. Exposure to cadmium results in male reproductive toxicity via germ-cell apoptosis and impaired autophagy. Apoptosis and autophagy are two physiologically conserved events that maintain cellular homeostasis. However, the precise role of autophagy in cadmium-induced apoptosis of male germ cells has yet to be addressed. The present study aimed to investigate the impact of cadmium exposure on the cytotoxicity of GC-2 spd cells, a mouse spermatocyte cell line. The results showed that cadmium exposure caused apoptotic cell death and the accumulation of autophagosomes, along with the up-regulation of ATG proteins in GC-2 spd cells. It was demonstrated that the cadmium-induced accumulation of autophagosomes contributes to the apoptosis of GC-2 spd cells. This notion is supported by the findings that the autophagy inhibitor 3-MA reduced accumulation of autophagosomes and apoptotic cell death. Conversely, the apoptosis inhibitor Z-VAD-FMK inhibited apoptosis but had little effect on the accumulation of autophagosomes. Cadmium may impede the fusion of autophagosomes with lysosomes, leading to the autophagosome buildup. Additionally, we found that the JNK pathway mediates transcriptional induction of several autophagy-related (ATG) genes involved in autophagosome formation. The cadmium-activated JNK pathway regulates apoptosis by mediating the autophagosome formation. Treatment of cells with the JNK inhibitor SP600125 attenuated the accumulation of autophagosomes, the upregulated expression of autophagosome-associated proteins and apoptotic cell death induced by cadmium. Overall, these findings suggest that cadmium enhances apoptosis of GC-2 spd cells by activating the JNK pathway and inhibiting autophagic flux.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhou
- School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health and Occupational Medicine, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Yong Chen
- Emergency Department, Taikang Tongji (Wuhan) Hospital, Wuhan 430050, China
| | - Yu Sun
- School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health and Occupational Medicine, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Nayu Li
- School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health and Occupational Medicine, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Yunhao Liu
- School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health and Occupational Medicine, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China
| | - Wei Tan
- Public Health Department, Geriatric Hospital Affiliated to Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China.
| | - Ling Zhang
- School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health and Occupational Medicine, Hubei Province Key Laboratory of Occupational Hazard Identification and Control, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430065, China.
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19
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Makris A, Alevra AI, Exadactylos A, Papadopoulos S. The Role of Melatonin to Ameliorate Oxidative Stress in Sperm Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15056. [PMID: 37894737 PMCID: PMC10606652 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
It is widely accepted that oxidative stress (OS) coming from a wide variety of causes has detrimental effects on male fertility. Antioxidants could have a significant role in the treatment of male infertility, and the current systematic review on the role of melatonin to ameliorate OS clearly shows that improvement of semen parameters follows melatonin supplementation. Although melatonin has considerable promise, further studies are needed to clarify its ability to preserve or restore semen quality under stress conditions in varied species. The present review examines the actions of melatonin via receptor subtypes and its function in the context of OS across male vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Serafeim Papadopoulos
- Hydrobiology-Ichthyology Laboratory, Department of Ichthyology and Aquatic Environment, University of Thessaly, Fytokou Str., 38446 Volos, Greece; (A.M.); (A.I.A.); (A.E.)
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20
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Tuncer SÇ, Küçükler S, Gür C, Aygörmez S, Kandemir FM. Effects of chrysin in cadmium-induced testicular toxicity in the rat; role of multi-pathway regulation. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:8305-8318. [PMID: 37592178 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08715-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cadmium (Cd) is a strong toxic agent and causes serious damage to testicular tissues. Chrysin (CHR) is a natural flavonoid with many effective properties, especially antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties. The current study describes new evidence for the ameliorative effects of CHR on oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy and inflammation pathways in Cd-induced testicular tissue toxicity. METHODS Thirty-five male Wistar rats were divided into five groups, control, Cd, CHR, Cd + CHR25, and Cd + CHR50. Cd was administered alone at a dose of 25 mg/kg body weight or in combination with CHR 25 mg/kg and CHR 50 mg/kg for 7 days. Cd and CHR were administered orally. Biochemical, molecular, and histological methods were used to investigate inflammation, apoptosis, autophagy, and oxidant pathways in testicular tissue. RESULTS Cd increased lipid peroxidation, JAK-2/STAT-3 levels, inflammation-related NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, COX-2, and iNOS levels, AKT-2, FOXO1, Bax, Apaf-1 and Caspase-3 levels, autophagic Beclin-1, LC3A and LC3B. The Cd also caused a decrease in the activities of antioxidant enzymes and GSH levels, antiapoptotic Bcl-2 levels. CHR, on the other hand, had the opposite effect of all these Cd-induced changes. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the data of this study indicate that testicular damage associated with Cd toxicity could be ameliorated by CHR administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sibel Çiğdem Tuncer
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Aksaray University, Aksaray, Türkiye.
| | - Sefa Küçükler
- Department of Veterinary Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Türkiye
| | - Cihan Gür
- Department of Veterinary Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary, Atatürk University, Erzurum, Türkiye
| | - Serpil Aygörmez
- Department of Veterinary Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary, Kafkas University, Kars, Türkiye
| | - Fatih Mehmet Kandemir
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Aksaray University, Aksaray, Türkiye
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21
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Abu-Khudir R, Almutairi HH, Abd El-Rahman SS, El-Said KS. The Palliative and Antioxidant Effects of Hesperidin against Lead-Acetate-Induced Testicular Injury in Male Wistar Rats. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2390. [PMID: 37760831 PMCID: PMC10525152 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11092390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Lead (Pb)-induced reprotoxicity is a detrimental consequence of Pb exposure, which results in abnormal spermatogenesis, testicular degeneration, and pathogenic sperm changes. The association between impaired male reproductive function and Pb-induced oxidative stress (OS) has been demonstrated, with consequent testicular antioxidant deficiency. The current study investigated the protective role of the natural antioxidant hesperidin (HSD) against lead-acetate (PbAc)-induced testicular toxicity. Male Wistar rats (n = 40) were randomly divided into four experimental groups: Group I (negative control) received 2.0 mL/kg BW 0.9% saline; Group II received 100 mg/kg BW PbAc; Group III received 100 mg/kg BW HSD; and Group IV received HSD two hours before PbAc using the abovementioned doses. The treatments were administered daily for 30 consecutive days. The results showed that HSD treatment significantly restored PbAc-induced decrease in body, epididymal, and testicular weights as well as in semen parameters, reproductive hormones, and testicular markers of OS. Reduced MDA levels and improved testicular histopathological findings were also observed. Collectively, this study sheds light on the preventive role of HSD against PbAc-induced testicular injury, which is mediated via the suppression of OS and the modulation of reproductive hormones as well as the plausibility of HSD being used as a supplementary therapeutic option for recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasha Abu-Khudir
- Chemistry Department, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, P.O. Box 380, Hofuf 31982, Saudi Arabia;
- Chemistry Department, Biochemistry Branch, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt;
| | - Hayfa Habes Almutairi
- Chemistry Department, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, P.O. Box 380, Hofuf 31982, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Sahar S. Abd El-Rahman
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza 12211, Egypt;
| | - Karim Samy El-Said
- Chemistry Department, Biochemistry Branch, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt;
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22
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Lee WY, Park HJ. T-2 mycotoxin Induces male germ cell apoptosis by ROS-mediated JNK/p38 MAPK pathway. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 262:115323. [PMID: 37541021 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
T-2 mycotoxin, a type A trichothecene toxin that, specifically, causes male and female reproductive toxicity. We evaluated T-2 toxin toxicity in testes from neonatal testes after in vitro tissue cultured. Additionally, current study focuses on the molecular mechanism of toxicity and germ cell damage in GC-1 spermatogonial cells. Mouse testicular fragments were subjected to T-2 toxin (0-20 nM) during days 5 of in vitro culture. Testicular germ cell number were reduced and downregulated the expression of corresponding markers depending on the exposure concentration of T-2 toxin; however, Sertoli cell markers and steroidogenic enzyme expression increased when treated with 20 nM T-2 toxin. The cell viability decreased, apoptosis increased, and pro-apoptotic protein expression increased in 5-20 nM T-2 toxin-exposed spermatogonia. Moreover, T-2 toxin generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induced mitochondrial dysfunction, indicating that activation of p38 MAPK signaling triggered by ROS is involved in the apoptotic molecular mechanism of T-2 toxin. T-2 toxin induced the phosphorylation of ERK1/2, c-Jun, JNK/SAPK, p38, and p53, and the subsequent inhibition of AKT phosphorylation. The upregulation of genes related to apoptosis and MAPK/JNK signaling was consistently observed in cells exposed to T-2 toxin. These results indicate that T-2 toxin triggers apoptotic cell death in germ cells through the triggering of ROS-mediated JNK/p38-MAPK signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Won-Young Lee
- Department of Livestock, Korea National University of Agriculture and Fisheries, Jeonbuk 54874, South Korea
| | - Hyun-Jung Park
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Sangji University, Wonju-si 26339, South Korea.
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23
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Song B, Zhang Y, Xiong G, Luo H, Zhang B, Li Y, Wang Z, Zhou Z, Chang X. Single-cell transcriptomic analysis reveals the adverse effects of cadmium on the trajectory of neuronal maturation. Cell Biol Toxicol 2023; 39:1697-1713. [PMID: 36114956 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-022-09775-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is an extensively existing environmental pollutant that has neurotoxic effects. However, the molecular mechanism of Cd on neuronal maturation is unveiled. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has been widely used to uncover cellular heterogeneity and is a powerful tool to reconstruct the developmental trajectory of neurons. In this study, neural stem cells (NSCs) from subventricular zone (SVZ) of newborn mice were treated with CdCl2 for 24 h and differentiated for 7 days to obtain neuronal lineage cells. Then scRNA-seq analysis identified five cell stages with different maturity in neuronal lineage cells. Our findings revealed that Cd altered the trajectory of maturation of neuronal lineage cells by decreasing the number of cells in different stages and hindering their maturation. Cd induced differential transcriptome expression in different cell subpopulations in a stage-specific manner. Specifically, Cd induced oxidative damage and changed the proportion of cell cycle phases in the early stage of neuronal development. Furthermore, the autocrine and paracrine signals of Wnt5a were downregulated in the low mature neurons in response to Cd. Importantly, activation of Wnt5a effectively rescued the number of neurons and promoted their maturation. Taken together, the findings of this study provide new and comprehensive insights into the adverse effect of Cd on neuronal maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Song
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of the Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yuwei Zhang
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of the Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Guiya Xiong
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of the Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Huan Luo
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of the Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Bing Zhang
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of the Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yixi Li
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of the Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Zhibin Wang
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong, 518055, China
| | - Zhijun Zhou
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of the Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiuli Chang
- School of Public Health and Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of the Ministry of Education, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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24
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Zhang X, Zuo Y, Zhang J, Zhang D, Naeem M, Chang Y, Shi Z. Sevoflurane inhibited reproductive function in male mice by reducing oxidative phosphorylation through inducing iron deficiency. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1184632. [PMID: 37346174 PMCID: PMC10279888 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1184632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Sevoflurane (Sev) is one of the commonly used inhalation anesthetic chemicals in clinics. It has great impact on spermatogenesis and fertilization in male animals. The underlying mechanism remains largely unexplored. Based on our previous research, we hypothesized that Sev induced iron metabolism disturbance in the testis and epididymis and inhibited the spermatogenesis. In this study, two-month-old C57BL/6 male mice were treated with 3% Sev for 6 h, and their fertility (including sperm concentration, sperm mobility, and the number of offspring) was evaluated. Mice testis, epididymis, and sperm were harvested and subjected to Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence analysis. Iron levels were reflected by the gene expression of iron metabolism-related proteins (including ferritin, TfR1, and FpN1) and ICP-MS and Perl's iron staining. Electron transport and oxidative phosphorylation levels were measured by Oxygraph-2k and ATP contents. The activity of ribonucleotide reductase was evaluated by assay kit. DNA synthesis status in testis and/or epididymis was marked with BrdU. Cell proliferation was evaluated by double immunofluorescence staining of specific protein marker expression. Our results revealed that the mice exposed to Sev showed damaged testicular and epididymis structure and significantly reduced the sperm concentration, sperm motility, and fertility. Sev decreases the iron levels through down-regulating the expression of H-ferritin, L-ferritin, and FpN1, and up-regulating the expression of TfR1 in the testis and epididymis. Iron levels also significantly reduced in germ cells which decrease the number of germ cells, including sperm, Sertoli cells, and primary spermatocyte. Iron deficiency not only decreases electron transport, oxidative phosphorylation level, and ATP production but also suppresses the activity of ribonucleotide reductase and the expression of Ki67, DDX4, GATA1, and SCP3, indicating that Sev affects the spermatogenesis and development. Meanwhile, Sev impaired the blood-testis barrier by decreasing the ZO1 expression in the testis and epididymis. The damage effect induced by Sev can be significantly ameliorated by iron supplementation. In conclusion, our study illustrates a new mechanism by which Sev inhibits spermatogenesis and fertility through an oxidative phosphorylation pathway due to iron deficiency of epididymis and testis or sperm. Furthermore, the damaging effects could be ameliorated by iron supplementation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Zhenhua Shi
- *Correspondence: Jianhua Zhang, ; Zhenhua Shi,
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25
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Venditti M, Santillo A, Latino D, Ben Rhouma M, Romano MZ, Haddadi A, Di Fiore MM, Minucci S, Messaoudi I, Chieffi Baccari G. Evidence of the protective role of D-Aspartate in counteracting/preventing cadmium-induced oxidative stress in the rat testis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 259:115067. [PMID: 37244200 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd), by producing oxidative stress and acting as an endocrine disruptor, is known to cause severe testicular injury, documented by histological and biomolecular alterations, such as decreased serum testosterone (T) level and impairment of spermatogenesis. This is the first report on the potential counteractive/preventive action of D-Aspartate (D-Asp), a well-known stimulator of T biosynthesis and spermatogenesis progression by affecting hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, in alleviating Cd effects in the rat testis. Our results confirmed that Cd affects testicular activity, as documented by the reduction of serum T concentration and of the protein levels of steroidogenesis (StAR, 3β-HSD, and 17β-HSD) and spermatogenesis (PCNA, p-H3, and SYCP3) markers. Moreover, higher protein levels of cytochrome C and caspase 3, together with the number of cells positive to TUNEL assay, indicated the intensification of the apoptotic process. D-Asp administered either simultaneously to Cd, or for 15 days before the Cd-treatment, reduced the oxidative stress induced by the metal, alleviating the consequent harmful effects. Interestingly, the preventive action of D-Asp was more effective than its counteractive effect. A possible explanation is that giving D-Asp for 15 days induces its significant uptake in the testes, reaching the concentrations necessary for optimum function. In summary, this report highlights, for the first time, the beneficial role played by D-Asp in both counteracting/preventing the adverse Cd effects in the rat testis, strongly encouraging further investigations to consider the potential value of D-Asp also in improving human testicular health and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli, 16-80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Via Vivaldi, 43-81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Debora Latino
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Via Vivaldi, 43-81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Mariem Ben Rhouma
- LR11ES41: Génetique, Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bioressources, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Maria Zelinda Romano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli, 16-80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Asma Haddadi
- LR11ES41: Génetique, Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bioressources, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Via Vivaldi, 43-81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli, 16-80138 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Imed Messaoudi
- LR11ES41: Génetique, Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bioressources, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Via Vivaldi, 43-81100 Caserta, Italy
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26
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Wang Y, Wu J, Zhang M, OuYang H, Li M, Jia D, Wang R, Zhou W, Liu H, Hu Y, Yao Y, Liu Y, Ji Y. Cadmium exposure during puberty damages testicular development and spermatogenesis via ferroptosis caused by intracellular iron overload and oxidative stress in mice. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 325:121434. [PMID: 36907243 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a widespread environmental pollutant and a reproductive toxicant. It has been proved that Cd can reduce male fertility, however, the molecular mechanisms remain unveiled. This study aims to explore the effects and mechanisms of pubertal Cd exposure on testicular development and spermatogenesis. The results showed that Cd exposure during puberty could cause pathological damage to testes and reduce sperm counts in mice in adulthood. Moreover, Cd exposure during puberty reduced GSH content, induced iron overload and ROS production in testes, suggesting that Cd exposure during puberty may induce testicular ferroptosis. The results in vitro experiments further strengthened that Cd caused iron overload and oxidative stress, and decreased MMP in GC-1 spg cells. In addition, Cd disturbed intracellular iron homeostasis and peroxidation signal pathway based on transcriptomics analysis. Interestingly, these changes induced by Cd could be partially suppressed by pretreated with ferroptotic inhibitors, Ferrostatin-1 and Deferoxamine mesylate. In conclusion, the study demonstrated that Cd exposure during puberty maybe disrupted intracellular iron metabolism and peroxidation signal pathway, triggered ferroptosis in spermatogonia, and ultimately damaged testicular development and spermatogenesis in mice in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Wang
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Mingming Zhang
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Huijuan OuYang
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Mengyuan Li
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Didi Jia
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Rong Wang
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Weiyi Zhou
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Hao Liu
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yuan Hu
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yuyou Yao
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Yehao Liu
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - YanLi Ji
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.
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27
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Li D, Yang C, Xu X, Li S, Luo G, Zhang C, Wang Z, Sun D, Cheng J, Zhang Q. Low dosage fluorine ameliorates the bioaccumulation, hepatorenal dysfunction and oxidative stress, and gut microbiota perturbation of cadmium in rats. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 324:121375. [PMID: 36863438 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Many "hot spot" geographic areas around the world with soils and crops co-polluted with cadmium (Cd) and fluorine (F), two of the most representative pollutants in the environment. However, it still exists argumentative on the dose-effect relationship between F and Cd so far. To explore this, a rat model was established to evaluate the effects of F on Cd-mediated bioaccumulation, hepatorenal dysfunction and oxidative stress, and the disorder of intestinal microbiota as well. 30 healthy rats were randomly assigned to Control group (C group), Cd 1 mg/kg (Cd group), Cd 1 mg/kg and F 15 mg/kg (L group), Cd 1 mg/kg and F 45 mg/kg (M group), and Cd 1 mg/kg and F 75 mg/kg (H group) for 12 weeks by gavage. Our results showed that Cd exposure could accumulate in organs, cause hepatorenal function damage and oxidative stress, and disorder of gut microflora. However, different dosages of F showed various effects on Cd-induced damages in liver, kidney, and intestine, and only the low supplement of F showed a consistent trend. After low supplement of F, Cd levels were declined by 31.29% for liver, 18.31% for kidney, and 2.89% for colon, respectively. The serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr), and N-acetyl-β-glucosaminidase (NAG) were significantly reduced (p < 0.01); The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was elevated and mRNA expression level of NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) was decreased in the liver and kidney (p < 0.05). Moreover, low F dosage up-regulated the abundance of Lactobacillus from 15.56% to 28.73% and the 6.23% of F/B ratio was declined to 3.70%. Collectively, this highlights that low dosage of F might be a potential strategy to ameliorate the hazardous effects by Cd-exposed in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dashuan Li
- School of Public Health /the Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
| | - Chaolian Yang
- School of Public Health /the Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
| | - Xiaomei Xu
- School of Public Health /the Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
| | - Shanghang Li
- School of Public Health /the Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
| | - Guofei Luo
- School of Public Health /the Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
| | - Cheng Zhang
- School of Public Health /the Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
| | - Zelan Wang
- School of Public Health /the Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
| | - Dali Sun
- School of Public Health /the Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
| | - Jianzhong Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang, 550081, China.
| | - Qinghai Zhang
- School of Public Health /the Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, 550025, China.
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The role of calcium, Akt and ERK signaling in cadmium-induced hair cell death. Mol Cell Neurosci 2023; 124:103815. [PMID: 36634791 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcn.2023.103815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Exposure to heavy metals has been shown to cause damage to a variety of different tissues and cell types including hair cells, the sensory cells of our inner ears responsible for hearing and balance. Elevated levels of one such metal, cadmium, have been associated with hearing loss and shown to cause hair cell death in multiple experimental models. While the mechanisms of cadmium-induced cell death have been extensively studied in other cell types they remain relatively unknown in hair cells. We have found that calcium signaling, which is known to play a role in cadmium-induced cell death in other cell types through calmodulin and CaMKII activation as well as IP3 receptor and mitochondrial calcium uniporter mediated calcium flow, does not appear to play a significant role in cadmium-induced hair cell death. While calmodulin inhibition can partially protect hair cells this may be due to impacts on mechanotransduction activity. Removal of extracellular calcium, and inhibiting CaMKII, the IP3 receptor and the mitochondrial calcium uniporter all failed to protect against cadmium-induced hair cell death. We also found cadmium treatment increased pAkt levels in hair cells and pERK levels in supporting cells. This activation may be protective as inhibiting these pathways enhances cadmium-induced hair cell death rather than protecting cells. Thus cadmium-induced hair cell death appears distinct from cadmium-induced cell death in other cell types where calcium, Akt and ERK signaling all promote cell death.
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Liu H, Wang R, OuYang H, Wang Y, Wu J, Li M, Hu Y, Yao Y, Liu Y, Ji Y. Cadmium induced mouse spermatogonia apoptosis via mitochondrial calcium overload mediated by IP 3R-MCU signal pathway. Toxicology 2023; 486:153448. [PMID: 36731763 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2023.153448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal and also a well-known reproductive toxicant. Cd could induce germ cells apoptosis in mouse testes, however, the mechanism remains unclear. This study designed in vitro using GC-1 spermatogonial (spg) cells to explore the cytotoxicity and the molecular mechanisms induced by cadmium chloride(CdCl2). As expected, CdCl2 elevated the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induced the release of AIF and Cyt-c from the mitochondria to the cytosol in spermatogonia. Correspondingly, CdCl2 apparently increased the apoptotic rate in spermatogonia. Further researches found that CdCl2 could activate IP3R-MCU pathway, trigger Ca2+ transfer from endoplasmic reticulum to mitochondria, and cause mitochondrial Ca2+ overload. BAPTA acetoxymethyl ester (BAPTA-AM), a calcium chelator, almost completely attenuated IP3R phosphorylation, inhibited the mRNA and protein expression levels of VDAC1, MCU and MCUR1 upregulated by CdCl2, reduced the calcium ion content in the mitochondria. Moreover, BAPTA-AM could decrease the level of ROS, antagonize CdCl2-induced release of AIF and Cyt-c from the mitochondria to the cytosol and alleviate CdCl2-induced apoptosis in spermatogonia. As above, these results provided the evidence that CdCl2 might induce apoptosis of spermatogonia via mitochondrial Ca2+ overload mediated by IP3R-MCU signal pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Liu
- Department of health inspection and quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Rong Wang
- Department of health inspection and quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Huijuan OuYang
- Department of health inspection and quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of health inspection and quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Department of health inspection and quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Mengyuan Li
- Department of health inspection and quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Yuan Hu
- Department of health inspection and quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Yuyou Yao
- Department of health inspection and quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, 230032 Anhui, China
| | - Yehao Liu
- Department of health inspection and quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, 230032 Anhui, China.
| | - Yanli Ji
- Department of health inspection and quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei 230032, Anhui, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, 230032 Anhui, China.
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Hyun M, Kim H, Kim J, Lee J, Lee HJ, Rathor L, Meier J, Larner A, Lee SM, Moon Y, Choi J, Han SM, Heo JD. Melatonin protects against cadmium-induced oxidative stress via mitochondrial STAT3 signaling in human prostate stromal cells. Commun Biol 2023; 6:157. [PMID: 36750754 PMCID: PMC9905543 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04533-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin protects against Cadmium (Cd)-induced toxicity, a ubiquitous environmental toxicant that causes adverse health effects by increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and mitochondrial dysfunction. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that Cd exposure reduces the levels of mitochondrially-localized signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (mitoSTAT3) using human prostate stromal cells and mouse embryonic fibroblasts. Melatonin enhances mitoSTAT3 abundance following Cd exposure, which is required to attenuate ROS damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cell death caused by Cd exposure. Moreover, melatonin increases mitochondrial levels of GRIM-19, an electron transport chain component that mediates STAT3 import into mitochondria, which are downregulated by Cd. In vivo, melatonin reverses the reduced size of mouse prostate tissue and levels of mitoSTAT3 and GRIM-19 induced by Cd exposure. Together, these data suggest that melatonin regulates mitoSTAT3 function to prevent Cd-induced cytotoxicity and could preserve mitochondrial function during Cd-induced stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moonjung Hyun
- grid.418982.e0000 0004 5345 5340Gyeongnam Biohealth Research Center, Gyeongnam Branch Institute, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jinju, 52834 Republic of Korea
| | - Hyejin Kim
- grid.418982.e0000 0004 5345 5340Gyeongnam Biohealth Research Center, Gyeongnam Branch Institute, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jinju, 52834 Republic of Korea
| | - Jehein Kim
- grid.418982.e0000 0004 5345 5340Gyeongnam Biohealth Research Center, Gyeongnam Branch Institute, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jinju, 52834 Republic of Korea
| | - Juhong Lee
- grid.418982.e0000 0004 5345 5340Gyeongnam Biohealth Research Center, Gyeongnam Branch Institute, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jinju, 52834 Republic of Korea
| | - Ho Jeong Lee
- grid.418982.e0000 0004 5345 5340Gyeongnam Biohealth Research Center, Gyeongnam Branch Institute, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jinju, 52834 Republic of Korea
| | - Laxmi Rathor
- grid.15276.370000 0004 1936 8091Department of Physiology and Aging, College of Medicine, Institute on Aging, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA
| | - Jeremy Meier
- grid.410711.20000 0001 1034 1720Division of Hematology, UNC School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC USA
| | - Andrew Larner
- grid.224260.00000 0004 0458 8737Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA USA
| | - Seon Min Lee
- grid.418982.e0000 0004 5345 5340Gyeongnam Biohealth Research Center, Gyeongnam Branch Institute, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jinju, 52834 Republic of Korea
| | - Yeongyu Moon
- grid.418982.e0000 0004 5345 5340Gyeongnam Biohealth Research Center, Gyeongnam Branch Institute, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jinju, 52834 Republic of Korea
| | - Jungil Choi
- grid.418982.e0000 0004 5345 5340Gyeongnam Biohealth Research Center, Gyeongnam Branch Institute, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jinju, 52834 Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Min Han
- Department of Physiology and Aging, College of Medicine, Institute on Aging, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Jeong-Doo Heo
- Gyeongnam Biohealth Research Center, Gyeongnam Branch Institute, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Jinju, 52834, Republic of Korea.
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The Impact of Long-Term Clinoptilolite Administration on the Concentration Profile of Metals in Rodent Organisms. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12020193. [PMID: 36829471 PMCID: PMC9952783 DOI: 10.3390/biology12020193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Heavy metals are dangerous systemic toxicants that can induce multiple organ damage, primarily by inducing oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage. Clinoptilolite is a highly porous natural mineral with a magnificent capacity to eliminate metals from living organisms, mainly by ion-exchange and adsorption, thus providing detoxifying, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory medicinal effects. The in vivo efficiency and safety of the oral administration of clinoptilolite in its activated forms, tribomechanically activated zeolite (TMAZ) and Panaceo-Micro-Activated (PMA) zeolite, as well as the impact on the metallic biodistribution, was examined in healthy female rats. Concentration profiles of Al, As, Cd, Co, Pb, Ni and Sr were measured in rat blood, serum, femur, liver, kidney, small and large intestine, and brain using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) after a 12-week administration period. Our results point to a beneficial effect of clinoptilolite materials on the concentration profile of metals in female rats supplemented with the corresponding natural clinoptilolite materials, TMAZ and PMA zeolite. The observed decrease of measured toxicants in the kidney, femur, and small and large intestine after three months of oral intake occurred concomitantly with their most likely transient release into the bloodstream (serum) indicative of a detoxification process.
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Romano MZ, Ben Rhouma M, Messaoudi I, Aniello F, Minucci S, Venditti M. Expression of RSPH6A in the first wave of rat spermatogenesis and oxidative stress conditions: Attenuation by melatonin. Reprod Med Biol 2023; 22:e12542. [PMID: 37795044 PMCID: PMC10545975 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Here, we report, for the first time, the temporal expression and localization of axonemal radial spoke head homolog A (RSPH6A) protein during the first wave of rat spermatogenesis and in oxidative stress conditions. Methods For the developmental study, testes were collected from rats at different developmental stages (7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, and 60 postnatal days); for in vivo treatment, 24 rats were treated with cadmium and/or melatonin. From each sample, western blot (WB) and immunofluorescence (IF) analyses for RSPH6A were performed. Results RSPH6A expression starts at 21 PND alongside the appearance of I spermatocytes (SPC) with a significant increase up to 60 PND. Data were confirmed by IF analysis, showing that RPSH6A expression is restricted to I and II SPC, spermatids, and mature sperm. In vivo experiments showed that the expression and localization of RSPH6A in the testis and epididymal spermatozoa of adult rats treated with cadmium were impaired. Interestingly, melatonin (an antioxidant), given together with Cd, can counteract its damaging effects. Conclusions All combined data confirm that RSPH6A contributes to the onset of fertility by acting on sperm motility, raising the possibility of using RSPH6A as a marker for normal fertility in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Zelinda Romano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”NapoliItaly
| | - Mariem Ben Rhouma
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio‐RessourcésInstitut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de MonastirMonastirTunisia
| | - Imed Messaoudi
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio‐RessourcésInstitut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de MonastirMonastirTunisia
| | - Francesco Aniello
- Dipartimento di BiologiaUniversità di Napoli “Federico II”NapoliItaly
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”NapoliItaly
| | - Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”NapoliItaly
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Ruczaj A, Brzóska MM. Environmental exposure of the general population to cadmium as a risk factor of the damage to the nervous system: A critical review of current data. J Appl Toxicol 2023; 43:66-88. [PMID: 35304765 PMCID: PMC10084305 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Nowadays, more and more attention has been focused on the risk of the neurotoxic action of cadmium (Cd) under environmental exposure. Due to the growing incidence of nervous system diseases, including neurodegenerative changes, and suggested involvement of Cd in their aetiopathogenesis, this review aimed to discuss critically this element neurotoxicity. Attempts have been made to recognize at which concentrations in the blood and urine Cd may increase the risk of damage to the nervous system and compare it to the risk of injury of other organs and systems. The performed overview of the available literature shows that Cd may have an unfavourable impact on the human's nervous system at the concentration >0.8 μg Cd/L in the urine and >0.6 μg Cd/L in the blood. Because such concentrations are currently noted in the general population of industrialized countries, it can be concluded that environmental exposure to this xenobiotic may create a risk of damage to the nervous system and be involved in the aetiopathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, as well as worsening cognitive and behavioural functions. The potential mechanism of Cd neurotoxicity consists in inducing oxidative stress, disrupting the activity of enzymes essential to the proper functioning of the nervous system and destroying the homoeostasis of bioelements in the brain. Thus, further studies are necessary to recognize accurately both the risk of nervous system damage in the general population due to environmental exposure to Cd and the mechanism of this action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Ruczaj
- Department of ToxicologyMedical University of BialystokBialystokPoland
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Lactoferrin alleviates spermatogenesis dysfunction caused by bisphenol A and cadmium via ameliorating disordered autophagy, apoptosis and oxidative stress. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 222:1048-1062. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.09.260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Stojsavljević A, Zečević N, Mihailović M, Jagodić J, Đurđić S, Perović M, Manojlović D. Elemental profiling of human semen with confirmed normozoospermia: Baseline levels for 44 elements. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2022; 74:127081. [PMID: 36152465 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2022.127081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a consequence of the progressive decline in human semen quality in recent decades, modern epidemiological investigations have identified several trace elements that could be responsible for this phenomenon. However, their levels in semen have not been clearly elucidated, particularly for elements present in ultra-trace levels. METHODS We aimed to determine the levels of 39 (ultra)trace elements and 5 macroelements in human semen samples with confirmed normozoospermia using ICP-based techniques. The research was amplified by analyzing blood samples from the same participants. RESULTS Among the analyzed (ultra)trace elements in semen samples, Zn is the most and Tm is the least prominent. Zn levels in semen are so high that Zn should be considered as a macroelement in this matrix. The levels of Zn, Rh, Sm, Re, Ir, Tl, Na, and Ca were significantly higher in semen, while the levels of Cu, As, Rb, Gd, Sb, Tb, Tm, Lu, K, and Fe were significantly higher in blood. Correlation analysis of the levels of 44 individual elements in paired semen and blood samples revealed positive correlations between 43 of the elements, particularly for Tl and Pt. An exception was the negative correlation for Cu, which showed that its high level in semen is associated with a low level in blood and contrariwise. CONCLUSION The reported data can be used as baseline levels/reference values for 44 elements in human semen. Furthermore, the findings of this study could be relevant for further consideration of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandar Stojsavljević
- University of Belgrade, Faculty of Chemistry, Studentski trg 12-16, Belgrade, Serbia; Innovative Centre of the Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Faculty of Chemistry, Studentski trg 12-16, Belgrade, Serbia.
| | - Nebojša Zečević
- Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics Narodni front, Kraljice Natalije 62, Belgrade, Serbia; University of Belgrade, Faculty of Medicine, Dr Subotića starijeg 8, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Mladen Mihailović
- University of Belgrade, Faculty of Biology, Studentski trg 16, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jovana Jagodić
- University of Belgrade, Faculty of Chemistry, Studentski trg 12-16, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Slađana Đurđić
- University of Belgrade, Faculty of Chemistry, Studentski trg 12-16, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milan Perović
- Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics Narodni front, Kraljice Natalije 62, Belgrade, Serbia; University of Belgrade, Faculty of Medicine, Dr Subotića starijeg 8, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dragan Manojlović
- University of Belgrade, Faculty of Chemistry, Studentski trg 12-16, Belgrade, Serbia
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Ali W, Ma Y, Zhu J, Zou H, Liu Z. Mechanisms of Cadmium-Induced Testicular Injury: A Risk to Male Fertility. Cells 2022; 11:cells11223601. [PMID: 36429028 PMCID: PMC9688678 DOI: 10.3390/cells11223601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cadmium is a heavy toxic metal with unknown biological functions in the human body. Over time, cadmium accretion in the different visceral organs (liver, lungs, kidney, and testis) is said to impair the function of these organs, which is associated with a relatively long biological half-life and a very low rate of excretion. Recently studies have revealed that the testes are highly sensitive to cadmium. In this review, we discussed the adverse effect of cadmium on the development and biological functions of the testis. The Sertoli cells (SCs), seminiferous tubules, and Blood Testis Barrier are severely structurally damaged by cadmium, which results in sperm loss. The development and function of Leydig cells are hindered by cadmium, which also induces Leydig cell tumors. The testis's vascular system is severely disturbed by cadmium. Cadmium also perturbs the function of somatic cells and germ cells through epigenetic regulation, giving rise to infertile or sub-fertile males. In addition, we also summarized the other findings related to cadmium-induced oxidative toxicity, apoptotic toxicity, and autophagic toxicity, along with their possible mechanisms in the testicular tissue of different animal species. Consequently, cadmium represents a high-risk factor for male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waseem Ali
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yonggang Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Jiaqiao Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Hui Zou
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Zongping Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety of the Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
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Bakr AG, Hassanein EHM, Ali FEM, El-Shoura EAM. Combined apocynin and carvedilol protect against cadmium-induced testicular damage via modulation of inflammatory response and redox-sensitive pathways. Life Sci 2022; 311:121152. [PMID: 36336125 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.121152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Adel G Bakr
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, Assiut 71524, Egypt
| | - Emad H M Hassanein
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, Assiut 71524, Egypt
| | - Fares E M Ali
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, Assiut 71524, Egypt.
| | - Ehab A M El-Shoura
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch, Assiut 71524, Egypt
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38
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Liu S, Liu H, Li J, Wang Y. Research Progress on Elements of Wild Edible Mushrooms. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8090964. [PMID: 36135689 PMCID: PMC9505289 DOI: 10.3390/jof8090964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Wild edible mushrooms are distributed all over the world and are delicious seasonal foods, rich in polysaccharides, amino acids, vitamins, and other components. At the same time, they contain many essential trace elements and are highly enriched in heavy metals (compared to green plants and cultivated edible mushrooms). Consumers may be exposed to health risks due to excessive heavy metals in the process of consumption. This is also one of the important factors affecting the import and export of edible mushrooms, which is of great concern to consumers and entry and exit inspection and quarantine departments. In this paper, the contents of four essential trace elements of iron, manganese, zinc, and copper and four harmful heavy metals of cadmium, lead, mercury, and arsenic in nearly 400 species of wild edible mushrooms from 10 countries are reviewed. It was found that the factors affecting the elemental content of edible mushrooms are mainly divided into internal and external factors. Internal is mainly the difference in species element-enrichment ability, and external is mainly environmental pollution and geochemical factors. The aim is to provide a reference for the risk assessment of edible mushrooms and their elemental distribution characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Liu
- College of Resources and Environmental, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
- Institute of Medicinal Plants, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Kunming 650223, China
| | - Honggao Liu
- School of Agronomy and Life Sciences, Zhaotong University, Zhaotong 657000, China
| | - Jieqing Li
- College of Resources and Environmental, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
- Correspondence: (J.L.); (Y.W.); Tel.: +86-13-700-615-526 (J.L.); +86-87-165-033-575 (Y.W.)
| | - Yuanzhong Wang
- Institute of Medicinal Plants, Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Kunming 650223, China
- Correspondence: (J.L.); (Y.W.); Tel.: +86-13-700-615-526 (J.L.); +86-87-165-033-575 (Y.W.)
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Ikokide EJ, Oyagbemi AA, Oyeyemi MO. Impacts of cadmium on male fertility: Lessons learnt so far. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14516. [PMID: 35765120 DOI: 10.1111/and.14516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most dangerous heavy metals in the world. Globally, toxicities associated with cadmium and its attendant negative impact on humans and animals cannot be under-estimated. Cd is a heavy metal, and people are exposed to it through contaminated foods and smoking. Cd exerts its deleterious impacts on the testes (male reproductive system) by inducing oxidative stress, spermatogenic cells apoptosis, testicular inflammation, decreasing androgenic and sperm cell functions, disrupting ionic homeostasis, pathways and epigenetic gene regulation, damaging vascular endothelium and blood testes barrier. In association with other industrial by-products, Cd has been incriminated for the recent decline of male fertility rate seen in both man and animals. Understanding the processes involved in Cd-induced testicular toxicity is vital for the innovation of techniques that will help ameliorate infertility in males. In this review, we summed up recent studies on the processes of testicular toxicity and male infertility due to Cd exposure. Also, the usage of different compounds including phytochemicals, and plant extracts to manage Cd reprotoxicity will be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Joseph Ikokide
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Ademola Adetokunbo Oyagbemi
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Minucci S, Venditti M. New Insight on the In Vitro Effects of Melatonin in Preserving Human Sperm Quality. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23095128. [PMID: 35563519 PMCID: PMC9100642 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa (SPZ) are sensitive to stressful conditions, particularly oxidative stress, which alters their quality; thus, the use of protective molecules as an antioxidant is encouraged. Herein, we used melatonin (MLT) to investigate its in vitro effects on human sperm parameters under conditions of oxidative stress induced by cadmium (Cd). Fifteen human semen samples were divided into control, Cd-treated, MLT-treated, and Cd+MLT-treated groups and analyzed after 30 min, 6 h, and 24 h of exposure. Results showed a time-dependent decrease in SPZ motility, DNA integrity, and increased apoptosis induced by oxidative stress, and these effects were counteracted by MLT co-treatment. Based on these data, we further explored additional parameters just at 24 h. The induced oxidative stress, highlighted by the increased lipid peroxidation, reduced the percentage of SPZ able to undertake acrosome reaction and altered the levels and localization of some protein markers of motility (PREP, RSPH6A), morphology (DAAM1), and acrosome membrane (PTMA, IAM38); all these effects were counteracted by MLT co-treatment. Interestingly, MLT alone was able to ameliorate motility at 30 min of incubation compared to the control, while at 24 h, it prevented the physiological alteration in terms of motility, DNA integrity, and apoptosis. Collectively, the data encourage MLT use as an integrative molecule to ameliorate human gamete quality when compromised by stressful conditions.
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Panchal H, Sachdeva SN, Bhardwaj JK. Ultrastructural analysis of cadmium-induced toxicity and its alleviation by antioxidant quercetin in caprine testicular germ cells in vitro. Ultrastruct Pathol 2022; 46:259-267. [PMID: 35377831 DOI: 10.1080/01913123.2022.2060396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Increasing evidence has demonstrated that cadmium (Cd), a common environmental toxicant, has been associated with testicular toxicity. Quercetin, an efficient flavonoid, has been shown to exert cytoprotective effect in numerous pathological processes. The current study has employed ultrastructural analysis to examine the Cd-induced toxicity in goat testicular tissue along with the ameliorative action of quercetin in a dose- and time-dependent manner in-vitro. Results of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that at lower selected concentrations (10 and 50 µM), Cd induced apoptosis-mediated cytotoxicity in testicular tissue as supported by presence of various morphological attributes of apoptosis in testicular germ cells such as condensed and marginated chromatin followed by breakdown of chromatin material, swollen mitochondria, and vacuolization. At 100 µM concentration, along with apoptosis, Cd-induced cytotoxicity in testicular tissue was associated with induction of necrosis also. However, the simultaneous supplementation of antioxidant quercetin has markedly abrogated the testicular cytotoxicity as shown by restoration of Cd-evoked aberrant ultrastructure of testicular germ cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner, providing a basis for future studies to involve quercetin in management of Cd-induced reproductive toxicity in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harish Panchal
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, India
| | - Som Nath Sachdeva
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Kurukshetra and Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, India
| | - Jitender Kumar Bhardwaj
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, India
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Verma S, Batoye S, Jindal R. Protective efficacy of naringenin against cadmium-induced redox imbalance in Labeo rohita: an integrated biomarker approach. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:25591-25604. [PMID: 34846652 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-17703-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The protective efficacy of dietary naringenin (NG) has been investigated against the toxicity caused by cadmium chloride (CdCl2) using biomarkers of oxidative stress in the liver, gills and kidney of Labeo rohita. The fish were exposed to environmentally relevant concentrations of CdCl2 (0.37 and 0.62 mg/L) and simultaneously orally administered with NG (50 mg/kg bw/day) for 60 days. Tissue (gills, liver and kidney) samples were collected on days 15, 30 and 60 of the experiment and analysed for endogenous antioxidants and oxidative stress biomarkers. CdCl2 exposure for 15 and 30 days induced the development of adaptive mechanism as demonstrated by the enhanced activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-S-transferase in all three tissues. However, on the 60th day, CdCl2-induced oxidative damage was stipulated by a decline in the enzyme activities and reduced glutathione (GSH) content significantly (p < 0.05) below control levels along with enhanced levels of lipid peroxidation. Oral administration of NG in toxicant exposed fish significantly restored the altered levels of antioxidants, oxidative enzymes and lipid peroxidation. Besides, integrated biomarker response (IBR) analysis was applied by combining all the biomarkers to indicate the overall stress response index. IBR analysis confirmed the altered levels of biomarkers, the oxidative stress induced by CdCl2 exposure and the ameliorative potential of NG. The present study suggested that NG might have protective role against Cd-induced oxidative insult which might be ascribed to the ability of NG to chelate metals and scavenge free radicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakshi Verma
- Aquatic Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India
- Department of Zoology, Hans Raj Mahila Maha Vidyalaya, Jalandhar, 144008, Punjab, India
| | - Smriti Batoye
- Department of Zoology, Maharaja Agrasen University, Baddi, 174103, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Rajinder Jindal
- Aquatic Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India.
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Effects of Cadmium Exposure on Leydig Cells and Blood Vessels in Mouse Testis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19042416. [PMID: 35206604 PMCID: PMC8878469 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Environmental exposure to cadmium (Cd) contributes to a decline in the quality of human semen. Although the testis is sensitive to Cd exposure, the mechanism underlying how cadmium affects the testis remains to be defined. In this study, male mice were treated with intraperitoneal injections of 0, 0.5, 1.5 and 2.5 mg CdCl2/kg/day for 10 days, respectively. Both the testicular weight and the 3β-HSD activity of Leydig cells were significantly reduced with the administration of 2.5 mg CdCl2/kg/day. The height of endothelial cells in the interstitial blood vessels significantly increased with the use of 2.5 mg CdCl2/kg/day compared with the control. Western blot data showed that the protein levels of CD31, αSMA, caveolin and Ng2 increased with cadmium exposure, and this increase was particularly significant with the administration of 2.5 mg CdCl2/kg/day. CD31, αSMA, caveolin and Ng2 are related to angiogenesis. Based on our data, cadmium exposure may stimulate the proliferation of the mural cells and endothelial cells of blood vessels, which may lead to abnormal function of the testis.
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Qi Z, Liu Y, Yang H, Yang X, Wang H, Liu B, Yuan Y, Wang G, Xu B, Liu W, Xu Z, Deng Y. Protective role of m 6A binding protein YTHDC2 on CCNB2 in manganese-induced spermatogenesis dysfunction. Chem Biol Interact 2022; 351:109754. [PMID: 34822792 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2021.109754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Human infertility has become the third largest serious disease in the world, seriously affecting the quality of human fertility. Studies have shown that manganese (Mn) can accumulate in the testis through the blood-testicular barrier and damage the male reproductive system. However, the mechanism has not been explored clearly. Recent studies have reported that YTH domain-containing 2 (YTHDC2) can regulate reproductive function. However, none has explored the role of YTHDC2 in Mn-induced reproductive toxicity. The present study investigated whether YTHDC2/CyclinB2 (CCNB2) pathway participates in Mn-induced reproductive toxicity using Kunming mice, spermatogonia, and the seminal plasma of male workers. The mice were received intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of 0, 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg MnCl2 once daily for 2 weeks. The cells were treated with 0, 100, 200 and 400 μM MnCl2 for 24 h. Here, we found that occupational Mn exposure significantly increased Mn levels in the seminal plasma of male workers, while decreased sperm density, semen quality, and the levels of YTHDC2, CCNB1, and CCNB2. We found that Mn can inhibit the YTHDC2/CCNB2 signaling pathway and block the G2/M phase of the cell cycle. Moreover, the morphology of cells and the histomorphology of mice testis were injured. Notably, over-expression (OE) of YTHDC2 increased CCNB2 levels, reduced cell cycle arrest, and improved reproductive toxicity after Mn exposure. These findings suggest that the YTHDC2/CCNB2 signaling pathway participates in Mn-induced reproductive toxicity, and OE of YTHDC2 can mitigate the toxicity of Mn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhipeng Qi
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yanan Liu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China; Department of Preventive Health, Zhuhai People's Hospital (Zhuhai Hospital Affiliated with Jinan University), Zhuhai, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Haibo Yang
- Department of Occupational Diseases, Linyi People's Hospital, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xinxin Yang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Haiying Wang
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bingchen Liu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yuan Yuan
- Center of Experiment, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Gang Wang
- Center of Experiment, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bin Xu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhaofa Xu
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yu Deng
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, People's Republic of China.
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Bin-Jumah MN, Nadeem MS, Gilani SJ, Imam SS, Alshehri S, Kazmi I. Novelkaraya gum micro-particles loaded Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide regulate sex hormones, oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokine levels in cadmium induced testicular toxicity in experimental animals. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 194:338-346. [PMID: 34800521 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.11.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 10/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Presented research aimed to develop a spray drying process without the use of organic solvents for the preparation of novel Karaya gum polymer microparticles (MPs) of Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (GLP). The prepared microparticles were characterized and evaluated. Prepared novel karaya gum micro-particles loaded Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (GLP MPs) were observed an effect on cadmium (CAD) induced testicular toxicity. A total of 40 rats (male) was divided into 4 groups viz. 1. Control group, 2. GLP MPs (250 mg/kg, 60 days of b.w per day), 3. CAD (60 days of 30 mg/l/day), 4. GLP MPs + CAD. CAD was responsible for altering the sex hormones, oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, elevated levels of indicator of oxidative stress, malondialdehyde, and a reduced action of SOD, GSH, and CAT (antioxidant enzymes), were observed in the tissues of the testicles of CAD- treated group. Such harmful occurrences were followed by an up-regulation in proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β) levels, protein expression of Nrf2, and HO-1 expression was decreased. GLP MPs pre-treatment significantly abrogated these toxic effects which were confirmed histologically. This study concluded that pre-treatment with GLP MPs exerts a protective effect against CAD-induced male reproductive testicular toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- May Nasser Bin-Jumah
- Biology Department, College of Science, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; Environment and Biomaterial Unit, Health Sciences Research Center, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Muhammad Shahid Nadeem
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Sadaf Jamal Gilani
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, Preparatory Year, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Syed Sarim Imam
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Sultan Alshehri
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Imran Kazmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia.
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Ma S, Zhang J, Xu C, Da M, Xu Y, Chen Y, Mo X. Increased serum levels of cadmium are associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease in adults. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:1836-1844. [PMID: 34363163 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15732-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have determined the effects of exposure to certain heavy metals on cardiovascular disease (CVD); however, the association between cadmium exposure and CVD in adults remains unclear. The relationship between serum levels of cadmium and the risk of CVD was studied by analyzing available data from 38,223 different participants of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 1999 to 2016. After adjusting for all covariates, we found that higher serum cadmium concentrations were positively related to both the overall risk of CVD (odds ratio (OR): 1.45; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.22, 1.72; p for trend <0.001) and the risks of its subtypes, including congestive heart failure, coronary heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. Elevated cadmium levels were associated with increased levels of lipids and inflammatory factors, including blood triglycerides, total cholesterol, white blood cells (WBCs), and C-reactive protein (CRP). Our study provided epidemiological evidence that cadmium may increase the risk of CVD by elevating blood lipids and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyu Ma
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Cheng Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Min Da
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Yong Chen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, China
| | - Xuming Mo
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Children's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, 72 Guangzhou Road, Nanjing, 210008, China.
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Venditti M, Ben Rhouma M, Romano MZ, Messaoudi I, Reiter RJ, Minucci S. Evidence of melatonin ameliorative effects on the blood-testis barrier and sperm quality alterations induced by cadmium in the rat testis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 226:112878. [PMID: 34634736 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2021.112878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Herein, we further document the protective action of melatonin (MLT) in mitigating cadmium (Cd) effects on adult rat testis. Cd treatment provoked testicular injury, that was documented by histological and biomolecular alterations, i.e., decrease of serum and testicular testosterone concentration and modified sperm parameters. Mainly, both the cytoarchitecture of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and germ cell morphology were perturbed, as highlighted by impairment in structural (OCN, VANGL, Cx43) and regulative (Src and FAK) protein levels and/or activation. The study focused on the involvement of the autophagy pathway, that was enhanced especially in the Sertoli cells, probably in response to the disorganization of the BTB. Results obtained with the MLT co-treatment demonstrated that its administration decreased the level of oxidative damage caused by Cd, with reversal of all the observed changes. Moreover, the beneficial effects of MLT alone were evidenced by an increase of sperm quality, in term of motility and DNA integrity. The combined results, obtained in rat, strongly encourage to consider a role for MLT in improving also human testicular health, not only in men exposed to Cd, but also in those having fertility disorders, to ameliorate sperm quality and, consequently, reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate "F. Bottazzi", Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Costantinopoli, 16, 80138 Napoli, NA, Italy.
| | - Mariem Ben Rhouma
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio-ressourcés, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Rue Taher Haddad, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia.
| | - Maria Zelinda Romano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate "F. Bottazzi", Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Costantinopoli, 16, 80138 Napoli, NA, Italy.
| | - Imed Messaoudi
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio-ressourcés, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Rue Taher Haddad, 5000 Monastir, Tunisia.
| | - Russel J Reiter
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA.
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate "F. Bottazzi", Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", via Costantinopoli, 16, 80138 Napoli, NA, Italy.
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Changes in heavy metal levels, reproductive characteristics, oxidative stress markers and testicular apoptosis in rams raised around thermal power plant. Theriogenology 2021; 179:211-222. [PMID: 34894490 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Male reproductive dysfunction is one of the damages in the organism caused by heavy metals. In this study, it was aimed to investigate the changes in heavy metal levels in serum and testicular tissue, and serum hormone levels, epididymal spermatozoa characteristics, tissue oxidative stress levels, testicular histology and testicular apoptosis level in rams raised in remote and near regions of a thermal power plant. A total of 75 rams were divided into 3 groups according to the regions, where they were born and raised, being far [250 km distance, group 1 (control), n = 25], close (20 km distance, group 2, n = 25) and very close (10 km distance, group 3, n = 25) to the thermal power plant. The blood along with testis and epididymis tissues was taken from the animals after slaughtering. In addition, soil and water heavy metal analyzes were also performed. The highest levels of serum Al, Cr, As, Ag, Sn and testicular Al, V, Ni, Ag, Cd, Cr, As, Pb, and the lowest levels of serum Cu, testicular Cu and Zn were determined in group 3 compared to control. Soil and water heavy metal results were similar to those found in serum and testis. The lowest serum testosterone level, tissue glutathione-peroxidase and catalase activities, spermatozoon concentration, and the highest tissue malondialdehyde level, dead spermatozoon rate, Bax apoptotic protein expression level and Bax/Bcl-2 rate alongside some testicular histopathological lesions were found in group 3 in comparison to control. Significant correlations were determined between some heavy metal levels and some parameters measured. As a result, heavy metals accumulate in the soil and water in the region close to the thermal power plant. The endocrine and exocrine reproductive potentials of rams born and grown in these regions were clearly damaged by the increased testicular heavy metals due to water drank and herbs consumed.
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49
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Different fixatives influence morphology, antigen preservation, and TUNEL staining in chicken (Gallus gallus) testis. Acta Histochem 2021; 123:151822. [PMID: 34861475 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2021.151822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The optimized fixative for testis is still controversial. This study investigated the effects of Modified Davidson's Fluid (mDF), 4% Paraformaldehyde (4% PFA), and Bouin's Fluid (BF) fixatives on chicken testes in normal/cadmium (Cd) feeding groups using hematoxylin and eosin (HE), immunohistochemistry (IHC), and Terminal Transferase dUTP Nick End Labeling (TUNEL) staining. Compared to the mDF, we established that the testes fixed with 4% PFA and BF in the normal group had severe shrinkage in tubular and interstitial compartments. Moreover, compared with 4% PFA, the number of GATA4-positive Sertoli cells/mm2 reduced by 67.61% in mDF and 80.57% in BF for one seminiferous tubule. The TUNEL assay illustrated that more positive cells/mm2 in mDF group (28.47 ± 11.38) than in 4% PFA (10.49 ± 7.89). In Cd-treated testes, mDF showed more morphological details than 4% PFA and BF. In contrast, the number of GATA4-positive Sertoli cells/mm2 of 4% PFA was higher than that of mDF by 65.78% and BF by 64.80% in a seminiferous tubule. The number of TUNEL positive cells/mm2 in mDF (272.60 ± 34.41) were higher than in 4% PFA (175.91 ± 19.87). These results suggest that mDF fixative is suitable for normal and Cd-treated testis fixation for HE and TUNEL staining in chicken, whereas 4% PFA fixative is better for IHC examination.
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Guo R, Lv J, Xu H, Bai Y, Lu B, Han Y. A systems toxicology approach to explore toxicological mechanisms of fluoroquinolones-induced testis injury. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 228:113002. [PMID: 34800779 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2021.113002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The widespread use of fluoroquinolones (FQs) causes a serious risk to the environment and human health. Here, we evaluated the potential effect to induce testis damage by gatifloxacin (GAT) intragastrically treatment in mice (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg body weight per day for 7 days). We observed testicular weight, serum testosterone, antioxidant enzyme activity, and mRNA levels and pathways. Testicular histopathology indicated that GAT administration induced a dose-dependent spermatogenesis abnormality. At 50 mg/kg, GAT altered gene expression but did not change the weight and the levels of testosterone and antioxidant enzymes. These findings indicate that mRNA levels are more sensitive than weight and testosterone for detecting GAT testicular toxicity. We also found that GAT induced testicular damage by regulating the candidate genes associated with spermatogenesis, germ cell movement, testicular fibrosis, and reproductive axis development. This study enhances our perception of the mechanism of FQs-induced testicular toxicity and environmental effects. However, the molecular mechanism needs to be further researched.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruixian Guo
- School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China; Division of Antibiotics, Institute for Chemical Drug Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing 102629, China; Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine (Minzu University of China), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Junping Lv
- School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China; Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine (Minzu University of China), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Huibo Xu
- University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230031, China
| | - Yinghui Bai
- School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China; Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine (Minzu University of China), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Binan Lu
- School of Pharmacy, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China; Key Laboratory of Ethnomedicine (Minzu University of China), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100081, China.
| | - Ying Han
- Division of Antibiotics, Institute for Chemical Drug Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing 102629, China.
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