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Chi YN, Ye RJ, Yang JM, Hai DM, Liu N, Ren JW, Du J, Lan XB, Yu JQ, Ma L. Geniposide attenuates spermatogenic dysfunction via inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress in male mice. Chem Biol Interact 2022; 366:110144. [PMID: 36063855 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2022.110144] [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: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenesis dysfunction is common in clinically infertile patients. Geniposide (GP) is one of the important active ingredients extracted from Eucommia ulmoides. However, the protective effect and mechanism of GP in the treatment of spermatogenic dysfunction is not known yet. METHODS After cyclophosphamide-induced spermatogenic dysfunction was established in male mice, we gavaged GP for 4 weeks to evaluate spermatogenic function and anti-apoptotic effects by fertility, testicular weight, sperm quality, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress), comet assay and serum testosterone level. RESULTS GP can improve the damage of fertility and reproductive organs induced by cyclophosphamide and increase the number and activity of sperm. In comet assay, it was found that GP administration could alleviate sperm DNA damage induced by cyclophosphamide. In addition, GP treatment can significantly reduce ThT fluorescence intensity and improve endoplasmic reticulum stress induced by cyclophosphamide. Besides, TUNEL staining and WB showed that GP could inhibit the excessive apoptosis of cells and protect testis. (p < 0.05, p < 0.01, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION The protective effect of Geniposide on cyclophosphamide-induced spermatogenic dysfunction in mice is related to the inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Nan Chi
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Rui-Juan Ye
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Jia-Mei Yang
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Dong-Mei Hai
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Ning Liu
- Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, The Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Jia-Wei Ren
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Juan Du
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Xiao-Bing Lan
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Jian-Qiang Yu
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China; Ningxia Hui Medicine Modern Engineering Research Center and Collaborative Innovation Center, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China.
| | - Lin Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China.
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Carvalho RK, Rocha TL, Fernandes FH, Gonçalves BB, Souza MR, Araújo AA, Barbosa CC, Silva DM, Campos HM, Tomazett MV, Ghedini PC, Guimarães FS, Andersen ML, Santos FCA, Mazaro-Costa R. Decreasing sperm quality in mice subjected to chronic cannabidiol exposure: New insights of cannabidiol-mediated male reproductive toxicity. Chem Biol Interact 2021; 351:109743. [PMID: 34774840 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2021.109743] [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: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural cannabinoid present in the Cannabis sativa plant, widely prescribed as an anticonvulsant drug, especially for pediatric use. However, its effects on male reproduction are still little investigated. Therefore, the present study assessed the effects of CBD on the spermatogenesis and sperm quality. For this, twenty-one-day-old Swiss mice received CBD for 34 consecutive days by gavage at doses of either 15 or 30 mg/kg. Chronic exposure to CBD decreased the frequency of stages VII-VIII and XII of spermatogenesis and an increase in the frequency of stage IX were noted. Furthermore, the seminiferous epithelium height reduced at stage IX and increased at stage XII in both CBD-treated groups. There was a significant rise of sperm DNA damage, while no genotoxic effects were observed in leukocytes. The activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase decreased, while malondialdehyde levels increased in the sperm of mice treated with a higher dose of CBD. Mice exposed to 30 mg/kg of CBD showed a reduction in the mobile spermatozoa percentage and in curvilinear velocity, while straight line and average path velocity decreased in both treated groups. The number of acrosome-intact spermatozoa declined in the CBD 30 group, and the number of abnormal acrosomes raised in both CBD groups. On the other hand, the weight of reproductive organs, sperm count, and hormone levels were not affected by CBD treatment. These findings show that dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system by CBD can reduce sperm quality. The mechanisms responsible may be associated with disorders during spermatogenesis, especially during the final stages of nuclear remodelling and assembly of acrosome. However, changes in mitochondrial function, as well as the reduction on the antioxidant enzyme activities during epididymal transit, at least partly, may also be involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata K Carvalho
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Physiology and Pharmacology of Reproduction, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Thiago L Rocha
- Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology and Ecotoxicology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Fábio H Fernandes
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory of Toxicogenomic and Nutrigenomic, Medical School, State University of São Paulo, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Bruno B Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Environmental Biotechnology and Ecotoxicology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Maingredy R Souza
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Physiology and Pharmacology of Reproduction, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Amanda A Araújo
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Physiology and Pharmacology of Reproduction, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Caio C Barbosa
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Physiology and Pharmacology of Reproduction, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Daniela M Silva
- Department of Genetics, Laboratory of Mutagenesis, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Hericles M Campos
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Molecular and Biochemistry Pharmacology, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Mariana V Tomazett
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Paulo C Ghedini
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Molecular and Biochemistry Pharmacology, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Francisco S Guimarães
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Monica L Andersen
- Department of Psychobiology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Fernanda C A Santos
- Department of Histology, Embryology and Cell Biology, Laboratory of Microscopy Applied to Reproduction, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Renata Mazaro-Costa
- Department of Pharmacology, Laboratory of Physiology and Pharmacology of Reproduction, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.
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Wang Y, Zou Z, Jaisi A, Olatunji OJ. Unravelling the Protective Effects of Emodin Against Cyclophosphamide Induced Gonadotoxicity in Male Wistar Rats. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2021; 15:4403-4411. [PMID: 34703213 PMCID: PMC8541740 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s333383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Background Over the past few decades, cyclophosphamide (CP) has been extensively used as a broad-spectrum alkylating agent for the treatment of various cancers and solid tumors. However, the therapeutic actions on CP are not limited to only cancer cells, as it simultaneously exerts significant toxicities on healthy cells through the instigation of oxidative stress and oxidative damages. CP induced testicular toxicity is associated with impaired spermatogenesis, reduced sperm functionality, reproductive hormone and testicular weight. This study was aimed at unravelling the protective effects of emodin (EMD) on testicular toxicity following CP treatment. Methods Twenty-four male Wistar rats were allotted into 4 groups as normal control group (NCG), CP control group (CPCG), EMD25+CP (25 mg/kg in 5% tween 80) and EMD50+CP groups (50 mg/kg in 5% tween 80). EMD was orally administered for 35 consecutive days, while four doses of CP (100 mg/kg/week) were administered intraperitoneally from the second to fifth week of treatment. Thereafter, the animals were sacrificed and histopathological examination of the testes as well as serum/testicular biochemical assays were conducted. Results The results revealed that CP significantly impeded sperm function parameters including sperm count, viability and motility as well as decreased reproductive hormones (testosterone, LH and FSH) levels. In addition, CP enhanced testicular oxidative stress and proinflammatory markers (MDA, IL-6 and TNF-α), while simultaneously decreasing testicular antioxidant enzymes (GSH, GPx, SOD and CAT). Evidence of marked histopathological alterations was also observed in the H&E stained testicular tissues of CP treated rats. EMD significantly prevented these CP induced negative effects. Conclusion This study provides a basis for the potential use of EMD in counteracting chemotherapy induced testicular toxicity. The results further suggest that EMD testicular protective effects in CP-treated rats may be mediated through its modulatory role on oxidative stress and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yinhua Wang
- The Second Peoples Hospital of Wuhu, Wuhu, 241001, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaoling Zou
- The Second Peoples Hospital of Wuhu, Wuhu, 241001, Anhui, People's Republic of China
| | - Amit Jaisi
- School of Pharmacy, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, 80160, Thailand
| | - Opeyemi Joshua Olatunji
- Faculty of Thai Traditional Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, 90110, Thailand
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LCZ696 (sacubitril/valsartan) protects against cyclophosphamide-induced testicular toxicity in rats: Role of neprilysin inhibition and lncRNA TUG1 in ameliorating apoptosis. Toxicology 2020; 437:152439. [PMID: 32197949 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2020.152439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Cyclophosphamide (CP) is widely used as chemotherapy in various cancers; however, testicular atrophy has been encountered as an associated adverse effect. Oxidative stress, enhanced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and subsequent apoptosis are involved in the molecular mechanisms of CP-induced testicular toxicity. In addition to the cardiovascular benefits of LCZ696 (sacubitril/valsartan (VAL)), neprilysin inhibition was shown to mediate Ca2+ sequestration inside the ER. Furthermore, long noncoding RNA taurine-upregulated gene 1 (lncRNA TUG1) was shown to ameliorate apoptosis in various diseases. This tempted us to investigate the possible benefit of LCZ696 against CP-induced testicular dysfunction in rats through neprilysin inhibition axis, and the downstream apoptotic cascade, with highlighting the impact of lncRNA TUG1 in regulating testicular toxicity. Sixty adult male Wistar rats were randomly allocated as control, LCZ696, VAL, CP, CP + LCZ696, and CP + VAL. Testicular atrophy was induced by single-dose injection of CP (200 mg/kg; i.p.). LCZ696 treated group received LCZ696 (30 mg/kg; p.o.) for 6 days, with CP (200 mg/kg; i.p.) single-dose on day 5. LCZ696 increased lncRNA TUG1 expression, improved sperm characteristics, hormonal profile, testicular function, antioxidant defences, and Bcl-2. The histopathological picture and reduced oxidative and ER stress markers, aligned with declined Bax, caspase-3 and the expression of CHOP, PUMA, Noxa, Bim, and p53, with a subtle superior effect over VAL-treated group. In conclusion, the current study highlights the promising impact of LCZ696 in ameliorating chemotherapy-induced testicular atrophy; yet, further investigation regarding longer duration and different doses of LCZ696 is warranted.
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Taylor J, Baumgartner A, Schmid T, Brinkworth M. Responses to genotoxicity in mouse testicular germ cells and epididymal spermatozoa are affected by increased age. Toxicol Lett 2019; 310:1-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2019.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Zhang H, Zhang C, Yan J, Sun Z, Song S, Sun Y, Guo C. Transcriptome analysis of the responses to methyl methanesulfonate treatment in mouse pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids. Gene 2016; 595:193-201. [PMID: 27720830 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2016.10.006] [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: 07/27/2016] [Revised: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is threatened by DNA alkylating agents, one major category of DNA damaging agents. Currently, little is known about the alterations in transcriptome profiling of the mouse spermatogenic cells in response to DNA alkylation at distinct stages of spermatogenesis. In this study, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) was performed in pachytene spermatocytes (PS) and round spermatids (RS) at 0 or 30min following Methyl Methanesulfonate (MMS) treatment and with untreated controls. A large number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified by comparison of the three groups in PS and RS, respectively. Functional analyses of all DEGs highlighted the protein ubiquitination pathway and DNA damage response (DDR) network being the two main biological processes in common in the two cell types. Further analyses of the DEGs with 2-fold or more changes between 30min repair and control group indicated that several cytokine signaling pathways were the most strongly affected in PS and DDR related pathways in RS, respectively. Gene ontology (GO) analyses directly showed differential biological process (BP) affected between PS and RS, with "regulation of transcription" being most overrepresented in PS and "cellular response to stress" in RS, respectively. Moreover, 374 DDR-related genes in PS and 158 in RS among all DEGs were filtered and clustered, which showed dynamic expression patterns in PS and RS. Our analyses provide a transcriptional landscape for male germ cells in response to MMS during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Chuanchao Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Jinting Yan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Zhongshuai Sun
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Shuhui Song
- Core Genomic Facility, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Yazhou Sun
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | - Caixia Guo
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genomic and Precision Medicine, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
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Ghobadi E, Moloudizargari M, Asghari MH, Abdollahi M. The mechanisms of cyclophosphamide-induced testicular toxicity and the protective agents. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2016; 13:525-536. [PMID: 28019118 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2017.1277205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cyclophosphamide (CP) is an alkylating antineoplastic agent with known toxicity to the male reproductive system. Areas covered: This review summarizes the known mechanisms by which CP exerts its toxic effects on the male reproductive system and the methods utilized to prevent such effects so that it could be further investigated and applied in clinical use. Keywords including ['Cyclophosphamide' AND 'male reproductive' OR' sperm toxicity' OR 'spermatotoxicity' OR 'infertility] were searched through Google Scholar, PubMed and Scopus databases based on PRISMA guidelines. After removing duplicates and irrelevant data, 76 papers were reviewed concerning the outcomes of treatment of male mice, rats, and humans with CP and the effects of co-administration of various natural and synthetic compounds on male reproductive system. Expert opinion: CP exerts its effect mainly by inducing oxidative stress and changing gene expression in spermatocytes variably during different stages of development. These effects could be either restored or prevented by the administration of compounds with antioxidant properties and those which target the biochemical alterations induced by CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emad Ghobadi
- a Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy , Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Milad Moloudizargari
- b Student Research Committee, Department of Immunology , School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Asghari
- a Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy , Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran.,c Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine , Babol University of Medical Sciences , Babol , Iran
| | - Mohammad Abdollahi
- a Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy , Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran.,d Toxicology and Diseases Group, Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center , Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
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Majewska AM, Kordan W, Koziorowska-Gilun M, Wysocki P. Identification and changes in the seasonal concentrations of heat shock proteins in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus
) epididymides. Reprod Domest Anim 2016; 52:107-114. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Accepted: 09/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- AM Majewska
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Biotechnology; University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn; Olsztyn Poland
| | - W Kordan
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Biotechnology; University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn; Olsztyn Poland
| | - M Koziorowska-Gilun
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Biotechnology; University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn; Olsztyn Poland
| | - P Wysocki
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Biotechnology; University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn; Olsztyn Poland
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Downey AM, Hales BF, Robaire B. Zinc Transport Differs in Rat Spermatogenic Cell Types and Is Affected by Treatment with Cyclophosphamide. Biol Reprod 2016; 95:22. [PMID: 27281708 PMCID: PMC5029433 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.140558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Adequate zinc levels are required for proper cellular functions and for male germ cell development. Zinc transport is accomplished by two families of zinc transporters, the ZIPs and the ZnTs, that increase and decrease cytosolic zinc levels, respectively. However, very little is known about zinc transport in the testis. Furthermore, whether cytotoxic agents such as cyclophosphamide (CPA), a known male germ cell toxicant, can affect zinc transport and homeostasis is unknown. We examined zinc transporter expression and zinc transport in pachytene spermatocytes (PS) and round spermatids (RS) in a normal state and after exposure to CPA. We observed differences in the expression of members of the ZnT and ZIP families in purified populations of PS and RS. We also observed that RS accumulate more zinc over time than PS. The expression of many zinc binding genes was altered after CPA treatment. Interestingly, we found that the expression levels of ZIP5 and ZIP14 were increased in PS from animals treated daily with 6 mg/kg CPA for 4 wk but not in RS. This up-regulation led to an increase in zinc uptake in PS but not in RS from treated animals compared to controls. These data suggest that CPA treatment may alter zinc homeostasis in male germ cells leading to an increased need for zinc. Altered zinc homeostasis may disrupt proper germ cell development and contribute to infertility and effects on progeny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Marie Downey
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Barbara F Hales
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Bernard Robaire
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Codrington AM, Hales BF, Robaire B. Spermiogenic Germ Cell Phase-Specific DNA Damage Following Cyclophosphamide Exposure. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 25:354-62. [PMID: 15064312 DOI: 10.1002/j.1939-4640.2004.tb02800.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The production of genetically competent spermatozoa is essential for normal embryo development. The chemotherapeutic drug cyclophosphamide creates cross-links and DNA strand breaks in many cell types, including germ cells. This study assessed the phase specificity of the susceptibility of spermiogenic germ cells to genetic damage induced by cyclophosphamide. Adult male rats were given cyclophosphamide using one of four schedules: 1) high dose/acute- day 1, 100 mg/kg; 2) low dose/subchronic, 4 days-days 1-4, 6.0 mg/kg/d; 3) high dose/subchronic, 4 days-day 1, 100 mg/kg, and days 2-4, 50 mg/kg/d; and 4) low dose/chronic-daily, 6.0 mg/kg/d for 14-28 days. To capture cauda epididymal spermatozoa exposed to cyclophosphamide during late, mid-, and early spermiogenesis, animals were sacrificed on days 14, 21, and 28, respectively. Spermatozoa were analyzed for DNA strand breaks using the comet assay. No dramatic increases in damage were seen after high-dose/acute exposure to cyclophosphamide. Subchronic exposure showed a dose-related increase in DNA damage; maximal damage, as demonstrated by comet tail parameters, was seen after 21 days, reflecting an increased susceptibility of step 9-14 spermatids. Low-dose chronic exposure to cyclophosphamide induced DNA damage, which reached a plateau by day 21. The magnitude of damage at all time points after low-dose chronic exposure was much greater than that following low-dose exposure for 4 days, indicating an accumulation of damage over time. Thus, the DNA damage induced by cyclophosphamide is germ cell phase-specific. The most damaging effects of cyclophosphamide occurred during a key point of sperm chromatin remodeling (histone hyperacetylation and transition protein deposition). We speculate that strand breaks disrupt chromatin remodeling, hence affecting chromatin structure and embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis M Codrington
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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Delbès G, Chan D, Pakarinen P, Trasler JM, Hales BF, Robaire B. Impact of the chemotherapy cocktail used to treat testicular cancer on the gene expression profile of germ cells from male Brown-Norway rats. Biol Reprod 2008; 80:320-7. [PMID: 18987330 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.072108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Advances in treatment for testicular cancer that include the coadministration of bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP) have brought the cure rate to higher than 90%%. The goal of this study was to elucidate the impact of BEP treatment on gene expression in male germ cells. Brown-Norway rats were treated for 9 wk with vehicle (0x) or BEP at doses equivalent to 0.3x and 0.6x the human dose. At the end of treatment, spermatogenesis was affected, showing altered histology and a decreased sperm count; spermatozoa had a higher number of DNA breaks. After 9 wk of treatment, round spermatids were isolated, and RNA was extracted and probed on Rat230-2.0 Affymetrix arrays. Of the 31 099 probe sets present on the array, 59%% were expressed in control round spermatids. BEP treatment significantly altered the expression of 221 probe sets, with at least a 1.5-fold change compared with controls; 80% were upregulated. We observed a dose-dependent increase in the expression of oxidative stress response genes and no change in the expression of genes involved in DNA repair. BEP upregulated genes were implicated in pathways related to Jun and Junb protooncogenes. Increased mRNA levels of Jun and Junb were confirmed by quantitative RT-PCR; furthermore, JUN protein was increased in elongating spermatids. Thus, BEP exposure triggers an oxidative stress response in round spermatids and induces many pathways that may lead to the survival of damaged cells and production of abnormal sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geraldine Delbès
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal Children's Hospital Research Institute, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3G 1Y6
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Wu KL, Berger T. Ovarian gene expression is stable after exposure to trichloroethylene. Toxicol Lett 2007; 177:59-65. [PMID: 18249509 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2007.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2007] [Revised: 12/18/2007] [Accepted: 12/18/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Exposure of female rats to trichloroethylene (TCE), an environmental toxicant commonly found in ground and surface waters throughout the United States, reduces the fertilizability of oocytes produced by these females compared with oocytes from control females. Localization of cytochrome P450 2E1 and glutathione s-transferase alpha, TCE-metabolizing enzymes, in the ovary suggests TCE metabolism occurs in the ovary. The production of bioactive TCE metabolites in the ovary may alter female reproductive function by altering ovarian gene transcription and/or protein expression and function. The purpose of the present study was to examine ovarian gene transcription after exposure of female rats to 0.45% TCE (v/v) in 3% Tween. Control rats received 3% Tween. Microarray analysis after 1 and 5 days of exposure indicated ovarian gene transcription was maintained during TCE exposure with the possible exception of a very few genes. Although conclusions for these few genes were ambiguous from the microarray analysis due to the minimal but statistically significant reductions, quantitative real time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis indicated expression of these genes was unaltered after TCE exposure. Protein analysis confirmed qRT-PCR results. This study suggests TCE-induced reductions in oocyte fertilizability are independent of currently detectable alterations in ovarian gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Lily Wu
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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Robaire B, Codrington AM, Hales BF. Molecular Changes in Sperm and Early Embryos after Paternal Exposure to a Chemotherapeutic Agent. MALE-MEDIATED DEVELOPMENTAL TOXICITY 2007. [DOI: 10.1039/9781847557643-00124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Robaire
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University Montreal Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Montreal Canada
| | | | - Barbara F. Hales
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University Montreal Canada
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Codrington AM, Hales BF, Robaire B. Exposure of male rats to cyclophosphamide alters the chromatin structure and basic proteome in spermatozoa. Hum Reprod 2007; 22:1431-42. [PMID: 17303633 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dem002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The formation of mature sperm involves the expression of numerous proteins during spermiogenesis and the replacement of histones with protamines to package the genome. Exposure to cyclophosphamide (CPA), an anticancer alkylating agent, during spermiogenesis may disrupt chromatin condensation with adverse consequences to the offspring. METHODS Adult male rats were given CPA in one of two schedules: (i) subchronic, 4 days - day 1 (100 mg kg(-1)) and days 2-4 (50 mg kg(-1) per day) or (ii) chronic - daily (6.0 mg kg(-1) per day). Animals were euthanized on days 14, 21 or 28. RESULTS The effects of CPA on epididymal sperm chromatin structure were germ-cell-phase specific; mid-spermiogenic spermatids were most sensitive. The acridine orange DNA denaturation assay showed significant increases in susceptibility to denaturation (P < 0.01). Chromatin packaging assessment revealed 1,4-dithiothreitol-dependent chromomycin A3 DNA binding and less condensed, protamine-deficient sperm; the total thiol (P < 0.001) and protamine contents (P < 0.01), measured using monobromobimane and the HUP1N protamine 1 antibody, respectively, were reduced. The sperm basic proteome was also altered; proteins that were identified are involved in events during spermiogenesis and fertilization. CONCLUSIONS Paternal exposure to CPA alters sperm chromatin structure, as well as the composition of sperm head basic proteins. We speculate that these changes underlie effects on fertilization and embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Codrington
- Department of Pharmacology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Aguilar-Mahecha A, Hales BF, Robaire B. Effects of Acute and Chronic Cyclophosphamide Treatment on Meiotic Progression and the Induction of DNA Double-Strand Breaks in Rat Spermatocytes1. Biol Reprod 2005; 72:1297-304. [PMID: 15673603 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.104.038620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Male rats treated with cyclophosphamide, an alkylating agent commonly used clinically in both acute and chronic regimens, present with damaged male germ cells and abnormal progeny outcome. The extent and type of damage induced by cyclophosphamide largely depend on the germ cell type exposed to the drug and its ability to respond to insult. In the present study, the response of pachytene spermatocytes to damage was evaluated by assessing their ability to undergo meiotic G2/MI transition following exposure to acute or chronic cyclophosphamide. Male rats were given an acute high dose (70 mg/kg, once) or chronic low doses (6 mg/kg, daily for 5-6 wk) of cyclophosphamide. Pachytene spermatocytes were isolated, cultured, and induced to undergo G2/MI transition with okadaic acid. To determine the effect of DNA damage on meiotic progression, induction of DNA double-strand breaks was detected after each treatment regimen by the formation of foci of phosphorylated histone H2AX. The transition from G2 to MI was impaired after acute cyclophosphamide treatment; this impairment in the progression of pachytene spermatocytes was correlated with extensive DNA double-strand breaks. In contrast, despite the presence of significant levels of DNA damage, meiotic progression was not impaired in spermatocytes after chronic cyclophosphamide exposure. We suggest that the cell cycle impairment induced after acute cyclophosphamide treatment could be mediated by a G2/M checkpoint activated in response to DNA damage. The absence of impairment after chronic treatment raises concern about the functionality of defense mechanisms in male germ cells after repeated exposure to low doses of genotoxic agents.
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Fukushima T, Yamamoto T, Kikkawa R, Hamada Y, Komiyama M, Mori C, Horii I. EFFECTS OF MALE REPRODUCTIVE TOXICANTS ON GENE EXPRESSION IN RAT TESTES. J Toxicol Sci 2005; 30:195-206. [PMID: 16141653 DOI: 10.2131/jts.30.195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Predictive biomarkers of testicular toxicity are needed for an efficient development of drugs. The purpose of the present study was to obtain further insight into the toxicity mechanisms of various male reproductive toxicants and to detect genomic biomarkers for rapid screening of testicular toxicity. Four reproductive toxicants, 2,5-hexanedione (Sertoli cells toxicant), ethylene glycol monomethyl ether (EGME; spermatocytes toxicant), cyclophosphamide (spermatogonia toxicant) and sulfasalazine, were orally administered to male rats once. Six hours after the single dosing, gene expression in the testes was monitored by cDNA microarray and real-time RT-PCR and the testes were histopathologically examined. No histopathological abnormality was detected except for slight degeneration of spermatocytes in the EGME-treated testes. cDNA microarray analysis revealed differential gene expression profiles, and it was possible based on the profiles to characterize the action of the compounds in the testes. Interestingly, 3 spermatogenesis-related genes -- heat shock protein 70-2, insulin growth factor binding protein 3 and glutathione S transferase pi -- were affected by all the compounds. The above changes of gene expression were detectable within a short period after the dosing prior to the appearance of obvious pathological changes. These data suggest that cDNA microarray is a useful technique for evaluation of primary testicular toxicity. Furthermore, we propose the above 3 spermatogenesis-related genes as potential biomarkers of testicular toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamio Fukushima
- Worldwide Safety Sciences, Pfizer Global Research & Development, Nagoya Laboratories, Pfizer Japan Inc., Aichi
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Choi YJ, Ok DW, Kwon DN, Chung JI, Kim HC, Yeo SM, Kim T, Seo HG, Kim JH. Murine male germ cell apoptosis induced by busulfan treatment correlates with loss of c-kit-expression in a Fas/FasL- and p53-independent manner. FEBS Lett 2004; 575:41-51. [PMID: 15388331 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2004.08.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2004] [Revised: 08/13/2004] [Accepted: 08/16/2004] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Male germ cell apoptosis has been extensively explored in rodents. In contrast, very little is known about the susceptibility of developing germ cells to apoptosis in response to busulfan treatment. Spontaneous apoptosis of germ cells is rarely observed in the adult mouse testis, but under the experimental conditions described here, busulfan-treated mice exhibited a marked increase in apoptosis and a decrease in testis weight. TdT-mediated dUTP-X nicked end labeling analysis indicates that at one week following busulfan treatment, apoptosis was confined mainly to spermatogonia, with lesser effects on spermatocytes. The percentage of apoptosis-positive tubules and the apoptotic cell index increased in a time-dependent manner. An immediate effect was observed in spermatogonia within one week of treatment, and in the following week, secondary effects were observed in spermatocytes. RT-PCR analysis showed that expression of the spermatogonia-specific markers c-kit and Stra 8 was reduced but that Gli I gene expression remained constant, which is indicative of primary apoptosis of differentiating type A spermatogonia. Three and four weeks after busulfan treatment, RAD51 and FasL expression decreased to nearly undetectable levels, indicating that meiotic spermatocytes and post-meiotic cells, respectively, were lost. The period of germ cell depletion did not coincide with increased p53 or Fas/FasL expression in the busulfan-treated testis, although p110Rb phosphorylation and PCNA expression were inhibited. These data suggest that increased depletion of male germ cells in the busulfan-treated mouse is mediated by loss of c-kit/SCF signaling but not by p53- or Fas/FasL-dependent mechanisms. Spermatogonial stem cells may be protected from cell death by modulating cell cycle signaling such that E2F-dependent protein expression, which is critical for G1 phase progression, is inhibited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Jung Choi
- Division of Applied Life Science, College of Agriculture and Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jin-ju, GyeongNam 660-701, South Korea
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Robaire B, Hales BF. Mechanisms of action of cyclophosphamide as a male-mediated developmental toxicant. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2004; 518:169-80. [PMID: 12817685 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4419-9190-4_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Robaire
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3G 1Y6, Canada.
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Abstract
Mammalian development follows a defined but adjustable program, depending on the plasticity of embryonic cells 'response to environmental changes. Heat shock proteins (Hsp) are integral part of this developmental program and gene targeting experiments have started to unravel developmental processes, which exhibit specific requirements for Hsps (e.g. Hsp70.2 for spermatogenesis). In the present paper, we will review available data on Hsp function and discuss the roles of heat shock factors (HSF), their major regulators, in mammalian development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth S Christians
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA.
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Aguilar-Mahecha A, Hales BF, Robaire B. Chronic cyclophosphamide treatment alters the expression of stress response genes in rat male germ cells. Biol Reprod 2002; 66:1024-32. [PMID: 11906922 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod66.4.1024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Increases in the survival rate of men treated with chemotherapeutic drugs and their desire to have children precipitate concerns about the effects of these drugs on germ cells. Azoospermia, oligospermia, and infertility are common outcomes resulting from treatment with cyclophosphamide, an alkylating agent. Exposure of male rats to cyclophosphamide results in dose-dependent and time-specific adverse effects on progeny outcome. Elucidation of the effects of chronic low-dose cyclophosphamide treatment on the expression of stress response genes in male germ cells may provide insight into the mechanisms underlying such adverse effects. Male rats were gavaged with saline or cyclophosphamide (6 mg/kg) for 4-5 wk; pachytene spermatocytes, round spermatids, and elongating spermatids were isolated; RNA was extracted and probed on cDNA arrays containing 216 cDNAs. After saline treatment, 125 stress response genes were expressed in pachytene spermatocytes (57% of genes studied), 122 in round spermatids (56%), and 83 in elongating spermatids (38%). Cyclophosphamide treatment reduced the number of genes detected in all germ cell types. The predominant effect of chronic cyclophosphamide exposure was to decrease the expression level of genes in pachytene spermatocytes (34% of genes studied), round spermatids (29%), and elongating spermatids (4%). In elongating spermatids only, drug treatment increased the expression of 8% of the genes studied. The expression profiles of genes involved in DNA repair, posttranslational modification, and antioxidant defense in male germ cells were altered by chronic cyclophosphamide treatment. We hypothesize that the effects of cyclophosphamide exposure on germ cell gene expression during spermatogenesis may have adverse consequences on male fertility and progeny outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Aguilar-Mahecha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, 3655 Promenade Sir-William-Osler, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3G 1Y6
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