1
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de Souza LP, Domingues WB, Blödorn EB, da Silva Nunes L, Ortiz HG, Komninou ER, Campos VF. Expression of sperm microRNAs related to bull fertility: A systematic review. Res Vet Sci 2024; 166:105077. [PMID: 37948882 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.105077] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
In this study we proposed to address the following question: "Are there differentially expressed sperm microRNAs related to fertility in bulls?". A systematic review of scientific literature until November 2022 was performed, in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The main outcome was differentially expressed sperm microRNA from bulls with low versus high fertility profiles identified by using different methods such as field fertility evaluation and sperm laboratory analysis. Were identified 786 documents, of which 13 were selected for qualitative analysis. A total of 182 unique differentially expressed miRNAs were identified, among these, 49 miRNAs were found in common between at least two studies. It is believed that from these 49 miRNAs, it is possible that miRNAs such as miR-10a, -10b, -103, -15b, -122, -125b, -126-5p, -151-5p, -193a-5p, -196a, -27a-5p and -99b could be potential universal biomarkers to assess the reproductive potential of males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Petitemberte de Souza
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - William Borges Domingues
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Bierhals Blödorn
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Leandro da Silva Nunes
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Hadassa Gabriela Ortiz
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Vinicius Farias Campos
- Laboratório de Genômica Estrutural, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Pelotas, RS, Brazil.
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2
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Maleki B, Modarres P, Salehi P, Vallian S. Identification of ITPR1 gene as a novel target for hsa-miR-34b-5p in non-obstructive azoospermia: a Ca 2+/apoptosis pathway cross-talk. Sci Rep 2023; 13:21873. [PMID: 38072953 PMCID: PMC10710998 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49155-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
MiR-34b-5p has been reported as a non-invasive diagnostic biomarker for infertility. However, no gene targets regulating the mechanism of cation of this miRNA are known. In this study, using gene set enrichment analysis the Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptor Type 1 (ITPR1) gene was identified as the sole target for hsa-miR-34b-5p, and found significantly overexpressed in non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) patients. This finding was confirmed by qRT-PCR on fresh testicular tissues from NOA patients. Then, pathway enrichment analysis as well as the diagnostic value analysis of hsa-miR-34b-5p/ITPR1 indicated ITPR1 as a hub gene in the calcium (Ca2+)-apoptosis pathway, and a valuable predictive biomarker for NOA. Moreover, gene expression and histological assays showed the association of the effects of ITPR1's increased expression on spermatogenesis failure through induction of apoptosis in NOA patients. These data suggested that the hsa-miR-34b-5p/ITPR1 axis could serve as a potential regulatory predictive biomarker for human spermatogenesis through the Ca2+-apoptosis pathway cross-talk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahareh Maleki
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Parastoo Modarres
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Peyman Salehi
- Department of Infertility, Milad Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Sadeq Vallian
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Islamic Republic of Iran.
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3
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Joshi M, Sethi S, Mehta P, Kumari A, Rajender S. Small RNAs, spermatogenesis, and male infertility: a decade of retrospect. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:106. [PMID: 37924131 PMCID: PMC10625245 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01155-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs), being the top regulators of gene expression, have been thoroughly studied in various biological systems, including the testis. Research over the last decade has generated significant evidence in support of the crucial roles of sncRNAs in male reproduction, particularly in the maintenance of primordial germ cells, meiosis, spermiogenesis, sperm fertility, and early post-fertilization development. The most commonly studied small RNAs in spermatogenesis are microRNAs (miRNAs), PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA), small interfering RNA (siRNA), and transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (ts-RNAs). Small non-coding RNAs are crucial in regulating the dynamic, spatial, and temporal gene expression profiles in developing germ cells. A number of small RNAs, particularly miRNAs and tsRNAs, are loaded on spermatozoa during their epididymal maturation. With regard to their roles in fertility, miRNAs have been studied most often, followed by piRNAs and tsRNAs. Dysregulation of more than 100 miRNAs has been shown to correlate with infertility. piRNA and tsRNA dysregulations in infertility have been studied in only 3-5 studies. Sperm-borne small RNAs hold great potential to act as biomarkers of sperm quality and fertility. In this article, we review the role of small RNAs in spermatogenesis, their association with infertility, and their potential as biomarkers of sperm quality and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghali Joshi
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shruti Sethi
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Poonam Mehta
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anamika Kumari
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Singh Rajender
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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4
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Kyrgiafini MA, Sarafidou T, Mamuris Z. The Role of Long Noncoding RNAs on Male Infertility: A Systematic Review and In Silico Analysis. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11101510. [PMID: 36290414 PMCID: PMC9598197 DOI: 10.3390/biology11101510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Male infertility is a complex disorder affecting many couples worldwide. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate important cellular processes; however, a comprehensive understanding of their role in male infertility is limited. This systematic review investigates the differential expressions of lncRNAs in male infertility or variations in lncRNA regions associated with it. The PRISMA guidelines were used to search Pubmed and Web of Science (1 June 2022). Inclusion criteria were human participants, patients diagnosed with male infertility, and English language speakers. We also performed an in silico analysis investigating lncRNAs that are reported in many subtypes of male infertility. A total of 625 articles were found, and after the screening and eligibility stages, 20 studies were included in the final sample. Many lncRNAs are deregulated in male infertility, and interactions between lncRNAs and miRNAs play an important role. However, there is a knowledge gap regarding the impact of variants found in lncRNA regions. Furthermore, eight lncRNAs were identified as differentially expressed in many subtypes of male infertility. After in silico analysis, gene ontology (GO) and KEGG enrichment analysis of the genes targeted by them revealed their association with bladder and prostate cancer. However, pathways involved in general in tumorigenesis and cancer development of all types, such as p53 pathways, apoptosis, and cell death, were also enriched, indicating a link between cancer and male infertility. This evidence, however, is preliminary. Future research is needed to explore the exact mechanism of action of the identified lncRNAs and investigate the association between male infertility and cancer.
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5
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Saritas G, Main AM, Winge SB, Mørup N, Almstrup K. PIWI-interacting RNAs and human testicular function. WIREs Mech Dis 2022; 14:e1572. [PMID: 35852002 PMCID: PMC9788060 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1572] [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: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) are pieces of RNA with a length below 200 bp and represent a diverse group of RNAs having many different biological functions. The best described subtype is the microRNAs which primarily function in posttranscriptional gene regulation and appear essential for most physiological processes. Of particular interest for the germline is the PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) which are a class of sncRNA of 21-35 bp in length that are almost exclusively found in germ cells. Recently, it has become clear that piRNAs are essential for testicular function, and in this perspective, we outline the current knowledge of piRNAs in humans. Although piRNAs appear unique to germ cells, they have also been described in various somatic cancers and biofluids. Here, we discuss the potential function of piRNAs in somatic tissues and whether detection in biofluids may be used as a biomarker for testicular function. This article is categorized under: Reproductive System Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Reproductive System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gülizar Saritas
- The Department of Growth and ReproductionCopenhagen University HospitalCopenhagenDenmark,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC)CopenhagenDenmark
| | - Ailsa Maria Main
- The Department of Growth and ReproductionCopenhagen University HospitalCopenhagenDenmark,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC)CopenhagenDenmark
| | - Sofia Boeg Winge
- The Department of Growth and ReproductionCopenhagen University HospitalCopenhagenDenmark,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC)CopenhagenDenmark
| | - Nina Mørup
- The Department of Growth and ReproductionCopenhagen University HospitalCopenhagenDenmark,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC)CopenhagenDenmark
| | - Kristian Almstrup
- The Department of Growth and ReproductionCopenhagen University HospitalCopenhagenDenmark,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC)CopenhagenDenmark,The Department of Cellular and Molecular MedicineFaculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of CopenhagenCopenhagenDenmark
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6
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Long Noncoding RNAs: Recent Insights into Their Role in Male Infertility and Their Potential as Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413579. [PMID: 34948376 PMCID: PMC8708977 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are composed of nucleotides located in the nucleus and cytoplasm; these are transcribed by RNA polymerase II and are greater than 200 nt in length. LncRNAs fulfill important functions in a variety of biological processes, including genome imprinting, cell differentiation, apoptosis, stem cell pluripotency, X chromosome inactivation and nuclear transport. As high throughput sequencing technology develops, a substantial number of lncRNAs have been found to be related to a variety of biological processes, such as development of the testes, maintaining the self-renewal and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells, and regulating spermatocyte meiosis. These indicate that lncRNAs can be used as biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets for male infertility. However, only a few comprehensive reviews have described the role of lncRNAs in male reproduction. In this paper, we summarize recent findings relating to the role of lncRNAs in spermatogenesis, their potential as biomarkers for male infertility and the relationship between reproductive arrest and transgenerational effects. Finally, we suggest specific targets for the treatment of male infertility from the perspective of lncRNAs.
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7
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Small Noncoding RNAs in Reproduction and Infertility. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9121884. [PMID: 34944700 PMCID: PMC8698561 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility has been reported as one of the most common reproductive impairments, affecting nearly one in six couples worldwide. A large proportion of infertility cases are diagnosed as idiopathic, signifying a deficit in information surrounding the pathology of infertility and necessity of medical intervention such as assisted reproductive therapy. Small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) are well-established regulators of mammalian reproduction. Advanced technologies have revealed the dynamic expression and diverse functions of sncRNAs during mammalian germ cell development. Mounting evidence indicates sncRNAs in sperm, especially microRNAs (miRNAs) and transfer RNA (tRNA)-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs), are sensitive to environmental changes and mediate the inheritance of paternally acquired metabolic and mental traits. Here, we review the critical roles of sncRNAs in mammalian germ cell development. Furthermore, we highlight the functions of sperm-borne sncRNAs in epigenetic inheritance. We also discuss evidence supporting sncRNAs as promising biomarkers for fertility and embryo quality in addition to the present limitations of using sncRNAs for infertility diagnosis and treatment.
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8
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Saebnia N, Neshati Z, Bahrami AR. Role of microRNAs in etiology of azoospermia and their application as non-invasive biomarkers in diagnosis of azoospermic patients. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2021; 50:102207. [PMID: 34407467 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2021.102207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Azoospermia is a common cause of male infertility without any sperm in the semen and consists of ∼1% of all males and ∼15% of infertile ones. Currently, no accurate non-invasive diagnostic method exists for patients with azoospermia and testis biopsy is mandatory to determine if any spermatozoa exist in the testes. Studies have clarified that the expression of some distinct microRNAs shows alterations in azoospermic patients. MicroRNAs play critical roles during spermatogenesis and their dysregulation can defect this process. Here, we review studied microRNAs involved in the pathogenesis of azoospermia and their target genes. Moreover, we will imply the utility of seminal plasma microRNAs as non-invasive diagnostic biomarkers for azoospermia. We hope such studies could help patients with azoospermia in both diagnosis and treatment, in order that they could father their own biological children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Saebnia
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zeinab Neshati
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran; Novel Diagnostics and Therapeutics Research Group, Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Ahmad Reza Bahrami
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran; Industrial Biotechnology Research Group, Institute of Biotechnology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
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9
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Cai Z, Niu Y, Li H. RNA N6-methyladenosine modification, spermatogenesis, and human male infertility. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:6179814. [PMID: 33749751 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is one of the main forms of posttranscriptional modification, and its dysregulation is involved in a series of pathological processes. RNA m6A regulators, which mediate dynamic RNA m6A modification, are expressed in almost all types of testicular cells, including spermatogenetic cells and somatic cells. Cumulative studies have found that knockout of RNA m6A regulators in the testis leads to abnormal metabolism of the target mRNAs, which eventually causes spermatogenetic disorders and infertility. To date, a role for dysregulated RNA m6A modification in human male infertility remains elusive; however, dysregulated expression of RNA m6A regulators in abnormal human semen samples, including oligospermia, asthenozoospermia and azoospermia, has been found. Therefore, we speculate that abnormal RNA m6A methylation may be an important mechanism of male infertility. In this review, we summarize the recent findings regarding the spatiotemporal expression of RNA m6A regulators in the testes, mechanisms of RNA m6A modification in spermatogenesis and the relation between dysregulated RNA m6A regulators and human male infertility. In addition, we also discuss future directions in studying the molecular mechanism of male infertility and exploring their clinical applications from the viewpoint of RNA m6A modification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhonglin Cai
- Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yamei Niu
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Science, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hongjun Li
- Department of Urology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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10
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Muratori M, De Geyter C. Chromatin condensation, fragmentation of DNA and differences in the epigenetic signature of infertile men. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 33:117-126. [PMID: 30420311 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2018.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiological studies report an increase of pathologies of male reproductive tracts and suggest a link between this trend and the increased exposure of men to endocrine disruptors (EDs). The mechanisms by which EDs impact male fertility are far to be elucidated although DNA, chromatin and epigenome of spermatozoa appear to be relevant targets for these molecules. Indeed, many studies report associations between increased levels of sperm DNA fragmentation (sDF) or aberrant chromatin condensation or epigenetic modifications and poor semen quality and/or infertile phenotype. In this scenario, therapies able to reduce sperm damage to DNA, chromatin and epigenome are sought. Currently, antioxidants and FSH administration is proposed for treating high levels of sDF, but whether or not such therapies are really effective is still debated. Further studies are necessary to understand the link between endocrine disruptor exposure and damage to sperm function and/or structure and thus to define effective therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Muratori
- Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Sexual Medicine and Andrology, Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini, 6, I-50139, Firenze, Italy.
| | - Christian De Geyter
- Reproductive Medicine and Gynecological Endocrinology (RME), University Hospital, University of Basel, Vogesenstrasse 134, CH-4031, Basel, Switzerland.
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11
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Chen X, Che D, Zhang P, Li X, Yuan Q, Liu T, Guo J, Feng T, Wu L, Liao M, He Z, Zeng W. Profiling of miRNAs in porcine germ cells during spermatogenesis. Reproduction 2017; 154:789-798. [PMID: 28947561 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 09/02/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis includes mitosis of spermatogonia, meiosis of pachytene spermatocytes and spermiogenesis of round spermatids. MiRNAs as a ~22 nt small noncoding RNA are involved in regulating spermatogenesis at post-transcriptional level. However, the dynamic miRNAs expression in the developmental porcine male germ cells remains largely undefined. In this study, we purified porcine spermatogonia, pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids using a STA-PUT apparatus. A small RNA deep sequencing and analysis were conducted to establish a miRNAs profiling in these male germ cells. We found that 19 miRNAs were differentially expressed between spermatogonia and pachytene spermatocytes, and 74 miRNAs differentially expressed between pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids. Furthermore, 91 miRNAs were upregulated, while 108 miRNAs were downregulated in spermatozoa. We demonstrated that ssc-miR-10a-5p, ssc-miR-125b, ssc-let-7f and ssc-miR-186 were highly expressed in spermatogonia, pachytene spermatocytes, round spermatids and spermatozoa respectively. The findings could provide novel insights into roles of miRNAs in regulation of porcine spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxu Chen
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Dongxue Che
- College of Life ScienceNorthwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Pengfei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xueliang Li
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Qingqing Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related GenesRenji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tiantian Liu
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiayin Guo
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Tongying Feng
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ligang Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular AndrologyShanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Minzhi Liao
- College of Life ScienceNorthwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Zuping He
- State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related GenesRenji-Med X Clinical Stem Cell Research Center, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenxian Zeng
- College of Animal Science and TechnologyNorthwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
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12
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Boissière A, Gala A, Ferrières-Hoa A, Mullet T, Baillet S, Petiton A, Torre A, Hamamah S. Cell-free and intracellular nucleic acids: new non-invasive biomarkers to explore male infertility. Basic Clin Androl 2017; 27:7. [PMID: 28439417 PMCID: PMC5399401 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-017-0052-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a devastating problem that affects many couples worldwide. However, the molecular mechanisms and causes of idiopathic male infertility remain unclear. Circulating cell-free nucleic acids have an important role in human physiology and emerging evidence suggests that they play a role in male infertility. This review summarizes recent results on cell-free and intracellular nucleic acids in male infertility and discusses their potential use as biomarkers of male infertility in the clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Boissière
- Unité INSERM U1203, Hôpital Saint Eloi, CHRU Montpellier, 80, avenue Fliche, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Anna Gala
- Unité INSERM U1203, Hôpital Saint Eloi, CHRU Montpellier, 80, avenue Fliche, 34295 Montpellier, France.,Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Alice Ferrières-Hoa
- Unité INSERM U1203, Hôpital Saint Eloi, CHRU Montpellier, 80, avenue Fliche, 34295 Montpellier, France.,Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Tiffany Mullet
- Unité INSERM U1203, Hôpital Saint Eloi, CHRU Montpellier, 80, avenue Fliche, 34295 Montpellier, France.,Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Solenne Baillet
- Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Amaël Petiton
- Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Antoine Torre
- Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
| | - Samir Hamamah
- Unité INSERM U1203, Hôpital Saint Eloi, CHRU Montpellier, 80, avenue Fliche, 34295 Montpellier, France.,Département de biologie de la reproduction, Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve, CHRU Montpellier, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295 Montpellier, France
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13
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Gunes S, Arslan MA, Hekim GNT, Asci R. The role of epigenetics in idiopathic male infertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:553-569. [PMID: 26941097 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0682-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a complex disorder with multiple genetic and environmental causes. Although some specific mutations have been identified, other factors responsible for sperm defects remain largely unknown. Despite considerable efforts to identify the pathophysiology of the disease, we cannot explain the underlying mechanisms of approximately half of infertility cases. This study reviews current data on epigenetic regulation and idiopathic male infertility. Recent data have shown an association between epigenetic modifications and idiopathic infertility. In this regard, epigenetics has emerged as one of the promising research areas in understanding male infertility. Many studies have indicated that epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation in imprinted and developmental genes, histone tail modifications and short non-coding RNAs in spermatozoa may have a role in idiopathic male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sezgin Gunes
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
- Health Sciences Institute, Department of Multidisciplinary Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet Alper Arslan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
- Health Sciences Institute, Department of Multidisciplinary Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
| | | | - Ramazan Asci
- Health Sciences Institute, Department of Multidisciplinary Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey
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14
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Ottesen EW, Howell MD, Singh NN, Seo J, Whitley EM, Singh RN. Severe impairment of male reproductive organ development in a low SMN expressing mouse model of spinal muscular atrophy. Sci Rep 2016; 6:20193. [PMID: 26830971 PMCID: PMC4735745 DOI: 10.1038/srep20193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is caused by low levels of survival motor neuron (SMN), a multifunctional protein essential for higher eukaryotes. While SMN is one of the most scrutinized proteins associated with neurodegeneration, its gender-specific role in vertebrates remains unknown. We utilized a mild SMA model (C/C model) to examine the impact of low SMN on growth and development of mammalian sex organs. We show impaired testis development, degenerated seminiferous tubules, reduced sperm count and low fertility in C/C males, but no overt sex organ phenotype in C/C females. Underscoring an increased requirement for SMN expression, wild type testis showed extremely high levels of SMN protein compared to other tissues. Our results revealed severe perturbations in pathways critical to C/C male reproductive organ development and function, including steroid biosynthesis, apoptosis, and spermatogenesis. Consistent with enhanced apoptosis in seminiferous tubules of C/C testes, we recorded a drastic increase in cells with DNA fragmentation. SMN was expressed at high levels in adult C/C testis due to an adult-specific splicing switch, but could not compensate for low levels during early testicular development. Our findings uncover novel hallmarks of SMA disease progression and link SMN to general male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric W Ottesen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| | - Matthew D Howell
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| | - Natalia N Singh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| | - Joonbae Seo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Whitley
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
| | - Ravindra N Singh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa 50011, USA
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15
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Ho PY, Yu AM. Bioengineering of noncoding RNAs for research agents and therapeutics. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-RNA 2016; 7:186-97. [PMID: 26763749 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2015] [Revised: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 11/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of functional small noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs), such as microRNAs and small interfering RNAs, in the control of human cellular processes has opened new avenues to develop RNA-based therapies for various diseases including viral infections and cancers. However, studying ncRNA functions and developing RNA-based therapeutics relies on access to large quantities of affordable ncRNA agents. Currently, synthetic RNAs account for the major source of agents for RNA research and development, yet carry artificial modifications on the ribose ring and phosphate backbone in sharp contrast to posttranscriptional modifications present on the nucleobases or unmodified natural RNA molecules produced within cells. Therefore, large efforts have been made in recent years to develop recombinant RNA techniques to cost-effectively produce biological RNA agents that may better capture the structure, function, and safety properties of natural RNAs. In this article, we summarize and compare current in vitro and in vivo methods for the production of RNA agents including chemical synthesis, in vitro transcription, and bioengineering approaches. We highlight the latest recombinant RNA approaches using transfer RNA (tRNA), ribosomal RNA (rRNA), and optimal ncRNA scaffold (OnRS), and discuss the applications of bioengineered ncRNA agents (BERAs) that should facilitate RNA research and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pui Yan Ho
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Ai-Ming Yu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA, USA
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16
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The potential of circulating extracellular small RNAs (smexRNA) in veterinary diagnostics-Identifying biomarker signatures by multivariate data analysis. BIOMOLECULAR DETECTION AND QUANTIFICATION 2015; 5:15-22. [PMID: 27077039 PMCID: PMC4822223 DOI: 10.1016/j.bdq.2015.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2015] [Revised: 08/03/2015] [Accepted: 08/07/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide growth and performance-enhancing substances are used in cattle husbandry to increase productivity. In certain countries however e.g., in the EU, these practices are forbidden to prevent the consumers from potential health risks of substance residues in food. To maximize economic profit, ‘black sheep‘ among farmers might circumvent the detection methods used in routine controls, which highlights the need for an innovative and reliable detection method. Transcriptomics is a promising new approach in the discovery of veterinary medicine biomarkers and also a missing puzzle piece, as up to date, metabolomics and proteomics are paramount. Due to increased stability and easy sampling, circulating extracellular small RNAs (smexRNAs) in bovine plasma were small RNA-sequenced and their potential to serve as biomarker candidates was evaluated using multivariate data analysis tools. After running the data evaluation pipeline, the proportion of miRNAs (microRNAs) and piRNAs (PIWI-interacting small non-coding RNAs) on the total sequenced reads was calculated. Additionally, top 10 signatures were compared which revealed that the readcount data sets were highly affected by the most abundant miRNA and piRNA profiles. To evaluate the discriminative power of multivariate data analyses to identify animals after veterinary drug application on the basis of smexRNAs, OPLS-DA was performed. In summary, the quality of miRNA models using all mapped reads for both treatment groups (animals treated with steroid hormones or the β-agonist clenbuterol) is predominant to those generated with combined data sets or piRNAs alone. Using multivariate projection methodologies like OPLS-DA have proven the best potential to generate discriminative miRNA models, supported by small RNA-Seq data. Based on the presented comparative OPLS-DA, miRNAs are the favorable smexRNA biomarker candidates in the research field of veterinary drug abuse.
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Key Words
- Biomarker signatures
- CLEN, treated group with clenbuterol-hydrochloride
- CON, control group
- Circulating small RNAs
- DA, discriminant analysis
- EU, European Union
- Multivariate data analysis
- OPLS, orthogonal partial least-squares
- PCA, principal component analysis
- PLS, partial least-squares projection
- P + EB, treated group with steroid hormone implant: progesterone plus estradiol benzoate
- Small RNA-Sequencing
- Transcriptomics
- Veterinary diagnostics
- exRNA, extracellular RNA
- miRNA, microRNA
- piRNA, PIWI-interacting small non-coding RNA
- rpm, reads per million
- small RNA-Seq, small RNA-Sequencing
- smexRNA, circulating extracellular small RNA
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17
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Liu J, Luo M, Sheng Y, Hong Q, Cheng H, Zhou R. Dynamic evolution and biogenesis of small RNAs during sex reversal. Sci Rep 2015; 5:9999. [PMID: 25944477 PMCID: PMC4421800 DOI: 10.1038/srep09999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 03/24/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding origin, evolution and functions of small RNA (sRNA) genes has been a great challenge in the past decade. Molecular mechanisms underlying sexual reversal in vertebrates, particularly sRNAs involved in this process, are largely unknown. By deep-sequencing of small RNA transcriptomes in combination with genomic analysis, we identified a large amount of piRNAs and miRNAs including over 1,000 novel miRNAs, which were differentially expressed during gonad reversal from ovary to testis via ovotesis. Biogenesis and expressions of miRNAs were dynamically changed during the reversal. Notably, phylogenetic analysis revealed dynamic expansions of miRNAs in vertebrates and an evolutionary trajectory of conserved miR-17-92 cluster in the Eukarya. We showed that the miR-17-92 cluster in vertebrates was generated through multiple duplications from ancestor miR-92 in invertebrates Tetranychus urticae and Daphnia pulex from the Chelicerata around 580 Mya. Moreover, we identified the sexual regulator Dmrt1 as a direct target of the members miR-19a and -19b in the cluster. These data suggested dynamic biogenesis and expressions of small RNAs during sex reversal and revealed multiple expansions and evolutionary trajectory of miRNAs from invertebrates to vertebrates, which implicate small RNAs in sexual reversal and provide new insight into evolutionary and molecular mechanisms underlying sexual reversal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Liu
- Department of Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, P. R. China
| | - Majing Luo
- Department of Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, P. R. China
| | - Yue Sheng
- Department of Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, P. R. China
| | - Qiang Hong
- Department of Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, P. R. China
| | - Hanhua Cheng
- Department of Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, P. R. China
| | - Rongjia Zhou
- Department of Genetics, College of Life Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, P. R. China
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18
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Spornraft M, Kirchner B, Pfaffl MW, Riedmaier I. Comparison of the miRNome and piRNome of bovine blood and plasma by small RNA sequencing. Biotechnol Lett 2015; 37:1165-76. [PMID: 25700822 DOI: 10.1007/s10529-015-1788-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The small RNAs of bovine plasma and whole blood were analysed using next-generation sequencing to quantify, profile and compare the microRNAs (miRNA) and piRNA signatures in both bio fluids. RESULTS Evaluating read-count data resulted in a proportion of 5.0 ± 2.9 % of miRNAs in plasma while 38.2 ± 3.4 % were identified in whole blood. Regarding piRNAs, the percentages in both matrices were nearly the same: 1.4 ± 0.8 % of piRNAs in plasma and 1.9 ± 0.8 % in whole blood. Investigation of the ten most abundant miRNAs and piRNAs in both bio fluids revealed that two miRNAs and seven piRNAs were identical. Comparing the read-count values of these matching pairs highlighted that miRNA and piRNA levels in blood exceeded the abundance of their corresponding miRNAs and piRNAs in plasma, except liver-specific miR-122 and three piRNAs. CONCLUSIONS The data strengthened evidence that the circulating small RNA signature in plasma is not only influenced by hematocytes and certain small RNAs could originate from other sources than cellular blood components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Spornraft
- Physiology Weihenstephan, TUM School of Life Sciences Weihenstephan, Technical University Munich, Weihenstephaner Berg 3, 85354, Freising, Germany,
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