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Jing Q, Liu F, Yao W, Zhang X. pH responsive fabrication of PVA-stabilized selenium nano formulation encapsulated with luteolin to reduce diabetic ureteral injury by decreasing NLRP3 inflammasome via Nrf2/ARE signaling. Regen Ther 2024; 27:434-444. [PMID: 38699396 PMCID: PMC11063996 DOI: 10.1016/j.reth.2024.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Diabetic ureteral injury (DUI) is a condition characterized by damage to the ureter, causing functional and morphological changes in the urinary system, which have a significant impact on a quality of life and requires appropriate medical treatment. The present study describes to novel design of luteolin (LT), a type of natural flavonoid, encapsulated selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs) to attain therapeutic potential for DUI. The physico-chemical characterizations of prepared Se NPs have benefitted zeta potential (-18 mV) and particle size (10-50 nm). In vitro assays were demonstrated the potential of LT-SeNPs by HEK 293 cells stimulated by STZ for DUI. Cytotoxicity assays on HEK 293 and NIH-3T3 showed >90% cell viability, which demonstrates the suitability of the nanoformulation for DUI treatment. The LT-SeNPs significantly inhibits the NLRP3 inflammasome through Nrf2/ARE pathway, which benefits for DUI treatment. The developed LT-SeNPs could be an effective formulation for the DUI therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Jing
- Department of Urology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030000, China
| | - Fan Liu
- Department of Urology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030000, China
| | - Weitao Yao
- Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030000, China
| | - Xuhui Zhang
- Department of Urology, First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030000, China
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Shrestha A, Joshi DR, Vaidya D, Shrestha SM, Singh A. Bacteriospermia in men among infertile couples in the Nepalese population. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2024; 70:240-248. [PMID: 39169640 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2024.2391052] [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: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 08/03/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024]
Abstract
Infection of the male urogenital tract or male accessory glands is considered one of the important causes of male infertility, and results in the presence of bacteria in semen affecting the fertility potential of men. This study aims to understand the rate of seminal infection in infertile men, and its association with semen parameters related to fertility potential. The study was carried out from June 2021 to July 2022, in which 217 semen samples were collected from male partners of couples consulting for fertility complaints in a fertility center in Nepal. Analysis of semen parameters was done following the WHO guidelines for human semen analysis, 2021. Microbiological assessment of semen by culture-based approach showed bacteriospermia among 25.3% of samples. Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant isolate in semen. The volume of semen was reduced (p = 0.001 at 95% confidence interval) with bacteriospermia. The concentration, total motility, morphology, and vitality of spermatozoa in the samples tended to be negatively impacted due to bacteriospermia, however, the associations were insignificant at 95% CI. Our study indicates impairment of semen parameters is partially associated with bacterial infection, and hence bacteriospermia may be an important cause of male infertility. Our data represent a baseline for future in-depth studies on bacterial infection in the semen of infertile men in Nepal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anima Shrestha
- Central Department of Microbiology, Institute of Science and Technology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Department of Microbiology, Tri-Chandra Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Dev Raj Joshi
- Central Department of Microbiology, Institute of Science and Technology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | | | - Anjana Singh
- Central Department of Microbiology, Institute of Science and Technology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Li H, Hu YF, Wang XR, Ouyang KW, Wang H, Wang KW, Chang W, Zhang J, Yuan Z, Xiong YW, Zhu HL, Yang L, Wang H. Suppressed testicular macrophage M1 polarization by HDAC5 enforces insensitivity to LPS-elicited blood-testis barrier damage. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 192:114940. [PMID: 39151879 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114940] [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: 06/25/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Infertility caused by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure due to infection is endangering male fertility worldwide, but the mechanism remains unclear. The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is essential for maintaining spermatogenesis and male fertility. In the present study, we showed that LPS (5.0 mg/kg) treatment markedly down-regulated the expression of BTB-related proteins, expanded the biotin penetration distance and caused histopathological injury in seminiferous tubules in mouse testes. Notably, testicular macrophage M1 polarization induced by LPS seems to be related to BTB damage, which was well confirmed by co-culture of RAW264.7 and TM4 cells in vitro. Interestingly, a low-dose LPS (0.1 mg/kg) pretreatment attenuated down-regulation of BTB-related proteins expression and histopathological injury and shorten biotin penetration distance in seminiferous tubules caused by LPS. Correspondingly, a low-dose LPS pretreatment suppresses testicular macrophage M1 polarization induced by LPS in mouse testes. Further experiments revealed that histone deacetylase 5 (HDAC5) was markedly down-regulated at 2 h and slightly down-regulated at 8 h, but up-regulated at 24 h in mouse testes after LPS treatment. Additionally, low-dose LPS pretreatment against the down-regulation of HDAC5 protein caused by LPS treatment. Notably, the suppressed testicular macrophage M1 polarization by low-dose LPS pretreatment was broken by BRD4354, a specific inhibitor of HDAC5 in vitro. These results suggest suppressed testicular macrophage M1 polarization by HDAC5 enforces insensitivity to LPS-elicited BTB damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Li
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Yi-Fan Hu
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, 230000, China; Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women's Hospital of Jiangnan University, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214000, China
| | - Xin-Run Wang
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Kong-Wen Ouyang
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, 230000, China; Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women's Hospital of Jiangnan University, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214000, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, 230000, China; Department of Respiratory Medicine, Anhui Provincial Children's Hospital, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Kai-Wen Wang
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Wei Chang
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Jin Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Zhi Yuan
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Yong-Wei Xiong
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Hua-Long Zhu
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, 230000, China
| | - Lan Yang
- Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Women's Hospital of Jiangnan University, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214000, China.
| | - Hua Wang
- Department of Toxicology, Center for Big Data and Population Health of IHM, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes, Hefei, 230000, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, 230000, China.
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Scriffignano S, Perrotta FM, Lubrano E. Male Fertility in Spondyloarthritis: from Clinical Issues to Cytokines Milieu. A Narrative Review. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2024; 26:321-331. [PMID: 38900205 PMCID: PMC11310274 DOI: 10.1007/s11926-024-01153-w] [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] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSEOF REVIEW Male fertility is an emergent issue that should be considered in clinical practice, when dealing with chronic inflammatory diseases in young men. As it is known, the chronic inflammation is the main pathophysiologic mechanism in some rheumatological conditions such as spondyloarthritis (SpA), Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) and Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA). Therefore, it is paramount to be aware if these diseases could impair male fertility, both due to the inflammation or to the treatments needed: we reviewed the literature on the most relevant and recent evidence on male fertility in patients affected by SpA, AS and PsA. RECENT FINDINGS Rheumatological inflammatory diseases (included SpA, AS and PsA) could impair the family planning in man life, especially when diagnosed at young age. Moreover, focusing on sperm quality, it seems that a link between sperm quality impairment and a higher disease activity exist. Focusing on therapies, Tumor Necrosis Factor inhibitors showed a safety profile on human male fertility in clinical studies. Recently, a prospective study and two double-blind placebo-controlled trials assessed the impact of methotrexate and Filgotinib on semen parameters, respectively, showing a safety profile of these drugs on human semen quality. However, there are no clinical data on the impact of Interleukin (IL)17 inhibitors(i), IL12-23i and IL23i. Concerning male fertility in SpA, AS and PsA, an unmet clinical need is still present and new studies are needed to understand the association between these diseases and male fertility, and the implication of the therapies used for these diseases. This narrative review provides an overview of the available data on male fertility in patients affected by SpA, AS and PsA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Scriffignano
- Academic Rheumatology Unit, Dipartimento Di Medicina E Scienze, Della Salute "Vincenzo Tiberio", Università Degli Studi del Molise, Via Giovanni Paolo II, C/da Tappino, 86100, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Fabio Massimo Perrotta
- Academic Rheumatology Unit, Dipartimento Di Medicina E Scienze, Della Salute "Vincenzo Tiberio", Università Degli Studi del Molise, Via Giovanni Paolo II, C/da Tappino, 86100, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Ennio Lubrano
- Academic Rheumatology Unit, Dipartimento Di Medicina E Scienze, Della Salute "Vincenzo Tiberio", Università Degli Studi del Molise, Via Giovanni Paolo II, C/da Tappino, 86100, Campobasso, Italy.
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Guo Y, Dong Y, Zheng R, Yan J, Li W, Xu Y, Yan X, Ke Y, Li Y, Xiang L. Correlation between viral infections in male semen and infertility: a literature review. Virol J 2024; 21:167. [PMID: 39080728 PMCID: PMC11290048 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-024-02431-w] [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: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects approximately one-sixth of couples globally, with the incidence of male infertility steadily increasing. However, our understanding of the impact of viral infections on fertility remains limited. This review consolidates findings from previous studies, outlining 40 viruses identified in human semen and summarizing their key characteristics, modes of transmission, and their effects on both the reproductive and endocrine systems. Furthermore, it elucidates potential pathogenic mechanisms and treatment prospects of viruses strongly associated with male infertility. This synthesis will enhance our comprehension of how viral infections influence male reproductive health, offering valuable insights for future research as well as the diagnosis and treatment of infectious infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Guo
- Department of Reproductive Gynecology, NHC Key Laboratory of Healthy Birth and Birth Defect Prevention in Western China, the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yunhua Dong
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, NHC Key Laboratory of Healthy Birth and Birth Defect Prevention in Western China, the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- KUST-YPFPH Reproductive Medicine Joint Research Center, Medical school of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Runzi Zheng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, NHC Key Laboratory of Healthy Birth and Birth Defect Prevention in Western China, the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- KUST-YPFPH Reproductive Medicine Joint Research Center, Medical school of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jiacong Yan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, NHC Key Laboratory of Healthy Birth and Birth Defect Prevention in Western China, the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- KUST-YPFPH Reproductive Medicine Joint Research Center, Medical school of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Weiyuan Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, NHC Key Laboratory of Healthy Birth and Birth Defect Prevention in Western China, the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- KUST-YPFPH Reproductive Medicine Joint Research Center, Medical school of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Ya Xu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Xuelan Yan
- Department of Reproductive Gynecology, NHC Key Laboratory of Healthy Birth and Birth Defect Prevention in Western China, the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yunmei Ke
- Department of Reproductive Gynecology, NHC Key Laboratory of Healthy Birth and Birth Defect Prevention in Western China, the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yantao Li
- Department of Reproductive Gynecology, NHC Key Laboratory of Healthy Birth and Birth Defect Prevention in Western China, the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Lifeng Xiang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, NHC Key Laboratory of Healthy Birth and Birth Defect Prevention in Western China, the First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
- KUST-YPFPH Reproductive Medicine Joint Research Center, Medical school of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
- The Affiliated Hospital of Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
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Lakhe G, Nair N, Pareek C, Ugemuge S. Bacteriospermia-Related Male Infertility: A Case Report on Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches. Cureus 2024; 16:e62973. [PMID: 39050321 PMCID: PMC11265960 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.62973] [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: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is significantly affected by bacteriospermia, defined by the presence of bacteria in semen. This case report aims to address the effects of bacteriospermia and its correlation with semen characteristics, sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), and reproductive outcomes. The 33-year-old male was diagnosed with bacteriospermia caused by two gram-negative bacteria: Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. It was found that sperm parameters such as mobility, number, and morphology were compromised in sperm, indicating poor fertility. In addition, SDF analysis has revealed a high DNA fragmentation index (DFI), emphasizing the detrimental effects of bacteriospermia on the integrity of sperm. Antibiotic therapy and antioxidant supplements have been used as therapeutic measures to reduce the impact of bacterial infections and DNA damage caused by oxidative stress (OS). Follow-up assessments showed significant improvements in the integrity of the sperm DNA and the resolution of microbial colonization, which ultimately led to successful in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer (ET), leading to a positive pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunjan Lakhe
- Clinical Embryology, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research (DU), Nagpur, IND
| | - Nancy Nair
- Clinical Embryology, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research (DU), Nagpur, IND
| | - Charu Pareek
- Clinical Embryology, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research (DU), Nagpur, IND
| | - Sarita Ugemuge
- Microbiology, Datta Meghe Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research (DU), Nagpur, IND
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Henkel R. Leukocytospermia and/or Bacteriospermia: Impact on Male Infertility. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2841. [PMID: 38792382 PMCID: PMC11122306 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13102841] [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: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a globally underestimated public health concern affecting almost 190 million people, i.e., about 17.5% of people during their lifetime, while the prevalence of male factor infertility is about 7%. Among numerous other causes, the prevalence of male genital tract infections reportedly ranges between 10% and 35%. Leukocytospermia is found in 30% of infertile men and up to 20% in fertile men. Bacterial infections cause an inflammatory response attracting leukocytes, which produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and release cytokines, both of which can cause damage to sperm, rendering them dysfunctional. Although leukocytospermia and bacteriospermia are both clinical conditions that can negatively affect male fertility, there is still debate about their impact on assisted reproduction outcomes and management. According to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, leukocytes should be determined by means of the Endtz test or with monoclonal antibodies against CD15, CD68 or CD22. The cut-off value proposed by the WHO is 1 × 106 peroxidase-positive cells/mL. For bacteria, Gram staining and semen culture are regarded as the "gold standard", while modern techniques such as PCR and next-generation sequencing (NGS) are allowing clinicians to detect a wider range of pathogens. Whereas the WHO manual does not specify a specific value as a cut-off for bacterial contamination, several studies consider semen samples with more than 103 colony-forming units (cfu)/mL as bacteriospermic. The pathogenic mechanisms leading to sperm dysfunction include direct interaction of bacteria with the male germ cells, bacterial release of spermatotoxic substances, induction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and ROS, all of which lead to oxidative stress. Clinically, bacterial infections, including "silent" infections, are treatable, with antibiotics being the treatment of choice. Yet, non-steroidal antiphlogistics or antioxidants should also be considered to alleviate inflammatory lesions and improve semen quality. In an assisted reproduction set up, sperm separation techniques significantly reduce the bacterial load in the semen. Nonetheless, contamination of the semen sample with skin commensals should be prevented by applying relevant hygiene techniques. In patients where leukocytospermia is detected, the causes (e.g. infection, inflammation, varicocele, smoking, etc.) of the leukocyte infiltration have to be identified and addressed with antibiotics, anti-inflammatories or antioxidants in cases where high oxidative stress levels are detected. However, no specific strategy is available for the management of leukocytospermia. Therefore, the relationship between bacteriospermia and leukocytospermia as well as their specific impact on functional sperm parameters and reproductive outcome variables such as fertilization or clinical pregnancy must be further investigated. The aim of this narrative review is to provide an update on the current knowledge on leukocytospermia and bacteriospermia and their impact on male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Henkel
- LogixX Pharma Ltd., Merlin House, Brunel Road, Theale, Reading RG7 4AB, UK;
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London W12 0HS, UK
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville 7535, South Africa
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Luo Y, Xu D, Ma Y, Yu W, Chen Y, Han X. Mediation of association between semen microcystin exposure and semen quality by sex hormones in Chinese men. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 124:108529. [PMID: 38159577 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108529] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Numerous studies have shown microcystins (MCs) inducing male reproductive toxicity, but the underlying mechanisms in humans are unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the mediating role of serum sex hormones in the association between MC exposure and semen quality. In this study, we measured the levels of semen MCs and serum sex hormones in Chinese men [sample 1 (n = 649); sample 2 (n = 924)]. The results showed that there was a non-significant dose-dependent relationship between semen MCs and semen volume reduction (p for trend = 0.079) in sample 1, and semen MCs were significantly negatively associated with total motility, progressive motility, curvilinear velocity, mean angular displacement and acrosome integrity (p < 0.05) in sample 2. We also found that semen MCs were significantly positively associated with serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) (β = 0.151; 95% CI: 0.065, 0.236), but negatively associated with serum inhibin B (INHB) (β = -0.605; 95% CI: -0.944, -0.265), and these linear associations were confirmed in restricted cubic spline (RCS) models (all pnon-linearity > 0.1). Furthermore, mediation analysis revealed that serum INHB mediated 19.86% of the adverse effect of MC exposure on acrosome integrity. In conclusion, this study reveals the mediating roles of serum sex hormones in the relationship between MC exposure and decreased semen quality in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Luo
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Dihui Xu
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Yuhan Ma
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China
| | - Wen Yu
- Department of Andrology, Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yabing Chen
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China.
| | - Xiaodong Han
- Immunology and Reproduction Biology Laboratory & State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science, Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China.
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Hoffmann K, Gopal M. Paediatric acute epididymo-orchitis temporally related to SARS-CoV-2 infection: A case series and review of the literature. J Pediatr Urol 2024; 20:91-94. [PMID: 37806834 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2023.09.017] [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: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acute epididymo-orchitis (AEO) is becoming an increasingly common differential diagnosis in children with acute scrotal pain. It has been noted in adult men that SARS-CoV-2 has a propensity for involving the testis and epididymis, affecting sperm and testosterone production. Our literature search revealed only one case report of COVID-19 presenting with epididymo-orchitis in a child. We present three more children who presented with AEO, all recovering from PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. This article reviews the post-inflammatory aetiology of paediatric epididymo-orchitis, and the propensity SARS-CoV-2 has for the testis. PATIENTS AND METHODS Two pre-pubertal ten-year-old patients presented to the emergency department with a 48-h history of gradual onset unilateral scrotal pain and increasing erythema of the ipsilateral scrotal skin. One fifteen-year-old boy was referred for ongoing symptoms four days following a diagnosis of AEO made by his General Practitioner. On further questioning, all three had PCR-confirmed COVID infection two weeks prior to the onset of their scrotal symptoms and had just ended their isolation period. A literature search was then performed using the keywords SARS-CoV-2, testes and paediatric acute epididymo-orchitis. DISCUSSION The SARS-Cov-2 virus has a propensity for affecting the testis and epididymis. This puts patients at increased risk of acute epididymo-orchitis during COVID infections. The inflammation induced by the virus appears to affect the cells responsible for testosterone production and sperm quality. However, there is no evidence that viral transmission can happen via semen. CONCLUSION SARS-Cov-2 infection can lead to acute epididymo-orchitis. Knowledge of this is clinically significant, firstly to avoid unnecessary surgical intervention due to a mistaken diagnosis of testicular torsion and secondly, due to the potential of the virus to affect sperm quality and testosterone production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Hoffmann
- Great North Children's Hospital, Queen Victoria Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 4LP, United Kingdom.
| | - Milan Gopal
- Great North Children's Hospital, Queen Victoria Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 4LP, United Kingdom
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Saint F, Huyghe E, Methorst C, Priam A, Seizilles de Mazancourt E, Bruyère F, Faix A. [Infections and male infertility]. Prog Urol 2023; 33:636-652. [PMID: 38012909 DOI: 10.1016/j.purol.2023.09.015] [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: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of urogenital infections in male infertility has long been the subject of debate. METHODS A bibliographic search limited to English-language literature on human subjects published before 5/2023 resulted in the selection of 189 articles. RESULTS Male infertility is often of multifactorial aetiology, and to optimise the prognosis it is important to manage all the factors that can be corrected, including infectious causes, which represent one of the most frequent aetiologies. The infectious agents involved in urogenital infections are most often bacterial or viral, and more rarely parasitic. They can infect the seminal tract, male accessory glands and/or testicles, and usually result in inflammation and increased oxidative stress. These infections reduce male fertility, in particular by altering spermogram parameters and increasing sperm DNA fragmentation. For these reasons, the search for a urogenital infection should be systematic, involving a careful history and clinical examination, ultrasound and systematic bacteriological tests guided by clinical findings. Aetiological treatment may be proposed depending on the picture and the germ involved. CONCLUSION This review should help the urologist to establish an accurate diagnosis of the form and extent of the infection, and enable him to define an appropriate therapeutic strategy, tailored to the patient, in order to obtain the best chances of improving male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Saint
- Service d'urologie-transplantation, CHU Amiens Picardie, Amiens, France; Laboratoire EPROAD EA 4669, université Picardie Jules-Verne, Amiens, France
| | - E Huyghe
- Département d'urologie, hôpital de Rangueil, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France; Service de médecine de la reproduction, hôpital Paule-de-Viguier, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France; UMR DEFE, Inserm 1203, université de Toulouse, université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France.
| | - C Methorst
- Service de médecine de la reproduction, hôpital des 4 villes, Saint-Cloud, France
| | - A Priam
- Service d'urologie-transplantation, CHU Amiens Picardie, Amiens, France
| | | | - F Bruyère
- Urologie, CHRU de Tours, Tours, France
| | - A Faix
- Clinique Saint-Roch, 560, avenue du Colonel-Pavelet-dit-Villars, 34000 Montpellier, France
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Pacheco RI, Cristo MI, Anjo SI, Silva AF, Sousa MI, Tavares RS, Sousa AP, Almeida Santos T, Moura-Ramos M, Caramelo F, Manadas B, Ramalho-Santos J, Amaral SG. New Insights on Sperm Function in Male Infertility of Unknown Origin: A Multimodal Approach. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1462. [PMID: 37892144 PMCID: PMC10605211 DOI: 10.3390/biom13101462] [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: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The global trend of rising (male) infertility is concerning, and the unidentifiable causes in half of the cases, the so-called unknown origin male infertility (UOMI), demands a better understanding and assessment of both external/internal factors and mechanisms potentially involved. In this work, it was our aim to obtain new insight on UOMI, specifically on idiopathic (ID) and Unexplained male infertility (UMI), relying on a detailed evaluation of the male gamete, including functional, metabolic and proteomic aspects. For this purpose, 1114 semen samples, from males in couples seeking infertility treatment, were collected at the Reproductive Medicine Unit from the Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra (CHUC), from July 2018-July 2022. Based on the couples' clinical data, seminal/hormonal analysis, and strict eligibility criteria, samples were categorized in 3 groups, control (CTRL), ID and UMI. Lifestyle factors and anxiety/depression symptoms were assessed via survey. Sperm samples were evaluated functionally, mitochondrially and using proteomics. The results of Assisted Reproduction Techniques were assessed whenever available. According to our results, ID patients presented the worst sperm functional profile, while UMI patients were similar to controls. The proteomic analysis revealed 145 differentially expressed proteins, 8 of which were specifically altered in ID and UMI samples. Acrosin (ACRO) and sperm acrosome membrane-associated protein 4 (SACA4) were downregulated in ID patients while laminin subunit beta-2 (LAMB2), mannose 6-phosphate isomerase (MPI), ATP-dependent 6-phosphofructokinase liver type (PFKAL), STAR domain-containing protein 10 (STA10), serotransferrin (TRFE) and exportin-2 (XPO2) were downregulated in UMI patients. Using random forest analysis, SACA4 and LAMB2 were identified as the sperm proteins with a higher chance of distinguishing ID and UMI patients, and their function and expression variation were in accordance with the functional results. No alterations were observed in terms of lifestyle and psychological factors among the 3 groups. These findings obtained in an experimental setting based on 3 well-defined groups of subjects, might help to validate new biomarkers for unknown origin male infertility (ID and UMI) that, in the future, can be used to improve diagnostics and treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita I. Pacheco
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria I. Cristo
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sandra I. Anjo
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Andreia F. Silva
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Maria Inês Sousa
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Renata S. Tavares
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Sousa
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
- Eugin Coimbra, Rua Filipe Hodart 12, 3000-185 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Teresa Almeida Santos
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
- Eugin Coimbra, Rua Filipe Hodart 12, 3000-185 Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mariana Moura-Ramos
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
- Eugin Coimbra, Rua Filipe Hodart 12, 3000-185 Coimbra, Portugal
- Center for Research in Neuropsychology and Cognitive and Behavioral Intervention, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Coimbra, 3000-115 Coimbra, Portugal
- Clinical Psychology Unit, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | | | - Bruno Manadas
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Coimbra, 3000-456 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sandra Gomes Amaral
- CNC—Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
- IIIUC—Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
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Bernaschina-Rivera SA, López-Chaim AI, Cordero-Pacheco JA, Fernández-Crespo R, Quesada-Olarte J, Carrión R. Circumcision and Sexual Medicine. Sex Med Rev 2023; 11:412-420. [PMID: 37085961 DOI: 10.1093/sxmrev/qead009] [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: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Male circumcision is one of the most frequently performed and debated urological procedures due to its possible implications for sexual health. OBJECTIVES The objective of this article is to review the literature on male circumcision and reconcile the scientific evidence to improve the quality of care, patient education, and clinician decision-making regarding the effects on sexual function of this procedure. METHODS A review of the published literature regarding male circumcision was performed on PubMed. The criteria for selecting resources prioritized systematic reviews and cohort studies pertinent to sexual dysfunction, with a preference for recent publications. RESULTS Despite the conflicting data reported in articles, the weight of the scientific evidence suggests there is not sufficient data to establish a direct association between male circumcision and sexual dysfunction. CONCLUSION This review provides clinicians with an updated summary of the best available evidence on male circumcision and sexual dysfunction for evidenced-based quality of care and patient education.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Raúl Fernández-Crespo
- University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL 33602, United States
| | - José Quesada-Olarte
- University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL 33602, United States
| | - Rafael Carrión
- University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL 33602, United States
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13
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Norton SM, Saies A, Browne E, Charambra B, Silviu D, Nabi N, Nama G, Giri S, Flood HD. Outcome of acute epididymo-orchitis: risk factors for testicular loss. World J Urol 2023; 41:2421-2428. [PMID: 37452204 PMCID: PMC10465682 DOI: 10.1007/s00345-023-04500-1] [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: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Acute epididymo-orchitis (AEO) is a common urological condition characterised by pain and swelling of the epididymis which can affect men of any age. The aetiology and to some extent the management of the patient differ between paediatric and young and older adult groups. METHODS A retrospective analysis was performed at the University Hospital Limerick from 2012 to 2016. Hospital In-Patient Enquiry (HIPE) data were obtained for all patients diagnosed with orchitis, epididymitis, epididymo-orchitis or testicular abscess over this 5-year period. RESULTS 140 patients were identified, the age range was 0-89, median age 35.6. These were then split into 3 clinical groups, pre-pubertal (Group 1, 0-15-year-olds), sexually active young men (Group 2a, 16-35-year-olds) and men over 35 (Group 2b). Nine patients had an abscess on ultrasound investigation. There was a significant correlation between the presence of an abscess and the need for an orchidectomy (2 patients, P = 0.035). Two patients were reported as having an atrophic testis following AEO and both were in Group 2b. CONCLUSION Overall, 7/131 (5%) patients had loss or atrophy of a testicle following an episode of AEO. Nineteen patients had further readmissions with AEO (14%).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alex Saies
- University Hospital Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Eva Browne
- University Hospital Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | | | | | - Nauman Nabi
- University Hospital Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Girish Nama
- University Hospital Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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14
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Ďuračka M, Benko F, Chňapek M, Tvrdá E. Strategies for Bacterial Eradication from Human and Animal Semen Samples: Current Options and Future Alternatives. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:6978. [PMID: 37571761 PMCID: PMC10422635 DOI: 10.3390/s23156978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
The primary role of semen processing and preservation is to maintain a high proportion of structurally and functionally competent and mature spermatozoa, that may be used for the purposes of artificial reproduction when needed, whilst minimizing any potential causes of sperm deterioration during ex vivo semen handling. Out of a multitude of variables determining the success of sperm preservation, bacterial contamination has been acknowledged with an increased interest because of its often unpredictable and complex effects on semen quality. Whilst antibiotics are usually the most straight-forward option to prevent the bacterial contamination of semen, antimicrobial resistance has become a serious threat requiring widespread attention. As such, besides discussing the consequences of bacteriospermia on the sperm vitality and the risks of antibiotic overuse in andrology, this paper summarizes the currently available evidence on alternative strategies to prevent bacterial contamination of semen prior to, during, and following sperm processing, selection, and preservation. Alternative antibacterial supplements are reviewed, and emphasis is given to modern methods of sperm selection that may be combined by the physical removal of bacteria prior to sperm preservation or by use in assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Ďuračka
- AgroBioTech Research Centre, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Filip Benko
- Institute of Applied Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Milan Chňapek
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Eva Tvrdá
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
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15
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Kumar N, Deepthi KN, Padugupati S, Ghose S, Narang R. Seminal plasma testis expressed sequence (TEX)-101 as a biomarker for the qualitative assessment of male factor infertility: A case-control study. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 287:221-226. [PMID: 37390755 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.06.022] [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: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The study was conducted to assess the role of seminal plasma Testis Expressed Sequence (TEX)-101 as a biomarker of male infertility. STUDY DESIGN The study was conducted on 180 men (20-50 years) with 90 having abnormal semen reports as cases and 90 with normal reports as controls in a rural tertiary care center in Southern India over two years. After the enrolment of cases and control, semen samples were cryopreserved till the desired sample size was achieved and a biochemical test for TEX-101 was run using Human Testis-expressed Protein 101 ELISA Kit. The results of TEX-101 were compared between cases and controls and correlated with various semen parameters. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software version 22.0, a p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Mean ± SD age of all participants was 29.94 ± 4.91 years. Of 90 cases, 48.9% had asthenospermia, 24.4% oligoasthenospermia, 15.6% oligospermia, 11.1% azoospermia. A statistically significant difference was observed in mean values of seminal plasma TEX-101 between cases (1.45 ± 0.08 ng/mL) and controls (2.26 ± 0.18 ng/mL), p = 0.001. A significant correlation (p = 0.001) was found between seminal TEX-101, semen volume, sperm concentration, progressive motility, and morphology. The area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve of TEX-101 between cases and controls was 1.00 (p = 0.001), indicating TEX-101 as a potential biomarker for distinguishing men with abnormal semen parameters from those with normal semen parameters. At a cut-off value of 1.84 ng/mL, seminal plasma TEX-101 had a sensitivity, specificity, and negative and positive predictive values of 100% for male infertility prediction. CONCLUSION Seminal TEX-101 is a potential seminal biomarker and can be used in the qualitative assessment of male factor infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naina Kumar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bibinagar-508126, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
| | - K N Deepthi
- Department of Pathology, SVS Medical College, Yenugonda, Mahabubnagar 509001, Telangana, India
| | - Suhasini Padugupati
- Department of Biochemistry, SVS Medical College, Yenugonda, Mahabubnagar 509002, Telangana, India
| | - Seetesh Ghose
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Puducherry 607402, India.
| | - Rahul Narang
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Bibinagar, 508126 Hyderabad, Telangana, India
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Paira DA, Olmedo JJ, Olivera C, Tissera AD, Molina RI, Rivero VE, Motrich RD, Saka HA. Chronic epididymitis due to Chlamydia trachomatis LGV-L2 in an HIV-negative heterosexual patient: a case report. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1129166. [PMID: 37228719 PMCID: PMC10203518 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1129166] [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: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is an obligate intracellular pathogen and the leading bacterial cause of sexually transmitted infections worldwide. Chlamydia trachomatis genovars L1-L3 are responsible for lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV), an invasive sexually transmitted disease endemic in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, South America, the Caribbean, India and South East Asia. The typical signs and symptoms of C. trachomatis LGV urogenital infections in men include herpetiform ulcers, inguinal buboes, and/or lymphadenopathies. Since 2003, endemic cases of proctitis and proctocolitis caused by C. trachomatis LGV emerged in Europe, mainly in HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM). Scarce data have been reported about unusual clinical presentations of C. trachomatis LGV urogenital infections. Herein, we report a case of a 36-year-old heterosexual, HIV-negative male declaring he did not have sex with men or trans women, who presented to the Urology and Andrology outpatient clinic of a healthcare center from Cordoba, Argentina, with intermittent testicular pain over the preceding 6 months. Doppler ultrasound indicated right epididymitis and funiculitis. Out of 17 sexually transmitted infections (STIs) investigated, a positive result was obtained only for C. trachomatis. Also, semen analysis revealed oligoasthenozoospermia, reduced sperm viability as well as increased sperm DNA fragmentation and necrosis, together with augmented reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and the presence of anti-sperm IgG autoantibodies. In this context, doxycycline 100 mg/12 h for 45 days was prescribed. A post-treatment control documented microbiological cure along with resolution of clinical signs and symptoms and improved semen quality. Strikingly, sequencing of the ompA gene revealed C. trachomatis LGV L2 as the causative uropathogen. Remarkably, the patient did not present the typical signs and symptoms of LGV. Instead, the infection associated with chronic testicular pain, semen inflammation and markedly reduced sperm quality. To our knowledge, this is the first reported evidence of chronic epididymitis due to C. trachomatis LGV L2 infection in an HIV-negative heterosexual man. These findings constitute important and valuable information for researchers and practitioners and highlight that C. trachomatis LGV-L2 should be considered as putative etiologic agent of chronic epididymitis, even in the absence of the typical LGV signs and symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Andrea Paira
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), CONICET, Córdoba, Argentina
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - José Javier Olmedo
- Fundación Urológica Córdoba para la Docencia e Investigación Médica (FUCDIM), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Carolina Olivera
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), CONICET, Córdoba, Argentina
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | | | | | - Virginia Elena Rivero
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), CONICET, Córdoba, Argentina
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Rubén Darío Motrich
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), CONICET, Córdoba, Argentina
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Héctor Alex Saka
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), CONICET, Córdoba, Argentina
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
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Tvrdá E, Ďuračka M, Benko F, Kováčik A, Lovíšek D, Gálová E, Žiarovská J, Schwarzová M, Kačániová M. Ejaculatory Abstinence Affects the Sperm Quality in Normozoospermic Men-How Does the Seminal Bacteriome Respond? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043503. [PMID: 36834909 PMCID: PMC9963725 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
This study was designed to describe bacterial profiles of ejaculates collected following a long and short ejaculatory abstinence set in the context of changes in the conventional, oxidative, and immunological characteristics of semen. Two specimens were collected in succession from normozoospermic men (n = 51) following 2 days and 2 h, respectively. Semen samples were processed and analyzed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) 2021 guidelines. Afterwards, sperm DNA fragmentation, mitochondrial function, levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), total antioxidant capacity, and oxidative damage to sperm lipids and proteins were evaluated in each specimen. Selected cytokine levels were quantified using the ELISA method. Bacterial identification by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry revealed that samples collected following two days of abstinence presented with a higher bacterial load and diversity, and a greater prevalence of potentially uropathogenic bacteria including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis. Only staphylococci and Escherichia coli remained present in specimens obtained after 2 h of abstinence. Whilst all samples accomplished the criteria set by WHO, a significantly higher motility (p < 0.05), membrane integrity (p < 0.05), mitochondrial membrane potential (p < 0.05), and DNA integrity (p < 0.0001) were detected following 2 h of ejaculatory abstinence. On the other hand, significantly higher ROS levels (p < 0.001), protein oxidation (p < 0.001), and lipid peroxidation (p < 0.01) accompanied by significantly higher concentrations of tumor necrosis factor alpha (p < 0.05), interleukin-6 (p < 0.01), and interferon gamma (p < 0.05) were observed in specimens collected after two days of abstinence. It may be summarized that shorter ejaculatory abstinence does not compromise sperm quality in normozoospermic men, while it contributes to a decreased occurrence of bacteria in semen which is accompanied by a lower probability of damage to spermatozoa by ROS or pro-inflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Tvrdá
- Institute of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 94976 Nitra, Slovakia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +421-37-641-4918
| | - Michal Ďuračka
- AgroBioTech Research Centre, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 94976 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Filip Benko
- Institute of Applied Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 94976 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Anton Kováčik
- Institute of Applied Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 94976 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Daniel Lovíšek
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Ilkovičova 6, Mlynská Dolina, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Eliška Gálová
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Ilkovičova 6, Mlynská Dolina, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Jana Žiarovská
- Institute of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Slovak University of Agriculture, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 94976 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Marianna Schwarzová
- Department of Fruit Science, Viticulture and Enology, Faculty of Horticulture and Landscape Engineering, Slovak University of Agriculture, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 94976 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Miroslava Kačániová
- Department of Fruit Science, Viticulture and Enology, Faculty of Horticulture and Landscape Engineering, Slovak University of Agriculture, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 94976 Nitra, Slovakia
- Department of Bioenergetics, Food Analysis and Microbiology, Institute of Food Technology and Nutrition, University of Rzeszow, Cwiklinskiej 1, 35-601 Rzeszow, Poland
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18
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Pleuger C, Ai D, Hoppe ML, Winter LT, Bohnert D, Karl D, Guenther S, Epelman S, Kantores C, Fijak M, Ravens S, Middendorff R, Mayer JU, Loveland KL, Hedger M, Bhushan S, Meinhardt A. The regional distribution of resident immune cells shapes distinct immunological environments along the murine epididymis. eLife 2022; 11:e82193. [PMID: 36515584 PMCID: PMC9750176 DOI: 10.7554/elife.82193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The epididymis functions as transition zone for post-testicular sperm maturation and storage and faces contrasting immunological challenges, i.e. tolerance towards spermatozoa vs. reactivity against pathogens. Thus, normal organ function and integrity relies heavily on a tightly controlled immune balance. Previous studies described inflammation-associated tissue damage solely in the distal regions (corpus, cauda), but not in the proximal regions (initial segment, caput). To understand the observed region-specific immunity along the epididymal duct, we have used an acute bacterial epididymitis mouse model and analyzed the disease progression. Whole transcriptome analysis using RNAseq 10 days post infection showed a pro-inflammatory environment within the cauda, while the caput exhibited only minor transcriptional changes. High-dimensional flow cytometry analyses revealed drastic changes in the immune cell composition upon infection with uropathogenic Escherichia coli. A massive influx of neutrophils and monocytes was observed exclusively in distal regions and was associated with bacterial appearance and tissue alterations. In order to clarify the reasons for the region-specific differences in the intensity of immune responses, we investigated the heterogeneity of resident immune cell populations under physiological conditions by scRNASeq analysis of extravascular CD45+ cells. Twelve distinct immune cell subsets were identified, displaying substantial differences in distribution along the epididymis as further assessed by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence staining. Macrophages constituted the majority of resident immune cells and were further separated in distinct subgroups based on their transcriptional profile, tissue location and monocyte-dependence. Crucially, the proximal and distal regions showed striking differences in their immunological landscapes. These findings indicate that resident immune cells are strategically positioned along the epididymal duct, potentially providing different immunological environments required for addressing the contrasting immunological challenges and thus, preserving tissue integrity and organ function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Pleuger
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Hessian Center of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Dingding Ai
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Hessian Center of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Minea L Hoppe
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Hessian Center of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Laura T Winter
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Hessian Center of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Daniel Bohnert
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Hessian Center of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Dominik Karl
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Hessian Center of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Stefan Guenther
- ECCPS Bioinformatics and Deep Sequencing Platform, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Slava Epelman
- Ted Rogers Center of Heart Research, Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Crystal Kantores
- Ted Rogers Center of Heart Research, Peter Munk Cardiac Centre, Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Monika Fijak
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Hessian Center of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sarina Ravens
- Institute of Immunology, Hannover Medical School, Hanover, Germany
| | - Ralf Middendorff
- Hessian Center of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Signal Transduction, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Johannes U Mayer
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Philipps-University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Centre of Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Mark Hedger
- Centre of Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Hessian Center of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Hessian Center of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Centre of Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Australia
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19
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Volz Y, Ebner B, Pfitzinger P, Berg E, Lellig E, Marcon J, Trottmann M, Becker A, Stief CG, Magistro G. Asymptomatic bacteriospermia and infertility-what is the connection? Infection 2022; 50:1499-1505. [PMID: 35471630 PMCID: PMC9705509 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-022-01828-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the impact of asymptomatic bacteriospermia on semen quality in subfertile men. METHODS We conducted a retrospective, single-centre cohort study in 1300 subfertile men. In those diagnosed with asymptomatic bacteriospermia we performed univariate and multivariate logistic regression models to evaluate the strain-specific association with semen parameters. RESULTS Asymptomatic bacteriospermia was diagnosed in 3.2% of patients. The microbiological semen analysis revealed a poly-microbial result in 60%. The most common bacterial species were coagulase-negative Staphylococci species (71.4%), Streptococcus viridans (50.0%) and Enterococcus faecalis (26.2%). Sexually transmitted pathogens were identified in 11.9% of semen samples. The detection of Streptococcus viridians or Haemophilus parainfluenzae correlated with impaired sperm morphology (p < 0.05). The presence of coagulase-negative Staphylococci species or Enterococcus faecalis was associated with pathological low counts of live spermatozoa (p < 0.05). In multivariate analysis only Enterococcus faecalis showed a significant impact on sperm concentration (OR 4.48; 95% CI 1.06-22.10; p = 0.041). CONCLUSIONS Asymptomatic bacteriospermia has always been a subject of great controversy. There is still an ongoing debate whether to treat or not to treat. Here, we demonstrate that asymptomatic bacteriospermia is clearly associated with impaired semen quality. Our findings speak in favour of strain-specific interactions with semen parameters. Especially Enterococcus faecalis seriously affects sperm concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannic Volz
- Department of Urology, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Benedikt Ebner
- Department of Urology, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Paulo Pfitzinger
- Department of Urology, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Elena Berg
- Department of Urology, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Ekaterina Lellig
- Department of Urology, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Julian Marcon
- Department of Urology, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Armin Becker
- Department of Urology, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Christian G Stief
- Department of Urology, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Giuseppe Magistro
- Department of Urology, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany.
- Department of Urology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany.
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20
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Roshandel E, Mehravar M, Nikoonezhad M, Alizadeh AM, Majidi M, Salimi M, Hajifathali A. Cell-Based Therapy Approaches in Treatment of Non-obstructive Azoospermia. Reprod Sci 2022; 30:1482-1494. [PMID: 36380137 PMCID: PMC9666961 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01115-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The rate of infertility has globally increased in recent years for a variety of reasons. One of the main causes of infertility in men is azoospermia that is defined by the absence of sperm in the ejaculate and classified into two categories: obstructive azoospermia and non-obstructive azoospermia. In non-obstructive azoospermia, genital ducts are not obstructed, but the testicles do not produce sperm at all, due to various reasons. Non-obstructive azoospermia in most cases has no therapeutic options other than assisted reproductive techniques, which in most cases require sperm donors. Here we discuss cell-based therapy approaches to restore fertility in men with non-obstructive azoospermia including cell-based therapies of non-obstructive azoospermia using regenerative medicine and cell-based therapies of non-obstructive azoospermia by paracrine and anti-inflammatory pathway, technical and ethical challenges for using different cell sources and alternative options will be described, and then the more effectual approaches will be mentioned as future trends.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Roshandel
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 1985711151, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Mehravar
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 1985711151, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Nikoonezhad
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 1985711151, Tehran, Iran
| | - Afshin Mohammad Alizadeh
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Majidi
- Department of Tissue Engineering & Regenerative Medicine, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Salimi
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 1985711151, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Hajifathali
- Hematopoietic Stem Cell Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box: 1985711151, Tehran, Iran
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21
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Grande G, Pompa G, Astorri AL, Pontecorvi A, Milardi D. Association of Probiotic Treatment With Antibiotics in Male Accessory Gland Infections. Am J Mens Health 2022; 16:15579883221119064. [PMID: 36255039 PMCID: PMC9583205 DOI: 10.1177/15579883221119064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Male accessory gland infection (MAGI) represents a frequent disease, commonly treated with antibiotics alone. However, in approximately 40% to 50% of patients, persistent infection is detected. Intestinal dysbiosis is involved in the pathogenesis of prostatitis. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of antibiotic treatment in association with a specific probiotic supplementation. A total of 104 infertile patients, with microbiological analysis on semen and/or prostatic secretions positive for Gram-negative bacteria, have been enrolled. All patients received antibiotic treatment with fluoroquinolones. In total, 84 patients received a commercial association of Enterococcus faecium and Saccharomyces boulardii during antibiotic treatment, followed by treatment with Lactobacilli. After the treatment, a complete microbiological analysis was repeated. Polymicrobial infections have been observed in 11% of patients, while infections due to a single germ were reported in 89% of the patients. After the treatment was performed, a complete eradication with negative semen culture and microbiological analysis on prostatic secretion was observed in 64 of 84 patients (76.2%), while only 10 of 20 patients receiving antibiotics alone (50%; p < .05) reported negative microbiological analysis. Persistent infections have been observed only in patients with infections due to Enterococcus faecalis and Escherichia coli. This study represents the first approach demonstrating the efficacy of a specific probiotic treatment in reducing the rate of persistent infections in patients with MAGI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Grande
- International Scientific Institute
“Paul VI,” Rome, Italy,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A.
Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy,Unit of Andrology and Reproductive
Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy,Giuseppe Grande, Unit of Andrology and
Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Via Gustavo
Modena 9, 35128 Padova, Italy.
| | - Giuseppina Pompa
- International Scientific Institute
“Paul VI,” Rome, Italy,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A.
Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Laura Astorri
- International Scientific Institute
“Paul VI,” Rome, Italy,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A.
Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Alfredo Pontecorvi
- International Scientific Institute
“Paul VI,” Rome, Italy,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A.
Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenico Milardi
- International Scientific Institute
“Paul VI,” Rome, Italy,Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A.
Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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22
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Lotti F, Frizza F, Balercia G, Barbonetti A, Behre HM, Calogero AE, Cremers J, Francavilla F, Isidori AM, Kliesch S, La Vignera S, Lenzi A, Marcou M, Pilatz A, Poolamets O, Punab M, Godoy MFP, Quintian C, Rajmil O, Salvio G, Shaeer O, Weidner W, Maseroli E, Cipriani S, Baldi E, Degl'Innocenti S, Danza G, Caldini AL, Terreni A, Boni L, Krausz C, Maggi M. The European Academy of Andrology (EAA) ultrasound study on healthy, fertile men: An overview on male genital tract ultrasound reference ranges. Andrology 2022; 10 Suppl 2:118-132. [PMID: 35930758 PMCID: PMC9828651 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND So far, male genital tract color-Doppler ultrasound (MGT-CDUS) was not standardized. Recently, the European Academy of Andrology (EAA) published the results of a multicenter study assessing the CDUS characteristics of healthy-fertile men (HFM) to obtain normative parameters. OBJECTIVES To report the EAA US study (i) standard operating procedures (SOPs) for assessing MGT-CDUS, (ii) main MGT-CDUS normative parameters, and (iii) compare the EAA and previously published "normal" CDUS values. METHODS A cohort of 248 HFM (35.3 ± 5.9 years) was studied, evaluating MGT-CDUS before and after ejaculation following SOPs. RESULTS SOPs for MGT-CDUS assessment are summarized here. All subjects underwent scrotal CDUS and 188 men underwent transrectal ultrasound before and after ejaculation. The main CDUS reference ranges and characteristics of the HFM-MGT are reported here. The mean testicular volume was ∼17 mL. The lower limit for right and left testis was 12 and 11 mL, defining testicular hypotrophy. The upper limit for epididymal head, body, tail, and vas deferens was 11.5, 5, 6, and 4.5 mm, respectively. Testicular and epididymal arterial reference ranges are reported. The EAA varicocoele classification is reported. CDUS-varicocoele was detected in ∼37% of men. Prostate mean volume was ∼25 mL, while lower and upper limits were 15 and 35 mL, defining hypotrophy and enlargement, respectively. Prostate arterial reference ranges are reported. Prostate calcifications and inhomogeneity were frequent; midline prostatic cysts were rare and small. Ejaculatory duct abnormalities were absent. The upper limit for periprostatic venous plexus was 4.5 mm. Lower and upper limits of seminal vesicles (SV) anterior-posterior diameter were 6 and 16 mm, defining hypotrophy or dilation, respectively. Seminal vesicle volume and ejection fraction reference ranges are reported. SV-US abnormalities were rare. Deferential ampullas upper limit was 6 mm. A discussion on the EAA and previously published "normal" CDUS values is reported here. CONCLUSIONS The EAA findings will help in reproductive and general male health management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Lotti
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”University of FlorenceFlorenceItaly
| | - Francesca Frizza
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”University of FlorenceFlorenceItaly
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Endocrinology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti AnconaPolytechnic University of MarcheAnconaItaly
| | - Arcangelo Barbonetti
- Andrology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental SciencesUniversity of L'AquilaL'AquilaItaly
| | - Hermann M. Behre
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and AndrologyMartin Luther University Halle‐WittenbergHalleGermany
| | - Aldo E. Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental MedicineUniversity of CataniaCataniaItaly
| | - Jann‐Frederik Cremers
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and AndrologyMünster University HospitalMünsterGermany
| | - Felice Francavilla
- Andrology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental SciencesUniversity of L'AquilaL'AquilaItaly
| | - Andrea M. Isidori
- Department of Experimental MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and AndrologyMünster University HospitalMünsterGermany
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental MedicineUniversity of CataniaCataniaItaly
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Department of Experimental MedicineSapienza University of RomeRomeItaly
| | - Marios Marcou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and AndrologyMartin Luther University Halle‐WittenbergHalleGermany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and AndrologyJustus Liebig UniversityGiessenGermany
| | | | - Margus Punab
- Andrology UnitTartu University HospitalTartuEstonia
| | - Maria Fernanda Peraza Godoy
- Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Universitat Autònoma de BarcelonaInstituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB‐Sant Pau)BarcelonaSpain
| | - Claudia Quintian
- Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Universitat Autònoma de BarcelonaInstituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB‐Sant Pau)BarcelonaSpain
| | - Osvaldo Rajmil
- Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Universitat Autònoma de BarcelonaInstituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB‐Sant Pau)BarcelonaSpain
| | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Endocrinology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti AnconaPolytechnic University of MarcheAnconaItaly
| | - Osama Shaeer
- Department of Andrology, Kasr El Aini Faculty of MedicineCairo UniversityCairoEgypt
| | - Wolfgang Weidner
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and AndrologyJustus Liebig UniversityGiessenGermany
| | - Elisa Maseroli
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”University of FlorenceFlorenceItaly
| | - Sarah Cipriani
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”University of FlorenceFlorenceItaly
| | - Elisabetta Baldi
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”University of FlorenceFlorenceItaly
| | - Selene Degl'Innocenti
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”University of FlorenceFlorenceItaly
| | - Giovanna Danza
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”University of FlorenceFlorenceItaly
| | | | | | - Luca Boni
- Clinical Trials Coordinating CenterToscano Cancer InstituteUniversity Hospital CareggiFlorenceItaly
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”University of FlorenceFlorenceItaly
| | - Mario Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences “Mario Serio”University of FlorenceFlorenceItaly
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23
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Tvrdá E, Ďuračka M, Benko F, Lukáč N. Bacteriospermia - A formidable player in male subfertility. Open Life Sci 2022; 17:1001-1029. [PMID: 36060647 PMCID: PMC9386612 DOI: 10.1515/biol-2022-0097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial colonization of male reproductive tissues, cells, and fluids, and the subsequent impact of bacteria on the sperm architecture, activity, and fertilizing potential, has recently gained increased attention from the medical and scientific community. Current evidence strongly emphasizes the fact that the presence of bacteria in semen may have dire consequences on the resulting male fertility. Nevertheless, the molecular basis underlying bacteriospermia-associated suboptimal semen quality is sophisticated, multifactorial, and still needs further understanding. Bacterial adhesion and subsequent sperm agglutination and immobilization represent the most direct pathway of sperm-bacterial interactions. Furthermore, the release of bacterial toxins and leukocytic infiltration, associated with a massive outburst of reactive oxygen species, have been repeatedly associated with sperm dysfunction in bacteria-infested semen. This review serves as a summary of the present knowledge on bacteriospermia-associated male subfertility. Furthermore, we strived to outline the currently available methods for assessing bacterial profiles in semen and to outline the most promising strategies for the prevention and/or management of bacteriospermia in practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Tvrdá
- Department of Animal Physiology, Institute of Applied Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, Nitra-Chrenová, 949 76, Slovakia
| | - Michal Ďuračka
- Department of Animal Physiology, Institute of Applied Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, Nitra-Chrenová, 949 76, Slovakia
| | - Filip Benko
- Department of Animal Physiology, Institute of Applied Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, Nitra-Chrenová, 949 76, Slovakia
| | - Norbert Lukáč
- Department of Animal Physiology, Institute of Applied Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, Nitra-Chrenová, 949 76, Slovakia
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24
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Possible Implications of Bacteriospermia on the Sperm Quality, Oxidative Characteristics, and Seminal Cytokine Network in Normozoospermic Men. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158678. [PMID: 35955814 PMCID: PMC9369207 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This study focused on the identification of bacterial profiles of semen in normozoospermic men and their possible involvement in changes to the sperm structural integrity and functional activity. Furthermore, we studied possible fluctuations of selected cytokines, oxidative markers, and antibacterial proteins as a result of bacterial presence in the ejaculate. Sperm motility was assessed with computer-assisted sperm analysis, while sperm apoptosis, necrosis and acrosome integrity were examined with fluorescent methods. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation was quantified via luminometry, sperm DNA fragmentation was evaluated using the TUNEL protocol and chromatin-dispersion test, while the JC-1 assay was applied to evaluate the mitochondrial membrane potential. Cytokine levels were quantified with the biochip assay, whilst selected antibacterial proteins were quantified using the ELISA method. The predominant species identified by the matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry were Staphylococcus hominis, Staphylococcus capitis and Micrococcus luteus. The results revealed that the sperm quality decreased proportionally to the increasing bacterial load and occurrence of conditionally pathogenic bacteria, including Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests revealed a substantial resistance of randomly selected bacterial strains to ampicillin, vancomycin, tobramycin, and tetracycline. Furthermore, an increased bacterial quantity in semen was accompanied by elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-1, interleukin-2, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha as well as ROS overproduction and lipid peroxidation of the sperm membranes. Our results suggest that semen quality may be notably affected by the bacterial quantity as well as quality. It seems that bacteriospermia may be associated with inflammatory processes, oxidative stress, sperm structural deterioration, and a subsequent risk for the development of subfertility, even in normozoospermic males.
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25
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Lotti F, Frizza F, Balercia G, Barbonetti A, Behre HM, Calogero AE, Cremers JF, Francavilla F, Isidori AM, Kliesch S, La Vignera S, Lenzi A, Marcou M, Pilatz A, Poolamets O, Punab M, Godoy MFP, Quintian C, Rajmil O, Salvio G, Shaeer O, Weidner W, Maseroli E, Cipriani S, Baldi E, Degl'Innocenti S, Danza G, Caldini AL, Terreni A, Boni L, Krausz C, Maggi M. The European Academy of Andrology (EAA) ultrasound study on healthy, fertile men: Prostate-vesicular transrectal ultrasound reference ranges and associations with clinical, seminal and biochemical characteristics. Andrology 2022; 10:1150-1171. [PMID: 35735741 PMCID: PMC9544532 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) parameters are not standardized, especially in men of reproductive age. Hence, the European Academy of Andrology (EAA) promoted a multicenter study to assess the TRUS characteristics of healthy‐fertile men (HFM) to establish normative parameters. Objectives To report and discuss the prostate and seminal vesicles (SV) reference ranges and characteristics in HFM and their associations with clinical, seminal, biochemical parameters. Methods 188 men (35.6 ± 6.0 years) from a cohort of 248 HFM were studied, evaluating, on the same day, clinical, biochemical, seminal, TRUS parameters following Standard Operating Procedures. Results TRUS reference ranges and characteristics of the prostate and SV of HFM are reported herein. The mean PV was ∼25 ml. PV lower and upper limits were 15 and 35 ml, defining prostate hypotrophy and enlargement, respectively. PV was positively associated with age, waistline, current smoking (but not with T levels), seminal volume (and negatively with seminal pH), prostate inhomogeneity, macrocalcifications, calcification size and prostate arterial parameters, SV volume before and after ejaculation, deferential and epididymal size. Prostate calcifications and inhomogeneity were frequent, while midline prostatic cysts were rare and small. Ejaculatory duct abnormalities were absent. Periprostatic venous plexus size was positively associated with prostate calcifications, SV volume and arterial peak systolic velocity. Lower and upper limits of SV anterior‐posterior diameter after ejaculation were 6 and 16 mm, defining SV hypotrophy or dilation, respectively. SV total volume before ejaculation and delta SV total volume (DSTV) positively correlated with ejaculate volume, and DSTV correlated positively with sperm progressive motility. SV total volume after ejaculation was associated negatively with SV ejection fraction and positively with distal ampullas size. SV US abnormalities were rare. No association between TRUS and time to pregnancy, number of children or history of miscarriage was observed. Conclusions The present findings will help in better understanding male infertility pathophysiology and the meaning of specific TRUS findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Lotti
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesca Frizza
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Endocrinology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti Ancona, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Arcangelo Barbonetti
- Andrology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Hermann M Behre
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Jann-Frederik Cremers
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Münster University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - Felice Francavilla
- Andrology Unit, Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Andrea M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Department of Clinical and Surgical Andrology, Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Münster University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marios Marcou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Olev Poolamets
- Andrology Unit, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Margus Punab
- Andrology Unit, Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | | | - Claudia Quintian
- Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Osvaldo Rajmil
- Andrology Department, Fundació Puigvert, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Endocrinology Unit, Ospedali Riuniti Ancona, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Osama Shaeer
- Department of Andrology, Kasr El Aini Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Wolfgang Weidner
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Elisa Maseroli
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Sarah Cipriani
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Baldi
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Selene Degl'Innocenti
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giovanna Danza
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | | | - Luca Boni
- Clinical Trials Coordinating Center, Toscano Cancer Institute, University Hospital Careggi, Florence, Italy
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Andrology, Female Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Gholami M, Moosazadeh M, Haghshenash MR, Jafarpour H, Mousavi T. Evaluation of the Presence of Bacterial and Viral Agents in the Semen of Infertile Men: A Systematic and Meta-Analysis Review Study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 9:835254. [PMID: 35602502 PMCID: PMC9116196 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2022.835254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Infections in the male genitourinary system with bacterial and viral agents may play a significant role in male infertility. These agents usually infect the urethra, seminal vesicles, prostate, epididymis, vas deferens, and testes retrograde through the reproductive system. A meta-analysis review study was performed to evaluate the presence of bacterial and viral agents in the semen of infertile men and its correlation with infertility. Methods Relevant cross-sectional and/or case-control studies were found by an online review of national and international databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Google scholar), and suitable studies were selected. A checklist determined the qualities of all studies. Heterogeneity assay among the primary studies was evaluated by Cochran’s Q test and I2 index (significance level 50%). A statistical analysis was conducted using the Comprehensive Stata ver. 14 package (StataCorp, College Station, TX, United States). Results Seventy-two studies were included in this meta-analysis. Publication bias was compared with Egger’s test, and the impact of each research on overall estimate was evaluated by sensitivity analysis. In 56 studies, the rate of bacterial infections in the semen of infertile men was 12% [95% confidence interval (CI): 10–13]. Also, in 26 case-control studies, the association of infertility in men with bacterial infections was evaluated. The results show that the odds ratio of infertility in men exposed to bacterial infections is 3.31 times higher than that in non-infected men (95% CI: 2.60–4.23). Besides, in 9 studies that examined the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV1), herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV2), and herpes simplex virus 1-2 (HSV1-2) in infertile men, the frequency of these viruses was 15% (95% CI: 9–21). In 6 case-control studies, the association between human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), Cytomegalovirus (CMV), and HPV and male infertility was evaluated. The chance of male infertility due to exposure to these viruses was 2.24 times higher than those without exposure to these viruses (CI 95%: 1.9–4.52). The results show that the chance of infertility in men exposed to bacteria was significantly higher than that in the uninfected population. Conclusion This meta-analysis showed that viral and bacterial infections are a risk factor and could impair male fertility potential. Moreover, our study supports the hypothesis that bacterial and viral infections of the genital tract correlate positively with impairment of sperm quality in the male population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehrdad Gholami
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center (MCBRC), Hemoglobinopathy Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mahmood Moosazadeh
- Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Center, Non-communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Haghshenash
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Hamed Jafarpour
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Tahoora Mousavi
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center (MCBRC), Hemoglobinopathy Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Medical Sciences Technologies, Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center (MCBRC), Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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Kopalli SR, Cha KM, Cho JY, Kim SK, Koppula S. Cordycepin from Medicinal Fungi Cordyceps militaris Mitigates Inflammaging-Associated Testicular Damage via Regulating NF-κB/MAPKs Signaling in Naturally Aged Rats. MYCOBIOLOGY 2022; 50:89-98. [PMID: 35291597 PMCID: PMC8890559 DOI: 10.1080/12298093.2022.2035515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Inflammaging in male reproductive organs covers a wide variety of problems, including sexual dysfunction and infertility. In this study, the beneficial effects of cordycepin (COR), isolated from potential medicinal fungi Cordyceps militaris, in aging-associated testicular inflammation and serum biochemical changes in naturally aged rats were investigated. Male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into young control (YC), aged control (AC), and COR (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg) treated aged rat groups. Aging-associated serum biochemical changes and inflammatory parameters were analyzed by biochemical assay kits, Western blotting, and real-time RT-PCR. Results showed a significant (p < 0.05) alteration in the total blood cell count, lipid metabolism, and liver functional parameters in AC group when compared with YC group. However, COR-treated aged rats ameliorated the altered biochemical parameters significantly (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01 at 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg, respectively). Furthermore, the increase in the expression of inflammatory mediators (COX-2, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tissue necrosis factor-alpha) in aged rat testis was significant (p < 0.05) when compared with YC group. Treatment with COR at 20 mg/kg to aged rats attenuated the increased expression of inflammatory mediators significantly (p < 0.05). Mechanistic studies revealed that the potential attenuating effects exhibited by COR in aged rats was mediated by regulation of NF-κB activation and MAPKs (c-Jun N-terminal kinase, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2, and p38) signaling. In conclusion, COR restored the altered serum biochemical parameters in aged rats and ameliorated the aging-associated testicular inflammation proving the therapeutic benefits of COR targeting inflammaging-associated male sexual dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kyu-Min Cha
- D&L Biochem, Business Incubator Center 406, Chungju-Si, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Youl Cho
- Department of Integrative Biotechnology, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Si-Kwan Kim
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, College of Biomedical & Health Science, Konkuk University, Chungju-si, Republic of Korea
| | - Sushruta Koppula
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, College of Biomedical & Health Science, Konkuk University, Chungju-si, Republic of Korea
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Akhigbe RE, Dutta S, Hamed MA, Ajayi AF, Sengupta P, Ahmad G. Viral Infections and Male Infertility: A Comprehensive Review of the Role of Oxidative Stress. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:782915. [PMID: 36303638 PMCID: PMC9580820 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.782915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral infections have been a part of human existence to date, though viruses have posed a huge threat with various outbreaks lately. These threats are associated with reproductive health challenges, especially male infertility. The prime focus of this review is to highlight the mechanisms associated with viral infection-induced male infertility/subfertility and identify new treatment strategies with the aim to preserve male fertility. The reviewed data showed that viral infections stimulate inflammatory responses, resulting in the release of proinflammatory cytokines, which induces oxidative stress. This oxido-inflammatory cycle could continue in a vicious cycle and threaten male fertility. Existing data from human and experimental studies show that viral infection-induced oxido-inflammatory response results in testicular damage, atrophy of the seminiferous tubules and Sertoli cells, and reduced Leydig cell mass. This is accompanied by reduced circulatory testosterone, impaired spermatogenesis, reduced sperm motility, lipid peroxidation, DNA fragmentation and apoptosis of the sperm cells. Based on the available pieces of evidence, antioxidant therapy, in vivo and in vitro, may be beneficial and protects against the potential risk of male infertility from viral infection. It is, however recommended that more clinical studies be conducted to demonstrate the possible protective roles of antioxidants used as adjuvant therapy in viral infections, and in the in vitro treatment of semen samples for those utilizing semen washing and artificial reproductive techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland E. Akhigbe
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - Sulagna Dutta
- Department of Oral Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Malaysia
| | - Moses A. Hamed
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
- Brainwill Laboratories, Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - Ayodeji F. Ajayi
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Biosciences and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Malaysia
- *Correspondence: Pallav Sengupta
| | - Gulfam Ahmad
- Redox Biology Group, Discipline of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Gulfam Ahmad
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[CLINICAL AND IMAGING FINDINGS OF ACUTE EPIDIDYMITIS IN CHILDREN]. Nihon Hinyokika Gakkai Zasshi 2022; 113:22-27. [PMID: 36682808 DOI: 10.5980/jpnjurol.113.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
(Objective) The etiology of acute epididymitis in children remains poorly understood. Several studies have demonstrated that urine tests are negative in the majority of children with acute epididymitis, and the condition is self-limiting. The need for radiological evaluation of the urinary tract in children with acute epididymitis is still debatable. The aim of this study was to describe clinical and imaging findings in children with acute epididymitis. (Methods) We identified 47 children with acute epididymitis at our institute between 2017 and 2021.We retrospectively reviewed their clinical features and radiological and laboratory data. All children underwent ultrasonography of the kidney and urinary tract. (Results) Median patient age was 9 years (range, 6 months-16 years) and 60% of the cases occurred between the ages of 7 and 12 years. Thirteen children (28%) had a past history of genitourinary malformations. The common malformations were hypospadias in eight children and bladder dysfunction in three. Ultrasound revealed no new urinary tract abnormalities in the remaining 34 children. Urinalysis were performed in 27 children, nine of whom (33%) had pyuria. Urine culture was positive in two children. Of the nine children with genitourinary malformations, eight had pyuria. All 18 children without genitourinary malformations had a negative urinalysis except for one patient (p< 0.0001). (Conclusions) Acute epididymitis is a common cause of acute scrotum in pediatric patients. In this study, one-third of acute epididymitis cases presented pyuria, and about 30% had a past history of genitourinary malformations. The presence of pyuria was associated with a past history of genitourinary malformations. For children with no previous genitourinary malformations, routine use of ultrasound for the detection of urinary tract abnormalities is questionable due to the low yield.
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Fatty Acid Oxidation and Pro-Resolving Lipid Mediators Are Related to Male Infertility. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11010107. [PMID: 35052611 PMCID: PMC8773194 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11010107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators regulate the resolution of acute inflammation. They are formed by enzymatic oxygenation of polyunsaturated fatty acids and are divided into families including lipoxins, resolvins, protectins, and maresins. Resolvin D1 (RvD1), produced by docosahexaenoic acid, exerts anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving activities. This research aimed to investigate the implication of seminal RvD1 in human infertility. Infertile patients (n° 67) were grouped based on pathological reproductive conditions as idiopathic infertility, varicocele, and leukocytospermia; the fourth group was composed of fertile men (n° 18). Sperm characteristics were evaluated by light microscopy (WHO guidelines) and by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The seminal levels of RvD1 and F2-isoprostane (F2-IsoPs) were dosed. In twenty men (6 fertile men, 8 with varicocele, 6 with leukocytospermia) seminal phospholipase A2, iron, cholesterol, transferrin, estradiol, ferritin, testosterone, and sperm membrane fatty acids were detected. The results indicated that: (i) RvD1 amount was positively correlated with F2-IsoPs and reduced sperm quality; (ii) RvD1 levels were significantly higher in patients with leukocytospermia, varicocele, and idiopathic infertility compared to fertile men; (iii) RvD1 increased along with other markers of oxidative stress and inflammation as fatty acids content and clinical biomarkers. This study suggests a panel of inflammatory markers and lipid mediators for a diagnosis of inflammatory status and a subsequent appropriate therapeutic approach.
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Das S, Roychoudhury S, Roychoudhury S, Agarwal A, Henkel R. Role of Infection and Leukocytes in Male Infertility. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1358:115-140. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-89340-8_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Hasan H, Bhushan S, Fijak M, Meinhardt A. Mechanism of Inflammatory Associated Impairment of Sperm Function, Spermatogenesis and Steroidogenesis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:897029. [PMID: 35574022 PMCID: PMC9096214 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.897029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection and inflammation are relevant entities of male reproductive disorders that can lead to sub-/infertility. Associated damage of the testis of affected men and in rodent models include leukocytic infiltration, edema formation, fibrosis, germ cell loss and reduced androgen levels. Negative effects on spermatogenesis are thought to be elicited by oxidative stress sustained mostly by increased levels of ROS and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Under normal conditions these cytokines have physiological functions. However, increased levels as seen in inflammation and infection, but also in obesity and cancer are harmful for germ cells and impair steroidogenesis. As a summary, there is mounting evidence that the activation of inflammatory pathways is a rather common feature in various forms of male testicular disorders that extends beyond established infectious/inflammatory cues. This mini review will focus on relevant entities and the mechanisms of how a dysbalance of local testicular factors contributes to disturbances of spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Monika Fijak
- *Correspondence: Andreas Meinhardt, ; Monika Fijak,
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Wu Y, Li H, Qin Y. S100A4 promotes the progression of lipopolysaccharide-induced acute epididymitis in mice†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:1213-1224. [PMID: 32072170 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
S100A4 has been suggested to be a critical regulator of tumor metastasis and is implicated in the progression of inflammation. The aim of this study is to investigate the expression and possible role of S100A4 in epididymitis. Using a mouse model of epididymitis induced by the injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the deferent duct, we found that LPS administration induced an upregulation of S100a4 transcription (P < 0.05) and a recruitment of S100A4 positive cells in the epididymal interstitium of wild type (WT) mice. Co-immunofluorescence showed that S100A4 was mainly expressed by granulocytes, CD4 lymphocytes, and macrophages. Deficiency of S100A4 reduced epididymal pathological reaction and the mRNA levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α (P < 0.01), suggesting that S100A4 promotes the progression of epididymitis. Furthermore, S100A4 deficiency alleviated the decline of sperm motility and rectified the abnormal expression of sperm membrane protein AMAD3, which suggested that in the progression of epididymitis, S100A4 aggravates the damage to sperm vitality. In addition, both Ki-67 marked cell proliferation and transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling detected cell apoptosis were reduced in S100a4-/- mice compared with WT mice after LPS treatment, indicating that S100A4 promotes both cell proliferation and cell apoptosis in epididymitis. Overall, these results demonstrate that S100A4 promotes the progression of LPS-induced epididymitis and facilitates a decline in sperm vitality, and its function may be related to the process of cell proliferation and apoptosis during inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjie Wu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Haoran Li
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinghe Qin
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China
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Minhas S, Bettocchi C, Boeri L, Capogrosso P, Carvalho J, Cilesiz NC, Cocci A, Corona G, Dimitropoulos K, Gül M, Hatzichristodoulou G, Jones TH, Kadioglu A, Martínez Salamanca JI, Milenkovic U, Modgil V, Russo GI, Serefoglu EC, Tharakan T, Verze P, Salonia A. European Association of Urology Guidelines on Male Sexual and Reproductive Health: 2021 Update on Male Infertility. Eur Urol 2021; 80:603-620. [PMID: 34511305 DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2021.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 241] [Impact Index Per Article: 80.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The European Association of Urology (EAU) has updated its guidelines on sexual and reproductive health for 2021. OBJECTIVE To present a summary of the 2021 version of the EAU guidelines on sexual and reproductive health, including advances and areas of controversy in male infertility. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION The panel performed a comprehensive literature review of novel data up to January 2021. The guidelines were updated and a strength rating for each recommendation was included that was based either on a systematic review of the literature or consensus opinion from the expert panel, where applicable. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS The male partner in infertile couples should undergo a comprehensive urological assessment to identify and treat any modifiable risk factors causing fertility impairment. Infertile men are at a higher risk of harbouring and developing other diseases including malignancy and cardiovascular disease and should be screened for potential modifiable risk factors, such as hypogonadism. Sperm DNA fragmentation testing has emerged as a novel biomarker that can identify infertile men and provide information on the outcomes from assisted reproductive techniques. The role of hormone stimulation therapy in hypergonadotropic hypogonadal or eugonadal patients is controversial and is not recommended outside of clinical trials. Furthermore, there is insufficient evidence to support the widespread use of other empirical treatments and surgical interventions in clinical practice (such as antioxidants and surgical sperm retrieval in men without azoospermia). There is low-quality evidence to support the routine use of testicular fine-needle mapping as an alternative diagnostic and predictive tool before testicular sperm extraction (TESE) in men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA), and either conventional or microdissection TESE remains the surgical modality of choice for men with NOA. CONCLUSIONS All infertile men should undergo a comprehensive urological assessment to identify and treat any modifiable risk factors. Increasing data indicate that infertile men are at higher risk of cardiovascular mortality and of developing cancers and should be screened and counselled accordingly. There is low-quality evidence supporting the use of empirical treatments and interventions currently used in clinical practice; the efficacy of these therapies needs to be validated in large-scale randomised controlled trials. PATIENT SUMMARY Approximately 50% of infertility will be due to problems with the male partner. Therefore, all infertile men should be assessed by a specialist with the expertise to not only help optimise their fertility but also because they are at higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease and cancer long term and therefore require appropriate counselling and management. There are many treatments and interventions for male infertility that have not been validated in high-quality studies and caution should be applied to their use in routine clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suks Minhas
- Department of Urology, Imperial Healthcare NHS Trust, Charing Cross Hospital, London, UK.
| | | | - Luca Boeri
- Department of Urology, Foundation IRCCS Ca' Granda - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Capogrosso
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Ospedale di Circolo and Macchi Foundation, Varese, Italy
| | - Joana Carvalho
- CPUP: Center for Psychology of Porto University, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Porto University, Porto, Portugal
| | - Nusret Can Cilesiz
- Department of Urology, Taksim Training & Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Andrea Cocci
- Department of Minimally Invasive and Robotic Urologic Surgery and Kidney Transplantation, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giovanni Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Konstantinos Dimitropoulos
- Academic Urology Unit, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK; Department of Urology, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, NHS Grampian, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Murat Gül
- School of Medicine, Department of Urology, Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey
| | | | - Thomas Hugh Jones
- Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology, Barnsley Hospital NHS Trust, Barnsley, UK
| | - Ates Kadioglu
- Department of Urology, İstanbul University İstanbul School of Medicine, İstanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Uros Milenkovic
- Department of Urology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Vaibhav Modgil
- Manchester Andrology Centre, Manchester Royal Infirmary, Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - Giorgio Ivan Russo
- Urology Section, Department of Surgery, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Ege Can Serefoglu
- Department of Urology, Biruni University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tharu Tharakan
- Department of Urology, Imperial Healthcare NHS Trust, Charing Cross Hospital, London, UK
| | - Paolo Verze
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Scuola Medica Salernitana, University of Salerno, Fisciano, Italy
| | - Andrea Salonia
- Division of Experimental Oncology/Unit of Urology, Urological Research Institute, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy; University Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy
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Liu SJ, Hu SQ, Chen YC, Guo J. Uncovering the mechanism of quercetin for treating spermatogenesis impairment by a network pharmacology approach. ALL LIFE 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/26895293.2021.1961878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Si-Jia Liu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Su-Qin Hu
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu-Cai Chen
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jian Guo
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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Eini F, Kutenaei MA, Zareei F, Dastjerdi ZS, Shirzeyli MH, Salehi E. Effect of bacterial infection on sperm quality and DNA fragmentation in subfertile men with Leukocytospermia. BMC Mol Cell Biol 2021; 22:42. [PMID: 34388964 PMCID: PMC8364116 DOI: 10.1186/s12860-021-00380-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although bacterial infections have been recognized as a possible cause of male infertility, the effect of bacterial infections on sperm quality and sperm DNA fragmentation remains controversial. The current study aimed to investigate the prevalence rate of bacterial infection in subfertile men and its effect on semen quality. Seminal fluid was collected from 172 male members of infertile couples attending the andrology infertility center and a group of 35 fertile subjects as a control. Sperm parameters and DNA fragmentation were evaluated based on the type of bacteria in all ejaculates. Results From the 172 patients investigated for infertility, 60 (34.88%) patients had a positive culture for pathogenic bacteria of different species. Leukocytospermia was significantly higher in infected samples in comparison with non-infected samples (p < 0.05). Sperm concentration and motility and morphology were significantly lower in infected than non-infected samples. Moreover, sperm DNA fragmentation was significantly higher in infected than non-infected samples. Besides, our results showed that sperm DNA fragmentation was correlated significantly with leukocytospermia (R: 0.22, p < 0.01). Conclusion The present study suggested that bacterial infection significantly correlated with leukocytospermia could impair male fertility potential through decreasing sperm motility, morphology, and DNA integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Eini
- Fertility and Infertility Research Center, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran.
| | - Maryam Azizi Kutenaei
- Fertility and Infertility Research Center, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Fayegheh Zareei
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | | | | | - Ensieh Salehi
- Fertility and Infertility Research Center, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
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Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome Leads to Impaired Semen Parameters, Increased Sperm DNA Fragmentation and Unfavorable Changes of Sperm Protamine mRNA Ratio. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22157854. [PMID: 34360620 PMCID: PMC8346101 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22157854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a frequent disease affecting men of every age and accounting for a great number of consultations at urology departments. Previous studies suggested a negative impact of CP/CPPS on fertility. As increasing attention has been attributed to additional aspects, such as sperm DNA integrity and sperm protein alterations, besides the WHO standard semen analysis when assessing male fertility, in this prospective study, we aimed to further characterize the fertility status in CP/CPPS patients with a focus on these parameters. METHODS Sperm DNA fragmentation measured by sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA) and protamine 1 to protamine 2 mRNA ratio assessed by RT-qPCR were analyzed along with conventional ejaculate parameters and inflammatory markers in 41 CP/CPPS patients and 22 healthy volunteers. RESULTS We found significant differences between the groups concerning multiple conventional ejaculate parameters. A significant increase in sperm DNA fragmentation was shown in CP/CPPS patients with association to other sperm parameters. The majority of CP/CPPS patients exhibited protamine mRNA ratios out of the range of regular fertility. CONCLUSIONS This is a pioneering study with a strong practical orientation revealing that CP/CPPS leads to increased sperm DNA damage and changes in sperm protamine levels, emphasizing an unfavorable impact of CP/CPPS on fertility.
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Komijani M, Momeni HR, Shaykh-Baygloo N, Ghafarizadeh AA, Maleki P, Tahsili MR. Association of Herpes simplex virus I&II infections with rs187084 SNP of TLR9 and male infertility. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14163. [PMID: 34216052 DOI: 10.1111/and.14163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Since TLR9 recognises unmethylated CpG motifs in viral DNA, its polymorphisms may contribute to the susceptibility to Herpes simplex virus I&II infection. In the present study, to evaluate the role of rs187084 SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism) of TLR9 in Herpes simplex virus I&II infection and male infertility, 103 infertile and 27 fertile blood and semen samples were analysed. We assessed the micro and macro properties of semen specimens and the presence of HSV immunoglobulins. Tetra-primer ARMS PCR was used to detect SNP and to investigate the genotype distribution of TLR9-rs187084 SNPs, and the correlation between polymorphisms of TLR9 gene and male infertility. Moreover, the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals were used to estimate the strength of the association. Based on our finding, a significant correlation was observed between HSV infection, agglutination and polymorphism (TT) under dominant (OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 0.94-1.75) and recessive (OR = 0.44, 95% CI = 0.21-0.94) models for the data, which was complied with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) (OR = 2.91, 95% CI = 1.02-8.30). The result showed a significant association between HSV IgM and agglutination in HSV infection (p < .001), and in addition, there were associations between alleles so that rs187084 SNP might be considered as a risk factor for the incidence of HSV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Komijani
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Arak University, Arak, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Momeni
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Arak University, Arak, Iran
| | | | | | - Parisa Maleki
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Arak University, Arak, Iran
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Derakhshan N, Yaghmaei S, Keshavarz P. Vagal nerve stimulation for the treatment of male factor infertility. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14043. [PMID: 33929756 DOI: 10.1111/and.14043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nima Derakhshan
- Research Center for Neuromodulation and Pain, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Pedram Keshavarz
- Department of Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology of New Hospitals LTD, Tbilisi, Georgia
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Microbiological Evaluation and Sperm DNA Fragmentation in Semen Samples of Patients Undergoing Fertility Investigation. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12050654. [PMID: 33925640 PMCID: PMC8145398 DOI: 10.3390/genes12050654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fifteen percent of male infertility is associated with urogenital infections; several pathogens are able to alter the testicular and accessory glands' microenvironment, resulting in the impairment of biofunctional sperm parameters. The purpose of this study was to assess the influence of urogenital infections on the quality of 53 human semen samples through standard analysis, microbiological evaluation, and molecular characterization of sperm DNA damage. The results showed a significant correlation between infected status and semen volume, sperm concentration, and motility. Moreover, a high risk of fragmented sperm DNA was demonstrated in the altered semen samples. Urogenital infections are often asymptomatic and thus an in-depth evaluation of the seminal sample can allow for both the diagnosis and therapy of infections while providing more indicators for male infertility management.
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41
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Cao D, Shen Y, Huang Y, Chen B, Chen Z, Ai J, Liu L, Yang L, Wei Q. Levofloxacin Versus Ciprofloxacin in the Treatment of Urinary Tract Infections: Evidence-Based Analysis. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:658095. [PMID: 33897441 PMCID: PMC8060646 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.658095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common bacterial infections acquired both in community and hospital. Fluoroquinolones, represented by levofloxacin and ciprofloxacin, are widely used for treatment of UTIs. However, it remains controversial for the comparison between the 2 drugs, which propelled us to conduct the first evidence-based research on this topic. To establish their relative efficacy and safety, we searched Pubmed, embase, and Web of Science for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for UTIs. A total of 5 RCTs were finally included, involving 2,352 patients and a systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to compare the end-of-therapy and posttherapy clinical success rate, microbial eradication rate and adverse event rate. Jadad score and Review Manager 5.3.0 version were applied respectively to evaluate the study quality and heterogeneity. There was no significant difference between levofloxacin and ciprofloxacin group in end-of-therapy or posttherapy clinical success rate and microbial eradication rate (p > 0.05). As for adverse event rate, the 2 drugs were comparable and both safe for clinical use. Based on one included trial and pharmacological research, we raised hypothesis that levofloxacin was superior to ciprofloxacin for treatment of E. coli-induced chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBP) and it required a further study to prove it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehong Cao
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yinzhi Shen
- West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yin Huang
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bo Chen
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zeyu Chen
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jianzhong Ai
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Liangren Liu
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lu Yang
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Qiang Wei
- Department of Urology, Institute of Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Tirpák F, Greifová H, Lukáč N, Stawarz R, Massányi P. Exogenous Factors Affecting the Functional Integrity of Male Reproduction. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:213. [PMID: 33803103 PMCID: PMC8001766 DOI: 10.3390/life11030213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural processes along with increased industrial production and the irresponsible behavior of mankind have resulted in environmental pollution. Environmental pollutants can be categorized based on their characteristics and appearance into the following groups: physical, biological, and chemical. Every single one of them represents a serious threat to the male reproductive tract despite the different modes of action. Male gonads and gametes are especially vulnerable to the effect of exogenous factors; therefore, they are considered a reliable indicator of environmental pollution. The impact of xenobiotics or radiation leads to an irreversible impairment of fertility displayed by histological changes, modulated androgen production, or compromised spermatozoa (or germ cells) quality. The present article reviews the exogenous threats, male reproductive system, the mode of action, and overall impact on the reproductive health of humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filip Tirpák
- AgroBioTech Research Centre, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Hana Greifová
- Department of Animal Physiology, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia; (H.G.); (N.L.)
| | - Norbert Lukáč
- Department of Animal Physiology, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia; (H.G.); (N.L.)
| | - Robert Stawarz
- Institute of Biology, Pedagogical University of Krakow, Podchorazych 2, 30-084 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Peter Massányi
- Department of Animal Physiology, Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, Tr. A. Hlinku 2, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia; (H.G.); (N.L.)
- Institute of Biology, Pedagogical University of Krakow, Podchorazych 2, 30-084 Krakow, Poland;
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Muscianisi F, De Toni L, Giorato G, Carosso A, Foresta C, Garolla A. Is HPV the Novel Target in Male Idiopathic Infertility? A Systematic Review of the Literature. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:643539. [PMID: 33763033 PMCID: PMC7982954 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.643539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is an important health problem that affects up to 16% of couples worldwide. Male infertility is responsible for about 50% of the cases, and the various causes of male infertility may be classified in pre-testicular (for example hypothalamic diseases), testicular, and post-testicular (for example obstructive pathologies of seminal ducts) causes. Sexually transmitted infections (STI) are increasingly widely accepted by researchers and clinicians as etiological factors of male infertility. In particular, several recent reports have documented the presence of HPV in seminal fluid and observed that sperm infection can also be present in sexually active asymptomatic male and infertile patients. In this review, we aimed to perform a systematic review of the whole body of literature exploring the impact of HPV infection in natural and assisted fertility outcomes, from both an experimental and a clinical point of view. Starting from in-vitro studies in animals up to in-vivo studies in humans, we aimed to study and evaluate the weight of this infection as a possible cause of idiopathic infertility in males with any known cause of conception failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Muscianisi
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Centre for Male Gamete Cryopreservation, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Luca De Toni
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Centre for Male Gamete Cryopreservation, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Gloria Giorato
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Centre for Male Gamete Cryopreservation, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Carosso
- Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Section of Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
| | - Carlo Foresta
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Centre for Male Gamete Cryopreservation, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Garolla
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Centre for Male Gamete Cryopreservation, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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Sheng Z, Gao N, Fan D, Wu N, Zhang Y, Han D, Zhang Y, Tan W, Wang P, An J. Zika virus disrupts the barrier structure and Absorption/Secretion functions of the epididymis in mice. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009211. [PMID: 33667230 PMCID: PMC7968736 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have demonstrated that Zika virus (ZIKV) damages testis and leads to infertility in mice; however, the infection in the epididymis, another important organ of male reproductive health, has gained less attention. Previously, we detected lesions in the epididymis in interferon type I and II receptor knockout male mice during ZIKV infection. Herein, the pathogenesis of ZIKV in the epididymis was further assessed in the infected mice after footpad inoculation. ZIKV efficiently replicated in the epididymis, and principal cells were susceptible to ZIKV. ZIKV infection disrupted the histomorphology of the epididymis, and the effects were characterized by a decrease in the thickness of the epithelial layer and an increase in the luminal diameter, especially at the proximal end. Significant inflammatory cell infiltration was observed in the epididymis accompanied by an increase in the levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-28. The expression of tight junction proteins was downregulated and associated with disordered arrangement of the junctions. Importantly, the expression levels of aquaporin 1 and lipocalin 8, indicators of the absorption and secretion functions of the epididymis, were markedly reduced, and the proteins were redistributed. These events synergistically altered the microenvironment for sperm maturation, disturbed sperm transport downstream, and may impact male reproductive health. Overall, these results provide new insights into the pathogenesis of the male reproductive damage caused by ZIKV infection and the possible contribution of epididymal injury into this process. Therefore, male fertility of the population in areas of ZIKV epidemic requires additional attention. Unlike other mosquito-transmitted flaviviruses, ZIKV can persistently replicate in the male reproductive system and is sexually transmitted. ZIKV infection was reported to damage testis. However, ZIKV-induced epididymal injury was not investigated in detail. Clinically, epididymitis is closely associated with male infertility. In this study, a mouse model was used to demonstrate that ZIKV causes histomorphological and functional changes in the epididymis, which may alter the microenvironment of sperm maturation and movement and finally lead to male infertility. Therefore, long-term investigation of male reproductive health may be needed in the areas of ZIKV epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyang Sheng
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Na Gao
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Dongying Fan
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Na Wu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingying Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Daishu Han
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Huadong Research Institute for Medicine and Biotechnics, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weilong Tan
- Huadong Research Institute for Medicine and Biotechnics, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Peigang Wang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (PW); (JA)
| | - Jing An
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (PW); (JA)
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Zhang Z, Wang M, Zhang Y, Zhang Y, Bartkuhn M, Markmann M, Hossain H, Chakraborty T, Hake SB, Jia Z, Meinhardt A, Bhushan S. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli Virulence Factor α-Hemolysin Reduces Histone Acetylation to Inhibit Expression of Proinflammatory Cytokine Genes. J Infect Dis 2021; 223:1040-1051. [PMID: 33453118 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiab018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infections are common and costly diseases affecting millions of people. Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is a primary cause of these infections and has developed multiple strategies to avoid the host immune response. Here, we dissected the molecular mechanisms underpinning UPEC inhibition of inflammatory cytokine in vitro and in vivo. We found that UPEC infection simulates nuclear factor-κB activation but does not result in transcription of cytokine genes. Instead, UPEC-mediated suppression of the metabolic enzyme ATP citrate lyase results in decreased acetyl-CoA levels, leading to reduced H3K9 histone acetylation in the promotor region of CXCL8. These effects were dependent on the UPEC virulence factor α-hemolysin and were reversed by exogenous acetate. In a murine cystitis model, prior acetate supplementation rapidly resolved UPEC-elicited immune responses and improved tissue recovery. Thus, upon infection, UPEC rearranges host cell metabolism to induce chromatin remodeling processes that subvert expression of host innate immune response genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengguo Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Ming Wang
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Medical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yiming Zhang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Marek Bartkuhn
- Institute for Genetics, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Melanie Markmann
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Hamid Hossain
- Klinikum St Marien Amberg, Amberg and Kliniken Nordoberpfalz AG, Weiden, Germany
| | - Trinad Chakraborty
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sandra B Hake
- Institute for Genetics, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Zhankui Jia
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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Kaur G, Wright K, Verma S, Haynes A, Dufour JM. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of Testicular Immune Regulation: A Delicate Balance Between Immune Function and Immune Privilege. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1288:21-47. [PMID: 34453730 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77779-1_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The testis is one of several immune privilege sites. These sites are necessary to decrease inflammation and immune responses that could be damaging to the host. For example, inflammation in the brain, eye or placenta could result in loss of cognitive function, vision or rejection of the semi-allogeneic fetus, respectively. In the testis, immune privilege is "good" as it is necessary for protection of the developing auto-immunogenic germ cells. However, there is also a downside or "bad" part of immune privilege, where pathogens and cancers can take advantage of this privilege and persist in the testis as a sanctuary site. Even worse, the "ugly" of privilege is how re-emerging viruses, such as Ebola and Zika viruses, can establish persistence in the testes and be sexually transmitted even months after they have been cleared from the bloodstream. In this review, we will discuss the delicate balance within the testis that provides immune privilege to protect the germ cells while still allowing for immune function to fight off pathogens and tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurvinder Kaur
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Kandis Wright
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Saguna Verma
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology, and Pharmacology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Allan Haynes
- Department of Urology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Jannette M Dufour
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, USA.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Contrary to historic dogma, many tissues and organs in the human body contain a resident population of bacteria, fungi, and viruses collectively known as the microbiome. The microbiome plays a role in both homeostatic symbiosis and also pathogenic dysbiosis in a wide array of diseases. Our understanding of the relationship between the microbiome and male factor infertility is in its infancy but is slowly evolving. RECENT FINDINGS Recent literature indicates that semen (and likely the testis) is not sterile and contains a distinct microbiome, and these changes in its composition are associated with alterations in semen quality and fertility status. Preliminary investigation indicates that manipulating the human microbiome may have implications in improving semen parameters and fertility. SUMMARY In this review, we describe relationships between the microbiome and the genitourinary system, discuss the prior work on the relationship among bacteriospermia, leukocytospermia and male factor infertility, and summarize the current literature utilizing 16s rRNA-based next-generation sequencing on the seminal and testicular microbiome. We explore the specific microbial taxa implicated in various aspects of spermatic dysfunction and introduce preliminary evidence for therapeutic approaches to alter the microbiome and improve fertility status.
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Andrade AD, Almeida PGC, Mariani NAP, Freitas GA, Kushima H, Filadelpho AL, Spadella MA, Avellar MCW, Silva EJR. Lipopolysaccharide-induced epididymitis modifies the transcriptional profile of Wfdc genes in mice†. Biol Reprod 2020; 104:144-158. [PMID: 33034631 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Whey-acidic protein four-disulfide core domain (WFDC) genes display putative roles in innate immunity and fertility. In mice, a locus on chromosome 2 contains 5 and 11 Wfdc genes in its centromeric and telomeric subloci, respectively. Although Wfdc genes are highly expressed in the epididymis, their contributions to epididymal function remain elusive. Here, we investigated whether Wfdc genes are regulated in response to lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced epididymitis, an inflammatory condition that impairs male fertility. We induced epididymitis in mice via (i) interstitial LPS injection into epididymal initial segment and (ii) intravasal LPS injection into the vas deferens towards cauda epididymis. Interstitial and intravasal LPS induced a differential upregulation of inflammatory mediators (interleukin 1 beta, interleukin 6, tumor necrosis factor, interferon gamma, and interleukin 10) in the initial segment and cauda epididymis within 72 h post-treatment. These changes were accompanied by a time-dependent endotoxin clearance from the epididymis. In the initial segment, interstitial LPS upregulated all centromeric (Slpi, Wfdc5, Wfdc12, Wfdc15a, and Wfdc15b) and five telomeric (Wfdc2, Wfdc3, Wfdc6b, Wfdc10, and Wfdc13) Wfdc transcripts at 24 and 72 h. In the cauda epididymis, intravasal LPS upregulated Wfdc5 and Wfdc2 transcripts at 24 h, followed by a downregulation of Wfdc15b and three telomeric (Wfdc6a, Wfdc11, and Wfdc16) gene transcripts at 72 h. Pharmacological inhibition of nuclear factor kappa B activation prevented LPS-induced upregulation of centromeric and telomeric Wfdc genes depending on the epididymal region. We show that LPS-induced inflammation differentially regulated the Wfdc locus in the proximal and distal epididymis, indicating region-specific roles for the Wfdc family in innate immune responses during epididymitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre D Andrade
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Priscila G C Almeida
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Noemia A P Mariani
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Geanne A Freitas
- Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Hélio Kushima
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - André L Filadelpho
- Department of Structural and Functional Biology, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Christina W Avellar
- Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Erick J R Silva
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Botucatu, SP, Brazil
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Goulart ACX, Farnezi HCM, França JPBM, dos Santos A, Ramos MG, Penna MLF. HIV, HPV and Chlamydia trachomatis: impacts on male fertility. JBRA Assist Reprod 2020; 24:492-497. [PMID: 32496735 PMCID: PMC7558888 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20200020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are pathologies that have viruses, bacteria, protozoa and fungi as infectious agents, affecting millions of people worldwide and causing physical and psychological consequences for the carrier. Some of these infections such as HIV, HPV and Chlamydia trachomatis may present an asymptomatic phase, making the diagnosis difficult, which is often only performed when the couple looks for infertility treatment after not achieving spontaneous pregnancy. Infertility affects 15% of couples, 50% of cases are male-related, and it is estimated that STDs, which interfere with the physiology of the male reproductive system and may impair semen in parameters such as motility, concentration, morphology and number, cause 15% of male infertility cases. Since STDs treatments are increasing the expectation and quality of life of infected patients, discussing issues such as sexuality and reproduction is of great importance in clarifying unknown facts. This paper aims to discuss how the infectious processes associated with HIV, HPV and Chlamydia trachomatis can interfere with semen quality causing male infertility without apparent cause.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Adriana dos Santos
- Faculdade de Ciências Humanas, Universidade FUMEC, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Lectícia Firpe Penna
- Faculdade de Ciências Humanas, Universidade FUMEC, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
- Corresponding author: Maria Lectícia Firpe Penna, Faculdade de Ciências Humanas, Universidade FUMEC, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. E-mail:
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50
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Zhao H, Yu C, He C, Mei C, Liao A, Huang D. The Immune Characteristics of the Epididymis and the Immune Pathway of the Epididymitis Caused by Different Pathogens. Front Immunol 2020; 11:2115. [PMID: 33117332 PMCID: PMC7561410 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.02115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The epididymis is an important male accessory sex organ where sperm motility and fertilization ability develop. When spermatozoa carrying foreign antigens enter the epididymis, the epididymis shows "immune privilege" to tolerate them. It is well-known that a tolerogenic environment exists in the caput epididymis, while pro-inflammatory circumstances prefer the cauda epididymis. This meticulously regulated immune environment not only protects spermatozoa from autoimmunity but also defends spermatozoa against pathogenic damage. Epididymitis is one of the common causes of male infertility. Up to 40% of patients suffer from permanent oligospermia or azoospermia. This is related to the immune characteristics of the epididymis itself. Moreover, epididymitis induced by different pathogenic microbial infections has different characteristics. This article elaborates on the distribution and immune response characteristics of epididymis immune cells, the role of epididymis epithelial cells (EECs), and the epididymis defense against different pathogenic infections (such as uropathogenic Escherichia coli, Chlamydia trachomatis, and viruses to provide therapeutic approaches for epididymitis and its subsequent fertility problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hu Zhao
- Department of Human Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Caiqian Yu
- Department of Human Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunyu He
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunlei Mei
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Aihua Liao
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Donghui Huang
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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