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Gunes S, Metin Mahmutoglu A, Hekim N. Epigenetics of nonobstructive azoospermia. Asian J Androl 2024:00129336-990000000-00238. [PMID: 39225008 DOI: 10.4103/aja202463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a severe and heterogeneous form of male factor infertility caused by dysfunction of spermatogenesis. Although various factors are well defined in the disruption of spermatogenesis, not all aspects due to the heterogeneity of the disorder have been determined yet. In this review, we focus on the recent findings and summarize the current data on epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation and different metabolites produced during methylation and demethylation and various types of small noncoding RNAs involved in the pathogenesis of different groups of NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sezgin Gunes
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun 55139, Türkiye
| | - Asli Metin Mahmutoglu
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical Faculty, Yozgat Bozok University, Yozgat 66100, Türkiye
| | - Neslihan Hekim
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun 55139, Türkiye
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2
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Firouzabadi AM, Henkel R, Tofighi Niaki M, Fesahat F. Adverse Effects of Nicotine on Human Sperm Nuclear Proteins. World J Mens Health 2024; 42:42.e66. [PMID: 39028130 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.240072] [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: 03/18/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
The effects of smoking on human health have long been documented. However, only a few studies have highlighted the direct effects of nicotine on sperm function. Nicotine, as a chemical compound found in tobacco, has been shown to modulate different aspects of spermatogenesis and sperm functions. Nicotine can lead to a reduction in the number of sperm, their motility and functionality. It can change the molecular expressions involved in sperm function, including genes encoding sperm nuclear proteins. The most important nuclear proteins that play a critical role in sperm function are known as H2B histone family, member W, testis-specific (H2BFWT), transition protein 1 (TNP1), transition protein 2 (TNP2), protamine-1 (PRM1), and protamine-2 (PRM2). These proteins are involved in sperm chromatin condensation, which in turn affects fertilization and embryonic development. Any alteration in the expression of these genes due to nicotine exposure/usage may lead to adverse implications in couples' fertility and the health of future generations. Since research in this area is still relatively new, it underscores the importance of understanding the potential side effects of environmental factors such as nicotine on reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Masoud Firouzabadi
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Ralf Henkel
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
- LogixX Pharma Ltd., Theale, Berkshire, UK
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Maryam Tofighi Niaki
- Health Reproductive Research Center, Sari Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sari, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Fesahat
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
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3
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Mitchell T, Lin J, Hicks S, James J, Rangan P, Forni P. Loss of function of male-specific lethal 3 (Msl3) does not affect spermatogenesis in rodents. Dev Dyn 2024; 253:453-466. [PMID: 37847071 PMCID: PMC11021377 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.669] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male-specific lethal 3 (Msl3) is a member of the chromatin-associated male-specific lethal MSL complex, which is responsible for the transcriptional upregulation of genes on the X chromosome in males of Drosophila. Although the dosage complex operates differently in mammals, the Msl3 gene is conserved from flies to humans. Msl3 is required for meiotic entry during Drosophila oogenesis. Recent reports indicate that also in primates, Msl3 is expressed in undifferentiated germline cells before meiotic entry. However, if Msl3 plays a role in the meiotic entry of mammals has yet to be explored. RESULTS To understand, if Msl3a plays a role in the meiotic entry of mammals, we used mouse spermatogenesis as a study model. Analyses of single-cell RNA-seq data revealed that, in mice, Msl3 is mostly expressed in meiotic cells. To test the role of Msl3 in meiosis, we used a male germline-specific Stra8-iCre driver and a newly generated Msl3flox conditional knock-out mouse line. Msl3 conditional loss-of-function in spermatogonia did not cause spermatogenesis defects or changes in the expression of genes related to meiosis. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that, in mice, Msl3 exhibits delayed expression compared to Drosophila and primates, and loss-of-function mutations disrupting the chromodomain of Msl3 alone do not impede meiotic entry in rodents.
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Affiliation(s)
- T.A. Mitchell
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
- The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
- The Center for Neuroscience Research, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | - J.M. Lin
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
- The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
- The Center for Neuroscience Research, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | - S.M. Hicks
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
- The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | - J.R. James
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
- The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
| | - P. Rangan
- Black Family Stem Cell Institute, Department of Cell, Developmental, and Regenerative Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, 1 Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - P.E. Forni
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
- The RNA Institute, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
- The Center for Neuroscience Research, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
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Xie S, Yue C, Ye S, Li Z. Probing the hierarchical dynamics of DNA-sperm nuclear transition protein complexes through fuzzy interaction and mesoscale condensation. Phys Chem Chem Phys 2024; 26:10408-10418. [PMID: 38502252 DOI: 10.1039/d3cp05957j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Nuclear transition protein TNP1 is a crucial player mediating histone-protamine exchange in condensing spermatids. A unique combination of intrinsic disorder and multivalent properties turns TNP1 into an ideal agent for orchestrating the formation of versatile TNP-DNA assemblies. Despite its significance, the physicochemical property and the molecular mechanism followed by TNP1 for histone replacement and DNA condensation are still poorly understood. This study reports the first-time in vitro expression and purification of human TNP1 and investigates the hierarchical dynamics of TNP1-DNA interaction using a combination of computational simulations, biochemical assays, fluorescence imaging, and atomic force microscopy. We explored three crucial facets of TNP1-DNA interactions. Initially, we delve into the molecular binding process that entails fuzzy interactions between TNP1 and DNA at the atomistic scale. Subsequently, we analyze how TNP1 binding affects the electrostatic and mechanical characteristics of DNA and influences its morphology. Finally, we study the biomolecular condensation of TNP1-DNA when subjected to high concentrations. The findings of our study set the foundation for comprehending the potential involvement of TNP1 in histone replacement and DNA condensation in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangqiang Xie
- School of Life Science, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300072, China.
| | - Congran Yue
- School of Life Science, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300072, China.
| | - Sheng Ye
- School of Life Science, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300072, China.
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Function and Application of Biological Macromolecular Structures, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Zhenlu Li
- School of Life Science, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300072, China.
- Frontiers Science Center for Synthetic Biology (Ministry of Education), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Function and Application of Biological Macromolecular Structures, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300072, China
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Fang Y, Li X. Protein lysine four-carbon acylations in health and disease. J Cell Physiol 2024; 239:e30981. [PMID: 36815448 PMCID: PMC10704440 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Lysine acylation, a type of posttranslational protein modification sensitive to cellular metabolic states, influences the functions of target proteins involved in diverse cellular processes. Particularly, lysine butyrylation, crotonylation, β-hydroxybutyrylation, and 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation, four types of four-carbon acylations, are modulated by intracellular concentrations of their respective acyl-CoAs and sensitive to alterations of nutrient metabolism induced by cellular and/or environmental signals. In this review, we discussed the metabolic pathways producing these four-carbon acyl-CoAs, the regulation of lysine acylation and deacylation, and the functions of individual lysine acylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Fang
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
| | - Xiaoling Li
- Signal Transduction Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA
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Pardede BP, Karja NWK, Said S, Kaiin EM, Agil M, Sumantri C, Purwantara B, Supriatna I. Bovine nucleoprotein transitions genes and protein abundance as valuable markers of sperm motility and the correlation with fertility. Theriogenology 2024; 215:86-94. [PMID: 38016305 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.11.015] [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: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
Bovine nucleoprotein transitions (TNPs), specifically TNP1 and TNP2, are essential molecules in sperm nucleus rich in arginine and lysine. These molecules act in the phase between histone expulsion and before incorporation of protamine in the spermatid nucleus. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze genes and protein abundance of TNP1 and TNP2 in sperm to determine the potential as motility markers and correlation with fertility in the field. An objective evaluation method, CASA-Sperm Vision, was used to separate 22 bulls into two groups (mg-A and mg-B) based on their increasing motility. Sperm quality parameters were also examined including velocity, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) by the JC-1 method, head defects using William staining, and DNA fragmentation by Halomax. TNPs genes abundance was performed using the RT-qPCR method, and the protein abundance was examined with the EIA approach. The fertility rate was also analyzed based on the conception rate generated from each bull in the field, with the data obtained from iSIKHNAS. The results showed that TNPs genes and protein abundance were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in mg-A compared to mg-B, followed by various sperm quality parameters and fertility rates (P < 0.05). Positive correlations were found in TNPs genes and protein abundance with motility, velocity, MMP, and fertility (P < 0.01). Meanwhile, a negative correlation (P < 0.01) was found between head defects and DNA fragmentation. These results showed the potential of TNPs as sperm motility markers and bull fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berlin Pandapotan Pardede
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia; Research Center for Applied Zoology, National Research, and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Bogor, West Java, Indonesia.
| | - Ni Wayan Kurniani Karja
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Syahruddin Said
- Research Center for Applied Zoology, National Research, and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Bogor, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Ekayanti Mulyawati Kaiin
- Research Center for Applied Zoology, National Research, and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Bogor, West Java, Indonesia
| | - Muhammad Agil
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia.
| | - Cece Sumantri
- Department of Animal Production and Technology, Faculty of Animal Science, IPB University, Indonesia
| | - Bambang Purwantara
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Iman Supriatna
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
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Mirsanei JS, Gholipour H, Zandieh Z, Jahromi MG, Masroor MJ, Mehdizadeh M, Amjadi F. Transition nuclear protein 1 as a novel biomarker in patients with fertilization failure. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2023; 50:185-191. [PMID: 37643832 PMCID: PMC10477415 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2023.05890] [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: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a way to deal with in vitro fertilization failure, 3% of couples still experience repeated fertilization failure after attempted ICSI, despite having sperm within normal parameters. These patients are a challenging group whose sperm cannot fertilize the egg during ICSI. Unfortunately, no test can predict the risk of fertilization failure. Phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ) and transition nuclear proteins (TNPs) are essential factors for chromatin packaging during sperm maturation. This study aimed to assess PLCζ1 and TNP1 expression in the sperm of patients with fertilization failure and the correlations among the DNA fragmentation index, PLCζ1 and TNP1 gene and protein expression, and the risk of fertilization failure. METHODS In this study, 12 infertile couples with low fertilization rates (<25%) and complete failure of fertilization in their prior ICSI cycles despite normal sperm parameters were chosen as the case group. Fifteen individuals who underwent ICSI for the first time served as the control group. After sperm analysis and DNA fragmentation assays, quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot analyses were performed to compare the gene and protein expression of PLCζ and TNP1 in both groups. RESULTS DNA fragmentation was significantly higher in the fertilization failure group. The qRT-PCR and Western blot results demonstrated significantly lower PLCζ and TNP1 gene and protein expression in these patients than in controls. CONCLUSION The present study showed that fertilization failure in normozoospermic men was probably due to deficient DNA packaging and expression of TNP1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamileh Sadat Mirsanei
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hadis Gholipour
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Zandieh
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Anatomical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Golestan Jahromi
- Department of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, School of Medicine, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Mojgan Javedani Masroor
- Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mehdizadeh
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Anatomical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemehsadat Amjadi
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Anatomical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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8
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Alhazzani K, A.Z. A, Alaseem AM, Al Awadh SA, Alanazi SA, AlSayyari AA, Alanazi MM, El-Wekil MM. A reliable ratiometric fluorescence sensing of heparin and its antidote based on cationic carbon quantum dots and acid red 87. Microchem J 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2023.108666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
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9
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Mitchell T, Lin JM, James JR, Hicks SM, Rangan P, Forni PE. Loss Of Chromodomain of Male-Specific Lethal 3 (MSL3) Does Not Affect Spermatogenesis In Rodents. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.16.532933. [PMID: 36993289 PMCID: PMC10055081 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.16.532933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Msl3 is a member of the chromatin-associated male-specific lethal MSL complex which is responsible for the transcriptional upregulation of genes on the X chromosome in males Drosophila. Although the dosage complex operates differently in mammals, the Msl3 gene is conserved from flies to humans. Msl3 is required for meiotic entry during Drosophila oogenesis. Recent reports indicate that also in primates, Msl3 is expressed in undifferentiated germline cells before meiotic entry. However, if Msl3 plays a role in the meiotic entry of mammals has yet to be explored. To study this, we used mouse spermatogenesis as a study model. Analyses of single cells RNA-seq data revealed that, in mice, Msl3 is mostly expressed in meiotic cells. To test the role of Msl3 in meiosis, we used a male germline-specific Stra8-iCre driver and a newly generated Msl3flox conditional knock-out mouse line. Msl3 conditional loss-of-function in spermatogonia did not cause spermatogenesis defects or changes in the expression of genes related to meiosis. Our data suggest that, in mice, Msl3 exhibits delayed expression compared to Drosophila and primates, and loss-of-function mutations disrupting the chromodomain of Msl3 alone do not impede meiotic entry in rodents.
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10
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Malla AB, Rainsford SR, Smith ZD, Lesch BJ. DOT1L promotes spermatid differentiation by regulating expression of genes required for histone-to-protamine replacement. Development 2023; 150:dev201497. [PMID: 37082969 PMCID: PMC10259660 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201497] [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: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Unique chromatin remodeling factors orchestrate dramatic changes in nuclear morphology during differentiation of the mature sperm head. A crucial step in this process is histone-to-protamine exchange, which must be executed correctly to avoid sperm DNA damage, embryonic lethality and male sterility. Here, we define an essential role for the histone methyltransferase DOT1L in the histone-to-protamine transition. We show that DOT1L is abundantly expressed in mouse meiotic and postmeiotic germ cells, and that methylation of histone H3 lysine 79 (H3K79), the modification catalyzed by DOT1L, is enriched in developing spermatids in the initial stages of histone replacement. Elongating spermatids lacking DOT1L fail to fully replace histones and exhibit aberrant protamine recruitment, resulting in deformed sperm heads and male sterility. Loss of DOT1L results in transcriptional dysregulation coinciding with the onset of histone replacement and affecting genes required for histone-to-protamine exchange. DOT1L also deposits H3K79me2 and promotes accumulation of elongating RNA Polymerase II at the testis-specific bromodomain gene Brdt. Together, our results indicate that DOT1L is an important mediator of transcription during spermatid differentiation and an indispensable regulator of male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aushaq B. Malla
- Department of Genetics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | | | - Zachary D. Smith
- Department of Genetics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Yale Stem Cell Center, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Bluma J. Lesch
- Department of Genetics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
- Yale Cancer Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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Tan H, Wang W, Zhou C, Wang Y, Zhang S, Yang P, Guo R, Chen W, Zhang J, Ye L, Cui Y, Ni T, Zheng K. Single-cell RNA-seq uncovers dynamic processes orchestrated by RNA-binding protein DDX43 in chromatin remodeling during spermiogenesis. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2499. [PMID: 37120627 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38199-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis shows prominent chromatin and transcriptomic switches in germ cells, but it is unclear how such dynamics are controlled. Here we identify RNA helicase DDX43 as an essential regulator of the chromatin remodeling process during spermiogenesis. Testis-specific Ddx43 knockout mice show male infertility with defective histone-to-protamine replacement and post-meiotic chromatin condensation defects. The loss of its ATP hydrolysis activity by a missense mutation replicates the infertility phenotype in global Ddx43 knockout mice. Single-cell RNA sequencing analyses of germ cells depleted of Ddx43 or expressing the Ddx43 ATPase-dead mutant reveals that DDX43 regulates dynamic RNA regulatory processes that underlie spermatid chromatin remodeling and differentiation. Transcriptomic profiling focusing on early-stage spermatids combined with enhanced crosslinking immunoprecipitation and sequencing further identifies Elfn2 as DDX43-targeted hub gene. These findings illustrate an essential role for DDX43 in spermiogenesis and highlight the single-cell-based strategy to dissect cell-state-specific regulation of male germline development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanhuan Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Youyi Road, 400016, Chongqing, Yuzhong District, China
| | - Weixu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, Human Phenome Institute, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, School of Life Sciences and Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200438, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Center Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Congjin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Shu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Pinglan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Rui Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Wei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, Human Phenome Institute, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, School of Life Sciences and Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200438, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinwen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Lan Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China
| | - Yiqiang Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China.
| | - Ting Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, Human Phenome Institute, Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, School of Life Sciences and Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, 200438, Shanghai, China.
| | - Ke Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, 211166, Nanjing, China.
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de la Iglesia A, Jodar M, Oliva R, Castillo J. Insights into the sperm chromatin and implications for male infertility from a protein perspective. WIREs Mech Dis 2023; 15:e1588. [PMID: 36181449 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Male germ cells undergo an extreme but fascinating process of chromatin remodeling that begins in the testis during the last phase of spermatogenesis and continues through epididymal sperm maturation. Most of the histones are replaced by small proteins named protamines, whose high basicity leads to a tight genomic compaction. This process is epigenetically regulated at many levels, not only by posttranslational modifications, but also by readers, writers, and erasers, in a context of a highly coordinated postmeiotic gene expression program. Protamines are key proteins for acquiring this highly specialized chromatin conformation, needed for sperm functionality. Interestingly, and contrary to what could be inferred from its very specific DNA-packaging function across protamine-containing species, human sperm chromatin contains a wide spectrum of protamine proteoforms, including truncated and posttranslationally modified proteoforms. The generation of protamine knock-out models revealed not only chromatin compaction defects, but also collateral sperm alterations contributing to infertile phenotypes, evidencing the importance of sperm chromatin protamination toward the generation of a new individual. The unique features of sperm chromatin have motivated its study, applying from conventional to the most ground-breaking techniques to disentangle its peculiarities and the cellular mechanisms governing its successful conferment, especially relevant from the protein point of view due to the important epigenetic role of sperm nuclear proteins. Gathering and contextualizing the most striking discoveries will provide a global understanding of the importance and complexity of achieving a proper chromatin compaction and exploring its implications on postfertilization events and beyond. This article is categorized under: Reproductive System Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Reproductive System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto de la Iglesia
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Meritxell Jodar
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain.,Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rafael Oliva
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain.,Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Judit Castillo
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain
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13
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A Near Infra-red Emitting Supramolecular Dye-Polymer Assembly as Promising Platform for Protamine Sensing. J Mol Liq 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2022.120928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
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14
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Arévalo L, Esther Merges G, Schneider S, Schorle H. Protamines: lessons learned from mouse models. Reproduction 2022; 164:R57-R74. [PMID: 35900356 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In brief Protamines package and shield the paternal DNA in the sperm nucleus and have been studied in many mouse models over decades. This review recapitulates and updates our knowledge about protamines and reveals a surprising complexity in protamine function and their interactions with other sperm nuclear proteins. Abstract The packaging and safeguarding of paternal DNA in the sperm cell nucleus is a critical feature of proper sperm function. Histones cannot mediate the necessary hypercondensation and shielding of chromatin required for motility and transit through the reproductive tracts. Paternal chromatin is therefore reorganized and ultimately packaged by protamines. In most mammalian species, one protamine is present in mature sperm (PRM1). In rodents and primates among others, however, mature sperm contain a second protamine (PRM2). Unlike PRM1, PRM2 is cleaved at its N-terminal end. Although protamines have been studied for decades due to their role in chromatin hypercondensation and involvement in male infertility, key aspects of their function are still unclear. This review updates and integrates our knowledge of protamines and their function based on lessons learned from mouse models and starts to answer open questions. The combined insights from recent work reveal that indeed both protamines are crucial for the production of functional sperm and indicate that the two protamines perform distinct functions beyond simple DNA compaction. Loss of one allele of PRM1 leads to subfertility whereas heterozygous loss of PRM2 does not. Unprocessed PRM2 seems to play a distinct role related to the eviction of intermediate DNA-bound proteins and the incorporation of both protamines into chromatin. For PRM1, on the other hand, heterozygous loss leads to strongly reduced sperm motility as the main phenotype, indicating that PRM1 might be important for processes ensuring correct motility, apart from DNA compaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Arévalo
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Gina Esther Merges
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Simon Schneider
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,Bonn Technology Campus, Core Facility 'Gene-Editing', University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Hubert Schorle
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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15
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Silva DFD, Rodrigues TA, da Silveira JC, Gonella-Diaza A, Binelli M, Lopes J, Moura MT, Feitosa WB, Paula-Lopes FF. Cellular responses and microRNA profiling in bovine spermatozoa under heat shock. Reproduction 2022; 164:155-168. [PMID: 35950706 DOI: 10.1530/rep-21-0507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Sperm function is susceptible to adverse environmental conditions. It has been demonstrated that in vivo and in vitro exposure of bovine sperm to elevated temperature reduces sperm motility and fertilizing potential. However, the cascade of functional, cellular and molecular events triggered by elevated temperature in the mature sperm cell remains not fully understood. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of heat shock on mature sperm cells. Frozen-thawed Holstein sperm were evaluated immediately after Percoll purification (0 h non-incubation control) or after incubation at 35°C, 38.5°C, and 41°C for 4 h. Heat shock reduced sperm motility after 3 - 4 h at 41°C while mitochondrial activity was reduced by 38.5 and 41°C when compared to the control. Heat shock also increased sperm reactive oxygen species production and caspase activity. Heat-shocked sperm had lower fertilizing ability, which led to diminished cleaved and blastocyst rates. Preimplantation embryo developmental kinetics was also slowed and reduced by sperm heat shock. The microRNA (miR) profiling identified >300 miRs in bovine sperm. Among these, three and seven miRs were exclusively identified in sperm cells exposed to 35 and 41°C, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Franco da Silva
- D Silva, Pharmacology and Biotechnology, Sao Paulo State University Julio de Mesquita Filho Botucatu Campus Institute of Biosciences, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Thaís Alves Rodrigues
- T Rodrigues, Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Diadema, Brazil
| | - Juliano C da Silveira
- J da Silveira, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Angela Gonella-Diaza
- A Gonella-Diaza, Department of Animal Reproduction, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Mario Binelli
- M Binelli, Department of Animal Reproduction, University of Sao Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Juliana Lopes
- J Lopes, Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Diadema, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Tigre Moura
- M Moura, Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Diadema, Brazil
| | - Weber Beringui Feitosa
- W Feitosa, Department of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Diadema, Brazil
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16
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Talibova G, Bilmez Y, Ozturk S. DNA double-strand break repair in male germ cells during spermatogenesis and its association with male infertility development. DNA Repair (Amst) 2022; 118:103386. [DOI: 10.1016/j.dnarep.2022.103386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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17
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Ran F, Xu Y, Ma M, Liu X, Zhang H. Flower-like ZIF-8 enhance the peroxidase-like activity of nanoenzymes at neutral pH for detection of heparin and protamine. Talanta 2022; 250:123702. [PMID: 35780694 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2022.123702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The peroxide-like catalytic activity of gold nanoclusters (Au-NCs) is very low under physiological conditions (pH 7.4), which greatly limits its biological detection applications. A new nanoenzyme platform was constructed by self-assembly of Au-NCs and ZIF-8/CQDs. It was found that heparin can significantly promote the peroxidase-like activity of Au-NCs on the nanoenzyme platform at pH 7.4. In the presence of H2O2, the catalytic activity of Au-NCs on the nanoenzyme platform for TMB increased nearly 50 times. Based on this phenomenon, a colorimetric method was developed to determine heparin in the range of 0.0185-9.25 U/mL, with a detection limit of 0.0027 U/mL. When protamine is introduced, heparin and protamine take the lead in specific binding due to antagonism, which makes heparin unable to adsorb on the surface of ZIF-8/CQDS, thus inhibiting the enhancement of the catalytic activity of Au-NCs. Based on this phenomenon, a colorimetric method was developed to determine protamine in the range of 0.01-0.5 μg/mL, with a detection limit of 0.003 μg/mL. Therefore, this method provides a new idea for the visual detection of heparin and protamine under physiological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanpeng Ran
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Yixuan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Minrui Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Haixia Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry, College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, 730000, China.
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18
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Moritz L, Hammoud SS. The Art of Packaging the Sperm Genome: Molecular and Structural Basis of the Histone-To-Protamine Exchange. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:895502. [PMID: 35813619 PMCID: PMC9258737 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.895502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Male fertility throughout life hinges on the successful production of motile sperm, a developmental process that involves three coordinated transitions: mitosis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis. Germ cells undergo both mitosis and meiosis to generate haploid round spermatids, in which histones bound to the male genome are replaced with small nuclear proteins known as protamines. During this transformation, the chromatin undergoes extensive remodeling to become highly compacted in the sperm head. Despite its central role in spermiogenesis and fertility, we lack a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the remodeling process, including which remodelers/chaperones are involved, and whether intermediate chromatin proteins function as discrete steps, or unite simultaneously to drive successful exchange. Furthermore, it remains largely unknown whether more nuanced interactions instructed by protamine post-translational modifications affect chromatin dynamics or gene expression in the early embryo. Here, we bring together past and more recent work to explore these topics and suggest future studies that will elevate our understanding of the molecular basis of the histone-to-protamine exchange and the underlying etiology of idiopathic male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Moritz
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Saher Sue Hammoud
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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19
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Citrylglutamate synthase deficient male mice are subfertile with impaired histone and transition protein 2 removal in late spermatids. Biochem J 2022; 479:953-972. [PMID: 35419597 DOI: 10.1042/bcj20210844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Chromatin remodelling in spermatids is an essential step in spermiogenesis and involves the exchange of most histones by protamines, which drives chromatin condensation in late spermatids. The gene Rimklb encodes a citrylglutamate synthase highly expressed in testes of vertebrates and the increase of its reaction product, β-citrylglutamate, correlates in time with the appearance of spermatids. Here we show that deficiency in a functional Rimklb gene leads to male subfertility, which could be partially rescued by in vitro fertilization. Rimklb-deficient mice are impaired in a late step of spermiogenesis and produce spermatozoa with abnormally shaped heads and nuclei. Sperm chromatin in Rimklb-deficient mice was less condensed and showed impaired histone to protamine exchange and retained transition protein 2. These observations suggest that citrylglutamate synthase, probably via its reaction product β-citrylglutamate, is essential for efficient chromatin remodelling during spermiogenesis and may be a possible candidate gene for male subfertility or infertility in humans.
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20
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Omics and Male Infertility: Highlighting the Application of Transcriptomic Data. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12020280. [PMID: 35207567 PMCID: PMC8875138 DOI: 10.3390/life12020280] [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: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a multifaceted disorder affecting approximately 50% of male partners in infertile couples. Over the years, male infertility has been diagnosed mainly through semen analysis, hormone evaluations, medical records and physical examinations, which of course are fundamental, but yet inefficient, because 30% of male infertility cases remain idiopathic. This dilemmatic status of the unknown needs to be addressed with more sophisticated and result-driven technologies and/or techniques. Genetic alterations have been linked with male infertility, thereby unveiling the practicality of investigating this disorder from the “omics” perspective. Omics aims at analyzing the structure and functions of a whole constituent of a given biological function at different levels, including the molecular gene level (genomics), transcript level (transcriptomics), protein level (proteomics) and metabolites level (metabolomics). In the current study, an overview of the four branches of omics and their roles in male infertility are briefly discussed; the potential usefulness of assessing transcriptomic data to understand this pathology is also elucidated. After assessing the publicly obtainable transcriptomic data for datasets on male infertility, a total of 1385 datasets were retrieved, of which 10 datasets met the inclusion criteria and were used for further analysis. These datasets were classified into groups according to the disease or cause of male infertility. The groups include non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), obstructive azoospermia (OA), non-obstructive and obstructive azoospermia (NOA and OA), spermatogenic dysfunction, sperm dysfunction, and Y chromosome microdeletion. Findings revealed that 8 genes (LDHC, PDHA2, TNP1, TNP2, ODF1, ODF2, SPINK2, PCDHB3) were commonly differentially expressed between all disease groups. Likewise, 56 genes were common between NOA versus NOA and OA (ADAD1, BANF2, BCL2L14, C12orf50, C20orf173, C22orf23, C6orf99, C9orf131, C9orf24, CABS1, CAPZA3, CCDC187, CCDC54, CDKN3, CEP170, CFAP206, CRISP2, CT83, CXorf65, FAM209A, FAM71F1, FAM81B, GALNTL5, GTSF1, H1FNT, HEMGN, HMGB4, KIF2B, LDHC, LOC441601, LYZL2, ODF1, ODF2, PCDHB3, PDHA2, PGK2, PIH1D2, PLCZ1, PROCA1, RIMBP3, ROPN1L, SHCBP1L, SMCP, SPATA16, SPATA19, SPINK2, TEX33, TKTL2, TMCO2, TMCO5A, TNP1, TNP2, TSPAN16, TSSK1B, TTLL2, UBQLN3). These genes, particularly the above-mentioned 8 genes, are involved in diverse biological processes such as germ cell development, spermatid development, spermatid differentiation, regulation of proteolysis, spermatogenesis and metabolic processes. Owing to the stage-specific expression of these genes, any mal-expression can ultimately lead to male infertility. Therefore, currently available data on all branches of omics relating to male fertility can be used to identify biomarkers for diagnosing male infertility, which can potentially help in unravelling some idiopathic cases.
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21
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Gill ME, Kohler H, Peters AHFM. Dual DNA staining enables isolation of multiple sub‐types of post‐replicative mouse male germ cells. Cytometry A 2022; 101:529-536. [PMID: 35128792 PMCID: PMC9303198 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.24539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
During spermatogenesis, mammalian male germ cells undergo multiple developmental processes, including meiosis and post‐meiotic differentiation (spermiogenesis). To understand the transitions between different cellular states it is essential to isolate pure populations of cells at different stages of development. Previous approaches enabled the isolation of cells from different stages of meiotic prophase I, but techniques to sub‐fractionate unfixed, post‐meiotic spermatids have been lacking. Here we report the development of a protocol enabling simultaneous isolation of cells at different stages of meiotic prophase and post‐meiotic differentiation from testes of adult mice. This approach builds on existing fluorescence activated cell sorting protocols designed to purify cells in different stages of meiotic prophase I. By utilizing the specific spectral properties that two different DNA dyes (Hoechst 33342 and SYTO 16) exhibit when bound to chromatin of different stage male germ cells, we obtain highly pure populations of cells in relatively large numbers. This FACS protocol will enable immunocytological and molecular characterization studies of fractionated meiotic and haploid germ cells from both wild type and genetically mutant animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark E. Gill
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical ResearchBaselSwitzerland
- Present address:
Reproductive Medicine & Gynecological Endocrinology (RME)University Hospital BaselBaselSwitzerland
| | - Hubertus Kohler
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical ResearchBaselSwitzerland
| | - Antoine H. F. M. Peters
- Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical ResearchBaselSwitzerland
- Faculty of ScienceUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
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22
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Teves ME, Roldan ERS. Sperm bauplan and function and underlying processes of sperm formation and selection. Physiol Rev 2022; 102:7-60. [PMID: 33880962 PMCID: PMC8812575 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00009.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The spermatozoon is a highly differentiated and polarized cell, with two main structures: the head, containing a haploid nucleus and the acrosomal exocytotic granule, and the flagellum, which generates energy and propels the cell; both structures are connected by the neck. The sperm's main aim is to participate in fertilization, thus activating development. Despite this common bauplan and function, there is an enormous diversity in structure and performance of sperm cells. For example, mammalian spermatozoa may exhibit several head patterns and overall sperm lengths ranging from ∼30 to 350 µm. Mechanisms of transport in the female tract, preparation for fertilization, and recognition of and interaction with the oocyte also show considerable variation. There has been much interest in understanding the origin of this diversity, both in evolutionary terms and in relation to mechanisms underlying sperm differentiation in the testis. Here, relationships between sperm bauplan and function are examined at two levels: first, by analyzing the selective forces that drive changes in sperm structure and physiology to understand the adaptive values of this variation and impact on male reproductive success and second, by examining cellular and molecular mechanisms of sperm formation in the testis that may explain how differentiation can give rise to such a wide array of sperm forms and functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Eugenia Teves
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Eduardo R S Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
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23
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Nagaki CAP, Hamilton TRDS, Assumpção MEODÁ. What is known so far about bull sperm protamination: a review. Anim Reprod 2022; 19:e20210109. [DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2021-0109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2021] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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24
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Cheuquemán C, Maldonado R. Non-coding RNAs and chromatin: key epigenetic factors from spermatogenesis to transgenerational inheritance. Biol Res 2021; 54:41. [PMID: 34930477 PMCID: PMC8686607 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-021-00364-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular fate and gene expression patterns are modulated by different epigenetic factors including non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and chromatin organization. Both factors are dynamic throughout male germ cell differentiation on the seminiferous tubule, despite the transcriptional inactivation in the last stages of spermatogenesis. Sperm maturation during the caput-to-cauda transit on the epididymis involves changes in chromatin organization and the soma-to-germ line transference of ncRNAs that are essential to obtain a functional sperm for fertilization and embryo development. Here, the male environment (diseases, drugs, mental stress) is crucial to modulate these epigenetic factors throughout sperm maturation, affecting the corresponding offspring. Paternal transgenerational inheritance has been directly related to sperm epigenetic changes, most of them associated with variations in the ncRNA content and chromatin marks. Our aim is to give an overview about how epigenetics, focused on ncRNAs and chromatin, is pivotal to understand spermatogenesis and sperm maturation, and how the male environment impacts the sperm epigenome modulating the offspring gene expression pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Cheuquemán
- Núcleo de Ciencias Biológicas, Dirección de Núcleos Transversales, Facultad de estudios Interdisciplinarios, Universidad Mayor, Temuco, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Maldonado
- Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.
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25
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Insights into the Evolution of Spermatogenesis-Related Ubiquitin-Proteasome System Genes in Abdominal Testicular Laurasiatherians. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12111780. [PMID: 34828386 PMCID: PMC8620446 DOI: 10.3390/genes12111780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
During embryonic development in mammals, the testicles generally descend into the scrotum, making the testicular temperature 2–4 °C lower than the core temperature via heat exchange and clearance, and thus more beneficial for normal spermatogenesis. Failure to descend, known as cryptorchidism, carries a series of risks such as infertility and testicular cancer. However, some mammals have evolved abdominal testes while maintaining healthy reproduction. To explore the underlying molecular mechanism, we conducted comparative genomic analyses and functional assays on the spermatogenesis-related ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS) genes essential to sperm formation in representative laurasiatherians. Here, positive selection and rapid evolution of spermatogenesis-related UPS genes were identified in the abdominal testicular laurasiatherians. Moreover, potential convergent amino acids were found between distantly related species with similar abdominal testicles and functional analyses showed RNF8 (V437I) in abdominal testicular species (437I) has a stronger ubiquitination ability, which suggests that the mammals with abdominal testes might exhibit enhanced sperm cell histone clearance to maintain sperm formation. This evidence implies that, in response to “cryptorchidism injury”, spermatogenesis-related UPS genes in the abdominal testicular species might have undergone adaptive evolution to stabilize sperm formation. Thus, our study could provide some novel insights into the reproductive adaptation in abdominal testicular mammals.
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26
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Morgan M, Kumar L, Li Y, Baptissart M. Post-transcriptional regulation in spermatogenesis: all RNA pathways lead to healthy sperm. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:8049-8071. [PMID: 34748024 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-04012-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Multiple RNA pathways are required to produce functional sperm. Here, we review RNA post-transcriptional regulation during spermatogenesis with particular emphasis on the role of 3' end modifications. From early studies in the 1970s, it became clear that spermiogenesis transcripts could be stored for days only to be translated at advanced stages of spermatid differentiation. The transition between the translationally repressed and active states was observed to correlate with the shortening of the transcripts' poly(A) tail, establishing a link between RNA 3' end metabolism and male germ cell differentiation. Since then, numerous RNA metabolic pathways have been implicated not only in the progression through spermatogenesis, but also in the maintenance of genomic integrity. Recent studies have characterized the elusive 3' biogenesis of Piwi-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), identified a critical role for messenger RNA (mRNA) 3' uridylation in meiotic progression, established the mechanisms that destabilize transcripts with long 3' untranslated regions (3'UTRs) in post-mitotic cells, and defined the physiological relevance of RNA exonucleases and deadenylases in male germ cells. In this review, we discuss RNA processing in the male germline in the light of the most recent findings. A brief recollection of different RNA-processing events will aid future studies exploring post-transcriptional regulation in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Morgan
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA.
| | - Lokesh Kumar
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Yin Li
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
| | - Marine Baptissart
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, NC, 27709, USA
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27
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Bao Q, Lin D, Gao Y, Wu L, Fu J, Galaa K, Lin X, Lin L. Ultrasensitive off-on-off fluorescent nanosensor for protamine and trypsin detection based on inner-filter effect between N,S-CDs and gold nanoparticles. Microchem J 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2021.106409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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28
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Varuzhanyan G, Ladinsky MS, Yamashita SI, Abe M, Sakimura K, Kanki T, Chan DC. Fis1 ablation in the male germline disrupts mitochondrial morphology and mitophagy, and arrests spermatid maturation. Development 2021; 148:271183. [PMID: 34355730 PMCID: PMC8380467 DOI: 10.1242/dev.199686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Male germline development involves choreographed changes to mitochondrial number, morphology and organization. Mitochondrial reorganization during spermatogenesis was recently shown to require mitochondrial fusion and fission. Mitophagy, the autophagic degradation of mitochondria, is another mechanism for controlling mitochondrial number and physiology, but its role during spermatogenesis is largely unknown. During post-meiotic spermatid development, restructuring of the mitochondrial network results in packing of mitochondria into a tight array in the sperm midpiece to fuel motility. Here, we show that disruption of mouse Fis1 in the male germline results in early spermatid arrest that is associated with increased mitochondrial content. Mutant spermatids coalesce into multinucleated giant cells that accumulate mitochondria of aberrant ultrastructure and numerous mitophagic and autophagic intermediates, suggesting a defect in mitophagy. We conclude that Fis1 regulates mitochondrial morphology and turnover to promote spermatid maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grigor Varuzhanyan
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena CA 91125, USA
| | - Mark S Ladinsky
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena CA 91125, USA
| | - Shun-Ichi Yamashita
- Department of Cellular Physiology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - Manabu Abe
- Department of Animal Model Development, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8585, Japan
| | - Kenji Sakimura
- Department of Animal Model Development, Brain Research Institute, Niigata University, Niigata 951-8585, Japan
| | - Tomotake Kanki
- Department of Cellular Physiology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata 951-8510, Japan
| | - David C Chan
- Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena CA 91125, USA
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29
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Hamilton LE, Lion M, Aguila L, Suzuki J, Acteau G, Protopapas N, Xu W, Sutovsky P, Baker M, Oko R. Core Histones Are Constituents of the Perinuclear Theca of Murid Spermatozoa: An Assessment of Their Synthesis and Assembly during Spermiogenesis and Function after Gametic Fusion. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22158119. [PMID: 34360885 PMCID: PMC8347300 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The perinuclear theca (PT) of the eutherian sperm head is a cytoskeletal-like structure that houses proteins involved in important cellular processes during spermiogenesis and fertilization. Building upon our novel discovery of non-nuclear histones in the bovine PT, we sought to investigate whether this PT localization was a conserved feature of eutherian sperm. Employing cell fractionation, immunodetection, mass spectrometry, qPCR, and intracytoplasmic sperm injections (ICSI), we examined the localization, developmental origin, and functional potential of histones from the murid PT. Immunodetection localized histones to the post-acrosomal sheath (PAS) and the perforatorium (PERF) of the PT but showed an absence in the sperm nucleus. MS/MS analysis of selectively extracted PT histones indicated that predominately core histones (i.e., H3, H3.3, H2B, H2A, H2AX, and H4) populate the murid PT. These core histones appear to be de novo-synthesized in round spermatids and assembled via the manchette during spermatid elongation. Mouse ICSI results suggest that early embryonic development is delayed in the absence of PT-derived core histones. Here, we provide evidence that core histones are de novo-synthesized prior to PT assembly and deposited in PT sub-compartments for subsequent involvement in chromatin remodeling of the male pronucleus post-fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren E. Hamilton
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Botterell Hall, 18 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (L.E.H.); (M.L.); (G.A.); (N.P.); (W.X.)
- Division of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA;
| | - Morgan Lion
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Botterell Hall, 18 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (L.E.H.); (M.L.); (G.A.); (N.P.); (W.X.)
| | - Luis Aguila
- Center for Research in Reproduction and Fertility, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Université de Montreal, St. Hyacinthe, QC J2S 2M2, Canada; (L.A.); (J.S.)
| | - João Suzuki
- Center for Research in Reproduction and Fertility, Department of Veterinary Sciences, Université de Montreal, St. Hyacinthe, QC J2S 2M2, Canada; (L.A.); (J.S.)
| | - Genevieve Acteau
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Botterell Hall, 18 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (L.E.H.); (M.L.); (G.A.); (N.P.); (W.X.)
| | - Nicole Protopapas
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Botterell Hall, 18 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (L.E.H.); (M.L.); (G.A.); (N.P.); (W.X.)
| | - Wei Xu
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Botterell Hall, 18 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (L.E.H.); (M.L.); (G.A.); (N.P.); (W.X.)
| | - Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Science, College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA;
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Mark Baker
- School of Environmental and Life Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia;
| | - Richard Oko
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen’s University, Botterell Hall, 18 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada; (L.E.H.); (M.L.); (G.A.); (N.P.); (W.X.)
- Correspondence:
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Azhar M, Altaf S, Uddin I, Cheng J, Wu L, Tong X, Qin W, Bao J. Towards Post-Meiotic Sperm Production: Genetic Insight into Human Infertility from Mouse Models. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:2487-2503. [PMID: 34326689 PMCID: PMC8315030 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.60384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Declined quality and quantity of sperm is currently the major cause of patients suffering from infertility. Male germ cell development is spatiotemporally regulated throughout the whole developmental process. While it has been known that exogenous factors, such as environmental exposure, diet and lifestyle, et al, play causative roles in male infertility, recent progress has revealed abundant genetic mutations tightly associated with defective male germline development. In mammals, male germ cells undergo dramatic morphological change (i.e., nuclear condensation) and chromatin remodeling during post-meiotic haploid germline development, a process termed spermiogenesis; However, the molecular machinery players and functional mechanisms have yet to be identified. To date, accumulated evidence suggests that disruption in any step of haploid germline development is likely manifested as fertility issues with low sperm count, poor sperm motility, aberrant sperm morphology or combined. With the continually declined cost of next-generation sequencing and recent progress of CRISPR/Cas9 technology, growing studies have revealed a vast number of disease-causing genetic variants associated with spermiogenic defects in both mice and humans, along with mechanistic insights partially attained and validated through genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs). In this review, we mainly summarize genes that are functional at post-meiotic stage. Identification and characterization of deleterious genetic variants should aid in our understanding of germline development, and thereby further improve the diagnosis and treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Azhar
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui, China
| | - Saba Altaf
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui, China
| | - Islam Uddin
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui, China
| | - Jinbao Cheng
- The 901th hospital of Joint logistics support Force of PLA, Anhui, China
| | - Limin Wu
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui, China
| | - Xianhong Tong
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui, China
| | - Weibing Qin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Family Planning Research Institute of Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jianqiang Bao
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Anhui, China
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Prakash MA, Kumaresan A, Ebenezer Samuel King JP, Nag P, Sharma A, Sinha MK, Kamaraj E, Datta TK. Comparative Transcriptomic Analysis of Spermatozoa From High- and Low-Fertile Crossbred Bulls: Implications for Fertility Prediction. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:647717. [PMID: 34041237 PMCID: PMC8141864 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.647717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Crossbred bulls produced by crossing Bos taurus and Bos indicus suffer with high incidence of infertility/subfertility problems; however, the etiology remains poorly understood. The uncertain predictability and the inability of semen evaluation techniques to maintain constant correlation with fertility demand for alternate methods for bull fertility prediction. Therefore, in this study, the global differential gene expression between high- and low-fertile crossbred bull sperm was assessed using a high-throughput RNA sequencing technique with the aim to identify transcripts associated with crossbred bull fertility. Crossbred bull sperm contained transcripts for 13,563 genes, in which 2,093 were unique to high-fertile and 5,454 were unique to low-fertile bulls. After normalization of data, a total of 776 transcripts were detected, in which 84 and 168 transcripts were unique to high-fertile and low-fertile bulls, respectively. A total of 176 transcripts were upregulated (fold change > 1) and 209 were downregulated (<1) in low-fertile bulls. Gene ontology analysis identified that the sperm transcripts involved in the oxidative phosphorylation pathway and biological process such as multicellular organism development, spermatogenesis, and in utero embryonic development were downregulated in low-fertile crossbred bull sperm. Sperm transcripts upregulated and unique to low-fertile bulls were majorly involved in translation (biological process) and ribosomal pathway. With the use of RT-qPCR, selected sperm transcripts (n = 12) were validated in crossbred bulls (n = 12) with different fertility ratings and found that the transcriptional abundance of ZNF706, CRISP2, TNP2, and TNP1 genes was significantly (p < 0.05) lower in low-fertile bulls than high-fertile bulls and was positively (p < 0.05) correlated with conception rate. It is inferred that impaired oxidative phosphorylation could be the predominant reason for low fertility in crossbred bulls and that transcriptional abundance of ZNF706, CRISP2, TNP2, and TNP1 genes could serve as potential biomarkers for fertility in crossbred bulls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mani Arul Prakash
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Southern Regional Station of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Arumugam Kumaresan
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Southern Regional Station of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - John Peter Ebenezer Samuel King
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Southern Regional Station of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Pradeep Nag
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Southern Regional Station of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Ankur Sharma
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Southern Regional Station of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Manish Kumar Sinha
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Southern Regional Station of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Elango Kamaraj
- Theriogenology Laboratory, Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Southern Regional Station of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-National Dairy Research Institute, Bengaluru, India
| | - Tirtha Kumar Datta
- Animal Genomics Laboratory, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
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Her YR, Wang L, Chepelev I, Manterola M, Berkovits B, Cui K, Zhao K, Wolgemuth DJ. Genome-wide chromatin occupancy of BRDT and gene expression analysis suggest transcriptional partners and specific epigenetic landscapes that regulate gene expression during spermatogenesis. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:141-157. [PMID: 33469999 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BRDT, a member of the BET family of double bromodomain-containing proteins, is essential for spermatogenesis in the mouse and has been postulated to be a key regulator of transcription in meiotic and post-meiotic cells. To understand the function of BRDT in these processes, we first characterized the genome-wide distribution of the BRDT binding sites, in particular within gene units, by ChIP-Seq analysis of enriched fractions of pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids. In both cell types, BRDT binding sites were mainly located in promoters, first exons, and introns of genes. BRDT binding sites in promoters overlapped with several histone modifications and histone variants associated with active transcription, and were enriched for consensus sequences for specific transcription factors, including MYB, RFX, ETS, and ELF1 in pachytene spermatocytes, and JunD, c-Jun, CRE, and RFX in round spermatids. Subsequent integration of the ChIP-seq data with available transcriptome data revealed that stage-specific gene expression programs are associated with BRDT binding to their gene promoters, with most of the BDRT-bound genes being upregulated. Gene Ontology analysis further identified unique sets of genes enriched in diverse biological processes essential for meiosis and spermiogenesis between the two cell types, suggesting distinct developmentally stage-specific functions for BRDT. Taken together, our data suggest that BRDT cooperates with different transcription factors at distinctive chromatin regions within gene units to regulate diverse downstream target genes that function in male meiosis and spermiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoon Ra Her
- Department of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Iouri Chepelev
- Systems Biology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.,Center for Autoimmune Genomics and Etiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Marcia Manterola
- Human Genetics Program, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Binyamin Berkovits
- Department of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kairong Cui
- Systems Biology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Keji Zhao
- Systems Biology Center, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Debra J Wolgemuth
- Department of Genetics & Development, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA.,Department Obstetrics & Gynecology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA.,Institute of Human Nutrition, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA.,Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
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Amor H, Zeyad A, Hammadeh ME. Tobacco smoking and its impact on the expression level of sperm nuclear protein genes: H2BFWT, TNP1, TNP2, PRM1 and PRM2. Andrologia 2021; 53:e13964. [PMID: 33440036 DOI: 10.1111/and.13964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this current study was to investigate the influence of tobacco smoke on sperm quality determined by standard parameters, on sperm DNA maturity tested by chromomycin A3 (CMA3) staining, on sperm DNA fragmentation tested by TUNEL assay and on the transcript level of sperm nuclear proteins H2BFWT, PRM1, PRM2, TNP1 and TNP2 genes quantified by RT-PCR. One hundred forty-one (141) sperm samples (43 nonsmokers (G.1) and 98 heavy smokers (G.2)) of couples undergoing ICSI were enrolled in this study. In G2, a significant decrease in standard semen parameters in comparison with nonsmokers was shown (p < .01). In contrast, protamine deficiency (CMA3 positivity) and sperm DNA fragmentation (sDF) were significantly higher in G2 than in G1 (p < .01). Furthermore, the studied genes were differentially expressed (p < .01), down-regulated in the spermatozoa of G.2 compared to that of G.1 (fold change <0.5) and were significantly correlated between each other (p < .01). Moreover, in comparison with G1, the protamine mRNA ratio in G2 was significantly higher (p < .01). It can therefore be concluded that smoking alters mRNA expression levels of H2BFWT, TNP1, TNP2, PRM1 and PRM2 genes and the protamine mRNA ratio and consequently alters normal sperm function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houda Amor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Saarland University Clinic, Homburg, Germany
| | - Ali Zeyad
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Saarland University Clinic, Homburg, Germany
| | - Mohamad Eid Hammadeh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Saarland University Clinic, Homburg, Germany
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Meyer RG, Meyer-Ficca ML. Metabolism in Male Reproductive Aging. ADVANCES IN GERIATRIC MEDICINE AND RESEARCH 2021; 3:e210005. [PMID: 33554222 PMCID: PMC7861562 DOI: 10.20900/agmr20210005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Similar to female reproductive health, male reproductive health declines with increasing age, albeit in a more gradual way. In the US, the average age of first-time fathers has been steadily increasing since 1980. This is concerning because increasing paternal age is positively correlated with reduced sperm chromatin quality and higher numbers of DNA strand breaks (DNA sb), which negatively affects pregnancy outcome and child development. While underlying reasons are not well understood, one of the well-known hallmarks of aging is a significant decline of body nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) levels. We propose that low body-wide NAD levels provide a plausible explanation for metabolic alterations that are associated with declining hormonal production and testicular volume, as well as reduced sperm quality in aging men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph G. Meyer
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84332, USA
- Utah Experimental Station, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84332, USA
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84332, USA
| | - Mirella L. Meyer-Ficca
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84332, USA
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84332, USA
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Peng Y, Qiao H. The Application of Single-Cell RNA Sequencing in Mammalian Meiosis Studies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:673642. [PMID: 34485276 PMCID: PMC8416306 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.673642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Meiosis is a cellular division process that produces gametes for sexual reproduction. Disruption of complex events throughout meiosis, such as synapsis and homologous recombination, can lead to infertility and aneuploidy. To reveal the molecular mechanisms of these events, transcriptome studies of specific substages must be conducted. However, conventional methods, such as bulk RNA-seq and RT-qPCR, are not able to detect the transcriptional variations effectively and precisely, especially for identifying cell types and stages with subtle differences. In recent years, mammalian meiotic transcriptomes have been intensively studied at the single-cell level by using single-cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) approaches, especially through two widely used platforms, Smart-seq2 and Drop-seq. The scRNA-seq protocols along with their downstream analysis enable researchers to accurately identify cell heterogeneities and investigate meiotic transcriptomes at a higher resolution. In this review, we compared bulk RNA-seq and scRNA-seq to show the advantages of the scRNA-seq in meiosis studies; meanwhile, we also pointed out the challenges and limitations of the scRNA-seq. We listed recent findings from mammalian meiosis (male and female) studies where scRNA-seq applied. Next, we summarized the scRNA-seq analysis methods and the meiotic marker genes from spermatocytes and oocytes. Specifically, we emphasized the different features of the two scRNA-seq protocols (Smart-seq2 and Drop-seq) in the context of meiosis studies and discussed their strengths and weaknesses in terms of different research purposes. Finally, we discussed the future applications of scRNA-seq in the meiosis field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiheng Peng
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
| | - Huanyu Qiao
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, United States
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Anbazhagan R, Kavarthapu R, Coon SL, Dufau ML. Role of Phosphorylated Gonadotropin-Regulated Testicular RNA Helicase (GRTH/DDX25) in the Regulation of Germ Cell Specific mRNAs in Chromatoid Bodies During Spermatogenesis. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:580019. [PMID: 33425888 PMCID: PMC7786181 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.580019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
GRTH/DDX25 is a member of the DEAD-box family of RNA helicases that play an essential role in spermatogenesis. GRTH knock-in (KI) mice with the human mutant GRTH gene (R242H) show loss of the phospho-species from cytoplasm with preservation of the non-phospho form in the cytoplasm and nucleus. GRTH KI mice are sterile and lack elongated spermatids and spermatozoa, with spermatogenic arrest at step 8 of round spermatids which contain chromatoid body (CB) markedly reduced in size. We observed an absence of phospho-GRTH in CB of GRTH KI mice. RNA-Seq analysis of mRNA isolated from CB revealed that 1,421 genes show differential abundance, of which 947 genes showed a decrease in abundance and 474 genes showed an increase in abundance in GRTH KI mice. The transcripts related to spermatid development, differentiation, and chromatin remodeling (Tnp1/2, Prm1/2/3, Spem1/2, Tssk 2/3/6, Grth, tAce, and Upf2) were reduced, and the transcripts encoding for factors involved in RNA transport, regulation, and surveillance and transcriptional and translational regulation (Eef1a1, Ppp1cc, Pabpc1, Ybx3, Tent5b, H2al1m, Dctn2, and Dync1h1) were increased in the CB of KI mice and were further validated by qPCR. In the round spermatids of wild-type mice, mRNAs of Tnp2, Prm2, and Grth were abundantly co-localized with MVH protein in the CB, while in GRTH KI mice these were minimally present. In addition, GRTH binding to Tnp1/2, Prm1/2, Grth, and Tssk6 mRNAs was found to be markedly decreased in KI. These results demonstrate the importance of phospho-GRTH in the maintenance of the structure of CB and its role in the storage and stability of germ cell-specific mRNAs during spermiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajakumar Anbazhagan
- Section on Molecular Endocrinology, Division of Developmental Biology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Raghuveer Kavarthapu
- Section on Molecular Endocrinology, Division of Developmental Biology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Steven L Coon
- Molecular Genomics Core, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Maria L Dufau
- Section on Molecular Endocrinology, Division of Developmental Biology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
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Salian SR, Pandya RK, Laxminarayana SLK, Krishnamurthy H, Cheredath A, Tholeti P, Uppangala S, Kalthur G, Majumdar S, Schlatt S, Adiga SK. Impact of Temperature and Time Interval Prior to Immature Testicular-Tissue Organotypic Culture on Cellular Niche. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:2161-2173. [PMID: 33319342 PMCID: PMC8289760 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00396-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cryopreservation of immature-testicular-tissue (ITT) prior to gonadotoxic treatment, while experimental, is the only recommended option for fertility preservation in prepubertal boys. The handling and manipulation of ITT before cryopreservation could influence the functionality of cells during fertility restoration, which this study explored by evaluating cellular niche and quality of mouse ITT subjected to various temperatures and time durations in vitro. ITT from 6-day-old mice were handled at ultraprofound-hypothermic, profound-hypothermic, and mild-warm-ischemic temperatures for varying time periods prior to 14-day organotypic culture. Viability, functionality, synaptonemal complex and chromatin remodeling markers were assessed. Results have shown that cell viability, testosterone level, and in vitro proliferation ability did not change when ITT were held at ultraprofound-hypothermic-temperature up to 24 h, whereas cell viability was significantly reduced (P < 0.01), when held at profound-hypothermic-temperature for 24 h before culture. Further, cell viability and testosterone levels in cultured cells from profound-hypothermic group were comparable to corresponding ultraprofound-hypothermic group but with moderate reduction in postmeiotic cells (P < 0.01). In conclusion, holding ITT at ultraprofound-hypothermic-temperature is most suitable for organotypic culture, whereas short-term exposure at profound-hypothermic-temperature may compromise postmeiotic germ cell yield post in vitro culture. This data, albeit in mouse model, will have immense value in human prepubertal fertility restoration research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujith Raj Salian
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Riddhi Kirit Pandya
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | | | | | - Aswathi Cheredath
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Prathima Tholeti
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Shubhashree Uppangala
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Guruprasad Kalthur
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Subeer Majumdar
- National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, Albert-Schweitzer Campus 11, 48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Satish Kumar Adiga
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India.
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Liu J, Li X, Zhou G, Sang Y, Zhang Y, Zhao Y, Ge W, Sun Z, Zhou X. Silica nanoparticles induce spermatogenesis disorders via L3MBTL2-DNA damage-p53 apoptosis and RNF8-ubH2A/ubH2B pathway in mice. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 265:114974. [PMID: 32554096 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.114974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) can reduce both quality and quantity of sperm via inhibiting the progress of meiosis and mitosis and inducing apoptosis of spermatogenic cells, however, their specific mechanism and effects on the later stage of spermatogenesis are still unclear. To investigate the effects of SiNPs on the reproductive system, male mice were treated with SiNPs (0, 1.25, 5 and 20 mg/kg.bw) via intratracheal instillation once every 3 days and for a total of 15 days. Results revealed that exposure to SiNPs induced reduction in the rate of sperm activity, histological abnormalities in seminiferous epithelium as well as apoptosis of spermatogenic cells, which are associated with decreased level of Lethal (3) malignant brain tumor like 2 (L3MBTL2) and activation of DNA damage-p53-mitochondrial apoptosis pathways. Moreover, reduction in L3MBTL2 level caused by SiNPs also led to the lower expression of RNF8-ubH2A/ubH2B pathway, thus resulting in incomplete histone-to-protamine exchange. These results suggest that the inhibition of L3MBTL2 expression caused by SiNPs not only activates DNA damage-p53-mitochondrial apoptosis pathway leading to the apoptosis of spermatogenic cells, but also inhibits RNF8-ubH2A/ubH2B pathway resulting in incomplete histone-to-protamine exchange, thereby affected spermatogenesis. This indicates that L3MBTL2 plays an important role in reproductive toxicity of males caused by SiNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianhui Liu
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Xiangyang Li
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Guiqing Zhou
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Yujian Sang
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Yanzhi Zhao
- Yanjing Medical College Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Ge
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Aging (CRDA), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, 999078, China
| | - Zhiwei Sun
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Xianqing Zhou
- Department of Toxicology and Hygienic Chemistry, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China.
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Pandey SP, Jha P, Singh PK. Aggregation induced emission of an anionic tetraphenylethene derivative for efficient protamine sensing. J Mol Liq 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2020.113625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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41
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Wu L, Wei Y, Li H, Li W, Gu C, Sun J, Xia H, Zhang J, Chen F, Liu Q. The ubiquitination and acetylation of histones are associated with male reproductive disorders induced by chronic exposure to arsenite. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2020; 408:115253. [PMID: 32991915 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2020.115253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to arsenic, which occurs via various routes, can cause reproductive toxicity. However, the mechanism for arsenic-induced reproductive disorders in male mice has not been extensively investigated. Here, 6-week-old male mice were dosed to 0, 5, 10, or 20 ppm sodium arsenite (NaAsO2), an active form of arsenic, in drinking water for six months. For male mice exposed to arsenite, fertility was lower compared to control mice. Moreover, for exposed mice, there were lower sperm counts, lower sperm motility, and higher sperm malformation ratios. Further, the mRNA and protein levels of the gonadotropin-regulated testicular RNA helicase (DDX25) and chromosome region maintenance-1 protein (CRM1), along with proteins associated with high mobility group box 2 (HMGB2), phosphoglycerate kinase 2 (PGK2), and testicular angiotensin-converting enzyme (tACE) were lower. Furthermore, chronic exposure to arsenite led to lower H2A ubiquitination (ubH2A); histone H3 acetylation K18 (H3AcK18); and histone H4 acetylations K5, K8, K12, and K16 (H4tetraAck) in haploid spermatids from testicular tissues. These alterations disrupted deposition of protamine 1 (Prm1) in testes. Overall, the present results indicate that the ubiquitination and acetylation of histones is involved in the spermiogenesis disorders caused by chronic exposure to arsenite, which points to a previously unknown connection between the modification of histones and arsenite-induced male reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wu
- Center for Global Health, China International Cooperation Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongyue Wei
- Center for Global Health, China International Cooperation Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Li
- Center for Global Health, China International Cooperation Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenqi Li
- Center for Global Health, China International Cooperation Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenxi Gu
- Center for Global Health, China International Cooperation Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Sun
- Center for Global Health, China International Cooperation Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Haibo Xia
- Center for Global Health, China International Cooperation Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingshu Zhang
- Center for Global Health, China International Cooperation Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; Jiangsu Safety Assessment and Research Center for Drug, Pesticide, and Veterinary Drug, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Feng Chen
- Center for Global Health, China International Cooperation Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
| | - Qizhan Liu
- Center for Global Health, China International Cooperation Center for Environment and Human Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; The Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
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Torres-Flores U, Hernández-Hernández A. The Interplay Between Replacement and Retention of Histones in the Sperm Genome. Front Genet 2020; 11:780. [PMID: 32765595 PMCID: PMC7378789 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The genome of eukaryotes is highly organized within the cell nucleus, this organization per se elicits gene regulation and favors other mechanisms like cell memory throughout histones and their post-translational modifications. In highly specialized cells, like sperm, the genome is mostly organized by protamines, yet a significant portion of it remains organized by histones. This protamine-histone-DNA organization, known as sperm epigenome, is established during spermiogenesis. Specific histones and their post-translational modifications are retained at specific genomic sites and during embryo development these sites recapitulate their histone profile that harbored in the sperm nucleus. It is known that histones are the conduit of epigenetic memory from cell to cell, hence histones in the sperm epigenome may have a role in transmitting epigenetic memory from the sperm to the embryo. However, the exact function and mechanism of histone retention remains elusive. During spermatogenesis, most of the histones that organize the genome are replaced by protamines and their retention at specific regions may be deeply intertwined with the eviction and replacement mechanism. In this review we will cover some relevant aspects of histone replacement that in turn may help us to contextualize histone retention. In the end, we focus on the architectonical protein CTCF that is, so far, the only factor that has been directly linked to the histone retention process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulises Torres-Flores
- Biología de Células Individuales (BIOCELIN), Laboratorio de Investigación en Patología Experimental, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Abrahan Hernández-Hernández
- Biología de Células Individuales (BIOCELIN), Laboratorio de Investigación en Patología Experimental, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, Mexico City, Mexico
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Li M, Gan J, Sun Y, Xu Z, Yang J, Sun Y, Li C. Architectural proteins for the formation and maintenance of the 3D genome. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2020; 63:795-810. [PMID: 32249389 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-019-1613-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Eukaryotic genomes are densely packaged into hierarchical three-dimensional (3D) structures that contain information about gene regulation and many other biological processes. With the development of imaging and sequencing-based technologies, 3D genome studies have revealed that the high-order chromatin structure is composed of hierarchical levels, including chromosome territories, A/B compartments, topologically associated domains, and chromatin loops. However, how this chromatin architecture is formed and maintained is not completely clear. In this review, we introduce experimental methods to investigate the 3D genome, review major architectural proteins that regulate 3D chromatin organization in mammalian cells, such as CTCF (CCCTC-binding factor), cohesin, lamins, and transcription factors, and discuss relevant mechanisms such as phase separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengfan Li
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies; School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jingbo Gan
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies; School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Yuao Sun
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies; School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Life Sciences; Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center (BIOPIC), Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Zihan Xu
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies; School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Junsheng Yang
- Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies; School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Life Sciences; Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center (BIOPIC), Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Yujie Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, School of Life Sciences; Biomedical Pioneering Innovation Center (BIOPIC), Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Cheng Li
- Center for Statistical Science, Center for Bioinformatics, School of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
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44
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Gunes S, Esteves SC. Role of genetics and epigenetics in male infertility. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13586. [PMID: 32314821 DOI: 10.1111/and.13586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a complex condition with a strong genetic and epigenetic background. This review discusses the importance of genetic and epigenetic factors in the pathophysiology of male infertility. The interplay between thousands of genes, the epigenetic control of gene expression, and environmental and lifestyle factors, which influence genetic and epigenetic variants, determines the resulting male infertility phenotype. Currently, karyotyping, Y-chromosome microdeletion screening and CFTR gene mutation tests are routinely performed to investigate a possible genetic aetiology in patients with azoospermia and severe oligozoospermia. However, current testing is limited in its ability to identify a variety of genetic and epigenetic conditions that might be implicated in both idiopathic and unexplained infertility. Several epimutations of imprinting genes and developmental genes have been postulated to be candidate markers for male infertility. As such, development of novel diagnostic panels is essential to change the current landscape with regard to prevention, diagnosis and management. Understanding the underlying genetic mechanisms related to the pathophysiology of male infertility, and the impact of environmental exposures and lifestyle factors on gene expression might aid clinicians in developing individualised treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sezgin Gunes
- Medical Biology, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey.,Molecular Medicine, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Referral Center for Male Reproduction, Campinas, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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45
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Pandey SP, Singh PK. A ratiometric scheme for the fluorescent detection of protamine, a heparin antidote. J Mol Liq 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2020.112589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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46
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Gustafson EA, Seymour KA, Sigrist K, Rooij DGDE, Freiman RN. ZFP628 Is a TAF4b-Interacting Transcription Factor Required for Mouse Spermiogenesis. Mol Cell Biol 2020; 40:e00228-19. [PMID: 31932482 PMCID: PMC7076252 DOI: 10.1128/mcb.00228-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
TAF4b is a subunit of the TFIID complex that is highly expressed in the ovary and testis and required for mouse fertility. TAF4b-deficient male mice undergo a complex series of developmental defects that result in the inability to maintain long-term spermatogenesis. To decipher the transcriptional mechanisms upon which TAF4b functions in spermatogenesis, we used two-hybrid screening to identify a novel TAF4b-interacting transcriptional cofactor, ZFP628. Deletion analysis of both proteins reveals discrete and novel domains of ZFP628 and TAF4b protein that function to bridge their direct interaction in vitro Moreover, coimmunoprecipitation of ZFP628 and TAF4b proteins in testis-derived protein extracts supports their endogenous association. Using CRISPR-Cas9, we disrupted the expression of ZFP628 in the mouse and uncovered a postmeiotic germ cell arrest at the round spermatid stage in the seminiferous tubules of the testis in ZFP628-deficient mice that results in male infertility. Coincident with round spermatid arrest, we find reduced mRNA expression of transition protein (Tnp1 and Tnp2) and protamine (Prm1 and Prm2) genes, which are critical for the specialized maturation of haploid male germ cells called spermiogenesis. These data delineate a novel association of two transcription factors, TAF4b and ZFP628, and identify ZFP628 as a novel transcriptional regulator of stage-specific spermiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric A Gustafson
- Brown University, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Kimberly A Seymour
- Brown University, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Kirsten Sigrist
- Brown University, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Dirk G D E Rooij
- Reproductive Biology Group, Division of Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Richard N Freiman
- Brown University, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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Nazari M, Babakhanzadeh E, Mohsen Aghaei Zarch S, Talebi M, Narimani N, Dargahi M, Sabbaghian M, Ghasemi N. Upregulation of the RNF8 gene can predict the presence of sperm in azoospermic individuals. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2020; 47:61-67. [PMID: 32146775 PMCID: PMC7127899 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2019.03111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective In this study, specimens from testicular biopsies of men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) were used to investigate whether RNF8 gene could serve as a biomarker to predict the presence of sperm in these patients. Methods Testicular biopsy specimens from 47 patients were classified according to the presence of sperm (positive vs. negative groups) and investigated for the expression of RNF8. The level of RNF8 gene expression in the testes was compared between these groups using reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. Results The expression level of RNF8 was significantly higher in testicular samples from the positive group than in those from the negative group. Moreover, the area under the curve of RNF8 expression for the entire study population was 0.84, showing the discriminatory power of RNF8 expression in differentiating between the positive and negative groups of men with NOA. A receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that RNF8 expression had a sensitivity of 81% and a specificity of 84%, with a cutoff level of 1.76. Conclusion This study points out a significant association between the expression of RNF8 and the presence of sperm in NOA patients, which suggests that quantified RNF8 expression in testicular biopsy samples may be a valuable biomarker for predicting the presence of spermatozoa in biopsy samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Nazari
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Emad Babakhanzadeh
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.,Yazd Medical Genetics Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - S Mohsen Aghaei Zarch
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Talebi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Nima Narimani
- Department of Urology, Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mandana Dargahi
- Department of Pathology, Azad University of Medical Science, Yazd, Iran
| | - Marjan Sabbaghian
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasrin Ghasemi
- Abortion Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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The potential impact of tumor suppressor genes on human gametogenesis: a case-control study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 37:341-346. [PMID: 31792669 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01634-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To study the incidence of tumor suppressor gene (TSG) mutations in men and women with impaired gametogenesis. METHODS Gene association analyses were performed on blood samples in two distinct patient populations: males with idiopathic male infertility and females with unexplained diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). The male study group consisted of men with idiopathic azoospermia, oligozoospermia, asthenozoospermia, or teratozoospermia. Age-matched controls were men with normal semen analyses. The female study group consisted of women with unexplained DOR with anti-Müllerian hormone levels ≤ 1.1 ng/mL. Controls were age-matched women with normal ovarian reserve (> 1.1 ng/mL). RESULTS Fifty-seven male cases (mean age = 38.4; mean sperm count = 15.7 ± 12.1; mean motility = 38.2 ± 24.7) and 37 age-matched controls (mean age = 38.0; mean sperm count = 89.6 ± 37.5; mean motility = 56.2 ± 14.3) were compared. Variants observed in CHD5 were found to be enriched in the study group (p = 0.000107). The incidence of CHD5 mutation c.*3198_*3199insT in the 3'UTR (rs538186680) was significantly higher in cases compared to controls (p = 0.0255). 72 DOR cases (mean age = 38.7; mean AMH = 0.5 ± 0.3; mean FSH = 11.7 ± 12.5) and 48 age-matched controls (mean age = 37.6; mean AMH = 4.1 ± 3.0; mean FSH = 7.1 ± 2.2) were compared. Mutations in CHD5 (c.-140A>C), RB1 (c.1422-18delT, rs70651121), and TP53 (c.376-161A>G, rs75821853) were found at significantly higher frequencies in DOR cases compared to controls (p ≤ 0.05). In addition, 363 variants detected in the DOR patients were not present in the control group. CONCLUSION Unexplained impaired gametogenesis in both males and females may be associated with genetic variation in TSGs. TSGs, which play cardinal roles in cell-cycle control, might also be critical for normal spermatogenesis and oogenesis. If validated in larger prospective studies, it is possible that TSGs provide an etiological basis for some patients with impaired gametogenesis.
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49
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Wang T, Gao H, Li W, Liu C. Essential Role of Histone Replacement and Modifications in Male Fertility. Front Genet 2019; 10:962. [PMID: 31649732 PMCID: PMC6792021 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermiogenesis is a complex cellular differentiation process that the germ cells undergo a distinct morphological change, and the protamines replace the core histones to facilitate chromatin compaction in the sperm head. Recent studies show the essential roles of epigenetic events during the histone-to-protamine transition. Defects in either the replacement or the modification of histones might cause male infertility with azoospermia, oligospermia or teratozoospermia. Here, we summarize recent advances in our knowledge of how epigenetic regulators, such as histone variants, histone modification and their related chromatin remodelers, facilitate the histone-to-protamine transition during spermiogenesis. Understanding the molecular mechanism underlying the modification and replacement of histones during spermiogenesis will enable the identification of epigenetic biomarkers of male infertility, and shed light on potential therapies for these patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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50
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Heidari MM, Danafar A, Moezzi F, Khatami M, Talebi AR. The association between TNP2 gene polymorphisms and Iranian infertile men with varicocele: A case-control study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2019; 17:557-566. [PMID: 31583373 PMCID: PMC6745086 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v17i8.4821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Numerous researches have provided great evidence that revealed the relationship between varicocele and sperm DNA damage. Objective Because of the crucial role of nuclear transition proteins (TPs) in sperm DNA condensation and integrity, this case-control study was designed to study TNP2 gene nucleotide variations in Iranian patients with varicocele. Materials and Methods PCR-SSCP and DNA sequencing were used to search for mutations in exons 1 & 2 of the TNP2 gene in 156 infertile patients with varicocele and 150 fertile men. Results The results of sequencing showed three variants at positions c.301C░>░T (p.R101C), c.391C░>░T (p.R131░W), and g.IVS1-26G░>░C (rs8043625) of TNP2 gene. It was found that varicocele risk in men who have the CC genotype of g.IVS1-26G░>░C SNP is higher than those who don't have these genotypes (according to Co-dominant model, Dominant model, Recessive model, and Over-dominant model). The haplotype-based analysis showed that (C/C/T) and (C/T/T) haplotypes were a risk factor of in patients with varicocele compared to controls (OR░=░3.278, p░=░0.000 and OR░=░9.304, p░=░0.038, respectively). Conclusion Because of the significant difference in the genotype and allele frequencies of g.IVS1-26G░>░C SNP in the intronic region of TNP2 in patients with varicocele compared with controls and also because of the high conservation of this SNP position during evolution, this SNP may be involved in some important processes associated with the expression of this gene like mRNA splicing, but the exact mechanism is not clear.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fahime Moezzi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Yazd University Yazd Iran
| | - Mehri Khatami
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Yazd University Yazd Iran
| | - Ali Reza Talebi
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility and Department of Anatomy, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences Yazd Iran
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