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Yu HJ, Byun YH, Park CK. Techniques for assessing telomere length: A methodological review. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:1489-1498. [PMID: 38633384 PMCID: PMC11021795 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are located at the ends of chromosomes and have specific sequences with a distinctive structure that safeguards genes. They possess capping structures that protect chromosome ends from fusion events and ensure chromosome stability. Telomeres shorten in length during each cycle of cell division. When this length reaches a certain threshold, it can lead to genomic instability, thus being implicated in various diseases, including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. The possibility of telomeres serving as a biomarker for aging and age-related disease is being explored, and their significance is still under study. This is because post-mitotic cells, which are mature cells that do not undergo mitosis, do not experience telomere shortening due to age. Instead, other causes, for example, exposure to oxidative stress, can directly damage the telomeres, causing genomic instability. Nonetheless, a general agreement has been established that measuring telomere length offers valuable insights and forms a crucial foundation for analyzing gene expression and epigenetic data. Numerous approaches have been developed to accurately measure telomere lengths. In this review, we summarize various methods and their advantages and limitations for assessing telomere length.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Jong Yu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon Hwan Byun
- Department of Neurosurgery, SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Chul-Kee Park
- Department of Neurosurgery, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Córdova-Oriz I, Cuadrado-Torroglosa I, Madero-Molina M, Rodriguez-García A, Balmori C, Medrano M, Polonio AM, Chico-Sordo L, Pacheco A, García-Velasco JA, Varela E. Telomeric RNAs, TERRA, as a Potential Biomarker for Spermatozoa Quality. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01690-w. [PMID: 39269661 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01690-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 09/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024]
Abstract
Characterization of long non-coding telomeric repeat-containing RNAs in sperm of normozoospermic and oligoasthenozoospermic men as new biomarker of idiopathic male infertility. We conducted an observational prospective study with two groups of men with normal or orligoasthenozoospermic spermiogram, aged 40 and above. Fertility parameters were analyzed in men undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection with donor oocytes, to avoid the female factor. Telomeric RNAs and telomere length were measured by quantitative fluorescent in situ hybridization. Data from seminal parameters and in-vitro fertilization were assessed according to IVIRMA protocols. Patients with oligoasthenozoospermia, who had worse seminal parameters, also obtained embryos with lower inner-cell-mass quality (p = 0.04), despite using donor oocytes. While mean levels of telomeric RNAs were similar for both groups, the percentage of spermatozoa with more than 3 foci was higher in oligoasthenozoospermic men (p = 0.02). Regarding telomere length, oligoasthenozoospermic men had shorter mean, a higher accumulation of short telomeres (15th percentile; p = 0.03) and a lower percentage of very-long telomeres (85th percentile; p = 0.01). Finally, a positive correlation was found between telomeric-RNAs intensity and total progressive motility in the spermatozoa of normozoospermic patients (r = 0.5; p = 0.03). Telomeric parameters were altered in the spermatozoa of the oligoasthenozoospermic group, which also showed lower quality embryos. Interestingly, in the normozoospermic group, a correlation was found between progressive motility and telomeric RNA levels, suggesting that they could be a good biomarker of sperm quality. Further studies are required to confirm these results and translate them into the clinical practice.Trial registration number: 1711-MAD-109-CB, 07/07/2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Córdova-Oriz
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Isabel Cuadrado-Torroglosa
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Maria Madero-Molina
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Angela Rodriguez-García
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Carlos Balmori
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Medrano
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Alba M Polonio
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Lucía Chico-Sordo
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Alberto Pacheco
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Alfonso X El Sabio University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan A García-Velasco
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Rey Juan Carlos University, Edificio Departamental II. Av. de Atenas, s/n, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa Varela
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain.
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Rey Juan Carlos University, Edificio Departamental II. Av. de Atenas, s/n, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.
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Pańczyszyn A, Boniewska-Bernacka E, Wertel I, Sadakierska-Chudy A, Goc A. Telomeres and SIRT1 as Biomarkers of Gamete Oxidative Stress, Fertility, and Potential IVF Outcome. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8652. [PMID: 39201341 PMCID: PMC11354255 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25168652] [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: 06/20/2024] [Revised: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The number of infertile couples undergoing in vitro fertilisation (IVF) has increased significantly. The efficacy of this procedure is contingent upon a multitude of factors, including gamete quality. One factor influencing gamete quality is oxidative stress, which leads to telomere damage and accelerates cellular ageing. Identifying new biomarkers that can predict the success of assisted reproduction techniques is a current relevant area of research. In this review, we discuss the potential role of SIRT1, a protein known to protect against oxidative stress and telomeres, which are responsible for genome stability, as biomarkers of gamete quality and assisted reproduction technique outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Pańczyszyn
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Department of Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Opole, Oleska 48, 45-052 Opole, Poland; (E.B.-B.); (A.G.)
| | - Ewa Boniewska-Bernacka
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Department of Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Opole, Oleska 48, 45-052 Opole, Poland; (E.B.-B.); (A.G.)
| | - Iwona Wertel
- Independent Laboratory of Cancer Diagnostics and Immunology, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Anna Sadakierska-Chudy
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Collegium Medicum, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, Gustawa Herlinga-Grudzinskiego 1, 30-705 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Anna Goc
- Institute of Medical Sciences, Department of Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Opole, Oleska 48, 45-052 Opole, Poland; (E.B.-B.); (A.G.)
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Fragkiadaki P, Kouvidi E, Angelaki A, Nikolopoulou D, Vakonaki E, Tsatsakis A. Evaluation of telomere length and telomerase activity on predicting in vitro fertilization treatment outcomes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:1463-1473. [PMID: 38695985 PMCID: PMC11224194 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03117-6] [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: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The current article is a literature review aiming to provide an overview of the existing knowledge on the association between telomere length and telomerase activity and in vitro fertilization. Recently, telomeres have been used as an effective biomarker to determine biological age, which may differ from chronological age due to genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Cellular senescence, along with other exogenous and mainly environmental factors, can enhance telomere wear, further shortening their ends and may also affect reproductive aging. IVF is a common fertility treatment caused by female reasons (age, ovulation disorders, damaged or blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis), male reasons (low sperm quantity or quality), or unexplained infertility. A growing number of studies have proposed a relationship between telomere length and telomerase activity and IVF success and have suggested their use as candidate biomarkers for IVF outcome. Nevertheless, additional studies are necessary to be conducted, in order to clarify the possible implication of telomeres in IVF and to evaluate their possible role as valuable predictors of IVF result.
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Affiliation(s)
- Persefoni Fragkiadaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Forensic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
- Lifeplus S.A., Science &Technological Park of Crete, C Building, Vassilika Vouton, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Elisavet Kouvidi
- Lifeplus S.A., Science &Technological Park of Crete, C Building, Vassilika Vouton, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
- Phenotypos Lab, Katehaki 40A, 115 25, Athens, Greece
| | - Anna Angelaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Forensic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
| | - Dimitra Nikolopoulou
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Forensic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
- Lifeplus S.A., Science &Technological Park of Crete, C Building, Vassilika Vouton, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Elena Vakonaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Forensic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Greece
- Lifeplus S.A., Science &Technological Park of Crete, C Building, Vassilika Vouton, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology and Forensic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Voutes, 71003, Heraklion, Greece.
- Lifeplus S.A., Science &Technological Park of Crete, C Building, Vassilika Vouton, 70013, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
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Tire B, Talibova G, Ozturk S. The crosstalk between telomeres and DNA repair mechanisms: an overview to mammalian somatic cells, germ cells, and preimplantation embryos. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:277-291. [PMID: 38165506 PMCID: PMC10894803 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-03008-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are located at the ends of linear chromosomes and play a critical role in maintaining genomic stability by preventing premature activation of DNA repair mechanisms. Because of exposure to various genotoxic agents, telomeres can undergo shortening and genetic changes. In mammalian cells, the basic DNA repair mechanisms, including base excision repair, nucleotide excision repair, double-strand break repair, and mismatch repair, function in repairing potential damages in telomeres. If these damages are not repaired correctly in time, the unfavorable results such as apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and cancerous transition may occur. During lifespan, mammalian somatic cells, male and female germ cells, and preimplantation embryos experience a number of telomeric damages. Herein, we comprehensively reviewed the crosstalk between telomeres and the DNA repair mechanisms in the somatic cells, germ cells, and embryos. Infertility development resulting from possible defects in this crosstalk is also discussed in the light of existing studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Betul Tire
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Gunel Talibova
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey
| | - Saffet Ozturk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey.
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Randell Z, Dehghanbanadaki H, Fendereski K, Jimbo M, Aston K, Hotaling J. Sperm telomere length in male-factor infertility and reproduction. Fertil Steril 2024; 121:12-25. [PMID: 37949346 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.11.001] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
The underlying reasons for male-factor infertility are often unknown. 30% of all men have unexplained semen analysis abnormalities. Moreover, 15%-40% of infertile men have normal semen analyses. There have been increasing efforts to identify causes and associations that may explain idiopathic male-factor infertility. Telomeres have become an area of considerable interest in the field because of the essential roles they have in cellular division and genome integrity. Research to date most consistently supports that men with infertility have shorter sperm telomere length (STL); however, associations between shorter STL and meaningful reproductive health outcomes are less consistent. There is a major need for additional studies to better identify the role of STL in male reproductive health and use the information to improve the counseling and treatment of couples with idiopathic male-factor infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zane Randell
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.
| | - Hojat Dehghanbanadaki
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Kiarad Fendereski
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Masaya Jimbo
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Kenneth Aston
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - James Hotaling
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
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Robinson LG, Kalmbach K, Sumerfield O, Nomani W, Wang F, Liu L, Keefe DL. Telomere dynamics and reproduction. Fertil Steril 2024; 121:4-11. [PMID: 37993053 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.11.012] [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: 09/09/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
The oocyte, a long-lived, postmitotic cell, is the locus of reproductive aging in women. Female germ cells replicate only during fetal life and age throughout reproductive life. Mechanisms of oocyte aging include the accumulation of oxidative damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, and disruption of proteins, including cohesion. Nobel Laureate Bob Edwards also discovered a "production line" during oogonial replication in the mouse, wherein the last oocytes to ovulate in the adult-derived from the last oogonia to exit mitotic replication in the fetus. On the basis of this, we proposed a two-hit "telomere theory of reproductive aging" to integrate the myriad features of oocyte aging. The first hit was that oocytes remaining in older women traversed more cell cycles during fetal oogenesis. The second hit was that oocytes accumulated more environmental and endogenous oxidative damage throughout the life of the woman. Telomeres (Ts) could mediate both of these aspects of oocyte aging. Telomeres provide a "mitotic clock," with T attrition an inevitable consequence of cell division because of the end replication problem. Telomere's guanine-rich sequence renders them especially sensitive to oxidative damage, even in postmitotic cells. Telomerase, the reverse transcriptase that restores Ts, is better at maintaining than elongating T. Moreover, telomerase remains inactive during much of oogenesis and early development. Oocytes are left with short Ts, on the brink of viability. In support of this theory, mice with induced T attrition and women with naturally occurring telomeropathy suffer diminished ovarian reserve, abnormal embryo development, and infertility. In contrast, sperm are produced throughout the life of the male by a telomerase-active progenitor, spermatogonia, resulting in the longest Ts in the body. In mice, cleavage-stage embryos elongate Ts via "alternative lengthening of telomeres," a recombination-based mechanism rarely encountered outside of telomerase-deficient cancers. Many questions about Ts and reproduction are raised by these findings: does the "normal" T attrition observed in human oocytes contribute to their extraordinarily high rate of meiotic nondisjunction? Does recombination-based T elongation render embryos susceptible to mitotic nondisjunction (and mosaicism)? Can some features of Ts serve as markers of oocyte quality?
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Affiliation(s)
- LeRoy G Robinson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Langone Fertility Center, New York University School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York; Department of Biology, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California
| | - Keri Kalmbach
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Langone Fertility Center, New York University School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York
| | - Olivia Sumerfield
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Langone Fertility Center, New York University School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York
| | - Wafa Nomani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Langone Fertility Center, New York University School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Langone Fertility Center, New York University School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York
| | - Lin Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, People's Republic of China
| | - David L Keefe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Langone Fertility Center, New York University School of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York.
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Jeon HJ, Levine MT, Lampson MA. Telomere Elongation During Pre-Implantation Embryo Development. ADVANCES IN ANATOMY, EMBRYOLOGY, AND CELL BIOLOGY 2024; 238:121-129. [PMID: 39030357 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-55163-5_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
The primary mechanism of telomere elongation in mammals is reverse transcription by telomerase. An alternative (ALT) pathway elongates telomeres by homologous recombination in some cancer cells and during pre-implantation embryo development, when telomere length increases rapidly within a few cell cycles. The maternal and paternal telomeres in the zygote are genetically and epigenetically distinct, with differences in telomere length and in chromatin packaging. We discuss models for how these asymmetries may contribute to telomere regulation during the earliest embryonic cell cycles and suggest directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyuk-Joon Jeon
- Department of Biology and Penn Center for Genome Integrity, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mia T Levine
- Department of Biology and Penn Center for Genome Integrity, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Michael A Lampson
- Department of Biology and Penn Center for Genome Integrity, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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Brovkina MV, Chapman MA, Holding ML, Clowney EJ. Emergence and influence of sequence bias in evolutionarily malleable, mammalian tandem arrays. BMC Biol 2023; 21:179. [PMID: 37612705 PMCID: PMC10463633 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-023-01673-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The radiation of mammals at the extinction of the dinosaurs produced a plethora of new forms-as diverse as bats, dolphins, and elephants-in only 10-20 million years. Behind the scenes, adaptation to new niches is accompanied by extensive innovation in large families of genes that allow animals to contact the environment, including chemosensors, xenobiotic enzymes, and immune and barrier proteins. Genes in these "outward-looking" families are allelically diverse among humans and exhibit tissue-specific and sometimes stochastic expression. RESULTS Here, we show that these tandem arrays of outward-looking genes occupy AT-biased isochores and comprise the "tissue-specific" gene class that lack CpG islands in their promoters. Models of mammalian genome evolution have not incorporated the sharply different functions and transcriptional patterns of genes in AT- versus GC-biased regions. To examine the relationship between gene family expansion, sequence content, and allelic diversity, we use population genetic data and comparative analysis. First, we find that AT bias can emerge during evolutionary expansion of gene families in cis. Second, human genes in AT-biased isochores or with GC-poor promoters experience relatively low rates of de novo point mutation today but are enriched for non-synonymous variants. Finally, we find that isochores containing gene clusters exhibit low rates of recombination. CONCLUSIONS Our analyses suggest that tolerance of non-synonymous variation and low recombination are two forces that have produced the depletion of GC bases in outward-facing gene arrays. In turn, high AT content exerts a profound effect on their chromatin organization and transcriptional regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita V Brovkina
- Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Margaret A Chapman
- Neurosciences Graduate Program, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - E Josephine Clowney
- Department of Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Michigan Neuroscience Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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Berteli TS, Wang F, Navarro PA, Kohlrausch FB, Keefe DL. A pilot study of LINE-1 copy number and telomere length with aging in human sperm. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:1845-1854. [PMID: 37382785 PMCID: PMC10371944 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02857-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Unlike other cells in the body, in sperm, telomere length (TL) increases with age. TL can regulate nearby genes, and the subtelomeric region is rich in retrotransposons. We hypothesized that age-related telomere lengthening in sperm might suppress Long Interspersed Element 1 (LINE-1/L1), the only competent retrotransposon in humans. METHODS We measured L1 copy number (L1-CN) and sperm telomere length (STL) from young and older men to evaluate the relationship between age, TL and L1-CN. We also evaluated L1-CN and TL in individual sperm to determine whether these variables influence sperm morphology. STL was assayed by Multiplex quantitative polymerase chain reaction method (mmqPCR) and L1-CN by Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). RESULTS We found that STL increased, and L1-CN decreased significantly with paternal age. STL in normal single sperm was significantly higher than in abnormal sperm. L1-CN did not differ between normal and abnormal sperm. Furthermore, morphologically normal sperm have longer telomeres than abnormal sperm. CONCLUSIONS Elongation of telomeres in the male germline could repress retrotransposition, which tends to increase with cellular aging. More studies in larger cohorts across a wide age span are needed to confirm our conclusions and explore their biological and clinical significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thalita S Berteli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Langone Medical Center, New York University, 462, 1st Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA.
- Human Reproduction Division, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Langone Medical Center, New York University, 462, 1st Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Paula A Navarro
- Human Reproduction Division, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Fabiana B Kohlrausch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Langone Medical Center, New York University, 462, 1st Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- Human Genetics Laboratory, Fluminense Federal University, Niteroi, RJ, Brazil
| | - David L Keefe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Langone Medical Center, New York University, 462, 1st Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
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Berteli TS, Wang F, McKerrow W, Navarro PA, Fenyo D, Boeke JD, Kohlrausch FB, Keefe DL. Transposon insertion profiling by sequencing (TIPseq) identifies novel LINE-1 insertions in human sperm. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:1835-1843. [PMID: 37310664 PMCID: PMC10371950 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02852-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Long interspersed nuclear element-1 (LINE-1 or L1) comprises 17% of the human genome. Retrotransposons may perturb gene integrity or alter gene expression by altering regulatory regions in the genome. The germline employs a number of mechanisms, including cytosine methylation, to repress retrotransposon transcription throughout most of life. Demethylation during germ cell and early embryo development de-represses retrotransposons. Intriguingly, de novo genetic variation appearing in sperm has been implicated in a number of disorders in offspring, including autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. We hypothesize that human sperm exhibit de novo retrotransposition and employ a new sequencing method, single cell transposon insertion profiling by sequencing (scTIPseq) to map them in small amounts of human sperm. METHODS Cross-sectional case-control study of sperm samples (n=10 men; ages 32-55 years old) from consenting men undergoing IVF at NYU Langone Fertility Center. scTIPseq identified novel LINE-1 insertions in individual sperm and TIPseqHunter, a custom bioinformatics pipeline, compared the architecture of sperm LINE-1 to known LINE-1 insertions from the European database of Human specific LINE-1 (L1Hs) retrotransposon insertions (euL1db). RESULTS scTIPseq identified 17 novel insertions in sperm. New insertions were mainly intergenic or intronic. Only one sample did not exhibit new insertions. The location or number of novel insertions did not differ by paternal age. CONCLUSION This study for the first time reports novel LINE-1 insertions in human sperm, demonstrating the feasibility of scTIPseq, and identifies new contributors to genetic diversity in the human germ line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thalita S Berteli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
- Human Reproduction Division, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Fang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Wilson McKerrow
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Paula A Navarro
- Human Reproduction Division, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - David Fenyo
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jef D Boeke
- Institute for Systems Genetics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Fabiana B Kohlrausch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Biology Institute, Department of General Biology, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Niteroi, RJ, Brazil
| | - David L Keefe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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12
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Pendina AA, Krapivin MI, Sagurova YM, Mekina ID, Komarova EM, Tikhonov AV, Golubeva AV, Gzgzyan AM, Kogan IY, Efimova OA. Telomere Length in Human Spermatogenic Cells as a New Potential Predictor of Clinical Outcomes in ART Treatment with Intracytoplasmic Injection of Testicular Spermatozoa. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:10427. [PMID: 37445605 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241310427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Predicting the clinical outcomes of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles that use the testicular spermatozoa of azoospermic patients presents a challenge. Thus, the development of additional approaches to assessing the competence of a testicular-sperm-derived embryo without causing damage to gametes or the embryo is necessary. One of the key parameters in determining such developmental competence is telomere length (TL). We aimed to analyze TLs in spermatogenic cells from the testicular biopsy samples of azoospermic patients and determine how this parameter influences embryo competence for pre- and post-implantation development. Using Q-FISH, we studied the TL of the chromosomes in spermatogonia and spermatocytes I from the TESE biopsy samples of 30 azoospermic patients. An increase in TL was detected during the differentiation from spermatogonia to spermatocytes I. The patients' testicular spermatozoa were used in 37 ICSI cycles that resulted in 22 embryo transfers. Nine pregnancies resulted, of which, one was ectopic and eight ended in birth. The analysis of embryological outcomes revealed a dependence between embryo competence for development to the blastocyst stage and the TL in spermatogenic cells. The TLs in spermatogonia and spermatocytes I in the testicular biopsy samples were found to be higher in patients whose testicular sperm ICSI cycles resulted in a birth. Therefore, the length of telomeres in spermatogenic cells can be considered as a potential prognostic criterion in assessing the competence of testicular-sperm-derived embryos for pre- and post-implantation development. The results of this study provide the basis for the development of a laboratory test for the prediction of testicular sperm ICSI cycle outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna A Pendina
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology, Mendeleevskaya Line 3, 199034 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Mikhail I Krapivin
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology, Mendeleevskaya Line 3, 199034 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Yanina M Sagurova
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology, Mendeleevskaya Line 3, 199034 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Irina D Mekina
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology, Mendeleevskaya Line 3, 199034 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Evgeniia M Komarova
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology, Mendeleevskaya Line 3, 199034 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Andrei V Tikhonov
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology, Mendeleevskaya Line 3, 199034 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Arina V Golubeva
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology, Mendeleevskaya Line 3, 199034 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Alexander M Gzgzyan
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology, Mendeleevskaya Line 3, 199034 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Igor Yu Kogan
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology, Mendeleevskaya Line 3, 199034 Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Olga A Efimova
- D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology, Mendeleevskaya Line 3, 199034 Saint Petersburg, Russia
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13
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Wang F, McCulloh DH, Chan K, Wiltshire A, McCaffrey C, Grifo JA, Keefe DL. The Landscape of Telomere Length and Telomerase in Human Embryos at Blastocyst Stage. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1200. [PMID: 37372380 DOI: 10.3390/genes14061200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The telomere length of human blastocysts exceeds that of oocytes and telomerase activity increases after zygotic activation, peaking at the blastocyst stage. Yet, it is unknown whether aneuploid human embryos at the blastocyst stage exhibit a different profile of telomere length, telomerase gene expression, and telomerase activity compared to euploid embryos. In present study, 154 cryopreserved human blastocysts, donated by consenting patients, were thawed and assayed for telomere length, telomerase gene expression, and telomerase activity using real-time PCR (qPCR) and immunofluorescence (IF) staining. Aneuploid blastocysts showed longer telomeres, higher telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) mRNA expression, and lower telomerase activity compared to euploid blastocysts. The TERT protein was found in all tested embryos via IF staining with anti-hTERT antibody, regardless of ploidy status. Moreover, telomere length or telomerase gene expression did not differ in aneuploid blastocysts between chromosomal gain or loss. Our data demonstrate that telomerase is activated and telomeres are maintained in all human blastocyst stage embryos. The robust telomerase gene expression and telomere maintenance, even in aneuploid human blastocysts, may explain why extended in vitro culture alone is insufficient to cull out aneuploid embryos during in vitro fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Wang
- NYU Langone Fertility Center, New York, NY 10022, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman, School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | | | - Kasey Chan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman, School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | | | | | - James A Grifo
- NYU Langone Fertility Center, New York, NY 10022, USA
| | - David L Keefe
- NYU Langone Fertility Center, New York, NY 10022, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Grossman, School of Medicine, New York, NY 10016, USA
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14
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Fattet AJ, Chaillot M, Koscinski I. Telomere Length, a New Biomarker of Male (in)Fertility? A Systematic Review of the Literature. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:425. [PMID: 36833352 PMCID: PMC9957201 DOI: 10.3390/genes14020425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Male factors are suspected in around half cases of infertility, of which up to 40% are diagnosed as idiopathic. In the context of a continuously increased resort to ART and increased decline of semen parameters, it is of greatest interest to evaluate an additional potential biomarker of sperm quality. According to PRISMA guidelines, this systematic review of the literature selected studies evaluating telomere length in sperm and/or in leukocytes as a potential male fertility biomarker. Twenty-two publications (3168 participants) were included in this review of experimental evidence. For each study, authors determined if there was a correlation between telomere length and semen parameters or fertility outcomes. Of the 13 studies concerning sperm telomere length (STL) and semen parameters, ten found an association between short STL and altered parameters. Concerning the impact of STL on ART results, the data are conflicting. However, eight of the 13 included studies about fertility found significantly longer sperm telomeres in fertile men than in infertile men. In leukocytes, the seven studies reported conflicting findings. Shorter sperm telomeres appear to be associated with altered semen parameters or male infertility. Telomere length may be considered as a new molecular marker of spermatogenesis and sperm quality, and thus is related to male fertility potential. However, additional studies are needed to define the place of the STL in the assessment of individual fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Julie Fattet
- Centre d’AMP Majorelle-Atoutbio, 95 Rue Ambroise Paré, 54000 Nancy, France
| | - Maxime Chaillot
- Service de Médecine et Biologie du Développement et de la Reproduction, 38 Boulevard Jean Monnet, 44000 Nantes, France
- Faculté de Médecine, Université de Nantes, 44000 Nantes, France
| | - Isabelle Koscinski
- Inserm U1256, Nutrition Genetics Environmental Risks Exposure (NGERE), Université de Lorraine, 54000 Nancy, France
- Centre d’AMP Hôpital Saint Joseph, 26 Bd de Louvain, 13008 Marseille, France
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15
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Moazamian A, Gharagozloo P, Aitken RJ, Drevet JR. OXIDATIVE STRESS AND REPRODUCTIVE FUNCTION: Sperm telomeres, oxidative stress, and infertility. Reproduction 2022; 164:F125-F133. [PMID: 35938805 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In brief Oxidative stress is recognized as an underlying driving factor of both telomere dysfunction and human subfertility/infertility. This review briefly reassesses telomere integrity as a fertility biomarker before proposing a novel, mechanistic rationale for the role of oxidative stress in the seemingly paradoxical lengthening of sperm telomeres with aging. Abstract The maintenance of redox balance in the male reproductive tract is critical to sperm health and function. Physiological levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) promote sperm capacitation, while excess ROS exposure, or depleted antioxidant defenses, yields a state of oxidative stress which disrupts their fertilizing capacity and DNA structural integrity. The guanine moiety is the most readily oxidized of the four DNA bases and gets converted to the mutagenic lesion 8-hydroxy-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG). Numerous studies have also confirmed oxidative stress as a driving factor behind accelerated telomere shortening and dysfunction. Although a clear consensus has not been reached, clinical studies also appear to associate telomere integrity with fertility outcomes in the assisted reproductive technology setting. Intriguingly, while sperm cellular and molecular characteristics make them more susceptible to oxidative insult than any other cell type, they are also the only cell type in which telomere lengthening accompanies aging. This article focuses on the oxidative stress response pathways to propose a mechanism for the explanation of this apparent paradox.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aron Moazamian
- CellOxess LLC, Ewing, New Jersey, USA.,Université Clermont Auvergne, GReD Institute, CNRS-INSERM, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Robert J Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Joël R Drevet
- Université Clermont Auvergne, GReD Institute, CNRS-INSERM, Clermont-Ferrand, France
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Women's fertility decay starts at the mid 30 s. However, the current delay of childbearing leads to ovarian aging and the need of assisted reproduction technologies (ART). Telomere biology is one of the main pathways involved in organismal aging. Thus, this review will focus on the knowledge acquired during the last 2 years about the telomere pathway and its influence on female fertility and the consequences for the newborn. RECENT FINDINGS New research on telomere biology reaffirms the relationship of telomere attrition and female infertility. Shorter maternal telomeres, which could be aggravated by external factors, underly premature ovarian aging and other complications including preeclampsia, preterm birth and idiopathic pregnancy loss. Finally, the telomere length of the fetus or the newborn is also affected by external factors, such as stress and nutrition. SUMMARY Recent evidence shows that telomeres are implicated in most processes related to female fertility, embryo development and the newborn's health. Thus, telomere length and telomerase activity may be good biomarkers for early detection of ovarian and pregnancy failures, opening the possibility to use telomere therapies to try to solve the infertility situation.
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Anifandis G, Samara M, Simopoulou M, Messini CI, Chatzimeletiou K, Thodou E, Daponte A, Georgiou I. Insights into the Role of Telomeres in Human Embryological Parameters. Opinions Regarding IVF. J Dev Biol 2021; 9:jdb9040049. [PMID: 34842724 PMCID: PMC8628962 DOI: 10.3390/jdb9040049] [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: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres promote genome integrity by protecting chromosome ends from the activation of the DNA damage response and protecting chromosomes from the loss of coding sequences due to the end replication problem. Telomere length (TL) is progressively shortened as age progresses, thus resulting in cellular senescence. Therefore, TL is in strong adverse linear correlation with aging. Mounting evidence supports the notion that telomeres and male/female infertility are in a close relationship, posing the biology of telomeres as a hot topic in the era of human-assisted reproduction. Specifically, the length of sperm telomeres is gradually increasing as men get older, while the telomere length of the oocytes seems not to follow similar patterns with that of sperm. Nonetheless, the telomere length of the embryos during the cleavage stages seems to have a paternal origin, but the telomere length can be further extended by telomerase activity during the blastocyst stage. The latter has been proposed as a new molecular biomarker with strong predictive value regarding male infertility. As far as the role of telomeres in assisted reproduction, the data is limited but the length of telomeres in both gametes seems to be affected mainly by the cause of infertility rather than the assisted reproductive therapy (ART) procedure itself. The present review aims to shed more light into the role of telomeres in human embryological parameters, including gametes and embryos and also presents opinions regarding the association between telomeres and in vitro fertilization (IVF).
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Affiliation(s)
- George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece; (C.I.M.); (A.D.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Maria Samara
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece; (M.S.); (E.T.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Laboratory of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Christina I. Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece; (C.I.M.); (A.D.)
| | - Katerina Chatzimeletiou
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotelian University of Thessaloniki, 56403 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Eleni Thodou
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece; (M.S.); (E.T.)
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece; (C.I.M.); (A.D.)
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece;
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Balmori C, Cordova-Oriz I, De Alba G, Medrano M, Jiménez-Tormo L, Polonio AM, Chico-Sordo L, Pacheco A, García-Velasco JA, Varela E. Effects of age and oligosthenozoospermia on telomeres of sperm and blood cells. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 44:1090-1100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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19
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Chico-Sordo L, Córdova-Oriz I, Polonio AM, S-Mellado LS, Medrano M, García-Velasco JA, Varela E. Reproductive aging and telomeres: Are women and men equally affected? Mech Ageing Dev 2021; 198:111541. [PMID: 34245740 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2021.111541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Successful reproduction is very important for individuals and for society. Currently, the human health span and lifespan are the object of intense and productive investigation with great achievements, compared to the last century. However, reproduction span does not progress concomitantly with lifespan. Reproductive organs age, decreasing the levels of sexual hormones, which are protectors of health through their action on several organs of the body. Thus, this is the starting point of the organismal decay and infertility. This starting point is easily detected in women. In men, it goes under the surface, undetected, but it goes, nevertheless. Regarding fertility, aging alters the hormonal equilibrium, decreases the potential of reproductive organs, diminishes the quality of the gametes and worsen the reproductive outcomes. All these events happen at a different pace and affecting different organs in women and men. The question is what molecular pathways are involved in reproductive aging and if there is a possible halting or even reversion of the aging events. Answers to all these points will be explained in the present review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Chico-Sordo
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IISLAFE), Valencia, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Isabel Córdova-Oriz
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IISLAFE), Valencia, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Alba María Polonio
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IISLAFE), Valencia, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Lucía Sánchez S-Mellado
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IISLAFE), Valencia, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Marta Medrano
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IISLAFE), Valencia, Spain; IVIRMA Madrid, Spain.
| | - Juan Antonio García-Velasco
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IISLAFE), Valencia, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain; IVIRMA Madrid, Spain; Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Elisa Varela
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IISLAFE), Valencia, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain; Rey Juan Carlos University, Madrid, Spain.
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Pendina AA, Krapivin MI, Efimova OA, Tikhonov AV, Mekina ID, Komarova EM, Koltsova AS, Gzgzyan AM, Kogan IY, Chiryaeva OG, Baranov VS. Telomere Length in Metaphase Chromosomes of Human Triploid Zygotes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22115579. [PMID: 34070406 PMCID: PMC8197529 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22115579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The human lifespan is strongly influenced by telomere length (TL) which is defined in a zygote—when two highly specialised haploid cells form a new diploid organism. Although TL is a variable parameter, it fluctuates in a limited range. We aimed to establish the determining factors of TL in chromosomes of maternal and paternal origin in human triploid zygotes. Using Q-FISH, we examined TL in the metaphase chromosomes of 28 human triploid zygotes obtained from 22 couples. The chromosomes’ parental origin was identified immunocytochemically through weak DNA methylation and strong hydroxymethylation in the sperm-derived (paternal) chromosomes versus strong DNA methylation and weak hydroxymethylation in the oocyte-derived (maternal) ones. In 24 zygotes, one maternal and two paternal chromosome sets were identified, while the four remaining zygotes contained one paternal and two maternal sets. For each zygote, we compared mean relative TLs between parental chromosomes, identifying a significant difference in favour of the paternal chromosomes, which attests to a certain “imprinting” of these regions. Mean relative TLs in paternal or maternal chromosomes did not correlate with the respective parent’s age. Similarly, no correlation was observed between the mean relative TL and sperm quality parameters: concentration, progressive motility and normal morphology. Based on the comparison of TLs in chromosomes inherited from a single individual’s gametes with those in chromosomes inherited from different individuals’ gametes, we compared intraindividual (intercellular) and interindividual variability, obtaining significance in favour of the latter and thus validating the role of heredity in determining TL in zygotes. A comparison of the interchromatid TL differences across the chromosomes from sets of different parental origin with those from PHA-stimulated lymphocytes showed an absence of a significant difference between the maternal and paternal sets but a significant excess over the lymphocytes. Therefore, interchromatid TL differences are more pronounced in zygotes than in lymphocytes. To summarise, TL in human zygotes is determined both by heredity and parental origin; the input of other factors is possible within the individual’s reaction norm.
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21
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Rocca MS, Dusi L, Di Nisio A, Alviggi E, Iussig B, Bertelle S, De Toni L, Garolla A, Foresta C, Ferlin A. TERRA: A Novel Biomarker of Embryo Quality and Art Outcome. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12040475. [PMID: 33806168 PMCID: PMC8066328 DOI: 10.3390/genes12040475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are considered to be an internal biological clock, and their progressive shortening has been associated with the risk of age-related diseases and reproductive alterations. Over recent years, an increasing number of studies have focused on the association between telomere length and fertility, identifying sperm telomere length (STL) as a novel biomarker of male fertility. Although typically considered to be repeated DNA sequences, telomeres have recently been shown to also include a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) known as TERRA (telomeric repeat-containing RNAs). Interestingly, males with idiopathic infertility show reduced testicular TERRA expression, suggesting a link between TERRA and male fertility. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of seminal TERRA expression in embryo quality. To this end, STL and TERRA expression were quantified by Real Time qPCR in the semen of 35 men who underwent assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and 30 fertile men. We found that TERRA expression in semen and STL was reduced in patients that underwent ART (both p < 0.001). Interestingly, TERRA and STL expressions were positively correlated (p = 0.010), and TERRA expression was positively associated with embryo quality (p < 0.001). These preliminary findings suggest a role for TERRA in the maintenance of sperm telomere integrity during gametogenesis, and for the first time, TERRA expression was found as a predictive factor for embryo quality in the setting of assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Santa Rocca
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.S.R.); (A.D.N.).; (L.D.T.); (A.G.)
| | - Ludovica Dusi
- GENERA Veneto, GENERA Center for Reproductive Medicine, 36063 Marostica, Italy; (L.D.); (B.I.); (S.B.)
| | - Andrea Di Nisio
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.S.R.); (A.D.N.).; (L.D.T.); (A.G.)
| | - Erminia Alviggi
- Clinica Ruesch, GENERA Center for Reproductive Medicine, 80122 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Benedetta Iussig
- GENERA Veneto, GENERA Center for Reproductive Medicine, 36063 Marostica, Italy; (L.D.); (B.I.); (S.B.)
| | - Sara Bertelle
- GENERA Veneto, GENERA Center for Reproductive Medicine, 36063 Marostica, Italy; (L.D.); (B.I.); (S.B.)
| | - Luca De Toni
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.S.R.); (A.D.N.).; (L.D.T.); (A.G.)
| | - Andrea Garolla
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.S.R.); (A.D.N.).; (L.D.T.); (A.G.)
| | - Carlo Foresta
- Department of Medicine, University Hospital of Padova, 35128 Padova, Italy; (M.S.R.); (A.D.N.).; (L.D.T.); (A.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0498218517
| | - Alberto Ferlin
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Unit of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy;
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22
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Heidinger BJ, Young RC. Cross‐Generational Effects of Parental Age on Offspring Longevity: Are Telomeres an Important Underlying Mechanism? Bioessays 2020; 42:e1900227. [DOI: 10.1002/bies.201900227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Britt J. Heidinger
- Biological Sciences Department North Dakota State University Fargo ND 58108 USA
| | - Rebecca C. Young
- Biological Sciences Department North Dakota State University Fargo ND 58108 USA
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23
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Rocca MS, Foresta C, Ferlin A. Telomere length: lights and shadows on their role in human reproduction. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:305-317. [PMID: 30277496 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2018] [Revised: 09/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are repeated DNA sequences whose main function is to preserve genome stability, protecting chromosomes ends from shortening caused by progressive loss during each cell replication or DNA damage. Telomere length regulation is normally achieved by telomerase enzyme, whose activity is progressively shut off during embryonic differentiation in somatic tissues, whereas it is maintained in germ cells, activated lymphocytes, and certain types of stem cell populations. The maintenance of telomerase activity for a longer time is necessary for germ cells to delay telomere erosion, thus avoiding chromosome segregation defects that could contribute to aneuploid or unbalanced gametes. Over the last few years, telomere biology has become an important topic in the field of human reproduction, encouraging several studies to focus on the relation between telomere length and spermatogenesis and male fertility, embryo development and quality during assisted reproductive treatment, and female pathologies as polycystic ovary, premature ovarian insufficiency, and endometriosis. This review analyzes whether telomere length in germ cells is related to reproduction fitness, whether telomere length is related to pathologies associated with male and female fertility, and whether measurement of telomere length could represent a biomarker of germ cell and embryo quality. Telomere length could be considered a molecular marker of spermatogenesis and sperm quality and is somewhat related to male fertility potential. Fewer evidence, although promising, is available for oocytes, female (in)fertility, and embryo quality. The increasing evidence for a role of telomeres and telomere length in human reproduction, indeed, has expanded the historical view of considering them just a marker of aging. Telomere length might have in the future a prognostic potential in couple infertility, especially useful to select best germ cells with the greatest potential of fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Santa Rocca
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Carlo Foresta
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Alberto Ferlin
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Unit of Endocrinology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Oseguera-López I, Ruiz-Díaz S, Ramos-Ibeas P, Pérez-Cerezales S. Novel Techniques of Sperm Selection for Improving IVF and ICSI Outcomes. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:298. [PMID: 31850340 PMCID: PMC6896825 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Almost 50% of the infertility cases are due to male factors. Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) allow to overcome the incapacity of these patients' spermatozoa to fertilize the oocyte and produce a viable and healthy offspring, but the efficiency of the different techniques has still the potential to improve. According to the latest reports of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention of the United States (CDC), the percentages of deliveries per ART cycle in 2014 and 2016 were 21 and 22%, respectively. Among the reasons for this relatively low efficiency, the quality of the spermatozoa has been pointed out as critical, and the presence of high percentages of DNA-damaged spermatozoa in patients' ejaculates is possibly one of the main factors reducing the ARTs outcomes. Thus, one of the main challenges in reproductive medicine is to ensure the highest quality of the spermatozoa used in ARTs, and specifically, in terms of genetic integrity. The latest techniques for the preparation and selection of human spermatozoa are herein discussed focusing on those proven to improve one or several of the following parameters: sperm genetic integrity, fertilization capacity, embryo production, and in vitro survival, as well as pregnancy and delivery rates following in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In addition, we discuss the potential of techniques developed in non-human mammals that could be further transferred to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Ruiz-Díaz
- Mistral Fertility Clinics S.L., Clínica Tambre, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Priscila Ramos-Ibeas
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Serafín Pérez-Cerezales
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
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25
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DNA damage in aging, the stem cell perspective. Hum Genet 2019; 139:309-331. [PMID: 31324975 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-019-02047-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
DNA damage is one of the most consistent cellular process proposed to contribute to aging. The maintenance of genomic and epigenomic integrity is critical for proper function of cells and tissues throughout life, and this homeostasis is under constant strain from both extrinsic and intrinsic insults. Considering the relationship between lifespan and genotoxic burden, it is plausible that the longest-lived cellular populations would face an accumulation of DNA damage over time. Tissue-specific stem cells are multipotent populations residing in localized niches and are responsible for maintaining all lineages of their resident tissue/system throughout life. However, many of these stem cells are impacted by genotoxic stress. Several factors may dictate the specific stem cell population response to DNA damage, including the niche location, life history, and fate decisions after damage accrual. This leads to differential handling of DNA damage in different stem cell compartments. Given the importance of adult stem cells in preserving normal tissue function during an individual's lifetime, DNA damage sensitivity and accumulation in these compartments could have crucial implications for aging. Despite this, more support for direct functional effects driven by accumulated DNA damage in adult stem cell compartments is needed. This review will present current evidence for the accumulation and potential influence of DNA damage in adult tissue-specific stem cells and propose inquiry directions that could benefit individual healthspan.
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Ramos-Ibeas P, Pericuesta E, Peral-Sanchez I, Heras S, Laguna-Barraza R, Pérez-Cerezales S, Gutiérrez-Adán A. Longitudinal analysis of somatic and germ-cell telomere dynamics in outbred mice. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:1033-1043. [PMID: 31209959 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Although telomere length (TL) shortens with age in most tissues, an age-related increase in length has been described in sperm through a mechanism that is not yet fully understood. Changes in TL with age in the same individual have not been explored. This longitudinal study examines TL dynamics in somatic tissue and gametes during an entire lifespan in an outbred mouse population (from 8 to up to 114 weeks of age). Our findings indicate a reduced life expectancy in males compared to females (84.75 ± 9.23 vs. 113.16 ± 0.20 weeks) and significant variability in TL dynamics between individuals. While with aging, a clear reduction in TL was produced in somatic cells and oocytes, telomeres in sperm cells significantly lengthened. Finally, we found evidence indicating that telomere elongation in sperm during aging may be dependent on different mechanisms, such as the survival of spermatogonia with longer telomeres and the alternative lengthening of telomeres mechanism in meiotic and postmeiotic spermatogenic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eva Pericuesta
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, INIA, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Sonia Heras
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, INIA, Madrid, Spain
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Abstract
Telomeres are specialised structures at the end of linear chromosomes. They consist of tandem repeats of the hexanucleotide sequence TTAGGG, as well as a protein complex called shelterin. Together, they form a protective loop structure against chromosome fusion and degradation. Shortening or damage to telomeres and opening of the loop induce an uncapped state that triggers a DNA damage response resulting in senescence or apoptosis.Average telomere length, usually measured in human blood lymphocytes, was thought to be a biomarker for ageing, survival and mortality. However, it becomes obvious that regulation of telomere length is very complex and involves multiple processes. For example, the "end replication problem" during DNA replication as well as oxidative stress are responsible for the shortening of telomeres. In contrast, telomerase activity can potentially counteract telomere shortening when it is able to access and interact with telomeres. However, while highly active during development and in cancer cells, the enzyme is down-regulated in most human somatic cells with a few exceptions such as human lymphocytes. In addition, telomeres can be transcribed, and the transcription products called TERRA are involved in telomere length regulation.Thus, telomere length and their integrity are regulated at many different levels, and we only start to understand this process under conditions of increased oxidative stress, inflammation and during diseases as well as the ageing process.This chapter aims to describe our current state of knowledge on telomeres and telomerase and their regulation in order to better understand their role for the ageing process.
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Vasilopoulos E, Fragkiadaki P, Kalliora C, Fragou D, Docea AO, Vakonaki E, Tsoukalas D, Calina D, Buga AM, Georgiadis G, Mamoulakis C, Makrigiannakis A, Spandidos DA, Tsatsakis A. The association of female and male infertility with telomere length (Review). Int J Mol Med 2019; 44:375-389. [PMID: 31173155 PMCID: PMC6605974 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2019.4225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomere length (TL) has long been associated with aging, as telomeres serve as protective caps of chromosomes, and are thus deeply involved in the preservation of genome integrity and are vital to cellular functions. Traditionally, a strong link connects aging and infertility in both sexes, with an earlier onset in females. Over the past decade, telomeres have attracted increasing attention due to the role they play in fertility. In this review, we investigated the potential positive or negative association between relative TL and different factors of female and male infertility. A systematic search of the PubMed database was conducted. Out of the 206 studies identified, 45 were reviewed as they fulfilled the criteria of validity and relevance. Following an analysis and a comparison of the study outcomes, several clear trends were observed. The majority of female infertility factors were associated with a shorter TL, with the exception of endometriosis, premature ovarian failure and clear cell carcinoma that were associated with a longer TL and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which revealed conflicting results among several studies, leading to ambiguous conclusions. Male infertility factors were associated with a shorter TL. Although this review can provide an outline of general trends in the association of TL with infertility factors, further epidemiological and original research studies are required to focus on investigating the basis of these varying lengths of telomeres.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Persefoni Fragkiadaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Charikleia Kalliora
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Domniki Fragou
- Laboratory of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anca Oana Docea
- Department of Toxicology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Elena Vakonaki
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Dimitris Tsoukalas
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Ana Maria Buga
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - George Georgiadis
- Department of Urology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Charalampos Mamoulakis
- Department of Urology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Antonios Makrigiannakis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Demetrios A Spandidos
- Laboratory of Clinical Virology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
| | - Aristidis Tsatsakis
- Laboratory of Toxicology, Medical School, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece
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Should we consider telomere length and telomerase activity in male factor infertility? Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2019; 30:197-202. [PMID: 29664790 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this review is to analyze what is known to date about the relation between telomeres and male fertility, and if it is possible for telomeres, or elements related to them, to be used as new prognostic biomarkers in fertility treatment. RECENT FINDINGS Cells in germ series, including spermatozoids, have longer telomeres (10-20 kb), and do not seem to undergo the shortening that takes place in somatic cells with age as they present telomerase activity. Longer telomere length found in the sperm of older fathers, influences their offspring possessing cells with longer telomere length. Infertile patients have spermatozoids with shorter telomere length than fertile people, but telomere length does neither correlate with the sperm concentration, mobility or morphology, nor with the DNA fragmentation indices (DFI) of spermatozoids. Embryo quality rate and transplantable embryo rate are related with the telomere length of spermatozoids (STL), but pregnancy rates are not affected. SUMMARY Telomere length and telomerase levels can be used as biomarkers of male fertility. Higher STL can have beneficial effects on fertility, thus the use of spermatozoids with longer telomere length in an assisted reproduction technique (ART) could be one way of solving some infertility cases.
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30
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Keefe DL. Telomeres and genomic instability during early development. Eur J Med Genet 2019; 63:103638. [PMID: 30862510 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2019.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Genomic instability is widespread during early embryo development. Aneuploidy, mosaicism, and copy number variants (CNVs) commonly appear in human preimplantation embryos. Both age-dependent meiotic aneuploidy and age-independent mitotic aneuploidy and CNVs occur In human embryos. Telomere attrition, which contributes to genomic instability in somatic cells, also may promote genomic instability in preimplantation embryos. Telomere dynamics during gametogenesis are strikingly dimorphic between females and males. Sperm telomeres lengthen with advancing paternal age, while oocyte telomeres are among the shortest in the body. Spermatogonia express telomerase activity throughout the life of the male, while oocytes and cleavage stage embryos express low or un-measureable levels of telomerase activity. Telomere attrition in oocytes contributes to meiotic dysfunction, including spindle dysmorphologies, reduced synapsis and chiasmata, as well as delayed, arrested and fragmented embryos. Cleavage stage embryos, with such inefficient telomere reconstitution, likely undergo NHEJ, which produces anaphase lag, chromosome bridges, micronuclei, and genomic instability, including mosaicism and CNVs. Cleavage stage embryos reconstitute the short telomeres inherited from their mothers by Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT), a DNA recombination based method involving RAD 50, MRE 11, Werner and Bloom proteins, as well as telomere sister chromatid exchange. ALT robustly reconstitutes telomeres, but also predisposes to genomic instability.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L Keefe
- Department of Ob/Gyn, NYU Langone Medical Center, 550 First Avenue, NBV 9N1A, New York, 10012, New York, USA.
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31
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Saberi S, Kalloger SE, Zhu MMT, Sattha B, Maan EJ, van Schalkwyk J, Money DM, Côté HCF. Dynamics of leukocyte telomere length in pregnant women living with HIV, and HIV-negative pregnant women: A longitudinal observational study. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0212273. [PMID: 30840638 PMCID: PMC6402636 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0212273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background HIV-mediated inflammation and immune activation can accelerate telomere attrition. In addition, antiretrovirals can inhibit telomerase, possibly shortening telomeres. We examined the longitudinal dynamics of leukocyte telomere length (LTL) during pregnancy in a unique cohort of women living with HIV (WLWH) treated with combination antiretroviral therapy (cART), and HIV-negative control women. Methods Blood was collected at three visits during pregnancy, at 13–23, >23–30, and >30–40 weeks of gestation, and for WLWH only, at 6 weeks post-partum. LTL was measured by qPCR and both cross-sectional and longitudinal (MANOVA) models were used to examine possible predictors of LTL among participants who attended all three visits during pregnancy. Results Among WLWH (n = 64) and HIV-negative women (n = 41), within participant LTL were correlated throughout pregnancy (p<0.001). LTL was shorter among WLWH at first visit, but this difference waned by the second visit. WLWH who discontinued cART post-partum experienced a decrease in LTL. Longitudinally, LTL was similar in both groups and increased as gestation progressed, a change that was more pronounced among women under 35 years. Among WLWH, both smoking throughout pregnancy (p = 0.04) and receiving a ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitor-based regimen (p = 0.03) were independently associated with shorter LTL. Conclusions LTL increases as pregnancy progresses; the reasons for this are unknown but may relate to changes in blood volume, hormones, and/or cell subset distribution. While our observations need confirmation in an independent cohort, our data suggest that although some cART regimens may influence LTL, being on cART appears overall protective and that stopping cART post-partum may negatively impact LTL. The effect of smoking on LTL is clearly negative, stressing the importance of smoking cessation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Saberi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Steve E. Kalloger
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Mayanne M. T. Zhu
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Beheroze Sattha
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Evelyn J. Maan
- British Columbia Women’s Hospital and Health Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Julianne van Schalkwyk
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- British Columbia Women’s Hospital and Health Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Deborah M. Money
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- British Columbia Women’s Hospital and Health Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Hélène C. F. Côté
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Women’s Health Research Institute, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Centre for Blood Research, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- * E-mail:
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32
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Eisenberg DTA, Kuzawa CW. The paternal age at conception effect on offspring telomere length: mechanistic, comparative and adaptive perspectives. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2019; 373:rstb.2016.0442. [PMID: 29335366 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2016.0442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Telomeres are repeating DNA found at the ends of chromosomes that, in the absence of restorative processes, shorten with cell replications and are implicated as a cause of senescence. It appears that sperm telomere length (TL) increases with age in humans, and as a result offspring of older fathers inherit longer telomeres. We review possible mechanisms underlying this paternal age at conception (PAC) effect on TL, including sperm telomere extension due to telomerase activity, age-dependent changes in the spermatogonial stem cell population (possibly driven by 'selfish' spermatogonia) and non-causal confounding. In contrast to the lengthening of TL with PAC, higher maternal age at conception appears to predict shorter offspring TL in humans. We review evidence for heterogeneity across species in the PAC effect on TL, which could relate to differences in statistical power, sperm production rates or testicular telomerase activity. Finally, we review the hypothesis that the PAC effect on TL may allow a gradual multi-generational adaptive calibration of maintenance effort, and reproductive lifespan, to local demographic conditions: descendants of males who reproduced at a later age are likely to find themselves in an environment where increased maintenance effort, allowing later reproduction, represents a fitness improving resource allocation.This article is part of the theme issue 'Understanding diversity in telomere dynamics'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan T A Eisenberg
- Department of Anthropology, Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Christopher W Kuzawa
- Department of Anthropology, Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
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33
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Arias-Sosa LA. Understanding the Role of Telomere Dynamics in Normal and Dysfunctional Human Reproduction. Reprod Sci 2018; 26:6-17. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719118804409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Luis Alejandro Arias-Sosa
- Universidad Pedagógica y Tecnológica de Colombia, School of Biological Science, Tunja, Boyacá, Colombia
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34
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Lopes AC, Oliveira PF, Sousa M. Shedding light into the relevance of telomeres in human reproduction and male factor infertility†. Biol Reprod 2018; 100:318-330. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Catarina Lopes
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, and Multidisciplinary Unit for Biomedical Research (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, New University of Lisbon (FCT-UNL), Campus Caparica, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, and Multidisciplinary Unit for Biomedical Research (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- i3S- Institute of Research and Innovation in Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Mário Sousa
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, and Multidisciplinary Unit for Biomedical Research (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Centre for Reproductive Genetics Professor Alberto Barros, Porto, Portugal
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35
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Boniewska-Bernacka E, Pańczyszyn A, Cybulska N. Telomeres as a molecular marker of male infertility. HUM FERTIL 2018; 22:78-87. [PMID: 29609488 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2018.1456682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, male infertility has become a growing social problem. Standard diagnostic procedures, based on assessing seminological parameters, are often insufficient to explain the causes of male infertility. Because of this, new markers with better clinical application are being sought. One of the promising markers seems to be an assessment of telomere length of sperm. Sperm telomeres, in contrast to somatic cells, are elongated as men age. The results of some studies suggest that telomere length may be relevant in the case of fertilization and normal embryo development. Literature reports indicate that there is a correlation between telomere length of sperm and abnormal sperm parameters. The measurement of telomere length using the method of quantitative PCR could become a new marker of spermatogenesis, which can be useful for evaluating male reproductive age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Boniewska-Bernacka
- a Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Biology , University of Opole , Opole , Poland
| | - Anna Pańczyszyn
- a Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Biology , University of Opole , Opole , Poland
| | - Natalia Cybulska
- b GMW - Center for Gynecological and Obstetric Diagnosis , Opole , Poland
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36
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Torra-Massana M, Barragán M, Bellu E, Oliva R, Rodríguez A, Vassena R. Sperm telomere length in donor samples is not related to ICSI outcome. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:649-657. [PMID: 29335812 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-017-1104-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Variations in sperm telomere length (STL) have been associated with altered sperm parameters, poor embryo quality, and lower pregnancy rates, but for normozoospermic men, STL relevance in IVF/ICSI is still uncertain. Moreover, in all studies reported so far, each man's STL was linked to the corresponding female partner characteristics. Here, we study STL in sperm donor samples, each used for up to 12 women, in order to isolate and determine the relationship between STL and reproductive outcomes. METHODS Relative STL was determined by qPCR in 60 samples used in a total of 676 ICSI cycles. Univariable and multivariable statistical analyses were used to study the STL effect on fertilization rate; embryo morphology; biochemical, clinical, and ongoing pregnancy rates; and live birth (LB) rates. RESULTS The average STL value was 4.5 (relative units; SD 1.9; range 2.4-14.2). Locally weighted scatterplot smoothing regression and the rho-Spearman test did not reveal significant correlations between STL and the outcomes analyzed. STL was not different between cycles resulting or not in pregnancy and LB (Mann-Whitney U test, p > 0.05). No significant effect of STL on reproductive outcomes was found, with the OR for each unit increase in STL (95% CI) of 0.94 (0.86-1-04), 0.99 (0.9-1.09), 0.98 (0.89-1.09), and 0.93 (0.8-1.06) for biochemical, clinical, and ongoing pregnancy and LB, respectively. The multilevel analysis confirmed that the effect of STL on fertilization; biochemical, clinical, and ongoing pregnancy; and LB was not significant (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION After addressing STL independently from female variables, results show that STL measurement is not useful to predict reproductive outcomes in ICSI cycles using donor semen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Torra-Massana
- Clínica EUGIN, Travessera de les Corts 322, 08029, Barcelona, Spain.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Emanuela Bellu
- Clínica EUGIN, Travessera de les Corts 322, 08029, Barcelona, Spain.,Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Rafael Oliva
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Amelia Rodríguez
- Clínica EUGIN, Travessera de les Corts 322, 08029, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rita Vassena
- Clínica EUGIN, Travessera de les Corts 322, 08029, Barcelona, Spain.
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37
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Cimadomo D, Fabozzi G, Vaiarelli A, Ubaldi N, Ubaldi FM, Rienzi L. Impact of Maternal Age on Oocyte and Embryo Competence. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:327. [PMID: 30008696 PMCID: PMC6033961 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The overall success of human reproduction, either spontaneously or after IVF, is highly dependent upon maternal age. The main reasons for age-related infertility include reduced ovarian reserve and decreased oocyte/embryo competence due to aging insults, especially concerning an increased incidence of aneuploidies and possibly decreased mitochondrial activity. Age-related chromosomal abnormalities mainly arise because of meiotic impairments during oogenesis, following flawed chromosome segregation patterns such as non-disjunction, premature separation of sister chromatids, or the recent reverse segregation. In this review, we briefly discuss the main mechanisms putatively impaired by aging in the oocytes and the deriving embryos. We also report the main strategies proposed to improve the management of advanced maternal age women in IVF: fertility preservation through oocyte cryopreservation to prevent aging; optimization of the ovarian stimulation and enhancement of embryo selection to limit its effects; and oocyte donation to circumvent its consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Cimadomo
- Clinica Valle Giulia, G.en.e.r.a. Centers for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Danilo Cimadomo,
| | - Gemma Fabozzi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, G.en.e.r.a. Centers for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- Clinica Valle Giulia, G.en.e.r.a. Centers for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicolò Ubaldi
- Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Filippo Maria Ubaldi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, G.en.e.r.a. Centers for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Rienzi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, G.en.e.r.a. Centers for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
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38
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Kurjanowicz P, Moskovtsev S, Librach C. Genomic fragmentation and extrachromosomal telomeric repeats impact assessment of telomere length in human spermatozoa: quantitative experiments and systematic review. Hum Reprod 2017; 32:2170-2177. [PMID: 29040510 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can differences in DNA isolation alter assessment of sperm telomere length (spTL) and do they account for conflicting results in the literature on spTL and male fertility? SUMMARY ANSWER DNA isolation methods preferentially include or exclude short, extrachromosomal (EC) telomere-specific sequences that alter spTL measurements, and are responsible for a proportion of the disparity observed between investigations. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The relationship between spTL and male fertility has become an active area of research. The results across investigations, however, have been discordant, generating a need to critically evaluate the existing body of knowledge to guide future investigations. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Quantitative experiments determined the effect of DNA isolation on the integrity of sperm DNA and measures of spTL, while a systematic analysis of the current literature evaluated the effect of DNA isolation and study design on experimental outcomes. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Two DNA isolation methods were compared: Genomic Tips which isolate 'High Molecular Weight' (HMW) DNA exclusively, and QIAamp® DNA Mini which isolates 'Total' genomic DNA irrespective of size. DNA quality was assessed via field inversion gel electrophoresis (FIGE) and spTL was measured via terminal restriction fragment analysis. In addition, major databases in medicine, health and the life sciences were subject to a targeted search, and results were independently screened according to defined exclusion/inclusion criterion. Findings from primary articles were analyzed for concordance and study designs were compared across six moderator variables (sample size, participant age, fertility status, semen fraction, telomere population and type of analysis). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE HMW DNA spTL was significantly longer than spTL measured from total DNA (P < 0.01), indicating that Total DNA contained short, EC telomeric repeats that shifted downstream assessment towards shorter spTL. HMW DNA spTL reflected the length of intact, chromosomal telomeres. Major findings on spTL showed the greatest concordance amongst studies that implemented HMW DNA isolation prior to spTL assessment. Studies that utilized Total DNA varied in concordance, but outcomes were similar if (i) a comparative analysis was applied or (ii) a sample size threshold of 81 was achieved for correlative analysis. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Chromosomal and EC telomeric DNA were distinguished based on outcomes of HMW DNA isolation and size. Further experiments are required to determine the nature and function of these two types of telomeric sequences. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study reveals a dramatic impact of upstream DNA processing and study design on measurements of spTL, which accounts for conflicting results in the literature. Future assessments of spTL should incorporate independent detection of chromosomal and EC telomeric DNA and specific experimental planning. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was funded by CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The authors have declared no conflict of interest. REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Kurjanowicz
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 1A8
- CReATe Fertility Centre, 790 Bay St., Suite 1100, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 1N8
| | - S Moskovtsev
- CReATe Fertility Centre, 790 Bay St., Suite 1100, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 1N8
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, 123 Edward St. Suite 1200, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 1E2
| | - C Librach
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, 1 King's College Circle, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 1A8
- CReATe Fertility Centre, 790 Bay St., Suite 1100, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 1N8
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, 123 Edward St. Suite 1200, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5G 1E2
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Abstract
Implantation rate decreases and miscarriage rate increases with advancing maternal age. The oocyte must be the locus of reproductive aging because donation of oocytes from younger to older women abrogates the effects of aging on fecundity. Nuclear transfer experiments in a mouse model of reproductive aging show that the reproductive aging phenotype segregates with the nucleus rather than the cytoplasm. A number of factors within the nucleus have been hypothesized to mediate reproductive aging, including disruption of cohesions, reduced chiasma, aneuploidy, disrupted meiotic spindles, and DNA damage caused by chronic exposure to reactive oxygen species. We have proposed telomere attrition as a parsimonious way to explain these diverse effects of aging on oocyte function. Telomeres are repetitive sequences of DNA and associated proteins, which form a loop (t loop) at chromosome ends. Telomeres prevent the blunt end of DNA from triggering a DNA damage response. Previously, we showed that experimental telomere shortening phenocopies reproductive aging in mice. Telomere shortening causes reduced synapsis and chiasma, chromosome fusions, embryo arrest and fragmentation, and abnormal meiotic spindles. Telomere length of polar bodies predicts the fragmentation of human embryos. Telomerase, the reverse transcriptase capable of reconstituting shortened telomeres, is only minimally active in oocytes and preimplantation embryos. Intriguingly, during the first cell cycles following activation, telomeres robustly elongate via a DNA double-strand break mechanism called alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALTs). Alternative lengthening of telomere takes place even in telomerase-null mice. This mechanism of telomere elongation previously had been found only in cancer cells lacking telomerase activity. We propose that ALT elongates telomeres across generations but does so at the cost of extensive genomic instability in preimplantation embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L Keefe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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Treating Cancer by Targeting Telomeres and Telomerase. Antioxidants (Basel) 2017; 6:antiox6010015. [PMID: 28218725 PMCID: PMC5384178 DOI: 10.3390/antiox6010015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2016] [Revised: 02/15/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Telomerase is expressed in more than 85% of cancer cells. Tumor cells with metastatic potential may have a high telomerase activity, allowing cells to escape from the inhibition of cell proliferation due to shortened telomeres. Human telomerase primarily consists of two main components: hTERT, a catalytic subunit, and hTR, an RNA template whose sequence is complimentary to the telomeric 5′-dTTAGGG-3′ repeat. In humans, telomerase activity is typically restricted to renewing tissues, such as germ cells and stem cells, and is generally absent in normal cells. While hTR is constitutively expressed in most tissue types, hTERT expression levels are low enough that telomere length cannot be maintained, which sets a proliferative lifespan on normal cells. However, in the majority of cancers, telomerase maintains stable telomere length, thereby conferring cell immortality. Levels of hTERT mRNA are directly related to telomerase activity, thereby making it a more suitable therapeutic target than hTR. Recent data suggests that stabilization of telomeric G-quadruplexes may act to indirectly inhibit telomerase action by blocking hTR binding. Telomeric DNA has the propensity to spontaneously form intramolecular G-quadruplexes, four-stranded DNA secondary structures that are stabilized by the stacking of guanine residues in a planar arrangement. The functional roles of telomeric G-quadruplexes are not completely understood, but recent evidence suggests that they can stall the replication fork during DNA synthesis and inhibit telomere replication by preventing telomerase and related proteins from binding to the telomere. Long-term treatment with G-quadruplex stabilizers induces a gradual reduction in the length of the G-rich 3’ end of the telomere without a reduction of the total telomere length, suggesting that telomerase activity is inhibited. However, inhibition of telomerase, either directly or indirectly, has shown only moderate success in cancer patients. Another promising approach of targeting the telomere is the use of guanine-rich oligonucleotides (GROs) homologous to the 3’ telomere overhang sequence (T-oligos). T-oligos, particularly a specific 11-base oligonucleotide (5’-dGTTAGGGTTAG-3’) called T11, have been shown to induce DNA damage responses (DDRs) such as senescence, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest in numerous cancer cell types with minimal or no cytostatic effects in normal, non-transformed cells. As a result, T-oligos and other GROs are being investigated as prospective anticancer therapeutics. Interestingly, the DDRs induced by T-oligos in cancer cells are similar to the effects seen after progressive telomere degradation in normal cells. The loss of telomeres is an important tumor suppressor mechanism that is commonly absent in transformed malignant cells, and hence, T-oligos have garnered significant interest as a novel strategy to combat cancer. However, little is known about their mechanism of action. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of how T-oligos exert their antiproliferative effects in cancer cells and their role in inhibition of telomerase. We also discuss the current understanding of telomerase in cancer and various therapeutic targets related to the telomeres and telomerase.
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Tiegs AW, Sachdev NM, Grifo JA, McCulloh DH, Licciardi F. Paternal Age Is Not Associated With Pregnancy Outcomes After Single Thawed Euploid Blastocyst Transfer. Reprod Sci 2017; 24:1319-1324. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719116687660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ashley W. Tiegs
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nidhee M. Sachdev
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, New York University Fertility Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jamie A. Grifo
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, New York University Fertility Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Fertility Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - David H. McCulloh
- Department of New York University Fertility Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Frederick Licciardi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York University Fertility Center, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Oocyte Donation Program, New York University Fertility Center, New York, NY, USA
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Stindl R. The paradox of longer sperm telomeres in older men's testes: a birth-cohort effect caused by transgenerational telomere erosion in the female germline. Mol Cytogenet 2016; 9:12. [PMID: 26858775 PMCID: PMC4745172 DOI: 10.1186/s13039-016-0224-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Longer telomeres in the somatic cells of an individual have been regarded as a marker of youth and biological fitness within a population. Yet, several research groups have reported the surprising findings of longer telomeres in the germ cells of older men, which translated into longer leukocyte telomere length in their offspring. Although all these studies were purely cross-sectional, a longitudinal trend in the aging testes of individual males was taken for granted. Recently, a high-profile study reported a negative birth-cohort effect on leukocyte mean telomere length in human populations, namely the progressive loss of telomeric sequence between healthy human generations. This is what I based my theory of telomere-driven macroevolution on, 12 years ago. On the basis of published data on telomere length inheritance, I identified the source of human intergenerational telomere erosion in the female germline. Accordingly, because of the resulting birth-cohort effect, there is no need for any paradoxical telomere lengthening in older men’s gonads to interpret the old-father-long-telomered-offspring data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reinhard Stindl
- apo-med-center, Alpharm, Plättenstrasse 7-9, 2380 Perchtoldsdorf, Austria, Europe
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Telomere homeostasis in mammalian germ cells: a review. Chromosoma 2015; 125:337-51. [DOI: 10.1007/s00412-015-0555-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2015] [Revised: 10/19/2015] [Accepted: 10/20/2015] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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