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Malcher A, Kamieniczna M, Rozwadowska N, Stokowy T, Berger A, Jedrzejczak P, Wolski JK, Kurpisz M. HLA-DQB1 as a potential prognostic biomarker of hormonal therapy in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia. Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100949. [PMID: 39236514 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2024.100949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/29/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
The gonadotropin treatment of infertile men may improve spermatogenesis and lead to sperm cell production, however, only a small fraction of treated patients positively responds to such therapy. To identify individual treatment prognostic biomarkers associated with responsiveness to gonadotropins, we compared the gene expression profiles of testicular oligobiopsies from 3 patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) who positively responded to therapy with a combination of human chorionic gonadotropin and recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone (hCG/rFSH) to those of 3 non-responders. We used Affymetrix Human Gene 1.0 ST microarrays. The results of the microarray evaluation were validated by the qPCR technique while gene variants of the HLA-DQB1 (major histocompatibility complex, class II, DQ beta 1) were subsequently sequenced. In our microarrays, we have identified most significantly 5 transcripts with different expression levels in responders versus non-responders groups. Our interest has been primarily focused on the transcript associated with the HLA-DQB1 gene. Because the expression of this gene was up-regulated in the non-responding patients and only patients with heterozygotic alleles of HLA-DQB1 turned out to be positive to gonadotropin therapy, we suggest that this gene may be a biomarker of potential significance for the gonadotropin treatment of male infertility. We also compared the testicular gene expression profile in one individual before and after gonadotropin treatment. In the re-biopsied sample, we have identified over 600 genes that showed differences in testicular expression; some of these genes are critical for spermiogenesis. Thus, we documented that the applied gonadotropins successfully stimulated the spermatogenetic wave in patients with NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Malcher
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland.
| | | | | | | | - Anna Berger
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland; Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Infertility Treatment, Poznan, Poland
| | - Piotr Jedrzejczak
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland; Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Infertility Treatment, Poznan, Poland
| | | | - Maciej Kurpisz
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland.
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2
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Mottola F, Palmieri I, Carannante M, Barretta A, Roychoudhury S, Rocco L. Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Male Infertility: Established Methodologies and Future Perspectives. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:539. [PMID: 38790168 PMCID: PMC11121722 DOI: 10.3390/genes15050539] [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: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Male fertility can be affected by oxidative stress (OS), which occurs when an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body's ability to neutralize them arises. OS can damage cells and influence sperm production. High levels of lipid peroxidation have been linked to reduced sperm motility and decreased fertilization ability. This literature review discusses the most commonly used biomarkers to measure sperm damage caused by ROS, such as the high level of OS in seminal plasma as an indicator of imbalance in antioxidant activity. The investigated biomarkers include 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine acid (8-OHdG), a marker of DNA damage caused by ROS, and F2 isoprostanoids (8-isoprostanes) produced by lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, this review focuses on recent methodologies including the NGS polymorphisms and differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis, as well as the epigenetic mechanisms linked to ROS during spermatogenesis along with new methodologies developed to evaluate OS biomarkers. Finally, this review addresses a valuable insight into the mechanisms of male infertility provided by these advances and how they have led to new treatment possibilities. Overall, the use of biomarkers to evaluate OS in male infertility has supplied innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, enhancing our understanding of male infertility mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomena Mottola
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (F.M.); (I.P.); (M.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Ilaria Palmieri
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (F.M.); (I.P.); (M.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Maria Carannante
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (F.M.); (I.P.); (M.C.); (A.B.)
| | - Angela Barretta
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (F.M.); (I.P.); (M.C.); (A.B.)
| | | | - Lucia Rocco
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, 81100 Caserta, Italy; (F.M.); (I.P.); (M.C.); (A.B.)
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3
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Cerván-Martín M, González-Muñoz S, Guzmán-Jiménez A, Higueras-Serrano I, Castilla JA, Garrido N, Luján S, Bassas L, Seixas S, Gonçalves J, Lopes AM, Larriba S, Palomino-Morales RJ, Bossini-Castillo L, Carmona FD. Changes in environmental exposures over decades may influence the genetic architecture of severe spermatogenic failure. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:612-622. [PMID: 38305414 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae007] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do the genetic determinants of idiopathic severe spermatogenic failure (SPGF) differ between generations? SUMMARY ANSWER Our data support that the genetic component of idiopathic SPGF is impacted by dynamic changes in environmental exposures over decades. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The idiopathic form of SPGF has a multifactorial etiology wherein an interaction between genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors leads to the disease onset and progression. At the genetic level, genome-wide association studies (GWASs) allow the analysis of millions of genetic variants across the genome in a hypothesis-free manner, as a valuable tool for identifying susceptibility risk loci. However, little is known about the specific role of non-genetic factors and their influence on the genetic determinants in this type of conditions. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Case-control genetic association analyses were performed including a total of 912 SPGF cases and 1360 unaffected controls. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS All participants had European ancestry (Iberian and German). SPGF cases were diagnosed during the last decade either with idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia (n = 547) or with idiopathic non-obstructive oligozoospermia (n = 365). Case-control genetic association analyses were performed by logistic regression models considering the generation as a covariate and by in silico functional characterization of the susceptibility genomic regions. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE This analysis revealed 13 novel genetic association signals with SPGF, with eight of them being independent. The observed associations were mostly explained by the interaction between each lead variant and the age-group. Additionally, we established links between these loci and diverse non-genetic factors, such as toxic or dietary habits, respiratory disorders, and autoimmune diseases, which might potentially influence the genetic architecture of idiopathic SPGF. LARGE SCALE DATA GWAS data are available from the authors upon reasonable request. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Additional independent studies involving large cohorts in ethnically diverse populations are warranted to confirm our findings. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Overall, this study proposes an innovative strategy to achieve a more precise understanding of conditions such as SPGF by considering the interactions between a variable exposome through different generations and genetic predisposition to complex diseases. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the "Plan Andaluz de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación (PAIDI 2020)" (ref. PY20_00212, P20_00583), the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness through the Spanish National Plan for Scientific and Technical Research and Innovation (ref. PID2020-120157RB-I00 funded by MCIN/ AEI/10.13039/501100011033), and the 'Proyectos I+D+i del Programa Operativo FEDER 2020' (ref. B-CTS-584-UGR20). ToxOmics-Centre for Toxicogenomics and Human Health, Genetics, Oncology and Human Toxicology, is also partially supported by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (Projects: UIDB/00009/2020; UIDP/00009/2020). The authors declare no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Cerván-Martín
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Sara González-Muñoz
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Andrea Guzmán-Jiménez
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Higueras-Serrano
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - José A Castilla
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Unidad de Reproducción, UGC Obstetricia y Ginecología, HU Virgen de las Nieves, Granada, Spain
| | - Nicolás Garrido
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Servicio de Urología, Hospital Universitari i Politecnic La Fe e Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Saturnino Luján
- Servicio de Urología, Hospital Universitari i Politecnic La Fe e Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Lluís Bassas
- Laboratory of Seminology and Embryology, Andrology Service, Fundació Puigvert, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susana Seixas
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto (I3S), Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Porto, Portugal
| | - João Gonçalves
- Departamento de Genética Humana, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Lisbon, Portugal
- ToxOmics-Centro de Toxicogenómica e Saúde Humana, Nova Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Alexandra M Lopes
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto (I3S), Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Porto, Portugal
- Center for Predictive and Preventive Genetics, Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Larriba
- Human Molecular Genetics Group, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rogelio J Palomino-Morales
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular I, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Lara Bossini-Castillo
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - F David Carmona
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
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Mukherjee AG, Gopalakrishnan AV. Unlocking the mystery associated with infertility and prostate cancer: an update. Med Oncol 2023; 40:160. [PMID: 37099242 DOI: 10.1007/s12032-023-02028-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
Male-specific reproductive disorders and cancers have increased intensely in recent years, making them a significant public health problem. Prostate cancer (PC) is the most often diagnosed cancer in men and is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality. Both genetic and epigenetic modifications contribute to the development and progression of PC, even though the exact underlying processes causing this disease have yet to be identified. Male infertility is also a complex and poorly understood phenomenon believed to afflict a significant portion of the male population. Chromosomal abnormalities, compromised DNA repair systems, and Y chromosome alterations are just a few of the proposed explanations. It is becoming widely accepted that infertility shares a link with PC. Much of the link between infertility and PC is probably attributable to common genetic defects. This article provides an overview of PC and spermatogenic abnormalities. This study also investigates the link between male infertility and PC and uncovers the underlying reasons, risk factors, and biological mechanisms contributing to this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anirban Goutam Mukherjee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India.
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Genome-Wide Association Screening Determines Peripheral Players in Male Fertility Maintenance. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010524. [PMID: 36613967 PMCID: PMC9820667 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Deciphering the functional relationships of genes resulting from genome-wide screens for polymorphisms that are associated with phenotypic variations can be challenging. However, given the common association with certain phenotypes, a functional link should exist. We have tested this prediction in newly sequenced exomes of altogether 100 men representing different states of fertility. Fertile subjects presented with normal semen parameters and had naturally fathered offspring. In contrast, infertile probands were involuntarily childless and had reduced sperm quantity and quality. Genome-wide association study (GWAS) linked twelve non-synonymous single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to fertility variation between both cohorts. The SNPs localized to nine genes for which previous evidence is in line with a role in male fertility maintenance: ANAPC1, CES1, FAM131C, HLA-DRB1, KMT2C, NOMO1, SAA1, SRGAP2, and SUSD2. Most of the SNPs residing in these genes imply amino acid exchanges that should only moderately affect protein functionality. In addition, proteins encoded by genes from present GWAS occupied peripheral positions in a protein-protein interaction network, the backbone of which consisted of genes listed in the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database for their implication in male infertility. Suggestive of an indirect impact on male fertility, the genes focused were indeed linked to each other, albeit mediated by other interactants. Thus, the chances of identifying a central player in male infertility by GWAS could be limited in general. Furthermore, the SNPs determined and the genes containing these might prove to have potential as biomarkers in the diagnosis of male fertility.
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6
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Immune and spermatogenesis-related loci are involved in the development of extreme patterns of male infertility. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1220. [PMID: 36357561 PMCID: PMC9649734 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-04192-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We conducted a genome-wide association study in a large population of infertile men due to unexplained spermatogenic failure (SPGF). More than seven million genetic variants were analysed in 1,274 SPGF cases and 1,951 unaffected controls from two independent European cohorts. Two genomic regions were associated with the most severe histological pattern of SPGF, defined by Sertoli cell-only (SCO) phenotype, namely the MHC class II gene HLA-DRB1 (rs1136759, P = 1.32E-08, OR = 1.80) and an upstream locus of VRK1 (rs115054029, P = 4.24E-08, OR = 3.14), which encodes a protein kinase involved in the regulation of spermatogenesis. The SCO-associated rs1136759 allele (G) determines a serine in the position 13 of the HLA-DRβ1 molecule located in the antigen-binding pocket. Overall, our data support the notion of unexplained SPGF as a complex trait influenced by common variation in the genome, with the SCO phenotype likely representing an immune-mediated condition. A GWAS in a large case-control cohort of European ancestry identifies two genomic regions, the MHC class II gene HLA-DRB1 and an upstream locus of VRK1, that are associated with the most severe phenotype of spermatogenic failure.
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7
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Pathway Analysis of Genome Wide Association Studies (GWAS) Data Associated with Male Infertility. REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/reprodmed3030018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Infertility is a common condition affecting approximately 10–20% of the reproductive age population. Idiopathic infertility cases are thought to have a genetic basis, but the underlying causes are largely unknown. However, the genetic basis underlying male infertility in humans is only partially understood. The Purpose of the study is to understand the current state of research on the genetics of male infertility and its association with significant biological mechanisms. Results: We performed an Identify Candidate Causal SNPs and Pathway (ICSN Pathway) analysis using a genome-wide association study (GWAS) dataset, and NCBI-PubMed search which included 632 SNPs in GWAS and 451 SNPs from the PubMed server, respectively. The ICSN Pathway analysis produced three hypothetical biological mechanisms associated with male infertility: (1) rs8084 and rs7192→HLA-DRA→inflammatory pathways and cell adhesion; rs7550231 and rs2234167→TNFRSF14→TNF Receptor Superfamily Member 14→T lymphocyte proliferation and activation; rs1105879 and rs2070959→UGT1A6→UDP glucuronosyltransferase family 1 member A6→Metabolism of Xenobiotics, androgen, estrogen, retinol, and carbohydrates. Conclusions: We believe that our results may be helpful to study the genetic mechanisms of male infertility. Pathway-based methods have been applied to male infertility GWAS datasets to investigate the biological mechanisms and reported some novel male infertility risk pathways. This pathway analysis using GWAS dataset suggests that the biological process related to inflammation and metabolism might contribute to male infertility susceptibility. Our analysis suggests that genetic contribution to male infertility operates through multiple genes affecting common inflammatory diseases interacting in functional pathways.
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8
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Combined Trifocal and Microsurgical Testicular Sperm Extraction Enhances Sperm Retrieval Rate in Low-Chance Retrieval Non-Obstructive Azoospermia. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11144058. [PMID: 35887821 PMCID: PMC9317803 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11144058] [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: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Low-chance retrieval non-obstructive azoospermic (NOA) patients are a subpopulation of NOA patients. The objective of this study is to compare the surgical outcome of microsurgical-assisted testicular sperm extraction (M-TeSE) and combined trifocal/M-TeSE in low-chance retrieval NOA patients. Material and Methods: A single-center retrospective analysis of NOA patients who underwent testicular sperm extraction was performed. Low-chance retrieval NOA (testicular volume < 10 cc and FSH > 12.4 UI/L) was set as the inclusion criteria. Re-do TeSE procedures were excluded from the current analysis. Data were extrapolated from clinical records and operative notes. We compared data from patients who underwent classic M-TeSE (group A) with that from patients submitted to combined trifocal/M-TeSE (group B). Sperm retrieval rate (SRr) was the primary outcome of the study. Surgical outcomes and postoperative complications were evaluated. A multivariate analysis was conducted to investigate predictive factors for positive SR. Results: Overall, 80 patients (60 patients in Group A and 20 patients in Group B) fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The average (SD) age was 35 (8.2) years. The average preoperative FSH was 27.5 (13) UI/L. The average testicular volume was 6.3 (3) cc on the left side and 6.8 (2.5) cc on the right. Groups were similar in terms of preoperative parameters. The overall SRr was 28%. Patients in group B had higher SRr than those in group A (29.4% vs. 26.9%, p < 0.03). We identified a significant association between testicular histopathology and positive SR (hypospermatogenesis 100%, spermatogenic arrest 32%, and Sertoli cell-only syndrome 22%). The histopathology report was the only significant predicting factor for SR in the multivariate analysis. Conclusion: The combined trifocal and M-TeSE approach is safe and may represent a valuable approach to enhance the SRr in low-chance retrieval NOA. The histopathology report is confirmed to be the only valuable predicting factor for a positive SR.
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9
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Fan W, Li Z, Wang Y, Zhang C, Liu H, Wang D, Bai Y, Luo S, Li Y, Qin Q, Chen W, Yong L, Zhen Q, Yu Y, Ge H, Mao Y, Cao L, Zhang R, Hu X, Yu Y, Li B, Sun L. Imputation of the major histocompatibility complex region identifies major independent variants associated with bullous pemphigoid and dermatomyositis in Han Chinese. J Dermatol 2022; 49:998-1004. [PMID: 35751838 DOI: 10.1111/1346-8138.16499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2022] [Revised: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
As autoimmune skin diseases, both bullous pemphigoid (BP) and dermatomyositis (DM) show significant associations with the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) region. In fact, the coexistence of BP and DM has been previously reported. Therefore, we hypothesized that there may be a potential genetic correlation between BP and DM. Based on data for 312 BP patients, 128 DM patients, and 6793 healthy control subjects, in the MHC region, we imputed single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP), insertions and deletions (INDEL), and copy number variations (CNV) using the 1KGP phase 3 dataset and amino acids (AA) and SNP using a Han-MHC reference database. An association study revealed the most significant SNP associated with BP, namely, rs580921 (p = 1.06E-08, odds ratio [OR] = 1.61, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.37-1.90), which is located in the C6orf10 gene, and the most significant classic human leukocyte antigen (HLA) allele associated with DM, namely, HLA-DPB1*1701 (p = 6.56E-10, OR = 3.61, 95% CI = 2.40-5.42). Further stepwise regression analyses with rs580921 identified a threonine at position 163 of the HLA-B gene as a new independent disease-associated AA, and HLA-DPB1*1701 indicated that no loci were significant. Three-dimensional ribbon models revealed that the HLA-B AA position 163 (p = 3.93E-07, OR = 1.64, 95% CI = 1.35-1.98) located in the α2 domain of the HLA-B molecule was involved in the process of specific antigen presentation. The calculations showed that there was no significant genetic correlation between BP and DM. Our study identified three significant loci in the MHC region, proving that the HLA region was significantly correlated with BP and DM separately. Our research highlights the key role of the MHC region in disease susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wencheng Fan
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Zhuo Li
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yirui Wang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Chang Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Hao Liu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Daiyue Wang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yuanming Bai
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Sihan Luo
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yuanyuan Li
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Qin Qin
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Weiwei Chen
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Liang Yong
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Qi Zhen
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yafen Yu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Huiyao Ge
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yiwen Mao
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Lu Cao
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Ruixue Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Xia Hu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Yanxia Yu
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
| | - Bao Li
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Comprehensive Lab, College of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Liangdan Sun
- Department of Dermatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology (Anhui Medical University), Ministry of Education, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Laboratory of Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Institute of Translational Medicine, Hefei, China
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10
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Integration and gene co-expression network analysis of scRNA-seq transcriptomes reveal heterogeneity and key functional genes in human spermatogenesis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19089. [PMID: 34580317 PMCID: PMC8476490 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98267-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process of cellular division and differentiation that begins with spermatogonia stem cells and leads to functional spermatozoa production. However, many of the molecular mechanisms underlying this process remain unclear. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) is used to sequence the entire transcriptome at the single-cell level to assess cell-to-cell variability. In this study, more than 33,000 testicular cells from different scRNA-seq datasets with normal spermatogenesis were integrated to identify single-cell heterogeneity on a more comprehensive scale. Clustering, cell type assignments, differential expressed genes and pseudotime analysis characterized 5 spermatogonia, 4 spermatocyte, and 4 spermatid cell types during the spermatogenesis process. The UTF1 and ID4 genes were introduced as the most specific markers that can differentiate two undifferentiated spermatogonia stem cell sub-cellules. The C7orf61 and TNP can differentiate two round spermatid sub-cellules. The topological analysis of the weighted gene co-expression network along with the integrated scRNA-seq data revealed some bridge genes between spermatogenesis's main stages such as DNAJC5B, C1orf194, HSP90AB1, BST2, EEF1A1, CRISP2, PTMS, NFKBIA, CDKN3, and HLA-DRA. The importance of these key genes is confirmed by their role in male infertility in previous studies. It can be stated that, this integrated scRNA-seq of spermatogenic cells offers novel insights into cell-to-cell heterogeneity and suggests a list of key players with a pivotal role in male infertility from the fertile spermatogenesis datasets. These key functional genes can be introduced as candidates for filtering and prioritizing genotype-to-phenotype association in male infertility.
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11
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Shemshaki G, Najafi M, Niranjana Murthy AS, Malini SS. Novel association of PhosphoSerine PHosphatase (PSPH) gene mutations with male infertility identified through whole exome sequencing of South Indians. Meta Gene 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mgene.2021.100897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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12
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Markantoni M, Sarafidou T, Kyrgiafini MA, Chatziparasidou A, Christoforidis N, Dafopoulos K, Mamuris Z. Replicating a GWAS: two novel candidate markers for oligospermia in Greek population. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:4967-4972. [PMID: 34097203 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06470-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies have paved the way for the discovery of new markers regarding many diseases, including male infertility. A previous study on Caucasians highlighted 172 polymorphisms for their putative association with male infertility and we attempted to replicate these findings on our dataset comprising of Greek male individuals (n = 360). We retrieved 59 out of 172 polymorphisms and tested for all association models on 278 normospermic men and 82 patients with an abnormal seminogram, later separated into oligozoospermic and asthenozoospermic groups. Our findings indicate that two SNPs (rs2296225 in KIF17, rs7224496 in SMYD4) are associated with male infertility in the Greek population and have not been recorded in literature as of yet. These novel markers need further validation via additional studies and an increased individual number. All in all, replication studies, possess the power to validate existing polymorphisms found across all population and thus increase both statistical significance as well as identify novel potentially diagnostic markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Markantoni
- Laboratory of Genetics, Comparative and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Theologia Sarafidou
- Laboratory of Genetics, Comparative and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Maria-Anna Kyrgiafini
- Laboratory of Genetics, Comparative and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | | | | | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, Department of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Zissis Mamuris
- Laboratory of Genetics, Comparative and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece.
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13
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Saintilnord WN, Tenlep SYN, Preston JD, Duregon E, DeRouchey JE, Unrine JM, de Cabo R, Pearson KJ, Fondufe-Mittendorf YN. Chronic Exposure to Cadmium Induces Differential Methylation in Mice Spermatozoa. Toxicol Sci 2021; 180:262-276. [PMID: 33483743 PMCID: PMC8041459 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfab002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Cadmium exposure is ubiquitous and has been linked to diseases including cancers and reproductive defects. Since cadmium is nonmutagenic, it is thought to exert its gene dysregulatory effects through epigenetic reprogramming. Several studies have implicated germline exposure to cadmium in developmental reprogramming. However, most of these studies have focused on maternal exposure, while the impact on sperm fertility and disease susceptibility has received less attention. In this study, we used reduced representation bisulfite sequencing to comprehensively investigate the impact of chronic cadmium exposure on mouse spermatozoa DNA methylation. Adult male C57BL/J6 mice were provided water with or without cadmium chloride for 9 weeks. Sperm, testes, liver, and kidney tissues were collected at the end of the treatment period. Cadmium exposure was confirmed through gene expression analysis of metallothionein-1 and 2, 2 well-known cadmium-induced genes. Analysis of sperm DNA methylation changes revealed 1788 differentially methylated sites present at regulatory regions in sperm of mice exposed to cadmium compared with vehicle (control) mice. Furthermore, most of these differential methylation changes positively correlated with changes in gene expression at both the transcription initiation stage as well as the splicing levels. Interestingly, the genes targeted by cadmium exposure are involved in several critical developmental processes. Our results present a comprehensive analysis of the sperm methylome in response to chronic cadmium exposure. These data, therefore, highlight a foundational framework to study gene expression patterns that may affect fertility in the exposed individual as well as their offspring, through paternal inheritance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley N Saintilnord
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0509, USA
| | - Sara Y N Tenlep
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0509, USA
| | - Joshua D Preston
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0509, USA,Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia 30322, USA
| | - Eleonora Duregon
- Translational Gerontology Branch, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Jason E DeRouchey
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0509, USA
| | - Jason M Unrine
- Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0509, USA
| | - Rafael de Cabo
- Translational Gerontology Branch, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, Maryland 20892, USA
| | - Kevin J Pearson
- Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0509, USA,To whom correspondence should be addressed at Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536-0509, USA. E-mail: ; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, 800 Rose Street, 273 BBSRB, Lexington, KY 40536-0509, USA. E-mail:
| | - Yvonne N Fondufe-Mittendorf
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky 40536-0509, USA,To whom correspondence should be addressed at Department of Pharmacology and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536-0509, USA. E-mail: ; Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky, 800 Rose Street, 273 BBSRB, Lexington, KY 40536-0509, USA. E-mail:
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14
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Ding X, Schimenti JC. Strategies to Identify Genetic Variants Causing Infertility. Trends Mol Med 2021; 27:792-806. [PMID: 33431240 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmed.2020.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Genetic causes are thought to underlie about half of infertility cases, but understanding the genetic bases has been a major challenge. Modern genomics tools allow more sophisticated exploration of genetic causes of infertility through population, family-based, and individual studies. Nevertheless, potential therapies based on genetic diagnostics will be limited until there is certainty regarding the causality of genetic variants identified in an individual. Genome modulation and editing technologies have revolutionized our ability to functionally test such variants, and also provide a potential means for clinical correction of infertility variants. This review addresses strategies being used to identify causative variants of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinbao Ding
- Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - John C Schimenti
- Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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15
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Qiu X, He H, Huang Y, Wang J, Xiao Y. Genome-wide identification of m 6A-associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms in Parkinson's disease. Neurosci Lett 2020; 737:135315. [PMID: 32827573 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.135315] [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: 05/17/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
N6-methyladenosine (m6A)-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) play a vital role in several neurological diseases. However, little is known about the relationship between m6A modification and Parkinson's disease (PD). We investigated potential functional variants of m6A-SNPs from large-scale genome-wide association studies (GWAS) in PD patients. The candidate m6A-SNPs were further assessed by expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) analysis and differential gene expression analysis. We identified 12 m6A-SNPs that were significantly associated with PD risk. Further, eQTL and expression analyses identified five of these m6A-SNPs (rs75072999 of GAK, rs1378602, rs4924839 and rs8071834 of ALKBH5, and rs1033500 of C6orf10) that were associated with altered gene expression in PD. Our results suggest that m6A-SNPs could play a role in PD risk. Future studies are needed to confirm these PD-associated m6A-SNPs and elucidate their mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Qiu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Honghu He
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Yanning Huang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Jin Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China.
| | - Yousheng Xiao
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China.
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16
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Gunes S, Esteves SC. Role of genetics and epigenetics in male infertility. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13586. [PMID: 32314821 DOI: 10.1111/and.13586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a complex condition with a strong genetic and epigenetic background. This review discusses the importance of genetic and epigenetic factors in the pathophysiology of male infertility. The interplay between thousands of genes, the epigenetic control of gene expression, and environmental and lifestyle factors, which influence genetic and epigenetic variants, determines the resulting male infertility phenotype. Currently, karyotyping, Y-chromosome microdeletion screening and CFTR gene mutation tests are routinely performed to investigate a possible genetic aetiology in patients with azoospermia and severe oligozoospermia. However, current testing is limited in its ability to identify a variety of genetic and epigenetic conditions that might be implicated in both idiopathic and unexplained infertility. Several epimutations of imprinting genes and developmental genes have been postulated to be candidate markers for male infertility. As such, development of novel diagnostic panels is essential to change the current landscape with regard to prevention, diagnosis and management. Understanding the underlying genetic mechanisms related to the pathophysiology of male infertility, and the impact of environmental exposures and lifestyle factors on gene expression might aid clinicians in developing individualised treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sezgin Gunes
- Medical Biology, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey.,Molecular Medicine, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Referral Center for Male Reproduction, Campinas, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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17
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Bo H, Liu Z, Zhu F, Zhou D, Tan Y, Zhu W, Fan L. Long noncoding RNAs expression profile and long noncoding RNA-mediated competing endogenous RNA network in nonobstructive azoospermia patients. Epigenomics 2020; 12:673-684. [PMID: 32174164 DOI: 10.2217/epi-2020-0008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To analyze the expression profile and competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). Materials & methods: The lncRNA expression profile in NOA was determined by microarray reanalysis. Differential expression analysis was performed by R software. The ceRNA network was constructed using correlation analysis and gene target miRNA prediction. Metascape was used for enrichment analysis. Again ceRNA network was validated by quantitative real-time PCR. Results: Many lncRNAs are differently expressed in NOA. LncRNAs might participate in spermatogenesis through ceRNA mechanism. The ceRNA network included male gamete generation and other pathways. LINC00467 in the network regulated the expression of LRGUK and TDRD6. Conclusion: LncRNAs are involved in NOA and potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Bo
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cells and Reproductive of the Ministry of Health, Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, PR China
- Department of Scientific Research, Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, PR China
| | - Zhizhong Liu
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cells and Reproductive of the Ministry of Health, Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, PR China
| | - Fang Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cells and Reproductive of the Ministry of Health, Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, PR China
| | - Dai Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cells and Reproductive of the Ministry of Health, Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, PR China
- Department of Scientific Research, Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, PR China
| | - Yueqiu Tan
- Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cells and Reproductive of the Ministry of Health, Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, PR China
- Department of Scientific Research, Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, PR China
| | - Wenbing Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cells and Reproductive of the Ministry of Health, Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, PR China
- Department of Scientific Research, Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, PR China
| | - Liqing Fan
- Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cells and Reproductive of the Ministry of Health, Institute of Reproductive & Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, PR China
- Department of Scientific Research, Reproductive & Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, PR China
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18
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Zhang X, Ning Y, Liu W, Zhang T, Qin Y, Zhao S, Cao Y, Zhang H. Variation analysis of SOX8 gene in Chinese men with non-obstructive azoospermia or oligozoospermia. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13531. [PMID: 32048324 DOI: 10.1111/and.13531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sox8, encoding a SRY-related HMG box transcription factor, is essential in Sertoli cells for germ cell differentiation via regulation of integrity of the blood-testis barrier (BTB) as well as Sertoli-germ cell adhesion. Inactivation of Sox8 gene in mice causes postnatal progressive spermatogenic failure, resulting in male infertility. This study aims to investigate whether variants of SOX8 contribute to pathogenesis of idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) or oligozoospermia. A case-control genetic study was conducted in which all exons and exon-intron boundaries of SOX8 gene were screened in 190 NOA and 139 oligozoospermia cases by Sanger sequencing. The detected variants were examined in 284 normospermic controls. Nine known single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of SOX8 gene were identified, and four of them exist simultaneously in oligo/azoospermia patients. A comparison of allele/genotype frequencies of these variants showed no significant difference between oligo/azoospermia cases and controls. The results indicate that deleterious variants in SOX8 gene may not be a common cause for oligo/azoospermia in Chinese men. Considering ethnic diversity, SOX8 could not be ruled out as a candidate gene for male infertility. The role of SOX8-mediated Sertoli cell function and BTB integrity played in the pathogenesis of male infertility needs to be further explored in other populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Cells and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Yunna Ning
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Wen Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Taijian Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yingying Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shidou Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yongzhi Cao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Haobo Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China.,National Research Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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19
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Bo H, Liu Z, Tang R, Gong G, Wang X, Zhang H, Zhu F, Zhou D, Zhu W, Tan Y, Fan L. Testicular biopsies microarray analysis reveals circRNAs are involved in the pathogenesis of non-obstructive azoospermia. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 12:2610-2625. [PMID: 32029690 PMCID: PMC7041731 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to be involved in many diseases. But there is no report on circRNAs in non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA). The purpose of this paper is to explore the circular RNA expression profile and potential functions of circRNAs in NOA patients. We first preformed circRNA expression profiling analysis using a circRNA microarray in testicular samples from NOA and obstructive azoospermia (OA) patients. CircRNAs were validated by qRT-PCR. Bioinformatics analysis were used to construct the ceRNA network. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis were performed by using DAVID. Microarray analysis identified 82 differentially expressed circRNAs in NOA specimens. The differential expression of hsa_circRNA_402130, hsa_circRNA_072697, hsa_circRNA_030050, hsa_circRNA_100812 and hsa_circRNA_406168 was confirmed by qRT-PCR. Enrichment analysis revealed the association of hsa_circRNA_402130 and hsa_circRNA_072697 with multiple signaling pathways. The data indicated that circRNAs were significantly dysregulated in NOA specimens and might involve in the pathogenesis of NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Bo
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Zhizhong Liu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Hunan Cancer Hospital and The Affliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ruiling Tang
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Guanghui Gong
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xingming Wang
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Han Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fang Zhu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Dai Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wenbing Zhu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Yueqiu Tan
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
| | - Liqing Fan
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
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20
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Cerván-Martín M, Castilla JA, Palomino-Morales RJ, Carmona FD. Genetic Landscape of Nonobstructive Azoospermia and New Perspectives for the Clinic. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9020300. [PMID: 31973052 PMCID: PMC7074441 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9020300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) represents the most severe expression of male infertility, involving around 1% of the male population and 10% of infertile men. This condition is characterised by the inability of the testis to produce sperm cells, and it is considered to have an important genetic component. During the last two decades, different genetic anomalies, including microdeletions of the Y chromosome, karyotype defects, and missense mutations in genes involved in the reproductive function, have been described as the primary cause of NOA in many infertile men. However, these alterations only explain around 25% of azoospermic cases, with the remaining patients showing an idiopathic origin. Recent studies clearly suggest that the so-called idiopathic NOA has a complex aetiology with a polygenic inheritance, which may alter the spermatogenic process. Although we are far from a complete understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying NOA, the use of the new technologies for genetic analysis has enabled a considerable increase in knowledge during the last years. In this review, we will provide a comprehensive and updated overview of the genetic basis of NOA, with a special focus on the possible application of the recent insights in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Cerván-Martín
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad de Granada, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Parque Tecnológico Ciencias de la Salud, Av. del Conocimiento, s/n, 18016 Granada, Spain;
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Av. de Madrid, 15, Pabellón de Consultas Externas 2, 2ª Planta, 18012 Granada, Spain; (J.A.C.); (R.J.P.-M.)
| | - José A. Castilla
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Av. de Madrid, 15, Pabellón de Consultas Externas 2, 2ª Planta, 18012 Granada, Spain; (J.A.C.); (R.J.P.-M.)
- Unidad de Reproducción, UGC Obstetricia y Ginecología, HU Virgen de las Nieves, Av. de las Fuerzas Armadas 2, 18014 Granada, Spain
- CEIFER Biobanco—NextClinics, Calle Maestro Bretón 1, 18004 Granada, Spain
| | - Rogelio J. Palomino-Morales
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Av. de Madrid, 15, Pabellón de Consultas Externas 2, 2ª Planta, 18012 Granada, Spain; (J.A.C.); (R.J.P.-M.)
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular I, Universidad de Granada, Facultad de Ciencias, Av. de Fuente Nueva s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - F. David Carmona
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad de Granada, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Parque Tecnológico Ciencias de la Salud, Av. del Conocimiento, s/n, 18016 Granada, Spain;
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Av. de Madrid, 15, Pabellón de Consultas Externas 2, 2ª Planta, 18012 Granada, Spain; (J.A.C.); (R.J.P.-M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-958-241-000 (ext 20170)
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21
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Wen L, Liu Q, Xu J, Liu X, Shi C, Yang Z, Zhang Y, Xu H, Liu J, Yang H, Huang H, Qiao J, Tang F, Chen ZJ. Recent advances in mammalian reproductive biology. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2020; 63:18-58. [PMID: 31813094 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-019-1572-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Reproductive biology is a uniquely important topic since it is about germ cells, which are central for transmitting genetic information from generation to generation. In this review, we discuss recent advances in mammalian germ cell development, including preimplantation development, fetal germ cell development and postnatal development of oocytes and sperm. We also discuss the etiologies of female and male infertility and describe the emerging technologies for studying reproductive biology such as gene editing and single-cell technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Wen
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Third Hospital, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Qiang Liu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Third Hospital, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Jingjing Xu
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Xixi Liu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Third Hospital, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Chaoyi Shi
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Zuwei Yang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Yili Zhang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Hong Xu
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Jiang Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Hui Yang
- Institute of Neuroscience, State Key Laboratory of Neuroscience, Key Laboratory of Primate Neurobiology, CAS Center for Excellence in Brain Science and Intelligence Technology, Shanghai Research Center for Brain Science and Brain-Inspired Intelligence, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China.
| | - Hefeng Huang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Jie Qiao
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Third Hospital, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Fuchou Tang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Genomics, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Third Hospital, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, 250021, China.
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22
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Lee AS, Rusch J, Lima AC, Usmani A, Huang N, Lepamets M, Vigh-Conrad KA, Worthington RE, Mägi R, Wu X, Aston KI, Atkinson JP, Carrell DT, Hess RA, O'Bryan MK, Conrad DF. Rare mutations in the complement regulatory gene CSMD1 are associated with male and female infertility. Nat Commun 2019; 10:4626. [PMID: 31604923 PMCID: PMC6789153 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-12522-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility in men and women is a complex genetic trait with shared biological bases between the sexes. Here, we perform a series of rare variant analyses across 73,185 women and men to identify genes that contribute to primary gonadal dysfunction. We report CSMD1, a complement regulatory protein on chromosome 8p23, as a strong candidate locus in both sexes. We show that CSMD1 is enriched at the germ-cell/somatic-cell interface in both male and female gonads. Csmd1-knockout males show increased rates of infertility with significantly increased complement C3 protein deposition in the testes, accompanied by severe histological degeneration. Knockout females show significant reduction in ovarian quality and breeding success, as well as mammary branching impairment. Double knockout of Csmd1 and C3 causes non-additive reduction in breeding success, suggesting that CSMD1 and the complement pathway play an important role in the normal postnatal development of the gonads in both sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur S Lee
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Jannette Rusch
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Ana C Lima
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Abul Usmani
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Ni Huang
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Maarja Lepamets
- Estonian Genome Center, University of Tartu, 51010, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Katinka A Vigh-Conrad
- Oregon National Primate Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Ronald E Worthington
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Southern Illinois University, Edwardsville, IL, 62025, USA
| | - Reedik Mägi
- Estonian Genome Center, University of Tartu, 51010, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Xiaobo Wu
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Kenneth I Aston
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA
| | - John P Atkinson
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Douglas T Carrell
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA
| | - Rex A Hess
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, 61802, USA
| | - Moira K O'Bryan
- The School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, 3800, Australia
| | - Donald F Conrad
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
- Oregon National Primate Center, Oregon Health and Science University, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA.
- Department of Molecular and Medical Genetics, Oregon Health and Sciences University, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
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23
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Abstract
Male infertility is a multifactorial pathological condition affecting approximately 7% of the male population. The genetic landscape of male infertility is highly complex as semen and testis histological phenotypes are extremely heterogeneous, and at least 2,000 genes are involved in spermatogenesis. The highest frequency of known genetic factors contributing to male infertility (25%) is in azoospermia, but the number of identified genetic anomalies in other semen and aetiological categories is constantly growing. Genetic screening is relevant for its diagnostic value, clinical decision making, and appropriate genetic counselling. Anomalies in sex chromosomes have major roles in severe spermatogenic impairment. Autosome-linked gene mutations are mainly involved in central hypogonadism, monomorphic teratozoospermia or asthenozoospermia, congenital obstructive azoospermia, and familial cases of quantitative spermatogenic disturbances. Results from whole-genome association studies suggest a marginal role for common variants as causative factors; however, some of these variants can be important for pharmacogenetic purposes. Results of studies on copy number variations (CNVs) demonstrate a considerably higher CNV load in infertile patients than in normozoospermic men, whereas whole-exome analysis has proved to be a highly successful diagnostic tool in familial cases of male infertility. Despite such efforts, the aetiology of infertility remains unknown in about 40% of patients, and the discovery of novel genetic factors in idiopathic infertility is a major challenge for the field of androgenetics. Large, international, and consortium-based whole-exome and whole-genome studies are the most promising approach for the discovery of the missing genetic aetiology of idiopathic male infertility.
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24
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Liu X, Xi Q, Li L, Wang Q, Jiang Y, Zhang H, Liu R, Wang R. Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing Identifies Novel Sequence Variations of Genes Associated with Nonobstructive Azoospermia in the Han Population of Northeast China. Med Sci Monit 2019; 25:5801-5812. [PMID: 31377750 PMCID: PMC6691750 DOI: 10.12659/msm.915375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This study aimed to screen common and low-frequency variants of nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA)-associated genes, and to construct a database for NOA-associated single nucleotide variants (SNVs). Material/Methods Next-generation sequencing of 466 NOA-associated genes was performed in 34 patients with NOA (mean age, 29.06±4.49 years) and 40 sperm donors (mean age, 25.08±5.75 years) from the Han population of northeast China. The SNV database was constructed by summarizing NOA non-negatively-associated SNVs showing statistical differences between NOA cases and controls, and then selecting low-frequency variants using Baylor’s pipeline, to identify statistically valid SNVs. Results There were 65 SNVs identified that were significantly different between both groups (p<0.05). Five genetic variants showed positive correlations with NOA: MTRR c.537T>C (rs161870), odds ratios (OR), 3.686, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.228–11.066; MTRR, c.1049A>G (rs162036), OR, 3.686, 95% CI, 1.228–11.066; PIWIL1, c.1580G>A (rs1106042), OR, 4.737, 95% CI, 1.314–17.072; TAF4B, c.1815T>C (rs1677016), OR, 3.599, 95% CI, 1.255–10.327; and SOX10 c.927T>C (rs139884), OR, 3.192, 95% CI, 1.220–8.353. Also, 52 NOA non-negatively associated SNVs and 39 SNVs were identified by Baylor’s pipeline and selected for the SNV database. Conclusions Five genetic variants were shown to have positive correlations with NOA. The SNV database constructed contained NOA non-negatively associated SNVs and low-frequency variants. This study showed that this approach was an effective strategy to identify risk alleles of NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyin Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Center of Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China (mainland)
| | - Qi Xi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Center of Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China (mainland)
| | - Leilei Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Center of Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China (mainland)
| | - Qiyuan Wang
- Changchun Jida Middle School Experimental School, Changchun, Jilin, China (mainland)
| | - Yuting Jiang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Center of Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China (mainland)
| | - Hongguo Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Center of Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China (mainland)
| | - Ruizhi Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Center of Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital, Jilin University, Changchun, China (mainland)
| | - Ruixue Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Center for Prenatal Diagnosis, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China (mainland)
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25
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Marques PI, Gonçalves JC, Monteiro C, Cavadas B, Nagirnaja L, Barros N, Barros A, Carvalho F, Lopes AM, Seixas S. Semen quality is affected by HLA class I alleles together with sexually transmitted diseases. Andrology 2019; 7:867-877. [PMID: 31002754 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human leukocyte antigen (HLA) locus includes several genes with key roles in antigen presentation and immune response, some of them inclusively found to be associated with non-obstructive azoospermia. Still, HLA connections to other infertility phenotypes such as semen hyperviscosity (SHV), asthenozoospermia (AST), and oligozoospermia (OLI) have been often neglected. OBJECTIVES In this work, we aimed to evaluate the association of HLA class I and II genes with SHV, AST, and OLI phenotypes while exploring a possible role in an adaptive immune response to sexually transmitted diseases (STD). MATERIALS AND METHODS Whole-exome sequencing was performed in a Portuguese cohort of 71 infertility cases and 68 controls, followed by HLA typing using a specific software-HLA*PRG:LA tool. Molecular screenings of seven STD were carried out in a subset of 72 samples (30 cases and 42 controls). RESULTS Statistical tests uncovered three protective alleles: HLA-A*11:01, associated with all forms of male infertility (p = 0.0006); HLA-DQB1*03:02 with SHV and OLI (PSHV = 0.0303, POLI = 0.0153); and HLA-A*29:02 with OLI (p = 0.0355), which was found to interfere in sperm number together with HPV (p = 0.0313). Five risk alleles were also identified: two linked with SHV (HLA-B*50:01, p = 0.0278; and HLA-C*06:02, p = 0.0461), another one with both SHV and OLI (HLA-DQA1*05:01, PSHV = 0.0444 and POLI =0.0265), and two with OLI (HLA-C*03:03, p = 0.0480; and HLA-DQB1*03:01, p = 0.0499). Here, HLA-C*03:03 carriers tend to be HPV infected. CONCLUSIONS The application of HLA*PRG:LA tool to the study of male infertility provided novel insights for an HLA correlation with semen quality, namely among SHV and OLI phenotypes. The discovery of an HLA-A*29:02/HPV crosstalk, together with former reports of HLA alleles conferring resistance-susceptibility to diverse human pathogens, raises the hypothesis of a mechanistic link between male infertility, HLA polymorphism, and host response to STD.
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Affiliation(s)
- P I Marques
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto (i3S), Porto, Portugal.,Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - J C Gonçalves
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto (i3S), Porto, Portugal.,Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - C Monteiro
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto (i3S), Porto, Portugal.,Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - B Cavadas
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto (i3S), Porto, Portugal.,Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal.,Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - L Nagirnaja
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - N Barros
- Center for Reproductive Genetics Alberto Barros, Porto, Portugal
| | - A Barros
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto (i3S), Porto, Portugal.,Center for Reproductive Genetics Alberto Barros, Porto, Portugal.,Genetics, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - F Carvalho
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto (i3S), Porto, Portugal.,Genetics, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - A M Lopes
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto (i3S), Porto, Portugal.,Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
| | - S Seixas
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto (i3S), Porto, Portugal.,Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (Ipatimup), Porto, Portugal
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26
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Lo EM, Pastuszak AW. Variants in major histocompatibility complex genes: novel factors resulting in male factor infertility? Fertil Steril 2019; 111:43-44. [PMID: 30611413 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eric M Lo
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Alexander W Pastuszak
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
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27
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Nagirnaja L, Aston KI, Conrad DF. Genetic intersection of male infertility and cancer. Fertil Steril 2018; 109:20-26. [PMID: 29307395 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2017] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Recent epidemiological studies have identified an association between male factor infertility and increased cancer risk, however, the underlying etiology for the shared risk has not been investigated. It is likely that much of the association between the two disease states can be attributed to underlying genetic lesions. In this article we review the reported associations between cancer and spermatogenic defects, and through database searches we identify candidate genes and gene classes that could explain some of the observed shared genetic risk. We discuss the importance of fully characterizing the genetic basis for the relationship between cancer and male factor infertility and propose future studies to that end.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liina Nagirnaja
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Kenneth I Aston
- Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Donald F Conrad
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri.
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28
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Huang M, Zhu M, Jiang T, Wang Y, Wang C, Jin G, Guo X, Sha J, Dai J, Wang X, Hu Z. Fine mapping the MHC region identified rs4997052 as a new variant associated with nonobstructive azoospermia in Han Chinese males. Fertil Steril 2018; 111:61-68. [PMID: 30502936 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.08.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between genetic variants in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) region and nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) susceptibility. DESIGN MHC region fine-mapping analysis based on previous NOA genome-wide association study (GWAS) data. SETTING Medical university. PATIENT(S) Nine hundred and eighty-one men with NOA and 1,657 normal fertile male controls. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The MHC region imputation assessed with SNP2HLA software, taking the specific Han-MHC database as a reference panel; statistical significance of the MHC variants calculated using logistic regression models; functional annotation based on online public databases; and phenotypic variances explained by specific groups of genetic variants estimated using the fixed effects model from individual associations. RESULT(S) Two independent risk loci, rs7194 (odds ratio [OR] 1.37) at MHC class II molecules and rs4997052 (OR 1.30) at MHC class I molecules, were identified. Functional annotation showed rs7194 may tag the effect of multiple amino acid residues and the expression of HLA-DQB1 and HLA-DRB1; while rs4997052 showed the effect of amino acid changes of HLA-B at position 116 as well as the expression of HLA-B and CCHCR1, which coexpressed with genes enriched in pathways of spermatogenesis and male gamete generation. The novel variant rs4997052 identified in our study can explain another approximately 0.66% of the phenotypic variances of NOA. CONCLUSION(S) We fine-mapped the MHC region and identified two loci that independently drove NOA susceptibility. These results provide a deeper understanding of the association mechanisms of MHC and NOA risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingtao Huang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Zhu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tingting Jiang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifeng Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangfu Jin
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiahao Sha
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Juncheng Dai
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoming Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhibin Hu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
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29
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Gentiluomo M, Crifasi L, Luddi A, Locci D, Barale R, Piomboni P, Campa D. Taste receptor polymorphisms and male infertility. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:2324-2331. [PMID: 29040583 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Accepted: 09/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are polymorphisms of taste receptor genes associated with male infertility? SUMMARY ANSWER This study has showed the associations between three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in taste receptors genes (TASR) and male infertility. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Recent studies showed the expression of taste receptors in the testis and in spermatozoa, suggesting their possible role in infertility. The vast genetic variability in taste genes results in a large degree of diversity in various human phenotypes. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION In this study, we genotyped 19 SNPs in 12 taste related genes in a total of 494 Caucasian male patients undergoing semen evaluation at the Centre of Couple Sterility of the Siena University Hospital. Consecutive patients were enrolled during infertility investigations from October 2014 to February 2016. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Median age of the patients was 36 years (18-58) and 141 were smokers. Genotyping was performed using the allele-specific PCR. The statistical analysis was carried out using generalized linear model (GLM) to explore the association between age, smoking, the genetic polymorphisms and sperm parameters. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We observed that the homozygous carriers of the (G) allele of the TAS2R14-rs3741843 polymorphism showed a decreased sperm progressive motility compared to heterozygotes and (A) homozygotes (P = 0.003). Moreover, the homozygous carriers of the (T) allele of the TAS2R3-rs11763979 SNP showed fewer normal acrosome compared with the heterozygous and the homozygous carriers of the (G) allele (P = 0.002). Multiple comparisons correction was applied and the Bonferroni-corrected critical P-value was = 0.003. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The analysis is restricted to SNPs within genes and to men of Caucasian ancestry. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS In silico analyses strongly point towards a functional effect of the two SNPs: TAS2R14-rs3741843 regulates TAS2R43 expression, a gene that is involved in cilia motility and therefore could influences sperm mobility; the (T) allele of TAS2R3-rs11763979 increases the expression of the WEE2 antisense RNA one gene (WEE2-AS1). According to Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) project the WEE2 gene is expressed in the testes where presumably it has the role of down regulating meiotic cell division. It is plausible to hypothesize that the WEE2-AS1 increased expression may down regulate WEE2 which in turn can alter the natural timing of sperm maturation increasing the number of abnormal sperm cells. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) None.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gentiluomo
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Luca Ghini, 13, Pisa 56126, Italy
| | - L Crifasi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Viale Bracci 16, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - A Luddi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Viale Bracci 16, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - D Locci
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Luca Ghini, 13, Pisa 56126, Italy
| | - R Barale
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Luca Ghini, 13, Pisa 56126, Italy
| | - P Piomboni
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Viale Bracci 16, Siena 53100, Italy
| | - D Campa
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Luca Ghini, 13, Pisa 56126, Italy
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Yang X, Zhang H, Yu Y, Zhu H, Hu X, Jiang Y, Wang R, Liu R. Clinical Features of Chromosome 6 Translocation in Male Carriers: A Report of 10 Cases and Review of the Literature. Med Sci Monit 2018; 24:4162-4168. [PMID: 29911662 PMCID: PMC6038718 DOI: 10.12659/msm.911170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The literature indicates that chromosome 6 is involved in balanced translocation and is involved in reproductive failure. This aim of this study was to explore the clinical features of chromosome 6 translocation in male carriers. MATERIAL AND METHODS We identified 10 patients who were carriers of chromosome 6 translocations and excluded the patients with varicocele, ejaculatory duct obstruction, and the other cause of infertility. The karyotype was analyzed using G-banding. A search for translocations on chromosome 6 involved in male infertility was performed using PubMed. We included cases of balanced chromosome 6 translocations involving adult men of fertile age and excluded those cases of live-born children, or those without breakpoints involving chromosome 6, or those with complex chromosomal translocations or chimeras. RESULTS All 10 patients underwent genetic counseling for infertility. Semen analysis showed that 1 case had azoospermia, while 9 cases exhibited normal semen criteria. The respective partners of the 9 cases with normal semen parameters had a tendency to miscarry: 3 experienced spontaneous and induced abortion because of abnormal embryos; 3 experienced 3 incidents of spontaneous abortion, 2 experienced double spontaneous abortion, and 1 experienced biochemical pregnancy on 3 occasions. Most of the chromosome 6 breakpoints in translocation carriers obtained by the PubMed search were associated with spontaneous abortion. CONCLUSIONS Chromosome translocations involving chromosome 6 influence fertility status and lead to increased risk of miscarriage. Cytogenetic screening before opting for assisted reproductive technology and the breakpoints of chromosome 6 translocation should be considered for infertile male carriers.
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Liu SY, Zhang CJ, Peng HY, Sun H, Lin KQ, Huang XQ, Huang K, Chu JY, Yang ZQ. Strong association of SLC1A1 and DPF3 gene variants with idiopathic male infertility in Han Chinese. Asian J Androl 2018; 19:486-492. [PMID: 27232852 PMCID: PMC5507099 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.178850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a multifactorial syndrome encompassing a wide variety of disorders. In recent years, several genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) association studies (GWAS) have been performed on azoospermia and/or oligozoospermia in different populations including two GWAS on nonobstructive azoospermia in China; however, the association of SNPs with idiopathic male infertility, especially asthenozoospermia and oligozoospermia, and their correlation with semen parameters are still not clear. To investigate genetic variants associated with idiopathic male infertility (asthenozoospermia, oligozoospermia, and oligoasthenozoospermia) in Chinese Han people, 20 candidate SNPs were selected from GWAS results and genotyped using the Sequenom MassARRAY assay. A total of 136 subfertile men and 456 healthy fertile men were recruited. rs6476866 in SLC1A1 (P = 1.919E-4, OR = 0.5905, 95% CI: 0.447–0.78) and rs10129954 in DPF3 (P = 0.0023, OR = 2.199, 95% CI: 1.311–3.689) were strongly associated with idiopathic male infertility. In addition, positive associations were observed between asthenozoospermia and rs215702 in LSM5 (P = 0.0016, OR = 1.479, 95% CI: 1.075–2.033) and between oligoasthenozoospermia and rs2477686 in PEX10 (P = 0.0011, OR = 2.935, 95% CI: 1.492–5.775). In addition, six SNPs (rs215702 in LSM5, rs6476866 in SLC1A1, rs10129954 in DPF3, rs1801133 in MTHFR, rs2477686 in PEX10, and rs10841496 in PED3A) were significantly correlated with semen quality alterations. Our results suggest that idiopathic male infertility in different ethnic groups may share the same mechanism or pathway. Cohort expansion and further mechanistic studies on the role of genetic factors that influence spermatogenesis and sperm progressive motility are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Yuan Liu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Chang-Jun Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Research Centre, People's Hospital of Shiyan, Shiyan 442000, China
| | - Hai-Ying Peng
- Reproductive Medical Research Centre, People's Hospital of Shiyan, Shiyan 442000, China
| | - Hao Sun
- Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Ke-Qin Lin
- Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Xiao-Qin Huang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Kai Huang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Jia-You Chu
- Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650118, China
| | - Zhao-Qing Yang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Kunming 650118, China
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Tüttelmann F, Ruckert C, Röpke A. Disorders of spermatogenesis: Perspectives for novel genetic diagnostics after 20 years of unchanged routine. MED GENET-BERLIN 2018; 30:12-20. [PMID: 29527098 PMCID: PMC5838132 DOI: 10.1007/s11825-018-0181-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Infertility is a common condition estimated to affect 10-15% of couples. The clinical causes are attributed in equal parts to the male and female partners. Diagnosing male infertility mostly relies on semen (and hormone) analysis, which results in classification into the two major phenotypes of oligo- and azoospermia. The clinical routine analyses have not changed over the last 20 years and comprise screening for chromosomal aberrations and Y‑chromosomal azoospermia factor deletions. These tests establish a causal genetic diagnosis in about 4% of unselected men in infertile couples and 20% of azoospermic men. Gene sequencing is currently only performed in very rare cases of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and the CFTR gene is routinely analysed in men with obstructive azoospermia. Still, a large number of genes have been proposed to be associated with male infertility by, for example, knock-out mouse models. In particular, those that are exclusively expressed in the testes are potential candidates for further analyses. However, the genome-wide analyses (a few array-CGH, six GWAS, and some small exome sequencing studies) performed so far have not lead to improved clinical diagnostic testing. In 2017, we started to routinely analyse the three validated male infertility genes: NR5A1, DMRT1, and TEX11. Preliminary analyses demonstrated highly likely pathogenic mutations in these genes as a cause of azoospermia in 4 men, equalling 5% of the 80 patients analysed so far, and increasing the diagnostic yield in this group to 25%. Over the past few years, we have observed a steep increase in publications on novel candidate genes for male infertility, especially in men with azoospermia. In addition, concerted efforts to achieve progress in elucidating genetic causes of male infertility and to introduce novel testing strategies into clinical routine have been made recently. Thus, we are confident that major breakthroughs concerning the genetics of male infertility will be achieved in the near future and will translate into clinical routine to improve patient/couple care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Tüttelmann
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Münster, Vesaliusweg 12–14, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Christian Ruckert
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Münster, Vesaliusweg 12–14, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Albrecht Röpke
- Institute of Human Genetics, University of Münster, Vesaliusweg 12–14, 48149 Münster, Germany
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Sato Y, Tajima A, Sato T, Nozawa S, Yoshiike M, Imoto I, Yamauchi A, Iwamoto T. Genome-wide association study identifies ERBB4 on 2q34 as a novel locus associated with sperm motility in Japanese men. J Med Genet 2018; 55:415-421. [PMID: 29453196 PMCID: PMC5992371 DOI: 10.1136/jmedgenet-2017-104991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2017] [Revised: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Background The decrease in sperm motility has a potent influence on fertilisation. Sperm motility, represented as the percentage of motile sperm in ejaculated sperms, is influenced by lifestyle habits or environmental factors and by inherited factors. However, genetic factors contributing to individual differences in sperm motility remain unclear. To identify genetic factors that influence human sperm motility, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of sperm motility. Methods A two-stage GWAS was conducted using 811 Japanese men in a discovery stage, followed by a replication study using an additional 779 Japanese men. Results In the two-staged GWAS, a single nucleotide polymorphism rs3791686 in the intron of gene for erb-b2 receptor tyrosine kinase 4 (ERBB4) on chromosome 2q34 was identified as a novel locus for sperm motility, as evident from the discovery and replication results using meta-analysis (β=−4.01, combined P=5.40×10−9). Conclusions Together with the previous evidence that Sertoli cell-specific Erbb4-knockout mice display an impaired ability to produce motile sperm, this finding provides the first genetic evidence for further investigation of the genome-wide significant association at the ERBB4 locus in larger studies across diverse human populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youichi Sato
- Department of Pharmaceutical Information Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Atsushi Tajima
- Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan.,Department of Bioinformatics and Genomics, Graduate School of Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Takehiro Sato
- Department of Bioinformatics and Genomics, Graduate School of Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Shiari Nozawa
- Department of Urology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Miki Yoshiike
- Department of Urology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan
| | - Issei Imoto
- Department of Human Genetics, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Aiko Yamauchi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Information Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Teruaki Iwamoto
- Department of Urology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, Japan.,Center for Infertility and IVF, International University of Health and Welfare Hospital, Nasushiobara, Japan
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Liu W, Gao X, Yan L, Liu H, Yu R, Zhao S, Ma J. Analysis of CDK2 mutations in Chinese men with non-obstructive azoospermia who underwent testis biopsy. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 36:356-360. [PMID: 29373224 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2017.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
To examine whether mutations of the CDK2 gene exist in Chinese men with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) with different histopathology, we recruited 175 Chinese men with idiopathic NOA who underwent testis biopsy, including hypospermatogenesis, germ cell maturation arrest and Sertoli cell only syndrome. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples. Subsequently, the seven exons of the CDK2 gene were amplified using polymerase chain reaction with specific primers, respectively. The polymerase chain reaction products were sequenced on an automated sequencer. We identified four known single nucleotide polymorphisms: c.324G>A in exon 1; c.363T>C in exon 2; c.*570G>A; and c.*1160G>C in the 3' UTR of the CDK2 gene. Comparison of the genotype and allele frequencies showed no significant differences between NOA cases and controls for the four single nucleotide polymorphisms. Furthermore, no significant differences were found between each pathological group and control group, respectively. The results indicate that mutations in the coding sequence of the CDK2 gene may not be responsible for idiopathic NOA in Chinese men. Future studies in large cohorts of different ethnic populations are warranted to establish whether associations exist between the CDK2 gene and NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China; The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China
| | - Xuan Gao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China; The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China
| | - Lei Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China; The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China
| | - Hongli Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China; The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China
| | - Ruimei Yu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China; The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China
| | - Shidou Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China; The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China.
| | - Jinlong Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China; The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, 157 Jingliu Road, Jinan, 250021, China.
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35
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Jiang T, Wang Y, Zhu M, Wang Y, Huang M, Jin G, Guo X, Sha J, Dai J, Hu Z. Transcriptome-wide association study revealed two novel genes associated with nonobstructive azoospermia in a Chinese population. Fertil Steril 2017; 108:1056-1062.e4. [PMID: 29202958 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2017] [Revised: 09/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the associations between genetically cis-regulated gene expression levels and nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) susceptibility. DESIGN Transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS). SETTING Medical university. INTERVENTIONS None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The cis-hg2 values for each gene were estimated with GCTA software. The effect sizes of cis-single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on gene expression were measured using GEMMA software. Gene expression levels were entered into our existing NOA GWAS cohort using GEMMA software. The TWAS P-values were calculated using logistic regression models. RESULT(S) Expression levels of 1,296 cis-heritable genes were entered into our existing NOA GWAS data. The TWAS results identified two novel genes as statistically significantly associated with NOA susceptibility: PILRA and ZNF676. In addition, 6p21.32, previously reported in NOA GWAS, was further validated to be a susceptible region to NOA risk. CONCLUSION(S) Analysis with TWAS provides fruitful targets for follow-up functional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuzhuo Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Zhu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingtao Huang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangfu Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiahao Sha
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Juncheng Dai
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhibin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
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Sato Y, Hasegawa C, Tajima A, Nozawa S, Yoshiike M, Koh E, Kanaya J, Namiki M, Matsumiya K, Tsujimura A, Komatsu K, Itoh N, Eguchi J, Yamauchi A, Iwamoto T. Association of TUSC1 and DPF3 gene polymorphisms with male infertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2017; 35:257-263. [PMID: 28975488 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-017-1052-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2017] [Accepted: 09/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Recently, genome-wide association studies of a Hutterite population in the USA revealed that five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with a significant association with sperm quality and/or function in ethnically diverse men from Chicago were significantly correlated with family size. Of these, three SNPs (rs7867029, rs7174015, and rs12870438) were found to be significantly associated with the risk of azoospermia and/or oligozoospermia in a Japanese population. In this study, we investigated whether the rs10966811 (located in an intergenic region between the TUSC1 and IZUMO3 genes) and rs10129954 (located in the DPF3 gene) SNPs, previously related to family size, are associated with male infertility. In addition, we performed association analysis between rs12348 in TUSC1 and rs2772579 in IZUMO3 and male infertility. METHODS We genotyped 145 patients with infertility (including 83 patients with azoospermia and 62 with oligozoospermia) and 713 fertile controls by PCR-RFLP technique for polymorphism. Because rs10966811 has no restriction sites, the SNP rs12376894 with strong linkage disequilibrium was selected as an alternative to rs10966811. RESULTS There was a statistically significant association between rs12376894 proxy SNP of rs10966811 and oligozoospermia. Also, a statistically significant association between rs10129954 and azoospermia, and oligozoospermia was observed. When we assessed the relationship between rs12348 in TUSC1 and rs2772579 in IZUMO3 and male infertility traits, we found that rs12348 in TUSC1 was significantly associated with azoospermia and oligozoospermia, but rs2772579 in IZUMO3 was not associated with male infertility. CONCLUSION We found that the polymorphisms in TUSC1 and DPF3 displayed strong associations with male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youichi Sato
- Department of Pharmaceutical Information Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, 770-8505, Japan.
| | - Chise Hasegawa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Information Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, 770-8505, Japan
| | - Atsushi Tajima
- Department of Bioinformatics and Genomics, Graduate School of Advanced Preventive Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, 920-8640, Japan
| | - Shiari Nozawa
- Department of Urology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, 216-8511, Japan
| | - Miki Yoshiike
- Department of Urology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, 216-8511, Japan
| | - Eitetsue Koh
- Department of Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8641, Japan
| | - Jiro Kanaya
- Department of Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8641, Japan
| | - Mikio Namiki
- Department of Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa, 920-8641, Japan.,Department of Urology, Hasegawa Hospital, Toyama, 930-0065, Japan
| | - Kiyomi Matsumiya
- Department of Urology, Suita Tokushukai Hospital, Osaka, 565-0814, Japan
| | - Akira Tsujimura
- Department of Urology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Urayasu, 279-0021, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Komatsu
- Department of Urology, Harasanshinkai Hospital, Fukuoka, 812-0033, Japan
| | - Naoki Itoh
- Department of Urology, NTT East Sapporo Hospital, Sapporo, 060-0061, Japan
| | - Jiro Eguchi
- Department of Urology, Sasebo Kyosai Hospital, Sasebo, 857-8575, Japan
| | - Aiko Yamauchi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Information Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University, Tokushima, 770-8505, Japan
| | - Teruaki Iwamoto
- Department of Urology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki, 216-8511, Japan.,Center for Infertility and IVF, International University of Health and Welfare Hospital, Nasushiobara, 329-2763, Japan
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37
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Mitchell MJ, Metzler-Guillemain C, Toure A, Coutton C, Arnoult C, Ray PF. Single gene defects leading to sperm quantitative anomalies. Clin Genet 2016; 91:208-216. [PMID: 27779755 DOI: 10.1111/cge.12900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2016] [Revised: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Azoospermia, defined by the absence of sperm in the ejaculate, is estimated to affect up to 1% of men in the general population. Assisted reproductive technologies have revolutionized the treatment of infertility, and some azoospermic men, those with a post-meiotic defect, can conceive following the use of viable spermatoza recovered from testicular or epididymal biopsies. Although male infertility is a multifactorial disease, it is believed that genetic factors are predominant in the etiology of azoospermia and severe oligozoospermia. Despite that assumption, substantiated by the high number of infertile knockout (KO) mice and the even higher number of genes expressed essentially in the testis, little is known about the pathophysiology of reduced sperm production, its primary causes or the genetic and epigenetic consequences for the gamete and the future conceptus. The identification of genetic abnormalities is therefore paramount to understand spermatogenesis, to adopt the best course of action for the patient and to provide adequate genetic counseling. We provide here a review of the recent literature on the genetics of azoospermia and oligozoospermia, focusing on defects directly altering sperm production. New sequencing technologies are contributing to the rapid evolution of the recent field of infertility genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Mitchell
- Génétique Médicale et Génomique Fonctionnelle, Aix Marseille University, INSERM, Marseille, France
| | - C Metzler-Guillemain
- Génétique Médicale et Génomique Fonctionnelle, Aix Marseille University, INSERM, Marseille, France
| | - A Toure
- INSERM U1016, Institut Cochin, Paris, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, CNRS UMR8104, Paris, France.,Sorbonne Paris Cité, Faculté de Médecine, Université Paris Descartes, Paris, France
| | - C Coutton
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.,Institut for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France.,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UF de Génétique Chromosomique, Grenoble, France
| | - C Arnoult
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.,Institut for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France
| | - P F Ray
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.,Institut for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR 5309, Grenoble, France.,CHU Grenoble Alpes, UF de Biochimie et Génétique Moléculaire, Grenoble, France
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Zou S, Song P, Meng H, Chen T, Chen J, Wen Z, Li Z, Li Z, Shi Y, Hu H. Association and meta-analysis of HLA and non-obstructive azoospermia in the Han Chinese population. Andrologia 2016; 49. [PMID: 27597543 DOI: 10.1111/and.12600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The exact aetiology and pathogenesis of most non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) are still unknown. The previous two genomewide association studies (GWASs) have identified three different loci within the HLA region for NOA in the Han Chinese population, including rs3129878, rs498422 and rs7194. To further validate the risk of three GWAS-linked loci for NOA, we conducted a case-control study of these three risk loci in an independent Han Chinese male population, with 603 NOA patients and 610 controls. Furthermore, we also performed a meta-analysis of five studies on these three NOA-risk loci. The case-control study strongly suggested a significant association between loci rs3129878, rs498422 and rs7194 and NOA (P = 6.75 × 10-21 (OR = 2.2586), P = 0.0060 (OR = 1.4013) and P = 0.0128 (OR = 1.2626) respectively). Our meta-analyses also supported the susceptibility of these three risk loci to NOA (P < 0.01). The risk variants within the HLA region potentially have a strong effect on males at risk of NOA, and may serve as diagnostic markers for male infertility. However, considering genetic difference between different populations, future validating studies in larger independent samples and animal experiments are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Zou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - P Song
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - H Meng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - T Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - J Chen
- BIO-X Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Z Wen
- BIO-X Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Z Li
- BIO-X Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Z Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Y Shi
- BIO-X Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - H Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
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Burrows CK, Kosova G, Herman C, Patterson K, Hartmann KE, Velez Edwards DR, Stephenson MD, Lynch VJ, Ober C. Expression Quantitative Trait Locus Mapping Studies in Mid-secretory Phase Endometrial Cells Identifies HLA-F and TAP2 as Fecundability-Associated Genes. PLoS Genet 2016; 12:e1005858. [PMID: 27447835 PMCID: PMC4957750 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1005858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility traits in humans are heritable, however, little is known about the genes that influence reproductive outcomes or the genetic variants that contribute to differences in these traits between individuals, particularly women. To address this gap in knowledge, we performed an unbiased genome-wide expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) mapping study to identify common regulatory (expression) single nucleotide polymorphisms (eSNPs) in mid-secretory endometrium. We identified 423 cis-eQTLs for 132 genes that were significant at a false discovery rate (FDR) of 1%. After pruning for strong LD (r2 >0.95), we tested for associations between eSNPs and fecundability (the ability to get pregnant), measured as the length of the interval to pregnancy, in 117 women. Two eSNPs were associated with fecundability at a FDR of 5%; both were in the HLA region and were eQTLs for the TAP2 gene (P = 1.3x10-4) and the HLA-F gene (P = 4.0x10-4), respectively. The effects of these SNPs on fecundability were replicated in an independent sample. The two eSNPs reside within or near regulatory elements in decidualized human endometrial stromal cells. Our study integrating eQTL mapping in a primary tissue with association studies of a related phenotype revealed novel genes and associated alleles with independent effects on fecundability, and identified a central role for two HLA region genes in human implantation success. Little is known about the genetics of female fertility. In this study, we addressed this gap in knowledge by first searching for genetic variants that regulate gene expression in uterine endometrial cells, and then testing those functional variants for associations with the length of time to pregnancy in fertile women. Two functional genetic variants were associated with time to pregnancy in women after correcting for multiple testing. Those variants were each associated with the expression of genes in the HLA region, HLA-F and TAP2, which are have not previously been implicated female fertility. The association between HLA-F and TAP2 genotypes on the length of time to pregnancy was replicated in an independent cohort of women. Because HLA-F and TAP2 are involved in immune processes, these results suggest their role in specific immune regulation in the endometrium during implantation. Future studies will characterize these molecules in the implantation process and their potential as drug targets for treatment of conditions related to implantation failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Courtney K. Burrows
- Department of Human Genetics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Gülüm Kosova
- Department of Human Genetics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Catherine Herman
- Department of Human Genetics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Kristen Patterson
- Department of Human Genetics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Katherine E. Hartmann
- Institute for Medicine and Public Health, Vanderbilt Epidemiology Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Digna R. Velez Edwards
- Institute for Medicine and Public Health, Vanderbilt Epidemiology Center, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Mary D. Stephenson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Vincent J. Lynch
- Department of Human Genetics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Carole Ober
- Department of Human Genetics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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40
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Krausz C, Escamilla AR, Chianese C. Genetics of male infertility: from research to clinic. Reproduction 2016; 150:R159-74. [PMID: 26447148 DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 131] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Male infertility is a multifactorial complex disease with highly heterogeneous phenotypic representation and in at least 15% of cases, this condition is related to known genetic disorders, including both chromosomal and single-gene alterations. In about 40% of primary testicular failure, the etiology remains unknown and a portion of them is likely to be caused by not yet identified genetic anomalies. During the last 10 years, the search for 'hidden' genetic factors was largely unsuccessful in identifying recurrent genetic factors with potential clinical application. The armamentarium of diagnostic tests has been implemented only by the screening for Y chromosome-linked gr/gr deletion in those populations for which consistent data with risk estimate are available. On the other hand, it is clearly demonstrated by both single nucleotide polymorphisms and comparative genomic hybridization arrays, that there is a rare variant burden (especially relevant concerning deletions) in men with impaired spermatogenesis. In the era of next generation sequencing (NGS), we expect to expand our diagnostic skills, since mutations in several hundred genes can potentially lead to infertility and each of them is likely responsible for only a small fraction of cases. In this regard, system biology, which allows revealing possible gene interactions and common biological pathways, will provide an informative tool for NGS data interpretation. Although these novel approaches will certainly help in discovering 'hidden' genetic factors, a more comprehensive picture of the etiopathogenesis of idiopathic male infertility will only be achieved by a parallel investigation of the complex world of gene environmental interaction and epigenetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csilla Krausz
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical SciencesCentre of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy and Andrology ServiceFundació Puigvert, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB-Sant Pau), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical SciencesCentre of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy and Andrology ServiceFundació Puigvert, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB-Sant Pau), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Antoni Riera Escamilla
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical SciencesCentre of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy and Andrology ServiceFundació Puigvert, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB-Sant Pau), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Chiara Chianese
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical SciencesCentre of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy and Andrology ServiceFundació Puigvert, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB-Sant Pau), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical SciencesCentre of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Viale Gaetano Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy and Andrology ServiceFundació Puigvert, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas Sant Pau (IIB-Sant Pau), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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41
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Skakkebaek NE, Rajpert-De Meyts E, Buck Louis GM, Toppari J, Andersson AM, Eisenberg ML, Jensen TK, Jørgensen N, Swan SH, Sapra KJ, Ziebe S, Priskorn L, Juul A. Male Reproductive Disorders and Fertility Trends: Influences of Environment and Genetic Susceptibility. Physiol Rev 2016; 96:55-97. [PMID: 26582516 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00017.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 598] [Impact Index Per Article: 74.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
It is predicted that Japan and European Union will soon experience appreciable decreases in their populations due to persistently low total fertility rates (TFR) below replacement level (2.1 child per woman). In the United States, where TFR has also declined, there are ethnic differences. Caucasians have rates below replacement, while TFRs among African-Americans and Hispanics are higher. We review possible links between TFR and trends in a range of male reproductive problems, including testicular cancer, disorders of sex development, cryptorchidism, hypospadias, low testosterone levels, poor semen quality, childlessness, changed sex ratio, and increasing demand for assisted reproductive techniques. We present evidence that several adult male reproductive problems arise in utero and are signs of testicular dysgenesis syndrome (TDS). Although TDS might result from genetic mutations, recent evidence suggests that it most often is related to environmental exposures of the fetal testis. However, environmental factors can also affect the adult endocrine system. Based on our review of genetic and environmental factors, we conclude that environmental exposures arising from modern lifestyle, rather than genetics, are the most important factors in the observed trends. These environmental factors might act either directly or via epigenetic mechanisms. In the latter case, the effects of exposures might have an impact for several generations post-exposure. In conclusion, there is an urgent need to prioritize research in reproductive physiology and pathophysiology, particularly in highly industrialized countries facing decreasing populations. We highlight a number of topics that need attention by researchers in human physiology, pathophysiology, environmental health sciences, and demography.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niels E Skakkebaek
- Department of Growth & Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Epidemiology, Statistics and Prevention Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Physiology & Pediatrics, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Male Reproductive Medicine & Surgery Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ewa Rajpert-De Meyts
- Department of Growth & Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Epidemiology, Statistics and Prevention Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Physiology & Pediatrics, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Male Reproductive Medicine & Surgery Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Germaine M Buck Louis
- Department of Growth & Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Epidemiology, Statistics and Prevention Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Physiology & Pediatrics, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Male Reproductive Medicine & Surgery Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Jorma Toppari
- Department of Growth & Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Epidemiology, Statistics and Prevention Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Physiology & Pediatrics, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Male Reproductive Medicine & Surgery Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna-Maria Andersson
- Department of Growth & Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Epidemiology, Statistics and Prevention Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Physiology & Pediatrics, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Male Reproductive Medicine & Surgery Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael L Eisenberg
- Department of Growth & Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Epidemiology, Statistics and Prevention Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Physiology & Pediatrics, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Male Reproductive Medicine & Surgery Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Tina Kold Jensen
- Department of Growth & Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Epidemiology, Statistics and Prevention Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Physiology & Pediatrics, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Male Reproductive Medicine & Surgery Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth & Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Epidemiology, Statistics and Prevention Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Physiology & Pediatrics, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Male Reproductive Medicine & Surgery Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Shanna H Swan
- Department of Growth & Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Epidemiology, Statistics and Prevention Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Physiology & Pediatrics, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Male Reproductive Medicine & Surgery Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Katherine J Sapra
- Department of Growth & Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Epidemiology, Statistics and Prevention Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Physiology & Pediatrics, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Male Reproductive Medicine & Surgery Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Ziebe
- Department of Growth & Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Epidemiology, Statistics and Prevention Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Physiology & Pediatrics, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Male Reproductive Medicine & Surgery Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lærke Priskorn
- Department of Growth & Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Epidemiology, Statistics and Prevention Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Physiology & Pediatrics, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Male Reproductive Medicine & Surgery Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anders Juul
- Department of Growth & Reproduction and EDMaRC, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; Division of Epidemiology, Statistics and Prevention Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland; Department of Physiology & Pediatrics, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Male Reproductive Medicine & Surgery Program, Stanford University, Stanford, California; Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; and The Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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42
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The "omics" of human male infertility: integrating big data in a systems biology approach. Cell Tissue Res 2015; 363:295-312. [PMID: 26661835 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2320-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process in which >2300 genes are temporally and spatially regulated to form a terminally differentiated sperm cell that must maintain the ability to contribute to a totipotent embryo which can successfully differentiate into a healthy individual. This process is dependent on fidelity of the genome, epigenome, transcriptome, and proteome of the spermatogonia, supporting cells, and the resulting sperm cell. Infertility and/or disease risk may increase in the offspring if abnormalities are present. This review highlights the recent advances in our understanding of these processes in light of the "omics revolution". We briefly review each of these areas, as well as highlight areas of future study and needs to advance further.
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43
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Chihara M, Yoshihara K, Ishiguro T, Adachi S, Okada H, Kashima K, Sato T, Tanaka A, Tanaka K, Enomoto T. Association of NR3C1/Glucocorticoid Receptor gene SNP with azoospermia in Japanese men. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2015; 42:59-66. [PMID: 26556219 DOI: 10.1111/jog.12877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2015] [Accepted: 08/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
AIM The molecular pathogenesis of non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is unclear. Our aim was to identify the genetic susceptibility for NOA in Japanese men by using a combination of transcriptome network analysis and SNP genotyping. MATERIAL AND METHODS We searched for candidate genes using RNA transcriptome network analysis of 2611 NOA-related genes that we had previously reported. We analyzed candidate genes for disease linkage with single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the genomes of 335 Japanese men with NOA and 410 healthy controls using SNP-specific real-time polymerase chain reaction TaqMan assays. RESULTS Three candidate genes (NR3C1, YBX2, and BCL2) were identified by the transcriptome network analysis, each with three SNP. Allele frequency analysis of the nine SNP indicated a significantly higher frequency of the NR3C1 rs852977 G allele in NOA cases compared with controls (corrected P = 5.7e-15; odds ratio = 3.20; 95% confidence interval, 2.40-4.26). The other eight candidate polymorphisms showed no significant association. CONCLUSION The NR3C1 rs852977 polymorphism is a potential marker for genetic susceptibility to NOA in Japanese men. Further studies are necessary to clarify the association between the NR3C1 polymorphism and alterations of glucocorticoid signaling pathway leading to male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makoto Chihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Kosuke Yoshihara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Ishiguro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Sosuke Adachi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Okada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Joetsu General Hospital, Joetsu, Japan
| | - Katsunori Kashima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Takaaki Sato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tachikawa Hospital, Nagaoka, Japan
| | | | - Kenichi Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan.,Niigata Medical Center Hospital, Niigata, Japan
| | - Takayuki Enomoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
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44
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Okutman O, Muller J, Baert Y, Serdarogullari M, Gultomruk M, Piton A, Rombaut C, Benkhalifa M, Teletin M, Skory V, Bakircioglu E, Goossens E, Bahceci M, Viville S. Exome sequencing reveals a nonsense mutation in TEX15 causing spermatogenic failure in a Turkish family. Hum Mol Genet 2015. [PMID: 26199321 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddv290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a global healthcare problem, and despite long years of assisted reproductive activities, a significant number of cases remain idiopathic. Our currently restricted understanding of basic mechanisms driving human gametogenesis severely limits the improvement of clinical care for infertile patients. Using exome sequencing, we identified a nonsense mutation leading to a premature stop in the TEX15 locus (c.2130T>G, p.Y710*) in a consanguineous Turkish family comprising eight siblings in which three brothers were identified as infertile. TEX15 displays testis-specific expression, maps to chromosome 8, contains four exons and encodes a 2789-amino acid protein with uncertain function. The mutation, which should lead to early translational termination at the first exon of TEX15, co-segregated with the infertility phenotype, and our data strongly suggest that it is the cause of spermatogenic defects in the family. All three affected brothers presented a phenotype reminiscent of the one observed in KO mice. Indeed, previously reported results demonstrated that disruption of the orthologous gene in mice caused a drastic reduction in testis size and meiotic arrest in the first wave of spermatogenesis in males while female KO mice were fertile. The data from our study of one Turkish family suggested that the identified mutation correlates with a decrease in sperm count over time. A diagnostic test identifying the mutation in man could provide an indication of spermatogenic failure and prompt patients to undertake sperm cryopreservation at an early age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozlem Okutman
- Département Génomique fonctionnelle et cancer and Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Jean Muller
- Département Médecine translationelle et neurogénétique, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Institut National de Santé et de Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U964/Centre National de Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMR 7104/Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France, Laboratoire de diagnostic génétique, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Yoni Baert
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | - Amélie Piton
- Département Médecine translationelle et neurogénétique, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (IGBMC), Institut National de Santé et de Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U964/Centre National de Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) UMR 7104/Université de Strasbourg, 67404 Illkirch, France, Laboratoire de diagnostic génétique, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Charlotte Rombaut
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Moncef Benkhalifa
- Médecine de la Reproduction et Cytogénétique Médicale CHU et Faculté de Médecine, Université de Picardie Jules Verne, 80000 Amiens, France and
| | - Marius Teletin
- Département Génomique fonctionnelle et cancer and Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | | | | | - Ellen Goossens
- Biology of the Testis, Research Laboratory for Reproduction, Genetics and Regenerative Medicine, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Stéphane Viville
- Département Génomique fonctionnelle et cancer and Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, 67000 Strasbourg, France,
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45
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Ni B, Lin Y, Sun L, Zhu M, Li Z, Wang H, Yu J, Guo X, Zuo X, Dong J, Xia Y, Wen Y, Wu H, Li H, Zhu Y, Ping P, Chen X, Dai J, Jiang Y, Xu P, Du Q, Yao B, Weng N, Lu H, Wang Z, Zhu X, Yang X, Xiong C, Ma H, Jin G, Xu J, Wang X, Zhou Z, Liu J, Zhang X, Conrad DF, Hu Z, Sha J. Low-frequency germline variants across 6p22.2-6p21.33 are associated with non-obstructive azoospermia in Han Chinese men. Hum Mol Genet 2015. [PMID: 26199320 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddv257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified several common loci contributing to non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA). However, a substantial fraction of NOA heritability remains undefined, especially those low-frequency [defined here as having a minor allele frequency (MAF) between 0.5 and 5%] and rare (MAF below 0.5%) variants. Here, we performed a 3-stage exome-wide association study in Han Chinese men to evaluate the role of low-frequency or rare germline variants in NOA development. The discovery stage included 962 NOA cases and 1348 healthy male controls genotyped by exome chips and was followed by a 2-stage replication with an additional 2168 cases and 5248 controls. We identified three low-frequency variants located at 6p22.2 (rs2298090 in HIST1H1E encoding p.Lys152Arg: OR = 0.30, P = 2.40 × 10(-16)) and 6p21.33 (rs200847762 in FKBPL encoding p.Pro137Leu: OR = 0.11, P = 3.77 × 10(-16); rs11754464 in MSH5: OR = 1.78, P = 3.71 × 10(-7)) associated with NOA risk after Bonferroni correction. In summary, we report an instance of newly identified signals for NOA risk in genes previously undetected through GWAS on 6p22.2-6p21.33 in a Chinese population and highlight the role of low-frequency variants with a large effect in the process of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bixian Ni
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center For Cancer Personalized Medicine, School of Public Health and
| | - Yuan Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center For Cancer Personalized Medicine, School of Public Health and
| | - Liangdan Sun
- Institute of Dermatology and Department of Dermatology, No. 1 Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China, Key Laboratory of Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, China, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China
| | - Meng Zhu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center For Cancer Personalized Medicine, School of Public Health and
| | - Zheng Li
- Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center For Cancer Personalized Medicine, School of Public Health and
| | - Jun Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Xianbo Zuo
- Institute of Dermatology and Department of Dermatology, No. 1 Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China, Key Laboratory of Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, China, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China
| | - Jing Dong
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center For Cancer Personalized Medicine, School of Public Health and
| | - Yankai Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China, Department of Toxicology and Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Yang Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center For Cancer Personalized Medicine, School of Public Health and
| | - Hao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430032, China
| | - Yong Zhu
- Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Ping Ping
- Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Xiangfeng Chen
- Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Juncheng Dai
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center For Cancer Personalized Medicine, School of Public Health and
| | - Yue Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center For Cancer Personalized Medicine, School of Public Health and
| | - Peng Xu
- Jinghua Hospital, Shenyang Dongfang Medical Group, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Qiang Du
- Department of Reproduction, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Bing Yao
- Department of Andrology, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Ning Weng
- Jinghua Hospital, Shenyang Dongfang Medical Group, Shenyang 110004, China
| | - Hui Lu
- Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Zhuqing Wang
- Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Xiaobin Zhu
- Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China, Center of Clinical Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Chenliang Xiong
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430032, China
| | - Hongxia Ma
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center For Cancer Personalized Medicine, School of Public Health and
| | - Guangfu Jin
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center For Cancer Personalized Medicine, School of Public Health and
| | - Jianfeng Xu
- Department of Urology, Huashan Hospital, Shanghai 200052, China
| | - Xinru Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China, Department of Toxicology and Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
| | - Zuomin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Jiayin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China, Center of Clinical Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Xuejun Zhang
- Institute of Dermatology and Department of Dermatology, No. 1 Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China, Key Laboratory of Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, China, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China
| | - Donald F Conrad
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA, Department of Pathology & Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Zhibin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Jiangsu Key Lab of Cancer Biomarkers, Prevention and Treatment, Collaborative Innovation Center For Cancer Personalized Medicine, School of Public Health and State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, Institute of Plant Biology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200052, China,
| | - Jiahao Sha
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China, Department of Histology and Embryology, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China,
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Yatsenko AN, Georgiadis AP, Röpke A, Berman AJ, Jaffe T, Olszewska M, Westernströer B, Sanfilippo J, Kurpisz M, Rajkovic A, Yatsenko SA, Kliesch S, Schlatt S, Tüttelmann F. X-linked TEX11 mutations, meiotic arrest, and azoospermia in infertile men. N Engl J Med 2015; 372:2097-107. [PMID: 25970010 PMCID: PMC4470617 DOI: 10.1056/nejmoa1406192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 215] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The genetic basis of nonobstructive azoospermia is unknown in the majority of infertile men. METHODS We performed array comparative genomic hybridization testing in blood samples obtained from 15 patients with azoospermia, and we performed mutation screening by means of direct Sanger sequencing of the testis-expressed 11 gene (TEX11) open reading frame in blood and semen samples obtained from 289 patients with azoospermia and 384 controls. RESULTS We identified a 99-kb hemizygous loss on chromosome Xq13.2 that involved three TEX11 exons. This loss, which was identical in 2 patients with azoospermia, predicts a deletion of 79 amino acids within the meiosis-specific sporulation domain SPO22. Our subsequent mutation screening showed five novel TEX11 mutations: three splicing mutations and two missense mutations. These mutations, which occurred in 7 of 289 men with azoospermia (2.4%), were absent in 384 controls with normal sperm concentrations (P=0.003). Notably, five of those TEX11 mutations were detected in 33 patients (15%) with azoospermia who received a diagnosis of azoospermia with meiotic arrest. Meiotic arrest in these patients resembled the phenotype of Tex11-deficient male mice. Immunohistochemical analysis showed specific cytoplasmic TEX11 expression in late spermatocytes, as well as in round and elongated spermatids, in normal human testes. In contrast, testes of patients who had azoospermia with TEX11 mutations had meiotic arrest and lacked TEX11 expression. CONCLUSIONS In our study, hemizygous TEX11 mutations were a common cause of meiotic arrest and azoospermia in infertile men. (Funded by the National Institutes of Health and others.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander N Yatsenko
- From the Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences (A.N.Y., A.P.G., J.S., A. Rajkovic, S.A.Y.) and Urology (T.J.), University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, and the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences (A.J.B.) - all in Pittsburgh; the Institute of Human Genetics (A. Röpke, F.T.) and Center of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology (B.W., S.K., S.S.), University of Münster, Münster, Germany; and the Department of Reproductive Biology and Stem Cells, Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznań (M.O., M.K.)
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47
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Sato Y, Tajima A, Tsunematsu K, Nozawa S, Yoshiike M, Koh E, Kanaya J, Namiki M, Matsumiya K, Tsujimura A, Komatsu K, Itoh N, Eguchi J, Imoto I, Yamauchi A, Iwamoto T. Lack of replication of four candidate SNPs implicated in human male fertility traits: a large-scale population-based study. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:1505-9. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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48
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Sato Y, Tajima A, Tsunematsu K, Nozawa S, Yoshiike M, Koh E, Kanaya J, Namiki M, Matsumiya K, Tsujimura A, Komatsu K, Itoh N, Eguchi J, Imoto I, Yamauchi A, Iwamoto T. An association study of four candidate loci for human male fertility traits with male infertility. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:1510-4. [PMID: 25908656 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are the four candidate loci (rs7867029, rs7174015, rs12870438 and rs724078) for human male fertility traits, identified in a genome-wide association study (GWAS) of a Hutterite population in the USA, associated with male infertility in a Japanese population? SUMMARY ANSWER rs7867029, rs7174015 and rs12870438 are significantly associated with the risk of male infertility in a Japanese population. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Recently, a GWAS of a Hutterite population in the USA revealed that 41 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were significantly correlated with family size or birth rate. Of these, four SNPs (rs7867029, rs7174015, rs12870438 and rs724078) were found to be associated with semen parameters in ethnically diverse men from Chicago. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This is a case-control association study in a total of 917 Japanese subjects, including 791 fertile men, 76 patients with azoospermia and 50 patients with oligozoospermia. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Azoospermia was diagnosed on the basis of semen analysis (the absence of sperm in ejaculate), serum hormone levels and physical examinations. Oligozoospermia was defined as a sperm concentration of <20 × 10(6)/ml. We excluded patients with any known cause of infertility (i.e. obstructive azoospermia, varicocele, cryptorchidism, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, karyotype abnormalities or complete deletion of AZF a, b or c). The SNPs rs7867029, rs7174015, rs12870438 and rs724078 were genotyped using DNA from peripheral blood samples and either restriction fragment length polymorphism PCR or TaqMan probes. Genetic associations between the four SNPs and male infertility were assessed using a logistic regression analysis under three different comparative models (additive, recessive or dominant). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The genotypes of all four SNPs were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in the fertile controls. The SNPs rs7867029 and rs7174015 are associated with oligozoospermia [rs7867029: odds ratio (OR) = 1.70, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.07-2.68, P = 0.024 (log-additive); rs7174015: OR = 6.52, 95% CI = 1.57-27.10, P = 0.0099 (dominant)] and rs12870438 is associated with azoospermia (OR = 10.90, 95% CI = 2.67-44.60, P = 0.00087 (recessive)] and oligozoospermia [OR = 8.54, 95% CI = 1.52-47.90, P = 0.015 (recessive)]. The association between rs7174015 and oligozoospermia under a dominant model and between rs12870438 and azoospermia under additive and recessive models remained after correction for multiple testing. There were no associations between rs724078 and azoospermia or oligozoospermia. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Even though the sample size of case subjects was not very large, we found that three SNPs were associated with the risk of male infertility in a Japanese population. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The three infertility-associated SNPs may be contributing to a quantitative reduction in spermatogenesis. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was supported in part by the Ministry of Health and Welfare of Japan (1013201) (to T.I.), Grant-in-Aids for Scientific Research (C) (23510242) (to A.Ta.) from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, the European Union (BMH4-CT96-0314) (to T. I.) and the Takeda Science Foundation (to A.Ta.). None of the authors has any competing interests to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youichi Sato
- Department of Pharmaceutical Information Science, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan
| | - Atsushi Tajima
- Department of Human Genetics, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan Department of Bioinformatics and Genomics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa 920-8640, Japan
| | - Kouki Tsunematsu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Information Science, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan
| | - Shiari Nozawa
- Department of Urology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki 216-8511, Japan
| | - Miki Yoshiike
- Department of Urology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki 216-8511, Japan
| | - Eitetsue Koh
- Department of Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Jiro Kanaya
- Department of Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Mikio Namiki
- Department of Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Kiyomi Matsumiya
- Department of Urology, Osaka Police Hospital, Osaka 543-0035, Japan
| | - Akira Tsujimura
- Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Komatsu
- Department of Urology, Harasanshinkai Hospital, Fukuoka 812-0033, Japan
| | - Naoki Itoh
- Department of Urology, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo 060-8543, Japan
| | - Jiro Eguchi
- Department of Urology, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki 852-8523, Japan
| | - Issei Imoto
- Department of Human Genetics, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8503, Japan
| | - Aiko Yamauchi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Information Science, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, Tokushima 770-8505, Japan
| | - Teruaki Iwamoto
- Department of Urology, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, Kawasaki 216-8511, Japan Center for Infertility and IVF, International University of Health and Welfare Hospital, Nasushiobara 329-2763, Japan
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49
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Tu W, Liu Y, Shen Y, Yan Y, Wang X, Yang D, Li L, Ma Y, Tao D, Zhang S, Yang Y. Genome-Wide Loci Linked to Non-Obstructive Azoospermia Susceptibility May Be Independent of Reduced Sperm Production in Males with Normozoospermia1. Biol Reprod 2015; 92:41. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.125237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
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50
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Llano E, Gomez-H L, García-Tuñón I, Sánchez-Martín M, Caburet S, Barbero JL, Schimenti JC, Veitia RA, Pendas AM. STAG3 is a strong candidate gene for male infertility. Hum Mol Genet 2014; 23:3421-31. [PMID: 24608227 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddu051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Oligo- and azoospermia are severe forms of male infertility. However, known genetic factors account only for a small fraction of the cases. Recently, whole-exome sequencing in a large consanguineous family with inherited premature ovarian failure (POF) identified a homozygous frameshift mutation in the STAG3 gene leading to a premature stop codon. STAG3 encodes a meiosis-specific subunit of the cohesin complex, a large proteinaceous ring with DNA-entrapping ability that ensures sister chromatid cohesion and enables correct synapsis and segregation of homologous chromosomes during meiosis. The pathogenicity of the STAG3 mutations was functionally validated with a loss-of-function mouse model for STAG3 in oogenesis. However, and since none of the male members of this family was homozygous for the mutant allele, we only could hypothesized its putative involvement in male infertility. In this report, we show that male mice devoid of Stag3 display a severe meiotic phenotype that includes a meiotic arrest at zygonema-like shortening of their chromosome axial elements/lateral elements, partial loss of centromeric cohesion at early prophase and maintenance of the ability to initiate but not complete RAD51- and DMC1-mediated double-strand break repair, demonstrating that STAG3 is a crucial cohesin subunit in mammalian gametogenesis and supporting our proposal that STAG3 is a strong candidate gene for human male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Llano
- Departamento de Fisiología y Farmacología and
| | - Laura Gomez-H
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer (CSIC-USAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Ignacio García-Tuñón
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer (CSIC-USAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | | | - Sandrine Caburet
- Institut Jacques Monod, Université Paris Diderot, CNRS UMR7592, Paris 75013, France Université Paris Diderot-Paris 7, 75205 Paris Cedex 13, France
| | - Jose Luis Barbero
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CSIC), Madrid 28040, Spain and
| | - John C Schimenti
- Center for Vertebrate Genomics, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
| | - Reiner A Veitia
- Institut Jacques Monod, Université Paris Diderot, CNRS UMR7592, Paris 75013, France Université Paris Diderot-Paris 7, 75205 Paris Cedex 13, France
| | - Alberto M Pendas
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular del Cáncer (CSIC-USAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain
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