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Aerts A, Temmerman A, Vanhie A, Vanderschueren D, Antonio L. The Effect of Endurance Exercise on Semen Quality in Male Athletes: A Systematic Review. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2024; 10:72. [PMID: 38861008 PMCID: PMC11166609 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-024-00739-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endurance exercise has the potential to affect reproductive function, with amenorrhea in female athletes. However, most studies focus on women. Evidence on the association between endurance exercise and male fertility is limited. OBJECTIVE To synthesise existing literature on exercise-induced alterations in semen parameters and to assess the clinical impact on male fertility. METHODS Studies reporting on the association between semen parameters and endurance exercise in healthy men were eligible. Men attending fertility clinics were excluded. We searched MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, SPORTDiscus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), ClinicalTrials.gov and International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) from their inception to May 28th 2022. JBI Critical Appraisal Tool was used to assess the potential risk of bias. RESULTS Thirteen studies met inclusion criteria, reporting on 280 subjects. Eight articles reported on endurance runners, three on cyclists and four on triathletes. Four studies did not find any statistically significant sperm alterations. Five reported significant changes in semen parameters, but these were not clinically relevant, as semen parameters remained well above World Health Organisation (WHO) thresholds. Four articles reported a decrease in semen quality with potential clinical consequences as they found a reduced number of sperm cells exhibiting normal morphology in cyclists and triathletes and a greater amount of DNA fragmentation in triathletes. CONCLUSION Endurance exercise can have a negative effect on semen quality, although rarely with a clinically relevant impact on male fertility. Evidence is however limited, with poor quality of the included studies. REGISTRATION PROSPERO International prospective register of systematic reviews (CRD42022336753).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Aerts
- Faculty of Medicine, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Annelien Temmerman
- Faculty of Medicine, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Arne Vanhie
- Leuven University Fertility Centre, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dirk Vanderschueren
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Leen Antonio
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
- Department of Endocrinology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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Shin BJ, Kim BJ, Paeng EJ, Rifkin JT, Moon SH, Shin SH, Ryu BY. N-Acetyl-L-cysteine attenuates titanium dioxide nanoparticle (TiO 2 NP)-induced autophagy in male germ cells. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 108:104466. [PMID: 38759847 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2024.104466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) are widely used in consumer products, raising concerns about their impact on human health. This study investigates the effects of TiO2 NPs on male germ cells while focusing on cell proliferation inhibition and underlying mechanisms. This was done by utilizing mouse GC-1 spermatogonia cells, an immortalized spermatogonia cell line. TiO2 NPs induced a concentration-dependent proliferation inhibition with increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Notably, TiO2 NPs induced autophagy and decreased ERK phosphorylation. Treatment with the ROS inhibitor N-Acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) alleviated TiO2 NPs-induced autophagy, restored ERK phosphorylation, and promoted cell proliferation. These findings call attention to the reproductive risks posed by TiO2 NPs while also highlighting NAC as a possible protective agent against reproductive toxins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beom-Jin Shin
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-Do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Bang-Jin Kim
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Sciences, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Eun-Ji Paeng
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-Do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Jack Tyler Rifkin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Sciences, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Sung-Hwan Moon
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-Do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hee Shin
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-Do 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Buom-Yong Ryu
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-Do 17546, Republic of Korea.
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Peña FJ, Martín-Cano FE, Becerro-Rey L, Ortega-Ferrusola C, Gaitskell-Phillips G, da Silva-Álvarez E, Gil MC. Proteomics is advancing the understanding of stallion sperm biology. Proteomics 2024:e2300522. [PMID: 38807556 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202300522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
The mammalian ejaculate is very well suited to proteomics studies. As such, research concerning sperm proteomics is offering a huge amount of new information on the biology of spermatozoa. Among domestic animals, horses represent a species of special interest, in which reproductive technologies and a sizeable market of genetic material have grown exponentially in the last decade. Studies using proteomic approaches have been conducted in recent years, showing that proteomics is a potent tool to dig into the biology of the stallion spermatozoa. The aim of this review is to present an overview of the research conducted, and how these studies have improved our knowledge of stallion sperm biology. The main outcomes of the research conducted so far have been an improved knowledge of metabolism, and its importance in sperm functions, the impact of different technologies on the sperm proteome, and the identification of potential biomarkers. Moreover, proteomics of seminal plasma and phosphoproteomics are identified as areas of major interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando J Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Francisco Eduardo Martín-Cano
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Laura Becerro-Rey
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Cristina Ortega-Ferrusola
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Gemma Gaitskell-Phillips
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Eva da Silva-Álvarez
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - María Cruz Gil
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
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Kujoana TC, Sehlabela LD, Mabelebele M, Sebola NA. The potential significance of antioxidants in livestock reproduction: Sperm viability and cryopreservation. Anim Reprod Sci 2024; 267:107512. [PMID: 38901083 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107512] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Male reproductive efficiency is primarily defined by the generation of high-quality and viable sperm cells in farm animals. However, the literature shows that male fertility has declined in recent years due various factors including heat stress, which causes the development of free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) which damages sperm cells. This review aimed to examine the potential significance of antioxidants in increasing and preserving sperm quality and viability. Data used to produce this review paper came from recently published articles in peer reviewed journals. Google Scholar, Science Direct, Research Gate, Web of Science, and the Directory of Open Access Journals were used to access the data. Various studies have shown that antioxidants play acritical role in preserving the sperm quality and viability by protecting sperm cells from the potential damage from oxidative stress induced by the development of oxygen species imbalances. However, there is less information on the use of natural or synthetic antioxidants to preserve semen quality through in vivo procedures, despite its growing popularity and promising results. Hence, there is a need for researchers to explore more on this topic, especially in other livestock species than poultry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tlou Christopher Kujoana
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida 1709, South Africa.
| | - Lerato Deirdre Sehlabela
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida 1709, South Africa.
| | - Monnye Mabelebele
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida 1709, South Africa.
| | - Nthabiseng Amenda Sebola
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Florida 1709, South Africa.
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Dabagh M, Jahangiri N, Taheri Madah A, Rostami S, Amidi F, Khodarahmian M, Tavoosian A, Shabani Nashtaei M, Vatannejad A. Association of dietary total antioxidant capacity, alternative healthy eating index, and dietary inflammatory index with semen quality in men seeking infertility treatment. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1284379. [PMID: 37885439 PMCID: PMC10598851 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1284379] [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: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Since the association between dietary quality scores and semen quality remains unclear, we carried out a hospital-based cross-sectional study to investigate the association of Dietary Total Antioxidant Capacity (dTAC), Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII), and Alternative Healthy Eating Index (AHEI) scores with semen quality in men seeking infertility treatment. Methods This study enrolled 210 men with unexplained or idiopathic infertility. Semen samples were collected and analyzed according to the WHO 2010 criteria. Dietary data was collected using a 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) developed for Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate the relationship between dTAC, AHEI, and DII scores with abnormal semen in crude and adjusted models. Results There were no significant differences across quartile categories of the dTAC, AHEI, and DII scores regarding semen parameters. There was a trend toward a significant direct association between DII and abnormal semen risk (p = 0.01). Infertile men in the highest quartile of DII had a 2.84 times higher risk of abnormal semen in the crude model (OR: 3.84; 95% CI: 1.64-8.95); such that remained after adjusting for several potential confounders. There was no significant association between dTAC or AHEI and the risk of abnormal semen in infertile men, either before or after adjusting for potential confounders. Total energy (p = 0.05), fat (p = 0.02), saturated fat (p = 0.02), mono-saturated fat (p = 0.009), Thiamine (Vitamin B1) (p = 0.02), Niacin (Vitamin B3) (p = 0.03), Calcium (p = 0.01), and Selenium (p = 0.01) were inversely associated with semen normality. Discussion The study suggests that certain dietary factors may affect semen quality, and the mechanisms underlying the observed associations are likely multifactorial, involving complex interactions between diet, oxidative stress, inflammation, and hormone levels. Further research is required to confirm the results, fully elucidate the mechanisms underlying the associations, and identify specific dietary interventions that may improve male fertility outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahtab Dabagh
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nargesbano Jahangiri
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Taheri Madah
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sahar Rostami
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Yas Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahshad Khodarahmian
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Arash Women’s Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Tavoosian
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Shabani Nashtaei
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Akram Vatannejad
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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Köhne M, Kirch F, Tönissen A, Martinsson G, Rabe U, Sieme H, Schuberth HJ. Flow cytometric detection and identification of different leukocyte subpopulations in stallion semen. Reprod Domest Anim 2023; 58:1480-1486. [PMID: 37587653 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14451] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
To improve accuracy in evaluating stallion ejaculates, an antibody-based, flow cytometric assay for the detection and identification of leukocyte subpopulations (CD4-, CD8-, CD21-, CD172a-positive cells) in stallion semen (n = 12) was established. For establishment of the assay, native semen was supplemented with blood leukocytes (control: 20% leukocytes, 80% sperm cells) and analysed by flow cytometry. Adding antioxidants (ascorbic acid and butylated hydroxytoluol) to semen immediately after collection inhibited rapid death of lymphoid cells in sperm leukocyte mixtures. In control set-ups, 27.85 ± 5.7% of events were positive for CD4, CD8, CD21 or CD172a, while in native semen samples, leukocytes were scarce (0.114 ± 0.134%). The most abundant leukocyte subpopulation in semen was of lymphoid origin (CD4-positive cells [0.015 ± 0.02%]), whereas CD21-positive cells (B cells; 0.001 ± 0.001%) were virtually absent in ejaculates of fertile stallions. This presented flow cytometric assay for the detection and identification of different leukocyte population in equine antioxidant-treated ejaculates can be used as an additional tool for spermatological examination in stallions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Köhne
- Clinic for Horses - Unit for Reproductive Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hanover, Germany
| | | | - Anna Tönissen
- Clinic for Horses - Unit for Reproductive Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hanover, Germany
| | | | - Udo Rabe
- Institute of Immunology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hanover, Germany
| | - Harald Sieme
- Clinic for Horses - Unit for Reproductive Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hanover, Germany
| | - Hans-Joachim Schuberth
- Institute of Immunology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, Hanover, Germany
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7
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Hughes JR, McMorrow KJ, Bovin N, Miller DJ. An oviduct glycan increases sperm lifespan by diminishing the production of ubiquinone and reactive oxygen species†. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:356-366. [PMID: 37427962 PMCID: PMC10502565 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad074] [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: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm storage by females after mating for species-dependent periods is used widely among animals with internal fertilization to allow asynchrony between mating and ovulation. Many mammals store sperm in the lower oviduct where specific glycans on oviduct epithelial cells retain sperm to form a reservoir. Binding to oviduct cells suppresses sperm intracellular Ca2+ and increases sperm longevity. We investigated the mechanisms by which a specific oviduct glycan, 3-O-sulfated Lewis X trisaccharide (suLeX), prolongs the lifespan of porcine sperm. Using targeted metabolomics, we found that binding to suLeX diminishes the abundance of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, the precursor to ubiquinone (also known as Coenzyme Q), 30 min after addition. Ubiquinone functions as an electron acceptor in the electron transport chain (ETC). 3-O-sulfated Lewis X trisaccharide also suppressed the formation of fumarate. A component of the citric acid cycle, fumarate is synthesized by succinate-coenzyme Q reductase, which employs ubiquinone and is also known as Complex II in the ETC. Consistent with the reduced activity of the ETC, the production of harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS) was diminished. The enhanced sperm lifespan in the oviduct may be because of suppressed ROS production because high ROS concentrations have toxic effects on sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer R Hughes
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Katie J McMorrow
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Nicolai Bovin
- Department of Chemical Biology of Glycans and Lipids, Shemyakin Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow, Russia
| | - David J Miller
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
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Horta Remedios M, Liang W, González LN, Li V, Da Ros VG, Cohen DJ, Zaremberg V. Ether lipids and a peroxisomal riddle in sperm. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1166232. [PMID: 37397249 PMCID: PMC10309183 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1166232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm are terminally differentiated cells that lack most of the membranous organelles, resulting in a high abundance of ether glycerolipids found across different species. Ether lipids include plasmalogens, platelet activating factor, GPI-anchors and seminolipid. These lipids play important roles in sperm function and performance, and thus are of special interest as potential fertility markers and therapeutic targets. In the present article, we first review the existing knowledge on the relevance of the different types of ether lipids for sperm production, maturation and function. To further understand ether-lipid metabolism in sperm, we then query available proteomic data from highly purified sperm, and produce a map of metabolic steps retained in these cells. Our analysis pinpoints the presence of a truncated ether lipid biosynthetic pathway that would be competent for the production of precursors through the initial peroxisomal core steps, but devoid of subsequent microsomal enzymes responsible for the final synthesis of all complex ether-lipids. Despite the widely accepted notion that sperm lack peroxisomes, the thorough analysis of published data conducted herein identifies nearly 70% of all known peroxisomal resident proteins as part of the sperm proteome. In view of this, we highlight open questions related to lipid metabolism and possible peroxisomal functions in sperm. We propose a repurposed role for the truncated peroxisomal ether-lipid pathway in detoxification of products from oxidative stress, which is known to critically influence sperm function. The likely presence of a peroxisomal-derived remnant compartment that could act as a sink for toxic fatty alcohols and fatty aldehydes generated by mitochondrial activity is discussed. With this perspective, our review provides a comprehensive metabolic map associated with ether-lipids and peroxisomal-related functions in sperm and offers new insights into potentially relevant antioxidant mechanisms that warrant further research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Weisheng Liang
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Lucas N. González
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IByME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Victoria Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Vanina G. Da Ros
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IByME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Débora J. Cohen
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IByME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Vanina Zaremberg
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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The Dual Role of Oxidants in Male (In)fertility: Every ROSe Has a Thorn. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054994. [PMID: 36902424 PMCID: PMC10002566 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The role of oxidative stress (OS) in male infertility as a primary etiology and/or concomitant cause in other situations, such as inflammation, varicocele and gonadotoxin effects, is well documented. While reactive oxygen species (ROS) are implicated in many important roles, from spermatogenesis to fertilization, epigenetic mechanisms which are transmissible to offspring have also recently been described. The present review is focused on the dual aspects of ROS, which are regulated by a delicate equilibrium with antioxidants due to the special frailty of spermatozoa, in continuum from physiological condition to OS. When the ROS production is excessive, OS ensues and is amplified by a chain of events leading to damage of lipids, proteins and DNA, ultimately causing infertility and/or precocious pregnancy termination. After a description of positive ROS actions and of vulnerability of spermatozoa due to specific maturative and structural characteristics, we linger on the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of seminal plasma, which is a measure of non-enzymatic non-proteic antioxidants, due to its importance as a biomarker of the redox status of semen; the therapeutic implications of these mechanism play a key role in the personalized approach to male infertility.
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10
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Foutouhi A, Hesser A, de la Fuente A, Bulkeley E, Dini P, Meyers S. Sperm parameters in the Great Dane: Influence of age on semen quality. Theriogenology 2023; 197:267-274. [PMID: 36527863 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Not all sires have sperm suitable for chilled or frozen storage, and success in artificial insemination (AI) varies highly among individual dogs and breeds. Fertilizing potential is further complicated as sperm quality declines with the aging process. Due to the rapidity of aging and senescence in large breed dogs, associated health and fertility changes may be observed over a shorter period, though this period remains undefined for any breed. Working with a population of purebred Great Danes (GD), our aims were (1) to characterize the distribution of a series of sperm parameters, (2) to distinguish sources of variation in sperm quality within this rapidly aging breed, and (3) to identify changes in sperm quality that may accompany aging. Ejaculates collected from young, middle-aged, and senior Great Dane dogs (n = 50) were evaluated for semen volume, total sperm number and viability, and reactive oxygen species (ROS), in addition to sperm morphology and kinematic parameters. Total testicular volume was also determined using ultrasonography. Testicular volume was not a predictor of sperm production in the GD, however, significant differences between coat colors were identified. Age was negatively associated with total motility, progressive motility, and amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH) (p < .05). We identified significant relationships between GD male age and TM, PM, and immotility with -9.9%, -9.0%, and +8.3% change per year of age, respectively, which support the anecdotal reports of decline of the fertility with the advance of age in this breed. Sperm of younger GD dogs aged 12 ≤ x < 24 months had significantly higher TM, PM, ALH, and nonlinear motility (p < .05) than older dogs (x ≥ 48 months). High ROS levels were positively associated with TM and PM, average pathway distance (DAP) and straight line distance (DSL), average pathway velocity (VAP), straight line velocity (VSL), and the presence of hairpin tails (p < .05). While age and ROS have significant influences on sperm parameters in the GD, the influence of selection for breed specific phenotypes could help explain the functional significance of the diversity among GD males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azarene Foutouhi
- Departments of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, Davis, 95616, USA
| | | | | | - Evelyn Bulkeley
- Departments of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, Davis, 95616, USA
| | - Pouya Dini
- Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, 95616, USA
| | - Stuart Meyers
- Departments of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, Davis, 95616, USA.
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Upadhyay VR, Roy AK, Pandita S, Raval K, Patoliya P, Ramesh V, Dewry RK, Yadav HP, Mohanty TK, Bhakat M. Optimized addition of nitric oxide compounds in semen extender improves post-thaw seminal attributes of Murrah buffaloes. Trop Anim Health Prod 2023; 55:47. [PMID: 36702975 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-023-03474-x] [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: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Semen dilution and cryopreservation alter the homogeneity of seminal plasma, resulting in a non-physiological redox milieu and consequently poor sperm functionality. Considering the concentration-specific bimodal action of nitric oxide (NO) in the regulation of sperm functions, cryopreservation media supplemented with optimized concentrations can improve the semen attributes. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of adding an optimized concentration of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) in an extender on in vitro semen quality. An aliquot of semen samples (n = 32) from Murrah buffalo bulls (n = 8) was divided into control (C) and treatment (T-I: SNP in extender at 1 µmol/L; T-II: L-NAME in extender at 10 µmol/L). Fresh semen quality parameters showed no significant difference at 0 h except for the structural integrity in the T-II group. Post-thaw semen quality parameters and sperm kinematics using computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA) revealed significantly higher (p < 0.05) cryoresistance in the treatment groups. Viability, acrosome integrity, and membrane integrity were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in both treatment groups; however, the results were pervasive in T-II. Lower abnormal spermatozoa were observed in both T-I and T-II. SNP supplementation led to a significant rise (p < 0.05) in NO, whereas L-NAME reduced the NO concentration in post-thawed samples, which was directly correlated with different sperm functionality and associated biomarkers viz. total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS). It was concluded that the cryopreservation media supplemented with SNP and L-NAME at 1 µmol/L and 10 µmol/L, respectively, lower the cryo-damage and improve post-thaw seminal attributes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishwa Ranjan Upadhyay
- Division of Animal Physiology, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, 132001, India.
| | - A K Roy
- Division of Animal Physiology, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, 132001, India
| | - Sujata Pandita
- Division of Animal Physiology, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, 132001, India
| | - Kathan Raval
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Priyanka Patoliya
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Vikram Ramesh
- Animal Reproduction and Gynaecology, ICAR-National Research Center on Mithun, Medziphema, India
| | - Raju Kr Dewry
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Hanuman P Yadav
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - T K Mohanty
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, India
| | - Mukesh Bhakat
- Artificial Breeding Research Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, Haryana, India
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12
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Hughes JR, McMorrow KJ, Bovin N, Miller DJ. An oviduct glycan increases sperm lifespan by diminishing ubiquinone and production of reactive oxygen species. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.01.08.523174. [PMID: 36712093 PMCID: PMC9881936 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.08.523174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Sperm storage by females after mating for species-dependent periods is used widely among animals with internal fertilization to allow asynchrony between mating and ovulation. Many mammals store sperm in the lower oviduct where specific glycans on epithelial cells retain sperm to form a reservoir. Binding to oviduct cells suppresses sperm intracellular Ca 2+ and increases sperm longevity. We investigated the mechanisms by which a specific oviduct glycan, 3-O-sulfated Lewis X trisaccharide (suLe X ), prolongs the lifespan of porcine sperm. Using targeted metabolomics, we report that binding to suLe X diminishes the abundance of the precursor to ubiquinone and suppresses formation of fumarate, a specific citric acid cycle component, diminishing the activity of the electron transport chain and reducing the production of harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS). The enhanced sperm lifespan in the oviduct may be due to suppressed ROS production as many reports have demonstrated toxic effects of high ROS concentrations on sperm.
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13
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Snoeck PPDN, Câmara DR, Moura LCDO, da Silva MC, Machado-Neves M, Teixeira-Neto MR, Henry M. Post-thaw quality of ram sperm frozen with different concentrations of low-density lipoproteins associated with non-enzymatic antioxidants. Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20220068. [PMID: 37113647 PMCID: PMC10127573 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2022-0068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The cryopreservation reduces ram sperm quality, decreasing the pregnancy rate of ewes inseminated with thawed sperm. Hence, we aimed to improve the post-thaw quality of ram sperm replacing egg yolk on Tris-Glucose extender with different concentrations of LDL (2 or 8%), associated with the addition of 10 mM non-enzymatic antioxidants (ascorbic acid, hydroxytoluene butylate, ascorbyl palmitate, and trehalose). Semen samples were collected from six rams, split into different treatments, and frozen. After thawing, kinematic (CASA), structural (propidium iodide and carboxyfluorescein diacetate) and functional (hypoosmotic test) sperm membrane integrity was assessed. Total motility, VCL, and LIN were also assessed in thawed samples during 3 h of incubation (38 °C). The results showed that hydroxytoluene butylate at 10 mM in Tris-Glucose extender with 8% LDL improved velocity parameters immediately post-thaw compared with Tris-Glucose egg yolk extender, as well as prevented the reduction of total motility and VCL after incubation. There was no benefit of adding ascorbic acid and trehalose. Moreover, for the first time, it was shown the motility impairment promoted by ascorbyl palmitate to ram sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Pereira das Neves Snoeck
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Ilhéus, BA, Brasil
- Corresponding author:
| | - Diogo Ribeiro Câmara
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Alagoas, Viçosa, AL, Brasil
| | | | - Maíra Corona da Silva
- Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Ilhéus, BA, Brasil
| | | | | | - Marc Henry
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
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14
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Motility Assessment of Ram Spermatozoa. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11121715. [PMID: 36552225 PMCID: PMC9774426 DOI: 10.3390/biology11121715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
For successful fertilisation to occur, spermatozoa need to successfully migrate through the female reproductive tract and penetrate the oocyte. Predictably, poor sperm motility has been associated with low rates of fertilisation in many mammalian species, including the ram. As such, motility is one of the most important parameters used for in vitro evaluation of ram sperm quality and function. This review aims to outline the mechanical and energetic processes which underpin sperm motility, describe changes in motility which occur as a result of differences in sperm structure and the surrounding microenvironment, and assess the effectiveness of the various methods used to assess sperm motility in rams. Methods of subjective motility estimation are convenient, inexpensive methods widely used in the livestock industries, however, the subjective nature of these methods can make them unreliable. Computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) technology accurately and objectively measures sperm motility via two-dimensional tracing of sperm head motion, making it a popular method for sperm quality assurance in domesticated animal production laboratories. Newly developed methods of motility assessment including flagellar tracing, three-dimensional sperm tracing, in vivo motility assessment, and molecular assays which quantify motility-associated biomarkers, enable analysis of a new range of sperm motion parameters with the potential to reveal new mechanistic insights and improve ram semen assessment. Experimental application of these technologies is required to fully understand their potential to improve semen quality assessment and prediction of reproductive success in ovine artificial breeding programs.
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15
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Gautier C, Aurich C. "Fine feathers make fine birds" - The mammalian sperm plasma membrane lipid composition and effects on assisted reproduction. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 246:106884. [PMID: 34776291 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The sperm plasma membrane is important in modulating many sperm functions. The sperm membrane is composed of a complex mixture of lipids including phospholipids, glycolipids and sterols. There are differences of sperm membrane composition among mammalian species with two groups differing in the most abundant polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), either docosahexaenoic (ω-3 PUFA) or docosapentaenoic acid (ω-6 PUFA). During testicular and epididymal maturation, composition of the sperm plasma membrane evolves with spermatozoa gaining the capacity for fertilization. The importance of fatty acid metabolism for complete spermatogenesis has been elucidated using gene knockout mice. During epididymal transit cholesterol content decreases and PUFA content increases, conferring more fluidity properties to the sperm membrane. The relatively lesser content of antioxidant enzymes and the relatively larger content of PUFA make the spermatozoa particularly susceptible to lipid peroxidation during sperm preservation. In numerous studies, there was adding of PUFA and antioxidants to the diet of animals or to semen extenders with the aim to improve sperm membrane integrity. This review highlights the current knowledge on the sperm membrane composition and effects on sperm function in mammalian domestic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Gautier
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Christine Aurich
- Artificial Insemination and Embryo Transfer, Department for Small Animals and Horses, Vetmeduni Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria.
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Upadhyay VR, Ramesh V, Dewry RK, Yadav DK, Ponraj P. Bimodal interplay of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in physiology and pathophysiology of bovine sperm function. Theriogenology 2022; 187:82-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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17
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AITKEN RJ, GIBB Z. Sperm oxidative stress in the context of male infertility: current evidence, links with genetic and epigenetic factors and future clinical needs. Minerva Endocrinol (Torino) 2022; 47:38-57. [DOI: 10.23736/s2724-6507.21.03630-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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18
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Câmara DR, Ibanescu I, Siuda M, Bollwein H. Mitoquinone does not improve sperm cryo-resistance in bulls. Reprod Domest Anim 2021; 57:10-18. [PMID: 34626138 PMCID: PMC9298030 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is associated with impaired post‐thaw sperm quality. As mitochondria are the main source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in sperm, the goal of this study was to evaluate effects of the mitochondria‐targeting antioxidant Mitoquinone (MitoQ) during cryopreservation of bull sperm. Semen was collected from 11 Simmental bulls (two ejaculates per bull) and diluted in Triladyl® supplemented with various concentrations of MitoQ (0, 0.2, 2, and 20 nM) to a final concentration of 65 × 106 sperm/ml. After thawing (0 and 3 hr), we assessed the following sperm traits: sperm motility by computer‐assisted sperm analysis (CASA), DNA fragmentation index by SCSA® and plasma and acrosome membrane integrity, intracellular calcium concentration, esterase activity, mitochondrial membrane potential and synthesis of ROS using two multicolour flow cytometric assays. After 3 hr of incubation, 20 nM MitoQ increased (p < .05) sperm ROS synthesis compared to Control, whereas none of the other quality parameters were altered (p > .05). Therefore, we concluded that addition of MitoQ to semen extender before cryopreservation of bull sperm was unable to improve post‐thaw sperm quality. Furthermore, 20 nM of MitoQ increased frozen‐thawed sperm ROS synthesis, without apparent negative effects on the evaluated sperm traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diogo Ribeiro Câmara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Alagoas, Viçosa, Brazil
| | - Iulian Ibanescu
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mathias Siuda
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Heinrich Bollwein
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Awny MM, Al-Mokaddem AK, Ali BM. Mangiferin mitigates di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate-induced testicular injury in rats by modulating oxidative stress-mediated signals, inflammatory cascades, apoptotic pathways, and steroidogenesis. Arch Biochem Biophys 2021; 711:108982. [PMID: 34400143 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2021.108982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is an endocrine disruptor that causes reproductive defects in male animal models. This study was conducted to explore the plausible modulatory effects of mangiferin (MF) against DEHP-induced testicular injury in rats. Thirty-two adult male albino rats were allocated into four groups. Two groups were given DEHP (2 g/kg/day, p.o) for 14 days. One of these groups was treated with MF (20 mg/kg/day, i.p) for 7 days before and 14 days after DEHP administration. A vehicle-treated control was included, and another group of rats was given MF only. Results revealed that MF treatment suppressed oxidative testicular injury by amplifying the mRNA expression of nuclear factor-erythroid 2 related factor-2 (Nrf2) and increasing hemoxygenase-1 (HO-1), glutathione, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels. This treatment also enhanced superoxide dismutase activity, but it decreased malondialdehyde and nitric oxide levels. MF had an anti-inflammatory characteristic, as demonstrated by the downregulation of the mRNA of the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB). The content of tumor necrosis factor-alpha also decreased. MF modulated the apoptotic pathway by suppressing the mRNA of cytochrome c (Cyt c), Fas ligand content, Bax IHC expression, caspase-3 activity and cleaved caspase-3 IHC expression. It also upregulated the expression levels of heat-shock protein 70 (HSP70) and B-cell lymphoma 2. Moreover, MF upregulated the mRNA expression levels of HSP70 and c-kit and enriched the content of steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein, which were reflected in serum testosterone levels. This result indicated that MF played crucial roles in steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis. Besides, the activities of testicular marker enzymes, namely, acid and alkaline phosphatases, and lactate dehydrogenase, significantly increased. Histopathological observations provided evidence supporting the biochemical and molecular measurements. In conclusion, MF provided protective mechanisms against the DEHP-mediated deterioration of testicular functions partially through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties. It also involved the restoration of steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis through the modulation of Nrf2/HO-1, NF-κB/Cyt c/HSP70, and c-Kit signaling cascades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdy M Awny
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, October 6 University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Asmaa K Al-Mokaddem
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Bassam Mohamed Ali
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, October 6 University, Cairo, Egypt
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20
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Gaitskell-Phillips G, Martín-Cano FE, Ortiz-Rodríguez JM, Silva-Rodríguez A, da Silva-Álvarez E, Rojo-Domínguez P, Tapia JA, Gil MC, Ortega-Ferrusola C, Peña FJ. Proteins involved in mitochondrial metabolic functions and fertilization predominate in stallions with better motility. J Proteomics 2021; 247:104335. [PMID: 34298182 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2021.104335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Even in stallions with sperm quality within normal reference ranges at ejaculation, subtle differences in sperm quality exist that in many cases lead to reduced time frames for conservation of the ejaculate and/or reduced fertility. The spermatozoon is a cell highly suitable for proteomics studies, and the use of this technique is allowing rapid advances in the understanding of sperm biology. The aim of the present study was to investigate differences among stallions of variable sperm quality (based on motility and sperm velocities), although all horses had sperm characteristics within normal ranges. The proteome was studied using UHPLC/MS/MS and posterior bioinformatic and enrichment analysis; data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD025807. Sperm motility, linear motility and circular, straight line and average velocities (VCL, VSL, VAP) were measured using computer assisted sperm analysis (CASA). In stallions showing better percentages of motility, circular and average velocity predominated mitochondrial proteins with roles in the Citric acid cycle, pyruvate metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation. Interestingly, in stallions with better percentages of total motility, sperm proteins were also enriched in proteins within the gene ontology (G0) terms, single fertilization (G0: 0007338), fertilization (G0: 0009566), and zona pellucida receptor complex (GO:0002199). The enrichment of this proteins in samples with better percentages of total motility may offer a molecular explanation for the link between this parameter and fertility. SIGNIFICANCE: Proteomic analysis identified a high degree of specificity of stallion sperm proteins with discriminant power for motility, linear motility, and sperm velocities (VCL, VAP and VSL). These findings may represent an interesting outcome in relation to the molecular biology regulating the movement of the spermatozoa, and the biological meaning of the measurements that computer assisted sperm analysis (CASA) provide. Of a total of 903 proteins identified in stallion spermatozoa, 24 were related to the percentage of total motility in the sample; interestingly, gene ontology (G0) analysis revealed that these proteins were enriched in terms like single fertilization and fertilization, providing a molecular link between motility and fertility. Field studies indicate that the percentage of total motility is the CASA derived parameter with the best correlation with fertility in stallions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Gaitskell-Phillips
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Francisco E Martín-Cano
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - José M Ortiz-Rodríguez
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Antonio Silva-Rodríguez
- Facility of Innovation and Analysis in Animal Source Foodstuffs, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Eva da Silva-Álvarez
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | | | - José A Tapia
- Department of Physiology, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Maria C Gil
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Cristina Ortega-Ferrusola
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Fernando J Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.
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21
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Gaitskell-Phillips G, Martín-Cano FE, Ortiz-Rodríguez JM, Silva-Rodríguez A, Gil MC, Ortega-Ferrusola C, Peña FJ. Differences in the proteome of stallion spermatozoa explain stallion-to-stallion variability in sperm quality post-thaw†. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:1097-1113. [PMID: 33438027 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The identification of stallions and or ejaculates that will provide commercially acceptable quality post-thaw before cryopreservation is of great interest, avoiding wasting time and resources freezing ejaculates that will not achieve sufficient quality to be marketed. Our hypothesis was that after bioinformatic analysis, the study of the stallion sperm proteome can provide discriminant variables able to predict the post-thaw quality of the ejaculate. At least three ejaculates from 10 different stallions were frozen following a split sample design. Half of the ejaculate was analyzed as a fresh aliquot and the other half was frozen and then analyzed as a frozen-thawed aliquot. Computer-assisted sperm analysis and flow cytometry were used to analyze sperm quality. Detailed proteomic analysis was performed on fresh and frozen and thawed aliquots, and bioinformatic analysis was used to identify discriminant variables in fresh samples able to predict the outcome of cryopreservation. Those with a fold change > 3, a P = 8.2e-04, and a q = 0.074 (equivalent to False discovery rate (FDR)) were selected, and the following proteins were identified in fresh samples as discriminant variables of good motility post-thaw: F6YTG8, K9K273, A0A3Q2I7V9, F7CE45, F6YU15, and F6SKR3. Other discriminant variables were also identified as predictors of good mitochondrial membrane potential and viability post-thaw. We concluded that proteomic approaches are a powerful tool to improve current sperm biotechnologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Gaitskell-Phillips
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Francisco E Martín-Cano
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - José M Ortiz-Rodríguez
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Antonio Silva-Rodríguez
- Facility of Innovation and Analysis in Animal Source Foodstuffs, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Maria C Gil
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Cristina Ortega-Ferrusola
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Fernando J Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
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