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Zhao Y, Qin G, Jiang B, Huang J, He S, Peng H. Melatonin regulates mitochondrial function to alleviate ferroptosis through the MT2/Akt signaling pathway in swine testicular cells. Sci Rep 2024; 14:15215. [PMID: 38956409 PMCID: PMC11219911 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65666-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence has shown that many environmental and toxic factors can cause testicular damage, leading to testicular ferroptosis and subsequent male reproductive disorders. Melatonin is a major hormone and plays an vital role in regulating male reproduction. However, there is a lack of research on whether Mel can alleviate testicular cell ferroptosis and its specific mechanism. In this study, the results indicated that Mel could enhance the viability of swine testis cells undergoing ferroptosis, reduce LDH enzyme release, increase mitochondrial membrane potential, and affect the expression of ferroptosis biomarkers. Furthermore, we found that melatonin depended on melatonin receptor 1B to exert these functions. Detection of MMP and ferroptosis biomarker protein expression confirmed that MT2 acted through the downstream Akt signaling pathway. Moreover, inhibition of the Akt signaling pathway can eliminate the protective effect of melatonin on ferroptosis, inhibit AMPK phosphorylation, reduce the expression of mitochondrial gated channel (VDAC2/3), and affect mitochondrial DNA transcription and ATP content. These results suggest that melatonin exerts a beneficial effect on mitochondrial function to mitigate ferroptosis through the MT2/Akt signaling pathway in ST cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanjie Zhao
- School of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
- College of Life and Health, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, China
| | - Ge Qin
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing, 404100, China
| | - Biao Jiang
- School of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Jinglei Huang
- School of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Shiwen He
- School of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China
| | - Hui Peng
- School of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, 570228, Hainan, China.
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2
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Zheng S, Jiang L, Qiu L. The effects of fine particulate matter on the blood-testis barrier and its potential mechanisms. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2024; 39:233-249. [PMID: 36863426 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2022-0204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
With the rapid expansion of industrial scale, an increasing number of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has bringing health concerns. Although exposure to PM2.5 has been clearly associated with male reproductive toxicity, the exact mechanisms are still unclear. Recent studies demonstrated that exposure to PM2.5 can disturb spermatogenesis through destroying the blood-testis barrier (BTB), consisting of different junction types, containing tight junctions (TJs), gap junctions (GJs), ectoplasmic specialization (ES) and desmosomes. The BTB is one of the tightest blood-tissue barriers among mammals, which isolating germ cells from hazardous substances and immune cell infiltration during spermatogenesis. Therefore, once the BTB is destroyed, hazardous substances and immune cells will enter seminiferous tubule and cause adversely reproductive effects. In addition, PM2.5 also has shown to cause cells and tissues injury via inducing autophagy, inflammation, sex hormones disorder, and oxidative stress. However, the exact mechanisms of the disruption of the BTB, induced by PM2.5, are still unclear. It is suggested that more research is required to identify the potential mechanisms. In this review, we aim to understand the adverse effects on the BTB after exposure to PM2.5 and explore its potential mechanisms, which provides novel insight into accounting for PM2.5-induced BTB injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaokai Zheng
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P. R. China
| | - Lianlian Jiang
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P. R. China
| | - Lianglin Qiu
- School of Public Health, Nantong University, Nantong, P. R. China
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3
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Venditti M, Romano MZ, Boccella S, Haddadi A, Biasi A, Maione S, Minucci S. Type 1 diabetes impairs the activity of rat testicular somatic and germ cells through NRF2/NLRP3 pathway-mediated oxidative stress. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1399256. [PMID: 38818504 PMCID: PMC11137174 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1399256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Background It is well known that metabolic disorders, including type 1 diabetes (T1D), are often associated with reduced male fertility, mainly increasing oxidative stress and impairing the hypothalamus-pituitary-testis (HPT) axis, with consequently altered spermatogenesis and reduced sperm parameters. Herein, using a rat model of T1D obtained by treatment with streptozotocin (STZ), we analyzed several parameters of testicular activity. Methods A total of 10 adult male Wistar rats were divided into two groups of five: control and T1D, obtained with a single intraperitoneal injection of STZ. After 3 months, the rats were anesthetized and sacrificed; one testis was stored at -80°C for biochemical analysis, and the other was fixed for histological and immunofluorescence analysis. Results The data confirmed that T1D induced oxidative stress and, consequently, alterations in both testicular somatic and germ cells. This aspect was highlighted by enhanced apoptosis, altered steroidogenesis and Leydig cell maturity, and impaired spermatogenesis. In addition, the blood-testis barrier integrity was compromised, as shown by the reduced levels of structural proteins (N-cadherin, ZO-1, occludin, connexin 43, and VANGL2) and the phosphorylation status of regulative kinases (Src and FAK). Mechanistically, the dysregulation of the SIRT1/NRF2/MAPKs signaling pathways was proven, particularly the reduced nuclear translocation of NRF2, affecting its ability to induce the transcription of genes encoding for antioxidant enzymes. Finally, the stimulation of testicular inflammation and pyroptosis was also confirmed, as highlighted by the increased levels of some markers, such as NF-κB and NLRP3. Conclusion The combined data allowed us to confirm that T1D has detrimental effects on rat testicular activity. Moreover, a better comprehension of the molecular mechanisms underlying the association between metabolic disorders and male fertility could help to identify novel targets to prevent and treat fertility disorders related to T1D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Napoli, Italy
| | - Maria Zelinda Romano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Napoli, Italy
| | - Serena Boccella
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Napoli, Italy
| | - Asma Haddadi
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio-Ressourcés Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Alessandra Biasi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Napoli, Italy
| | - Sabatino Maione
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Napoli, Italy
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Napoli, Italy
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Li XW, Li S, Yang Y, Talukder M, Xu XW, Li CX, Zhang C, Li XN, Li JL. The FAK/occludin/ZO-1 complex is critical for cadmium-induced testicular damage by disruption of the integrity of the blood-testis barrier in chickens. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 470:134126. [PMID: 38554509 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134126] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a well-known testis toxicant. The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is a crucial component of the testis. Cd can disrupt the integrity of the BTB and reproductive function. However, the mechanism of Cd-induced disruption of BTB and testicular damage has not been fully elucidated. Here, our study investigates the effects of Cd on BTB integrity and testicular dysfunction. 80 (aged 1 day) Hy-Line white variety chickens were randomly designed into 4 groups and treated for 90 days, as follows: control group (essential diet), 35 Cd, 70 Cd and 140 Cd groups (35, 70 and 140 mg/kg Cd). The results found that Cd exposure diminished volume of the testes and induced histopathological lesions in the testes. Exposure to Cd induced an inflammatory response, disrupted the structure and function of the FAK/occludin/ZO-1 protein complex and disrupted the tight junction and adherens junction in the BTB. In addition, Cd exposure reduced the expression of steroid-related proteins and inhibited testosterone synthesis. Taken together, these data elucidate that Cd disrupts the integrity of the BTB and further inhibits spermatogenesis by dissociating the FAK/occludin/ZO-1 complex, which provides a basis for further investigation into the mechanisms of Cd-induced impairment of male reproductive function and pharmacological protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Wei Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Sheng Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Yu Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Milton Talukder
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Barishal 8210, Bangladesh
| | - Xiang-Wen Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Chen-Xi Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Cong Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, PR China
| | - Xue-Nan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China.
| | - Jin-Long Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal Disease Prevention and Treatment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Laboratory Animals and Comparative Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China.
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Rhouma MB, Venditti M, Haddadi A, Knani L, Chouchene L, Boughammoura S, Reiter RJ, Minucci S, Messaoudi I. Melatonin counteracts cadmium-induced rat testicular toxicity via the mechanistic target rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 341:470-482. [PMID: 38433718 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2792] [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: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
The protective action of melatonin (MLT) against the harmful effects of cadmium (Cd) on testicular activity in rats has been documented previously; however, the involved molecular mechanisms have yet to be elucidated. Herein, we investigate the involvement of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) on the ability of MLT to counteract the damage induced by Cd on the rat testicular activity. Our study confirmed that Cd has harmful effects on the testes of rats and the protective action exerted by MLT. We reported, for the first time, that the addition of rapamycin (Rapa), a specific mTOR inhibitor, to animals co-treated with Cd and MLT completely abolished the beneficial effects exerted by MLT, indicating that the mTOR pathway partially modulates its helpful effects on Cd testicular toxicity. Interestingly, Rapa-alone treatment, provoking mTOR inhibition, produced altered morphological parameters, increased autophagy of germ and somatic cells, and reduced serum testosterone concentration. In addition, mTOR inhibition also reduced protein levels of markers of steroidogenesis (3β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase) and blood-testis barrier integrity (occludin and connexin 43). Finally, Rapa altered sperm parameters as well as the ability of mature spermatozoa to perform a proper acrosome reaction. Although further investigation is needed to better clarify the molecular pathway involved in MLT action, we confirm that MLT alleviating Cd effects can be used as a supplement to enhance testicular function and improve male gamete quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariem B Rhouma
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio-ressourcés, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate "F. Bottazzi", Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Asma Haddadi
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio-ressourcés, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Latifa Knani
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio-ressourcés, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Lina Chouchene
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio-ressourcés, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Sana Boughammoura
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio-ressourcés, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Russel J Reiter
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, UT Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate "F. Bottazzi", Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Imed Messaoudi
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio-ressourcés, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
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Zhu J, Dai X, Wang Y, Cui T, Huang B, Wang D, Pu W, Zhang C. Molybdenum and cadmium co-induce apoptosis and ferroptosis through inhibiting Nrf2 signaling pathway in duck (Anas platyrhyncha) testes. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103653. [PMID: 38537407 PMCID: PMC10987903 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) and high molybdenum (Mo) are injurious to the body. Previous research has substantiated that Cd and Mo exposure caused testicular injury of ducks, but concrete mechanism is not fully clarified. To further survey the toxicity of co-exposure to Cd and Mo in testis, 40 healthy 8-day-old Shaoxing ducks (Anas platyrhyncha) were stochasticly distributed to 4 groups and raised with basic diet embracing Cd (4 mg/kg Cd) or Mo (100 mg/kg Mo) or both. At the 16th wk, testis tissues were gathered. The characteristic ultrastructural changes related to apoptosis and ferroptosis were observed in Mo or Cd or both groups. Besides, Mo or Cd or both repressed nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway via decreasing Nrf2, Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), Glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC) and Glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunit (GCLM) mRNA expression of and Nrf2 protein expression, then stimulated apoptosis by elevating Bcl-2 antagonist/killer-1 (Bak-1), Bcl-2-associated X-protein (Bax), Cytochrome complex (Cyt-C), caspase-3 mRNA expression, cleaved-caspase-3 protein expression and apoptosis rate, as well as reducing B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) mRNA expression and ratio of Bcl-2 to Bax, and triggered ferroptosis by upregulating Acyl-CoA Synthetase Long Chain Family Member 4 (ACSL4), transferrin receptor (TFR1) and Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthase 2 (PTGS2) expression levels, and downregulating ferritin heavy chain 1 (FTH1), ferritin light chain 1 (FTL1), ferroportin 1 (FPN1), solute carrier family 7 member 11 (SCL7A11) and glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) expression levels. The most obvious changes of these indexes were observed in co-treated group. Altogether, the results announced that Mo or Cd or both evoked apoptosis and ferroptosis by inhibiting Nrf2 pathway in the testis of ducks, and co-exposure to Mo and Cd exacerbated these variations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiamei Zhu
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Xueyan Dai
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Yan Wang
- College of Forestry/School of Landscape and Art, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Ting Cui
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Bingyan Huang
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Dianyun Wang
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Wenjing Pu
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Caiying Zhang
- Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory for Animal Health, Institute of Animal Population Health, College of Animal Science and Technology, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.
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Yang W, Hua R, Cao Y, He X. A metabolomic perspective on the mechanisms by which environmental pollutants and lifestyle lead to male infertility. Andrology 2024; 12:719-739. [PMID: 37815095 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13530] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
The incidence of male infertility (MI) is rising annually. According to epidemiological studies, environmental pollution (e.g., organic, inorganic, and air pollutants), occupational exposure (e.g., high temperature, organic solvents, and pesticides), and poor lifestyle (e.g., diet, sleep, smoking, alcohol consumption, and exercise) are important non-genetic causative factors of MI. Due to multiple and complex causative factors, the dose-effect relationship, and the uncertainty of pathogenicity, the pathogenesis of MI is far from fully clarified. Recent data show that the pathogenesis of MI can be monitored by the metabolites in serum, seminal plasma, urine, testicular tissue, sperm, and other biological samples. It is considered that these metabolites are closely related to MI phenotypes and can directly reflect the individual pathological and physiological conditions. Therefore, qualitative and quantitative analysis of the metabolome, the related metabolic pathways, and the identification of biomarkers will help to explore the MI-related metabolic problems and provide valuable insights into its pathogenic mechanisms. Here, we summarized new findings in MI metabolomics biomarkers research and their abnormal metabolic pathways triggered by the presented non-genetic risk factors, providing a metabolic landscape of semen and seminal plasma in general MI patients. Then, we compared the similarities and differences in semen and seminal plasma biomarkers between MI patients exposed to environmental and poor lifestyle factors and MI patients in general, and summarized some common biomarkers. We provide a better understanding of the biological underpinnings of MI pathogenesis, which might offer novel diagnostic, prognostic, and precise treatment approaches to MI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Rong Hua
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaojin He
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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8
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Wanjari UR, Gopalakrishnan AV. Blood-testis barrier: a review on regulators in maintaining cell junction integrity between Sertoli cells. Cell Tissue Res 2024; 396:157-175. [PMID: 38564020 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-024-03894-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is formed adjacent to the seminiferous basement membrane. It is a distinct ultrastructure, partitioning testicular seminiferous epithelium into apical (adluminal) and basal compartments. It plays a vital role in developing and maturing spermatocytes into spermatozoa via reorganizing its structure. This enables the transportation of preleptotene spermatocytes across the BTB, from basal to adluminal compartments in the seminiferous tubules. Several bioactive peptides and biomolecules secreted by testicular cells regulate the BTB function and support spermatogenesis. These peptides activate various downstream signaling proteins and can also be the target themself, which could improve the diffusion of drugs across the BTB. The gap junction (GJ) and its coexisting junctions at the BTB maintain the immunological barrier integrity and can be the "gateway" during spermatocyte transition. These junctions are the possible route for toxicant entry, causing male reproductive dysfunction. Herein, we summarize the detailed mechanism of all the regulators playing an essential role in the maintenance of the BTB, which will help researchers to understand and find targets for drug delivery inside the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uddesh Ramesh Wanjari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Tamil Nadu, Vellore, PIN 632014, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Tamil Nadu, Vellore, PIN 632014, India.
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9
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Chen N, Wan X, Wang M, Li Y, Wang X, Zeng L, Zhou J, Zhang Y, Cheng S, Shen Y. Cross-talk between Vimentin and autophagy regulates blood-testis barrier disruption induced by cadmium. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 346:123625. [PMID: 38401636 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123625] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
The blood-testis barrier (BTB) plays a vital role in mammalian spermatogenesis by separating the seminiferous epithelium into an adluminal and a basal compartment. Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal that is widely present in the environment. We observed that Cd can induce BTB disruption, leading to apoptosis of testicular cells. However, the molecular mechanisms contributing to BTB injury induced by Cd have not yet been fully clarified. Vimentin (Vim) is an important desmosome-like junction protein that mediates robust adhesion in the BTB. In this study, we investigated how Vim responds to Cd. We found that Cd treatment led to a significant decrease in Vim expression, accompanied by a marked increase in LC3-II expression and a higer number of autophagosomes. Interestingly, we also observed that Cd-induced autophagy was associated with decreased Vim activity and enhanced apoptosis of testicular cells. To further investigate the role of autophagy in Vim regulation under Cd exposure, we treated cells with an autophagy inhibitor called 3-MA. We found that 3-MA treatment enhanced Vim expression and improved the disruption of the BTB under Cd exposure. Additionally, the inhibition of Vim confirmed the role of autophagy in modulating Vim expression. These results reveal a previously unknown regulatory mechanism of Cd involving the interplay between a heavy metal and a protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, PR China
| | - Xiaoyan Wan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510620, PR China
| | - Mei Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yamin Li
- Department of Woman's Health Care, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430071, Hubei, PR China
| | - Xiaofei Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Yichang Central People's Hospital, The First College of Clinical Medical Science, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, 443000, Hubei, PR China
| | - Ling Zeng
- Medical Genetics Center, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, Wuhan, 430070, PR China
| | - Jinzhao Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, PR China
| | - Yanwei Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, PR China
| | - Shun Cheng
- College of Zhixing, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430011, PR China
| | - Yi Shen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, PR China.
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10
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Wanjari UR, Gopalakrishnan AV. Cadmium as a male reproductive toxicant and natural and non-natural ways to tackle it: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:18340-18361. [PMID: 38349491 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32210-7] [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: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a naturally occurring environmental pollutant, a toxic substance that causes oxidative stress. According to epidemiological studies, the data suggested that environmental and occupational Cd exposure may be related to several diseases and severe testicular damage. However, studies are going on to explore the mechanism of Cd-induced male reproductive toxicity and its treatment strategies. Currently, researchers are focusing on naturally occurring bioactive compounds, plant extracts, and biochemical, which have better efficacy, less toxicity, and high bioavailability. This review focuses on the mechanistic effect of Cd on testicular toxicity and different categories of compounds having a beneficial impact on Cd-induced male reproductive toxicity. Some potent bioactive antioxidants are quercetin, caffeic acid phenethyl ester, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, curcumin, and silymarin. In comparison, plant extracts are Costus afer leaf methanol extract, methanol root extract of Carpolobia lutea, red carrot methanolic extract, Panax ginseng extract, and biochemicals including melatonin, progesterone, glutamine, L-carnitine, and selenium. Advanced and more detailed studies are needed on these compounds to explore their mechanism in attenuating Cd-induced testicular toxicity and can be potential therapeutics in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Uddesh Ramesh Wanjari
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Bio-Sciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India.
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11
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Raja A, Costa P, Blum JL, Doherty-Lyons S, Igbo JK, Meltzer G, Orem W, McCawley M, Zelikoff JT. In vivo exposure to electronic waste (e-waste) leachate and hydraulic fracturing fluid adversely impacts the male reproductive system. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 124:108533. [PMID: 38160783 PMCID: PMC10922462 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2023.108533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Human health effects can arise from unregulated manual disassembly of electronic waste (e-waste) and/or hydraulic fracturing fluid spills. There is limited literature on the effects of e-waste and hydraulic fracturing wastewater exposure on the male reproductive system. Thus, this proof-of-concept study begins to address the question of how wastewater from two potentially hazardous environmental processes could affect sperm quality. Therefore, three groups of eight-week-old adult mice were exposed (5 d/wk for 6 wks) via a mealworm (Tenebrio molitor and Zophabas morio) feeding route to either: (1) e-waste leachate (50% dilution) from the Alaba Market (Lagos, Nigeria); (2) West Virginia hydraulic fracturing flowback (HFF) fluid (50% dilution); or, (3) deionized water (control). At 24-hours (hr), 3 weeks (wk), or 9-wk following the 6-wk exposure period, cohorts of mice were necropsied and adverse effects/persistence on the male reproductive system were examined. Ingestion of e-waste leachate or HFF fluid decreased number and concentration of sperm and increased both chromatin damage and numbers of morphological abnormalities in the sperm when compared to control mice. Levels of serum testosterone were reduced post-exposure (3- and 9-wk) in mice exposed to e-waste leachate and HFF when compared to time-matched controls, indicating the long-term persistence of adverse effects, well after the end of exposure. These data suggest that men living around or working in vicinity of either e-waste or hydraulic fracturing could face harmful effects to their reproductive health. From both a human health and economic standpoint, development of prevention and intervention strategies that are culturally relevant and economically sensitive are critically needed to reduce exposure to e-waste and HFF-associated toxic contaminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amna Raja
- Division of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Patricia Costa
- Division of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jason L Blum
- Division of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA; Product Safety Labs, Dayton, NJ, USA
| | - Shannon Doherty-Lyons
- Division of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Juliet K Igbo
- Department of Biological Oceanography, Nigerian Institute for Oceanography and Marine Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Gabriella Meltzer
- Departments of Epidemiology and Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY, USA
| | - William Orem
- United States Geological Survey, Reston, VA, USA
| | - Michael McCawley
- Department of Occupational & Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, South Morgantown, WV, USA
| | - Judith T Zelikoff
- Division of Environmental Medicine, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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12
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Chang Y, Deng H, He Y, Zhou B, Yuan D, Wu J, Zhang C, Zhao H. Wuzi Yanzong administration alleviates Sertoli cell injury by recovering AKT/mTOR-mediated autophagy and the mTORC1-mTROC2 balance in aging-induced testicular dysfunction. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:116865. [PMID: 37422101 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116865] [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: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Wuzi Yanzong Prescription (WZ), a classic traditional Chinese medicine formula, has the properties of kidney nourishing and essence strengthening, and it is widely used to treat male infertility with a long history. Sertoli cells are injured with aging, resulting in testicular dysfunction, and WZ effectively rejuvenates the age-related decline of testicular function. However, whether the therapeutic effects of WZ on aging-related testicular dysfunction are dependent on the restoration of Sertoli cell function remains unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY In a mouse model of natural aging, we explored the protective effects of WZ and its potential mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS Fifteen-month-old C57BL/6 mice were randomized to receive either standard diet or WZ (2 and 8 g/kg) for 3 months. Meanwhile, 10 1-month-old mice were considered the adult control group and received standard diet for 3 months. The testis and epididymis were rapidly collected, and the sperm quality, testicular histology, Sertoli cell numbers, tight junction (TJ) ultrastructure, and blood-testis barrier-associated protein expression and localization were assessed. RESULTS WZ significantly increased sperm concentration and sperm viability, improved the degenerative histomorphology and elevated the seminiferous epithelium height. Furthermore, WZ increased the number of Sertoli cells, restored the ultrastructure of the Sertoli cell TJ, and upregulated the expression of TJ-associated proteins (zonula occludens-1 and Claudin11), ectoplasm specialized-associated proteins (N-Cadherin, E-Cadherin and β-Catenin), and gap junction-associated protein (connexin 43), but did not affect the expression of Occludin and cytoskeletal protein (Vimentin). In addition, WZ did not change the localization of zonula occludens-1 and β-Catenin in aged testis. Moreover, WZ increased the expression of autophagy-associated proteins (light chain 3 beta and autophagy related 5) and decreased the expression of p62, phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin, and phosphorylated AKT in Sertoli cells. Finally, we found that WZ attenuated mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) activity and upregulated mTORC2 activity, as evidenced by inhibition of the expression of the regulatory-associated protein of mTOR, phosphorylated p70 S6K, and phosphorylated ribosomal protein s6 and enhancement of the expression of Rictor in the Sertoli cells of aging mice. CONCLUSIONS WZ improves the injury of Sertoli cells by restoring AKT/mTOR-mediated autophagy and the mTORC1-mTROC2 balance in Sertoli cells during aging. Our findings provide a new mechanism of WZ in the treatment of aging-induced testicular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyu Chang
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China; College of Medicine and Health Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China
| | - He Deng
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China; College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China
| | - Yumin He
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China; College of Medicine and Health Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China
| | - Benwen Zhou
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China; College of Medicine and Health Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China
| | - Ding Yuan
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Analysis and Testing Center, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China
| | - Changcheng Zhang
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China; College of Medicine and Health Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China.
| | - Haixia Zhao
- Third-grade Pharmacological Laboratory on Traditional Chinese Medicine, State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China; College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, 443002, China.
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Lan Y, Hu L, Feng X, Wang M, Yuan H, Xu H. Synergistic effect of PS-MPs and Cd on male reproductive toxicity: Ferroptosis via Keap1-Nrf2 pathway. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 461:132584. [PMID: 37748303 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
It has been wildly reported that microplastics (MPs) can adsorb heavy metals and act as carriers for their transport into organisms. However, the combined toxicity of MPs and heavy metals remains poorly studied. In this study, we established single or co-exposure (i.e. complex/combined exposure) mice models to investigate the combined toxicity of MPs and cadmium (Cd) on male reproduction. The complexation of MPs and Cd enhanced the bioavailability of Cd, while the combination of MPs and Cd exerted synergistic effect. Ultimately, the co-exposure was reported to enhance the reproduction toxicity by single exposure, which reflected in testicular structure, spermatogenesis and sex hormone synthesis. More in-depth mechanistic investigation suggested that MPs and Cd synergistically inhibited the Keap1-Nrf2 pathway and its downstream genes, induced lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis, ultimately caused damage to reproductive structures and functions. Our results highlighted the synergistic effect of MPs and Cd on the reproductive toxicity in male mammals for the first time, which also provided valuable insights into the combined toxicity mechanisms of MPs and other pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhi Lan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, PR China
| | - Liehai Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, PR China
| | - Xiaoyan Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, PR China
| | - Mengqi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, PR China
| | - Hongbin Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, PR China
| | - Hengyi Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Resources, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, PR China.
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Yu W, Zhu H, Huang R, Yan B, Xu B, Shi Y, Mao J, Liu Z, Wang J. Roles of Cyt-c/Caspase-9/Caspase-3/Bax/Bcl-2 pathway in Cd-induced testicular injury in rats and the protective effect of quercetin. Toxicon 2024; 237:107561. [PMID: 38092195 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2023.107561] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) exposure causes oxidative damage to mitochondria, which would adversely affect rat testicular tissue. Quercetin (Que) is a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects. However, the mechanism by which Que inhibits Cd-induced apoptosis of testicular cells remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of mitochondrial apoptosis pathway (Cyt-c/Caspase-9/Caspase-3/Bax/Bcl-2 pathway) in inhibiting Cd-induced apoptosis of testicular cells by Que. We used SD rats to simulate Cd chloride exposure by treating all sides of the rats with CdCl2 and/or Que. The levels of GSH and MDA in rat testis were detected using reagent kits. The effects of CdCl2 and/or Que on tissue damage, apoptosis, and gene and protein expression of the Cyt-c/Caspase-9/Caspase-3/Bax/Bcl-2 pathway in rat testis were examined by HE, TUNEL, RNA extraction and reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and Western blot (Wb). The results show that Cd significantly increased the contents of GSH and MDA in rat testis (P < 0.01); conversely, Que significantly reduced the contents of GSH and MDA (P < 0.01). Cd inflicted damage to testicular tissue, and Que addition significantly reduced the damage. Cd increased the number of apoptosis of testicle cells, and Que inhibited testicle-cell apoptosis. In addition, the results of reverse transcription PCR and Wb assays confirmed that, as expected, Cd increased the expression levels of Cyt-c, Caspase-9, Caspase-3, and Bax mRNAs as well as proteins. And at the same time decreased the expression of the anti-apoptotic factor Bcl-2 in the cells. Surprisingly, these effects were reversed when Que was added. Therefore, Que can play an antioxidant and anti-apoptotic role in reducing the testicular tissue damage caused by Cd exposure. This provides a conceptual basis for the later development and utilization of Que as well as the prevention and treatment of tissue damage caused by Cd exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China
| | - Huali Zhu
- Law Hospital, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China
| | - Ruxue Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China
| | - Bingzhao Yan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China
| | - Bing Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China
| | - Yaning Shi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China
| | - Junbing Mao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China
| | - Zongping Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, No.12, East Wenhui Road, 225009, Yangzhou, PR China
| | - Jicang Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, No.263, Kaiyuan Avenue, 471023, Luoyang, PR China.
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15
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Wang SC, Hsu HC, Chang YC, Yu CY, Liu CT, Sung WW. Melatonin exhibits partial protective effects against gemcitabine- and cisplatin-induced kidney and reproductive injuries in mice. Aging (Albany NY) 2023; 15:14372-14383. [PMID: 38097341 PMCID: PMC10756091 DOI: 10.18632/aging.205307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Cisplatin has the potential to cause kidney and reproductive organ injuries, prompting the search for protective agents against cisplatin-induced toxicity. Melatonin, an antioxidant hormone, has shown promise in mitigating oxidative stress in various organs. However, its protective effects on cisplatin-induced kidney and reproductive injuries have not been extensively investigated. The aim of this study was to explore the potential protective effects of melatonin on cisplatin-induced kidney and reproductive injuries when administered in combination with gemcitabine in mice. Male C57BL/6 mice were subjected to a seven-week treatment with gemcitabine plus cisplatin, with or without melatonin intervention. The testis, epididymis, and kidney were assessed through histological analysis and measurement of blood parameters. Treatment with cisplatin led to a significant reduction in testicular weight, histological abnormalities, and alterations in reproductive hormone levels. Melatonin exhibited a slight protective effect on the testis, with higher doses of melatonin yielding better outcomes. However, melatonin did not reverse the effects of cisplatin on the epididymis. Administration of melatonin before and during treatment with cisplatin plus gemcitabine in mice demonstrated a modest protective effect on testicular injuries, while showing limited effects on epididymal injuries. Serum creatinine levels in the group treated with gemcitabine plus cisplatin treatment and high-dose melatonin approached those of the control group, indicating a protective effect on the kidney. These findings underscore the potential of melatonin as a protective agent against cisplatin-induced kidney and reproductive injuries and emphasize the need for further research to optimize its dosage and evaluate its long-term effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Chuan Wang
- Department of Urology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Hsuan-Chih Hsu
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Chuan Chang
- Department of Urology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ying Yu
- Department of Urology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Te Liu
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Wei Sung
- Department of Urology, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 40201, Taiwan
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16
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Romano MZ, Boccella S, Venditti M, Maione S, Minucci S. Morphological and molecular changes in the Harderian gland of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 339:915-924. [PMID: 37522474 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2741] [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: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Using a rat model of type 1 diabetes (T1D) obtained by treatment with streptozotocin, an antibiotic that destroys pancreatic β-cells, we evaluated the influence of subsequent hyperglycemia on the morphology and physiology of the Harderian gland (HG). HG is located in the medial corner of the orbit of many terrestrial vertebrates and, in rodents, is characterized by the presence of porphyrins, which being involved in the phototransduction, through photo-oxidation, produce reactive oxygen species activating the autophagy pathway. The study focused on the expression of some morphological markers involved in cell junction formation (occludin, connexin-43, and α-tubulin) and mast cell number (MCN), as well as autophagic and apoptotic pathways. The expression of enzymes involved in steroidogenesis [steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD)] and the level of lipid peroxidation by thiobarbituric acid reactive species assay were also evaluated. The results strongly indicate, for the first time, that T1D has a negative impact on the pathophysiology of rat HG, as evidenced by increased oxidative stress, morphological and biochemical alterations, hyperproduction and secretion of porphyrins, increased MCN, reduced protein levels of StAR and 3β-HSD, and, finally, induced autophagy and apoptosis. All the combined data support the use of the rat HG as a suitable experimental model to elucidate the molecular damage/survival pathways elicited by stress conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Zelinda Romano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Serena Boccella
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Sabatino Maione
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, Italy
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Cao KX, Deng ZC, Liu M, Huang YX, Yang JC, Sun LH. Heat Stress Impairs Male Reproductive System with Potential Disruption of Retinol Metabolism and Microbial Balance in the Testis of Mice. J Nutr 2023; 153:3373-3381. [PMID: 37923224 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heat stress (HS) has a harmful impact on the male reproductive system, primarily by reducing the sperm quality. The testicular microenvironment plays an important role in sperm quality. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore the underlying mechanism by which HS impairs the male reproductive system through the testicular microenvironment. METHODS Ten-week-old male mice (n = 8 mice/group) were maintained at a normal temperature (25°C, control) or subjected to HS (38°C for 2 h each day, HS) for 2 wk. The epididymides and testes were collected at week 2 to determine sperm quality, histopathology, retinol concentration, the expression of retinol metabolism-related genes, and the testicular microbiome. The testicular microbiome profiles were analyzed using biostatistics and bioinformatics; other data were analyzed using a 2-sided Student's t test. RESULTS Compared with the control, HS reduced (P < 0.05) sperm count (42.4%) and motility (97.7%) and disrupted the integrity of the blood-testis barrier. Testicular microbial profiling analysis revealed that HS increased the abundance of the genera Asticcacaulis, Enhydrobacter, and Stenotrophomonas (P < 0.05) and decreased the abundance of the genera Enterococcus and Pleomorphomonas (P < 0.05). Notably, the abundance of Asticcacaulis spp. showed a significant negative correlation with sperm count (P < 0.001) and sperm motility (P < 0.001). Moreover, Asticcacaulis spp. correlated significantly with most blood differential metabolites, particularly retinol (P < 0.05). Compared with the control, HS increased serum retinol concentrations (25.3%) but decreased the testis retinol concentration by 23.7%. Meanwhile, HS downregulated (P < 0.05) the expression of 2 genes (STRA6 and RDH10) and a protein (RDH10) involved in retinol metabolism by 27.3%-36.6% in the testis compared with the control. CONCLUSIONS HS reduced sperm quality, mainly because of an imbalance in the testicular microenvironment potentially caused by an increase in Asticcacaulis spp. and disturbed retinol metabolism. These findings may offer new strategies for improving male reproductive capacity under HS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Xin Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhang-Chao Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Meng Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yu-Xuan Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jia-Cheng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Lv-Hui Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Frontiers Science Center for Animal Breeding and Sustainable Production, College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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18
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Wang Y, Liang Y, Yuan Z, Mai W, Leng Y, Zhang R, Chen J, Lai C, Chen H, Wu X, Sheng C, Zhang Q. Cadmium facilitates the formation of large lipid droplets via PLCβ2-DAG-DGKε-PA signal pathway in Leydig cells. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 266:115610. [PMID: 37866036 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115610] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) exposure damages the reproductive system. Lipid droplets (LDs) play an important role in steroid-producing cells to provide raw material for steroid hormone. We have found that the LDs of Leydig cells exposed to Cd are bigger than those of normal cells, but the effects on steroidogenesis and its underlying mechanism remains unclear. Using Isobaric tag for relative and absolute quantitation (iTARQ) proteomics, phosphodiesterase beta-2 (PLCβ2) was identified as the most significantly up-regulated protein in immature Leydig cells (ILCs) and adult Leydig cells (ALCs) derived from male rats exposed to maternal Cd. Consistent with high expression of PLCβ2, the size of LDs was increased in Leydig cells exposed to Cd, accompanied by reduction in cholesterol and progesterone (P4) levels. However, the high PLCβ2 did not result in high diacylglycerol (DAG) level, because Cd exposure up-regulated diacylglycerol kinases ε (DGKε) to promote the conversion from DAG to phosphatidic acid (PA). Exogenous PA, which was consistent with the intracellular PA concentration induced by Cd, facilitated the formation of large LDs in R2C cells, followed by reduced P4 level in the culture medium. When PLCβ2 expression was knocked down, the increased DGKε caused by Cd was reversed, and then the PA level was decreased to normal. As results, large LDs returned to normal size, and the level of total cholesterol was improved to restore steroidogenesis. The accumulation of PA regulated by PLCβ2-DAG-DGKε signal pathway is responsible for the formation of large LDs and insufficient steroid hormone synthesis in Leydig cells exposed to Cd. These data highlight that LD is an important target organelle for Cd-induced steroid hormone deficiency in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youjin Wang
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yuqing Liang
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Zansheng Yuan
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Wanwen Mai
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Yang Leng
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Runze Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Jiayan Chen
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Caiyong Lai
- Department of Urology, The sixth affiliated hospital of Jinan University, Dongguan 523570, China
| | - Hongxia Chen
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangzhou Biopharmaceutical R&D Center of Jinan University Co., Ltd, Guangzhou 510632, China
| | - Xiaoping Wu
- Institute of Tissue Transplantation and Immunology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China.
| | - Chao Sheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Qihao Zhang
- Department of Cell Biology & Institute of Biomedicine, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Bioengineering Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China; Guangzhou Biopharmaceutical R&D Center of Jinan University Co., Ltd, Guangzhou 510632, China.
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Falvo S, Minucci S, Santillo A, Senese R, Chieffi Baccari G, Venditti M. A short-term high-fat diet alters rat testicular activity and blood-testis barrier integrity through the SIRT1/NRF2/MAPKs signaling pathways. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1274035. [PMID: 38027181 PMCID: PMC10643185 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1274035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Overweight/obesity are metabolic disorder resulting from behavioral, environmental, and heritable causes. WHO estimates that 50% of adults and 30% of children and adolescents are overweight or obese, and, in parallel, an ongoing decline in sperm quality and male fertility has been described. Numerous studies demonstrated the intimate association between overweight/obesity and reproductive dysfunction due to a highly intricate network of causes not yet completely understood. This study expands the knowledge on the impact of a short-term high-fat diet (st-HFD) on rat testicular activity, specifically on steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis, focusing on the involved molecular mechanisms related to mitochondrial dynamics, blood-testis barrier (BTB) integrity, and SIRT1/NRF2/MAPKs pathways. Methods Ten adult Male Wistar rats were divided into two groups of five and treated with a standard diet or an HFD for five weeks. At the end of the treatment, rats were anesthetized and sacrificed by decapitation. Blood was collected for serum sex hormone assay; one testis was stored at -80ÅãC for western blot analysis, and the other, was fixed for histological and immunofluorescence analysis. Results Five weeks of HFD results in reduced steroidogenesis, increased apoptosis of spermatogenic cells, and altered spermatogenesis, as highlighted by reduced protein levels ofmeiotic and post-meiotic markers. Further, we evidenced the compromission of the BTB integrity, as revealed by the downregulation of structural proteins (N-Cadherin, ZO-1, occludin, connexin 43, and VANGL2) other than the phosphorylation of regulative kinases (Src and FAK). At the molecular level, the impairment of mitochondrial dynamics (fission, fusion, andbiogenesis), and the dysregulation of the SIRT1/NRF2/MAPKs signaling pathways, were evidenced. Interestingly, no change was observed in the levels of pro-inflammatory markers (TNFα, NF-kB, and IL-6). Conclusions The combined data led us to confirm that overweight is a less severe state than obesity. Furthermore, understanding the molecular mechanisms behind the association between metabolic disorders and male fertility could improve the possibility of identifying novel targets to prevent and treat fertility disorders related to overweight/obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Falvo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania ‘Luigi Vanvitelli’, Caserta, Italy
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate, Università degli Studi della Campania ‘Luigi Vanvitelli’, Napoli, Italy
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania ‘Luigi Vanvitelli’, Caserta, Italy
| | - Rosalba Senese
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania ‘Luigi Vanvitelli’, Caserta, Italy
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania ‘Luigi Vanvitelli’, Caserta, Italy
| | - Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate, Università degli Studi della Campania ‘Luigi Vanvitelli’, Napoli, Italy
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20
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Arab HH, Fikry EM, Alsufyani SE, Ashour AM, El-Sheikh AAK, Darwish HW, Al-Hossaini AM, Saad MA, Al-Shorbagy MY, Eid AH. Stimulation of Autophagy by Dapagliflozin Mitigates Cadmium-Induced Testicular Dysfunction in Rats: The Role of AMPK/mTOR and SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 Pathways. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1006. [PMID: 37513918 PMCID: PMC10386496 DOI: 10.3390/ph16071006] [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: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a widespread environmental pollutant that triggers testicular dysfunction. Dapagliflozin is a selective sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor with notable antioxidant and anti-apoptotic features. It has shown marked cardio-, reno-, hepato-, and neuroprotective effects. Yet, its effect on Cd-evoked testicular impairment has not been examined. Hence, the goal of the current study was to investigate the potential positive effect of dapagliflozin against Cd-induced testicular dysfunction in rats, with an emphasis on autophagy, apoptosis, and oxidative insult. Dapagliflozin (1 mg/kg/day) was given by oral gavage, and testicular dysfunction, impaired spermatogenesis, and biomolecular events were studied via immunohistochemistry, histopathology, and ELISA. The current findings demonstrated that dapagliflozin improved relative testicular weight, serum testosterone, and sperm count/motility and reduced sperm abnormalities, signifying mitigation of testicular impairment and spermatogenesis disruption. Moreover, dapagliflozin attenuated Cd-induced histological abnormalities and preserved testicular structure. The testicular function recovery was prompted by stimulating the cytoprotective SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 axis, lowering the testicular oxidative changes, and augmenting cellular antioxidants. As regards apoptosis, dapagliflozin counteracted the apoptotic machinery by downregulating the pro-apoptotic signals together with Bcl-2 upregulation. Meanwhile, dapagliflozin reactivated the impaired autophagy, as seen by a lowered accumulation of SQSTM-1/p62 and Beclin 1 upregulation. In the same context, the testicular AMPK/mTOR pathway was stimulated as evidenced by the increased p-AMPK (Ser487)/total AMPK ratio alongside the lowered p-mTOR (Ser2448)/total mTOR ratio. Together, the favorable mitigation of Cd-induced testicular impairment/disrupted spermatogenesis was driven by the antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and pro-autophagic actions of dapagliflozin. Thus, it could serve as a tool for the management of Cd-evoked testicular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hany H Arab
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt
| | - Ebtehal Mohammad Fikry
- Department of Pharmacology, Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA)-Formerly NODCAR, Giza 12654, Egypt
| | - Shuruq E Alsufyani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed M Ashour
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al Qura University, P.O. Box 13578, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Azza A K El-Sheikh
- Basic Health Sciences Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hany W Darwish
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah M Al-Hossaini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammed A Saad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University, Ajman 4184, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt
| | - Muhammad Y Al-Shorbagy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University, Ajman 4184, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo 11562, Egypt
| | - Ahmed H Eid
- Department of Pharmacology, Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA)-Formerly NODCAR, Giza 12654, Egypt
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Li Q, Feng Y, Wang R, Liu R, Ba Y, Huang H. Recent insights into autophagy and metals/nanoparticles exposure. Toxicol Res 2023; 39:355-372. [PMID: 37398566 PMCID: PMC10313637 DOI: 10.1007/s43188-023-00184-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Some anthropogenic pollutants, such as heavy metals and nanoparticles (NPs), are widely distributed and a major threat to environmental safety and public health. In particular, lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), and mercury (Hg) have systemic toxicity even at extremely low concentrations, so they are listed as priority metals in relation to their significant public health burden. Aluminum (Al) is also toxic to multiple organs and is linked to Alzheimer's disease. As the utilization of many metal nanoparticles (MNPs) gradually gain traction in industrial and medical applications, they are increasingly being investigated to address potential toxicity by impairing certain biological barriers. The dominant toxic mechanism of these metals and MNPs is the induction of oxidative stress, which subsequently triggers lipid peroxidation, protein modification, and DNA damage. Notably, a growing body of research has revealed the linkage between dysregulated autophagy and some diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases and cancers. Among them, some metals or metal mixtures can act as environmental stimuli and disturb basal autophagic activity, which has an underlying adverse health effect. Some studies also revealed that specific autophagy inhibitors or activators could modify the abnormal autophagic flux attributed to continuous exposure to metals. In this review, we have gathered recent data about the contribution of the autophagy/mitophagy mediated toxic effects and focused on the involvement of some key regulatory factors of autophagic signaling during exposure to selected metals, metal mixtures, as well as MNPs in the real world. Besides this, we summarized the potential significance of interactions between autophagy and excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated oxidative damage in the regulation of cell survival response to metals/NPs. A critical view is given on the application of autophagy activators/inhibitors to modulate the systematic toxicity of various metals/MNPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Li
- Department of Environmental Health and Environment and Health Innovation Team, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001 Henan People’s Republic of China
| | - Yajing Feng
- Department of Environmental Health and Environment and Health Innovation Team, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001 Henan People’s Republic of China
| | - Ruike Wang
- Department of Environmental Health and Environment and Health Innovation Team, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001 Henan People’s Republic of China
| | - Rundong Liu
- Department of Environmental Health and Environment and Health Innovation Team, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001 Henan People’s Republic of China
| | - Yue Ba
- Department of Environmental Health and Environment and Health Innovation Team, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001 Henan People’s Republic of China
| | - Hui Huang
- Department of Environmental Health and Environment and Health Innovation Team, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450001 Henan People’s Republic of China
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22
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Venditti M, Santillo A, Latino D, Ben Rhouma M, Romano MZ, Haddadi A, Di Fiore MM, Minucci S, Messaoudi I, Chieffi Baccari G. Evidence of the protective role of D-Aspartate in counteracting/preventing cadmium-induced oxidative stress in the rat testis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 259:115067. [PMID: 37244200 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd), by producing oxidative stress and acting as an endocrine disruptor, is known to cause severe testicular injury, documented by histological and biomolecular alterations, such as decreased serum testosterone (T) level and impairment of spermatogenesis. This is the first report on the potential counteractive/preventive action of D-Aspartate (D-Asp), a well-known stimulator of T biosynthesis and spermatogenesis progression by affecting hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, in alleviating Cd effects in the rat testis. Our results confirmed that Cd affects testicular activity, as documented by the reduction of serum T concentration and of the protein levels of steroidogenesis (StAR, 3β-HSD, and 17β-HSD) and spermatogenesis (PCNA, p-H3, and SYCP3) markers. Moreover, higher protein levels of cytochrome C and caspase 3, together with the number of cells positive to TUNEL assay, indicated the intensification of the apoptotic process. D-Asp administered either simultaneously to Cd, or for 15 days before the Cd-treatment, reduced the oxidative stress induced by the metal, alleviating the consequent harmful effects. Interestingly, the preventive action of D-Asp was more effective than its counteractive effect. A possible explanation is that giving D-Asp for 15 days induces its significant uptake in the testes, reaching the concentrations necessary for optimum function. In summary, this report highlights, for the first time, the beneficial role played by D-Asp in both counteracting/preventing the adverse Cd effects in the rat testis, strongly encouraging further investigations to consider the potential value of D-Asp also in improving human testicular health and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli, 16-80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Alessandra Santillo
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Via Vivaldi, 43-81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Debora Latino
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Via Vivaldi, 43-81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Mariem Ben Rhouma
- LR11ES41: Génetique, Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bioressources, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Maria Zelinda Romano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli, 16-80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Asma Haddadi
- LR11ES41: Génetique, Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bioressources, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Maria Maddalena Di Fiore
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Via Vivaldi, 43-81100 Caserta, Italy
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', via Santa Maria di Costantinopoli, 16-80138 Napoli, Italy.
| | - Imed Messaoudi
- LR11ES41: Génetique, Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bioressources, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Gabriella Chieffi Baccari
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali, Biologiche e Farmaceutiche, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Via Vivaldi, 43-81100 Caserta, Italy
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23
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Hassine MBH, Venditti M, Rhouma MB, Minucci S, Messaoudi I. Combined effect of polystyrene microplastics and cadmium on rat blood-testis barrier integrity and sperm quality. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:56700-56712. [PMID: 36928700 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26429-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The harmful effects of microplastics and Cd on the testicular activity of sexually mature rats are here documented. Oral treatment with both substances caused testicular impairment that was evidenced by histological and biomolecular alterations, such as MP accumulation in the seminiferous epithelium, imbalance of oxidative status, and reduced sperm quality. Importantly, the cytoarchitecture of the blood-testis barrier was compromised, as revealed by the down-regulation of protein levels of structural occludin, Van Gogh-like protein 2, and connexin 43 and activation of regulative kinases proto-oncogene tyrosine-protein kinase and focal adhesion kinase. Interestingly, for the first time, MPs are reported to activate the autophagy pathway in germ cells, to reduce damaged organelles and molecules, probably in an attempt to avoid apoptosis. Surprisingly, the results obtained with the simultaneous Cd + MPs treatment showed more harmful effects than those produced by MPs alone but less severe than with Cd alone. This might be due to the different ways of administration to rats (oral gavage for MPs and in drinking water for Cd), which might favor the adsorption, in the gastrointestinal tract, of Cd by MPs, which, by exploiting the Trojan horse effect, reduces the bioavailability of Cd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majida Ben Hadj Hassine
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité Et Valorisation Des Bio-Ressourcés, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Rue Taher Haddad, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento Di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana E Funzioni Biologiche Integrate "F. Bottazzi, Università Degli Studi Della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli,", Via Costantinopoli, 16, 80138, Naples, NA, Italy
| | - Mariem Ben Rhouma
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité Et Valorisation Des Bio-Ressourcés, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Rue Taher Haddad, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento Di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana E Funzioni Biologiche Integrate "F. Bottazzi, Università Degli Studi Della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli,", Via Costantinopoli, 16, 80138, Naples, NA, Italy.
| | - Imed Messaoudi
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité Et Valorisation Des Bio-Ressourcés, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Rue Taher Haddad, 5000, Monastir, Tunisia
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Han L, Wang J, Zhang L, Jing J, Zhang W, Liu Z, Gao A. The role of N 6-methyladenosine modification in benzene-induced testicular damage and the protective effect of melatonin. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 319:138035. [PMID: 36736484 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.138035] [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: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Benzene is a universal ambient pollutant. Population-based studies have shown that benzene exposure affects male fertility. However, the mechanism of benzene-induced reproductive toxicity is unknown. Here, we established a dynamic inhalation model and exposed C57BL/6J mice to 0, 10, and 50 ppm benzene (6 h/day, 6 days/week, 7 weeks). Our study revealed that benzene exposure caused testicular injury, including structural damage to spermatogenic tubules, reduced semen quality, and decreased testosterone levels. In addition, the decrease in the global level of N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) and the change of m6A important regulatory enzymes in mice testes suggested that m6A was involved in the benzene-induced testicular injury. Further genome-wide m6A methylation analysis showed that 1469 differential m6A peaks were present in the testes of control and benzene groups, indicating that benzene exposure modulated m6A methylation in testes. Furthermore, the comprehensive analysis of m6A-sequencing and transcriptome revealed that hypermethylated Rara and its consequent reduced expression impaired the sperm production process. In particular, melatonin alleviated benzene-induced testicular injury by modulating m6A-related genes. Overall, our research provides a new idea and fundamental knowledge into the possible mechanisms of m6A modifications in benzene-induced testicular impairment, as well as a new experimental basis for benzene-induced male fertility therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Han
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China
| | - Jingyu Wang
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China
| | - Jiaru Jing
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China
| | - Ziyan Liu
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China
| | - Ai Gao
- Department of Occupational Health and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China.
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25
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Venditti M, Ben Hadj Hassine M, Messaoudi I, Minucci S. The simultaneous administration of microplastics and cadmium alters rat testicular activity and changes the expression of PTMA, DAAM1 and PREP. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1145702. [PMID: 36968197 PMCID: PMC10033688 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1145702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper confirms the damaging effects produced by MP and Cd on testicular activity in the rat. Oral treatment with both chemicals resulted in testicular damage, documented by biomolecular and histological alterations, particularly by impaired morphometric parameters, increased apoptosis, reduced testosterone synthesis, and downregulation of the steroidogenic enzyme 3β-HSD. We also demonstrated, for the first time, that both MP and Cd can affect the protein level of PTMA, a small peptide that regulates germ cell proliferation and differentiation. Interestingly, the cytoarchitecture of testicular cells was also altered by the treatments, as evidenced by the impaired expression and localization of DAAM1 and PREP, two proteins involved in actin- and microtubule-associated processes, respectively, during germ cells differentiation into spermatozoa, impairing normal spermatogenesis. Finally, we showed that the effect of simultaneous treatment with MP and Cd were more severe than those produced by MP alone and less harmful than those of Cd alone. This could be due to the different ways of exposure of the two substances to rats (in drinking water for Cd and in oral gavage for MP), since being the first contact in the animals’ gastrointestinal tract, MP can adsorb Cd, reducing its bioavailability through the Trojan-horse effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Massimo Venditti, ; Sergio Minucci,
| | - Majida Ben Hadj Hassine
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio-ressourcés, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Imed Messaoudi
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio-ressourcés, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de Monastir, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Massimo Venditti, ; Sergio Minucci,
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Romano MZ, Ben Rhouma M, Messaoudi I, Aniello F, Minucci S, Venditti M. Expression of RSPH6A in the first wave of rat spermatogenesis and oxidative stress conditions: Attenuation by melatonin. Reprod Med Biol 2023; 22:e12542. [PMID: 37795044 PMCID: PMC10545975 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Here, we report, for the first time, the temporal expression and localization of axonemal radial spoke head homolog A (RSPH6A) protein during the first wave of rat spermatogenesis and in oxidative stress conditions. Methods For the developmental study, testes were collected from rats at different developmental stages (7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, and 60 postnatal days); for in vivo treatment, 24 rats were treated with cadmium and/or melatonin. From each sample, western blot (WB) and immunofluorescence (IF) analyses for RSPH6A were performed. Results RSPH6A expression starts at 21 PND alongside the appearance of I spermatocytes (SPC) with a significant increase up to 60 PND. Data were confirmed by IF analysis, showing that RPSH6A expression is restricted to I and II SPC, spermatids, and mature sperm. In vivo experiments showed that the expression and localization of RSPH6A in the testis and epididymal spermatozoa of adult rats treated with cadmium were impaired. Interestingly, melatonin (an antioxidant), given together with Cd, can counteract its damaging effects. Conclusions All combined data confirm that RSPH6A contributes to the onset of fertility by acting on sperm motility, raising the possibility of using RSPH6A as a marker for normal fertility in the general population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Zelinda Romano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”NapoliItaly
| | - Mariem Ben Rhouma
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio‐RessourcésInstitut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de MonastirMonastirTunisia
| | - Imed Messaoudi
- Laboratoire LR11ES41 Génétique Biodiversité et Valorisation des Bio‐RessourcésInstitut Supérieur de Biotechnologie de Monastir, Université de MonastirMonastirTunisia
| | - Francesco Aniello
- Dipartimento di BiologiaUniversità di Napoli “Federico II”NapoliItaly
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”NapoliItaly
| | - Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”NapoliItaly
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Dehdari Ebrahimi N, Parsa S, Nozari F, Shahlaee MA, Maktabi A, Sayadi M, Sadeghi A, Azarpira N. Protective effects of melatonin against the toxic effects of environmental pollutants and heavy metals on testicular tissue: A systematic review and meta-analysis of animal studies. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1119553. [PMID: 36793277 PMCID: PMC9922902 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1119553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental pollution and infertility are two modern global challenges that agonize personal and public health. The causal relationship between these two deserves scientific efforts to intervene. It is believed that melatonin maintains antioxidant properties and may be utilized to protect the testicular tissue from oxidant effects caused by toxic materials. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science to identify the animal trial studies that evaluated melatonin therapy's effects on rodents' testicular tissue against oxidative stress caused by heavy metal and non-heavy metal environmental pollutants. Data were pooled, and standardized mean difference and 95% confidence intervals were estimated using the random-effect model. Also, the risk of bias was assessed using the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory animal Experimentation (SYRCLE) tool. (PROSPERO: CRD42022369872). RESULTS Out of 10039 records, 38 studies were eligible for the review, of which 31 were included in the meta-analysis. Most of them showed beneficial effects of melatonin therapy on testicular tissue histopathology. [20 toxic materials were evaluated in this review, including arsenic, lead, hexavalent chromium, cadmium, potassium dichromate, sodium fluoride, cigarette smoke, formaldehyde, carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), 2-Bromopropane, bisphenol A, thioacetamide, bisphenol S, ochratoxin A, nicotine, diazinon, Bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), Chlorpyrifos (CPF), nonylphenol, and acetamiprid.] The pooled results showed that melatonin therapy increased sperm count, motility, viability and body and testicular weights, germinal epithelial height, Johnsen's biopsy score, epididymis weight, seminiferous tubular diameter, serum testosterone, and luteinizing hormone levels, testicular tissue Malondialdehyde, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione levels. On the other hand, abnormal sperm morphology, apoptotic index, and testicular tissue nitric oxide were lower in the melatonin therapy arms. The included studies presented a high risk of bias in most SYRCLE domains. CONCLUSION In conclusion, our study demonstrated amelioration of testicular histopathological characteristics, reproductive hormonal panel, and tissue markers of oxidative stress. Melatonin deserves scientific attention as a potential therapeutic agent for male infertility. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier CRD42022369872.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shima Parsa
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farnoosh Nozari
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Amirhossein Maktabi
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehrab Sayadi
- Cardiovascular research center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Alireza Sadeghi
- Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Negar Azarpira
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- *Correspondence: Negar Azarpira,
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Qu J, Wang Q, Niu H, Sun X, Ji D, Li Y. Melatonin protects oocytes from cadmium exposure-induced meiosis defects by changing epigenetic modification and enhancing mitochondrial morphology in the mouse. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 248:114311. [PMID: 36410142 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.114311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is one major environmental pollutant that can cause detrimental impacts on human as well as animal reproductive systems as a result of oxidative stress. It is widely acknowledged that melatonin secreted principally by the pineal gland is not only a natural potent antioxidant but also a free radical scavenger, whereas concerning how to alleviate the toxic effects of Cd on oocyte maturation remains elusive. In this investigation, it was the first time to explore the protective effects and potential mechanism of melatonin on meiotic maturation of mouse oocytes exposed to Cd in vitro medium. We found that Cd exerts adverse effects on meiotic maturation progression by disrupting the normal function of mitochondrion combined with the aberrant mitochondrial distribution and decreased membrane potential and altering epigenetic modification, including H3K9me2 and H3K4me2. Additionally, it was observed that Cd exposure disrupted the morphology of spindle organization and caused chromosome misalignment, which might be through changing the level of acetylated tubulin, whereas melatonin administration alleviated the toxic impacts of Cd on oocytes. Furthermore, the mitochondrial morphology-related genes mRNA expression and protein expression of autophagy-related genes was also investigated. The results suggested that melatonin supplementation significantly altered the mRNA expression of mitochondrial dynamics-related genes, rather than the expression of mitophagy-related proteins. Taken together, our results validated that melatonin administration has a certain protective impact against oocytes meiosis maturation defects induced by cadmium through changing epigenetic modification and enhancing mitochondrial morphology rather than mitophagy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Qu
- Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics & Molecular Breeding of Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China; The department of Animal and Veterinary Science, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA.
| | - Qiang Wang
- Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics & Molecular Breeding of Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China.
| | - Haoyuan Niu
- Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics & Molecular Breeding of Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China.
| | - Xiaomei Sun
- Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics & Molecular Breeding of Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China.
| | - Dejun Ji
- Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics & Molecular Breeding of Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China.
| | - Yongjun Li
- Key Laboratory for Animal Genetics & Molecular Breeding of Jiangsu Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China.
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Hafez HM, Waz S, El-Tahawy NFG, Mohamed MZ. Agomelatine ameliorates cadmium-induced toxicity through the modification of HMGB-1/TLR-4/NFκB pathway. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2022; 457:116313. [PMID: 36356678 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2022.116313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) has potential hazards on human beings. Consequently, this study was performed to explore the protective effects of agomelatine (AGO), a melatonin receptor agonist, against Cd-induced toxicity in rats. AGO (40 mg/kg/day) was administered orally concomitant with intra peritoneal injection of Cd (0.4 mg/kg/day) for 14 days. Then, blood, biochemical parameters and histological examination of affected organs including, heart and testis, were evaluated. Interestingly, AGO significantly counteracted Cd-induced elevation of serum cardiac enzymes. Similarly, AGO significantly improved the deterioration of serum testosterone level with Cd administration. The oxidative balance was corrected by AGO, as evidenced by decrease malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase activity in cardiac and testicular tissues. Additionally, AGO increased silent information regulator 1 protein (SIRT-1) and decreased High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), Toll like receptor-4 (TLR-4), and Myd88 levels that subsequently reduced expression of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Moreover, level of apoptotic marker; caspase-3 was inhibited by AGO. In accordance with the biochemical and molecular results, AGO restored structure of cardiac myofibers and seminiferous tubules. Collectively, AGO mitigated cardiac and testicular toxicity of Cd via modulation of SIRT-1/HMGB1 and its downstream pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba M Hafez
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, El-Minia 61511, Egypt.
| | - Shaimaa Waz
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, El-Minia 61511, Egypt.
| | | | - Mervat Z Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, El-Minia 61511, Egypt.
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Wei J, Lu X, Bao X, Zhang C, Li J, Ren C, Zhu Z, Ma B, Zhang N, Jin X, Ma B. Aucubin supplementation alleviate diabetes induced-disruption of blood-testis barrier and testicular damage via stabilizing cell junction integrity. Eur J Pharmacol 2022; 938:175430. [PMID: 36460131 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2022.175430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Disruption of blood-testis barrier (BTB) was a crucial pathological feature of diabetes induced-testicular injury at early phase. Aucubin (AU), a main active component in Eucommiae Cortex, has drawn attention for its benefits against male reproductive system disease. The current study was aimed at investigating the protective role of AU and exploring the underlying mechanism in diabetic model. A murine model of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) was induced by high-fat diet (HFD) combined with streptozocin (STZ). Testicular weight index and morphology, sperm quality, integrity of BTB and protein levels were analyzed. The underlying mechanism of the protective effect of AU was further explored in Sertoli cells (SCs) cultured with high glucose (HG). Our results showed AU inhibited testicular structural destruction, restored disruption of BTB and improved abnormal spermatogenic function in diabetic mice. Consistent with in vivo results, HG induced decreased transcellular resistance and increased permeability in SCs monolayers, while AU exposure reverses this trend. Meanwhile, reduced expression of Zonula occludin-1(ZO-1) and Connexin43(Cx43) in testicular tissue diabetic mice and HG-induced SCs was prominently reversed via AU treatment. Mechanistic studies suggested a high affinity interaction between AU and c-Src protein was identified based on molecular docking, and the activation of c-Src was significantly inhibited in AU treatment. Furthermore, AU significantly increased the expression of Cx43 and ZO-1 proteins HG-induced SCs, which can be further enhanced in gene-silenced c-Src cells to some extent. Our results suggested that AU ameliorated disruption of BTB and spermatogenesis dysfunction in diabetic mice via inactivating c-Src to stabilize cell junction integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingxun Wei
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuanzhao Lu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaowen Bao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Nanjing Tech University School of Economics & Management. Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaqi Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Chaoxing Ren
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiming Zhu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Beiting Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Zhang
- School of Chemical and Molecular Engineering, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Jin
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing, 210009, People's Republic of China.
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Arab HH, Abd El Aal HA, Alsufyani SE, El-Sheikh AAK, Arafa ESA, Ashour AM, Kabel AM, Eid AH. Topiramate Reprofiling for the Attenuation of Cadmium-Induced Testicular Impairment in Rats: Role of NLRP3 Inflammasome and AMPK/mTOR-Linked Autophagy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:1402. [PMID: 36422532 PMCID: PMC9697422 DOI: 10.3390/ph15111402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Topiramate, a promising drug classically used for the management of neurological disorders including epilepsy and migraine, has demonstrated marked anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic actions in murine models of cardiac post-infarction inflammation, wound healing, and gastric/intestinal injury. However, its potential impact on cadmium-induced testicular injury remains to be elucidated. Herein, the present study aimed to explore the effect of topiramate against cadmium-invoked testicular impairment with emphasis on the molecular mechanisms linked to inflammation, apoptosis, and autophagy. Herein, administration of topiramate (50 mg/kg/day, by gavage) continued for 60 days and the testes were examined by histology, immunohistochemistry, and biochemical assays. The present data demonstrated that serum testosterone, sperm count/abnormalities, relative testicular weight, and histopathological aberrations were improved by topiramate administration to cadmium-intoxicated rats. The rescue of testicular dysfunction was driven by multi-pronged mechanisms including suppression of NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β cascade, which was evidenced by dampened caspase-1 activity, lowered IL-1β/IL-18 production, and decreased nuclear levels of activated NF-κBp65. Moreover, curbing testicular apoptosis was seen by lowered Bax expression, decreased caspase-3 activity, and upregulation of Bcl-2. In tandem, testicular autophagy was activated as seen by diminished p62 SQSTM1 accumulation alongside Beclin-1 upregulation. Autophagy activation was associated with AMPK/mTOR pathway stimulation demonstrated by decreased mTOR (Ser2448) phosphorylation and increased AMPK (Ser487) phosphorylation. In conclusion, combating inflammation/apoptosis and enhancing autophagic events by topiramate were engaged in ameliorating cadmium-induced testicular impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hany H. Arab
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hayat A. Abd El Aal
- Department of Pharmacology, Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA), Formerly NODCAR, Giza 12654, Egypt
| | - Shuruq E. Alsufyani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, P.O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Azza A. K. El-Sheikh
- Basic Health Sciences Department, College of Medicine, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - El-Shaimaa A. Arafa
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Ajman University, Ajman 346, United Arab Emirates
- Center of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman 346, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ahmed M. Ashour
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al Qura University, P.O. Box 13578, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed M. Kabel
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31527, Egypt
| | - Ahmed H. Eid
- Department of Pharmacology, Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA), Formerly NODCAR, Giza 12654, Egypt
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Wei H, Xiao L, Yao H, Li X, Wang W, Lee Y, Li D, Wei J. Melatonin through blockade of Hif-1α signaling mediates the anti-fibrosis under hypoxia in canine Sertoli cells. Reprod Biol 2022; 22:100677. [PMID: 36152357 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2022.100677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The hypoxic microenvironment of cryptorchidism is an important factor in the impairment and fibrosis of Sertoli cells which result in blood-testis barrier (BTB) destruction and spermatogenesis loss. Recent studies have shown that melatonin, a well-known pineal hormone exerts beneficial effects against pathological fibrosis in a various of organs. However, it is still unknown whether melatonin can regulate hypoxia-induced fibrosis of Sertoli cells. In this study we evaluate melatonin levels, and its synthesizing enzymes, AANAT and HIOMT expression patterns in canine cryptorchidism and contralateral normal testis. Results show abdominal testes presented low melatonin levels and AANAT and HIOMT expression compared with testes located in the scrotum. Moreover, we established a hypoxia-induced fibrosis model in canine Sertoli cells induced by cobalt chloride (CoCl2) and found that melatonin inhibited the EMT markers expression and ECM production as well as Hif-1α expression of Sertoli cells in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, use of Lificiguat (synonyms YC-1, Hif-1α inhibitor) to interfere with the Hif-1α pathway showed a similar effect with melatonin suppression of the fibrosis in Sertoli cells. The results indicate that melatonin supplementation can alleviate the fibrosis process of Sertoli cells caused by hypoxia, which is associated with regulating the inhibition of Hif-1α signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huawei Wei
- Beijing Detector Dog Program Facility of China Customs, Beijing, China
| | - Longfei Xiao
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Yao
- Animal Science and Technology College, Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang Li
- RuiLi Detector Dog Program Facility of China Customs, Yunnan, China
| | - Wei Wang
- China-Japan Friendship Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Lee
- Beijing Customs of PRC, Beijing, China
| | | | - Jingwen Wei
- Beijing Detector Dog Program Facility of China Customs, Beijing, China.
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Zhu CL, Wang L, Zhao XQ, Yang R, Zhang BY, Zhao YY, Xia XJ, Zhang HH, Chen SJ, Jiang JQ, Hu JH, Zhang GP, Bai YY, Lei LC, Zhang XM. Antimicrobial peptide MPX attenuates LPS-induced inflammatory response and blood-testis barrier dysfunction in Sertoli cells. Theriogenology 2022; 189:301-312. [PMID: 35842953 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Orchitis accounts for a high proportion of male animal reproductive disorders. Hence, it is urgent to identify drugs for the prevention and treatment of orchitis. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are currently recognized as one of the most promising alternatives to antibiotics. However, the protective effects of AMPs on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced orchitis have not been reported. In this study, we developed an LPS-induced orchitis model in which primary bovine Sertoli cells were used as model cells. MPX was indicated to effectively reduce the inflammatory response of Sertoli cells. MPX attenuated the gene expression of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β by suppressing the MAPK pathway, especially the phosphorylation of p38 and ERK. MPX also decreased the oxidative stress response caused by LPS and upregulated Occludin and Claudin-1 expression, thereby maintaining the integrity of the blood-testis barrier. Moreover, we found that MPX inhibited apoptosis in Sertoli cells. In a mouse model, we found that MPX significantly inhibited the disruptive effects of LPS, reducing seminiferous epithelium damage, vacuolations, hyperplasia, and apoptosis in spermatogenic cells and rescuing spermatogenesis. In addition, the expression of inflammatory factors such as IL-1β, IL-18, IL-6 and TNF-α was decreased after MPX treatment in the mouse testes. MPX had no effect on other organs in mice, indicating its safety. This study was undertaken to investigate how MPX regulates the inflammatory response in Sertoli cells and provide a reference for the clinical prevention and treatment of male animal orchitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Ling Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China; College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China.
| | - Lei Wang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China.
| | - Xue-Qin Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Rui Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Bo-Yang Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Ya-Ya Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Xiao-Jing Xia
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Hui-Hui Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Shi-Jun Chen
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Jin-Qing Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Jian-He Hu
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Gai-Ping Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Yue-Yu Bai
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, Xinxiang, 453003, China.
| | - Lian-Cheng Lei
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Xue-Ming Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130000, China.
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Venditti M, Arcaniolo D, De Sio M, Minucci S. First Evidence of the Expression and Localization of Prothymosin α in Human Testis and Its Involvement in Testicular Cancers. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12091210. [PMID: 36139050 PMCID: PMC9496091 DOI: 10.3390/biom12091210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Prothymosin α (PTMA) is a phylogenetically conserved polypeptide in male gonads of Vertebrates. In Mammals, it is a ubiquitous protein, and, possessing a random-coil structure, it interacts with many other partners, in both cytoplasmic and nuclear compartments. PTMA has been widely studied during cell progression in different types of cancer because of its anti-apoptotic and proliferative properties. Here, we provided the first evidence of PTMA expression and localization in human testis and in two testicular cancers (TC): classic seminoma (CS) and Leydig cell tumor (LCT). Data showed that its protein level, together with that of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), a cell cycle progression marker, increased in both CS and LCT samples, as compared to non-pathological (NP) tissue. Moreover, in the two-cancer tissue, a decreased apoptotic rate and an increased autophagic flux was also evidenced. Results confirmed the anti-apoptotic action of PTMA, also suggesting that it can act as a switcher from apoptosis to autophagy, to favor the survival of testicular cancer cells when they develop in adverse environments. Finally, the combined data, even if they need to be further validated, add new insight into the role of PTMA in human normal and pathological testicular tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Costantinopoli, 16-80138 Napoli, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Davide Arcaniolo
- Dipartimento della Donna, del Bambino e di Chirurgia Generale e Specialistica, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Luigi De Crecchio, 02-80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Marco De Sio
- Dipartimento della Donna, del Bambino e di Chirurgia Generale e Specialistica, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Luigi De Crecchio, 02-80138 Napoli, Italy
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate “F. Bottazzi”, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Via Costantinopoli, 16-80138 Napoli, Italy
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Shen Y, You Y, Zhu K, Fang C, Yu X, Chang D. Bibliometric and visual analysis of blood-testis barrier research. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:969257. [PMID: 36071829 PMCID: PMC9441755 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.969257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Extensive research on the blood-testis barrier has been undertaken in recent years. However, no systematic bibliometric study has been conducted on this subject. Our research aimed to identify the hotspots and frontiers of blood-testis barrier research and to serve as a guide for future scientific research and decision-making in the field.Methods: Studies on the blood-testis barrier were found in the Web of Science Core Collection. VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and Microsoft Excel were used to conduct the bibliometric and visual analyses.Results: We found 942 blood-testis barrier studies published in English between 1992 and 2022. The number of annual publications and citations increased significantly between 2011 and 2022, notably in the United States. China and the United States, the US Population Council, Endocrinology, and Cheng C. Yan were the most productive countries, institution, journal, and author, respectively. The study keywords indicated that blood-testis barrier research involves a variety of compositional features (tight junctions, cytoskeleton, adherens junctions), cell types (Sertoli cells, germ cells, Leydig cells, stem cells), reproductive toxicity (cadmium, nanoparticles, bisphenol-a), and relevant mechanisms (spermatogenesis, apoptosis, oxidative stress, dynamics, inflammation, immune privilege).Conclusion: The composition and molecular processes of the blood-testis barrier as well as the blood-testis barrier in male infertility patients are the primary research hotspots in this field. In addition, future research will likely focus on treatment and the development of novel medications that target signal pathways in oxidative stress and apoptosis to preserve the blood-testis barrier. Further studies must extend to clinical diagnosis and therapy.
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Bartolini D, Arato I, Mancuso F, Giustarini D, Bellucci C, Vacca C, Aglietti MC, Stabile AM, Rossi R, Cruciani G, Rende M, Calafiore R, Luca G, Galli F. Melatonin modulates Nrf2 activity to protect porcine pre-pubertal Sertoli cells from the abnormal H 2 O 2 generation and reductive stress effects of cadmium. J Pineal Res 2022; 73:e12806. [PMID: 35524288 PMCID: PMC9539639 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin (MLT) is a cytoprotective agent holding potential to prevent cadmium (Cd) toxicity and its impact in testicular function and fertility. In this study, we explored such potential in porcine pre-pubertal Sertoli cells (SCs). Cd toxicity resulted in impaired SC viability and function, abnormal cellular H2 O2 generation and efflux, and induction of reductive stress by the upregulation of Nrf2 expression and activity, cystine uptake and glutathione biosynthesis, glutathione-S-transferase P (GSTP) expression, and protein glutathionylation inhibition. Cd toxicity also stimulated the activity of cellular kinases (MAPK-ERK1/2 and Akt) and NFkB transcription factor, and cJun expression was increased. MLT produced a potent cytoprotective effect when co-administered with Cd to SCs; its efficacy and the molecular mechanism behind its cytoprotective function varied according to Cd concentrations. However, a significant restoration of cell viability and function, and of H2 O2 levels, was observed both at 5 and 10 μM Cd. Mechanistically, these effects of MLT were associated with a significant reduction of the Cd-induced activation of Nrf2 and GSTP expression at all Cd concentrations. CAT and MAPK-ERK1/2 activity upregulation was associated with these effects at 5 μM Cd, whereas glutathione biosynthesis and efflux were involved at 10 μM Cd together with an increased expression of the cystine transporter xCT, of cJun and Akt and NFkB activity. MLT protects SCs from Cd toxicity reducing its H2 O2 generation and reductive stress effects. A reduced activity of Nrf2 and the modulation of other molecular players of MLT signaling, provide a mechanistic rational for the cytoprotective effect of this molecule in SCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Desirée Bartolini
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Section of Human, Clinical and Forensic AnatomyUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Iva Arato
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | | | - Daniela Giustarini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and PharmacyUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Catia Bellucci
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Carmine Vacca
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and BiotechnologyUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | | | - Anna Maria Stabile
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Section of Human, Clinical and Forensic AnatomyUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Ranieri Rossi
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and PharmacyUniversity of SienaSienaItaly
| | - Gabriele Cruciani
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and BiotechnologyUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Mario Rende
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Section of Human, Clinical and Forensic AnatomyUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Riccardo Calafiore
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, International Biotechnological Center for Endocrine, Metabolic and Embryo‐Reproductive Translational Research (CIRTEMER)University of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Giovanni Luca
- Department of Medicine and SurgeryUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
- Division of Medical Andrology and Endocrinology of ReproductionSaint Mary HospitalTerniItaly
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, International Biotechnological Center for Endocrine, Metabolic and Embryo‐Reproductive Translational Research (CIRTEMER)University of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
| | - Francesco Galli
- Department of Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of PerugiaPerugiaItaly
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Li T, Zheng Y, Li T, Guo M, Wu X, Liu R, Liu Q, You X, Zeng W, Lv Y. Potential dual protective effects of melatonin on spermatogonia against hexavalent chromium. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 111:92-105. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Romano MZ, Aniello F, Venditti M, Minucci S. Preliminary study of the ameliorative effects of melatonin on cadmium-induced morphological and biochemical alterations in the rat Harderian gland. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY. PART A, ECOLOGICAL AND INTEGRATIVE PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 337:729-738. [PMID: 35665502 DOI: 10.1002/jez.2609] [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: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Herein is reported, for the first time in the rat Harderian gland (HG), the counteractive action of melatonin (Mlt), a well-known antioxidant radical scavenger, on the increased oxidative stress damages induced by a pro-oxidant substance, cadmium (Cd), an environmental pollutant also considered as endocrine disruptor. HG, an infraorbital gland present in almost all terrestrial vertebrates, produces a lipid secretion to lubricate the eyeball, as well as porphyrin/Mlt as light transducers. Moreover, HG is an extra-gonadal source of steroid sex hormones. Via ex vivo experiments lasting for 24 h, we verified the increased lipid peroxidation in Cd-treated glands, producing morphological alteration of the glandular epithelium, as well as an increased porphyrins accumulation. Moreover, Cd also induced a decreased protein level of the steroidogenic enzymes steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) and 3βHSD, and an increased mast cell number. Results obtained with Mlt cotreatment demonstrated that it decreased the levels of Cd-induced oxidative damage, with reversal of all the observed modification. Furthermore, the TUNEL assay showed that the increased number of apoptotic cells in Cd-treated HG was counteracted by the contemporaneous Mlt administration. Results confirmed that Mlt treatment restored the levels of two autophagy markers, LC3 and p62, counteracting the autophagy Cd-induced. Interestingly, the positive effects of Mlt alone were highlighted by the decreased rate of lipid peroxidation as compared with the control, confirming its antioxidant action. Combined data further confirmed the antioxidant action of Mlt in counteracting the degeneration provoked by reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the rat HG, a tissue extremely susceptible to oxidative stress condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Zelinda Romano
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate "F. Bottazzi", Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, NA, Italy
| | - Francesco Aniello
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli 'Federico II, Napoli, NA, Italy
| | - Massimo Venditti
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate "F. Bottazzi", Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, NA, Italy
| | - Sergio Minucci
- Dipartimento di Medicina Sperimentale, Sez. Fisiologia Umana e Funzioni Biologiche Integrate "F. Bottazzi", Università degli Studi della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Napoli, NA, Italy
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Repositioning Linagliptin for the Mitigation of Cadmium-Induced Testicular Dysfunction in Rats: Targeting HMGB1/TLR4/NLRP3 Axis and Autophagy. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15070852. [PMID: 35890148 PMCID: PMC9319949 DOI: 10.3390/ph15070852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cadmium, a ubiquitous environmental toxicant, disrupts testicular function and fertility. The dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor linagliptin has shown pronounced anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic features; however, its effects against cadmium-evoked testicular impairment have not been examined. Herein, the present study investigated targeting inflammation, apoptosis, and autophagy by linagliptin for potential modulation of cadmium-induced testicular dysfunction in rats. After 60 days of cadmium chloride administration (5 mg/kg/day, by gavage), testes, epididymis, and blood were collected for analysis. The present findings revealed that linagliptin improved the histopathological lesions, including spermatogenesis impairment and germ cell loss. Moreover, it improved sperm count/motility and serum testosterone. The favorable effects of linagliptin were mediated by curbing testicular inflammation seen by dampening of HMGB1/TLR4 pathway and associated lowering of nuclear NF-κBp65. In tandem, linagliptin suppressed the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome/caspase 1 axis with consequent lowering of the pro-inflammatory IL-1β and IL-18. Jointly, linagliptin attenuated testicular apoptotic responses seen by Bax downregulation, Bcl-2 upregulation, and suppressed caspase 3 activity. With respect to autophagy, linagliptin enhanced the testicular autophagy flux seen by lowered accumulation of p62 SQSTM1 alongside upregulation of Beclin 1. The observed autophagy stimulation was associated with elevated AMPK (Ser487) phosphorylation and lowered mTOR (Ser2448) phosphorylation, indicating AMPK/mTOR pathway activation. In conclusion, inhibition of testicular HMGB1/TLR4/NLRP3 pro-inflammatory axis and apoptosis alongside stimulation of autophagy were implicated in the favorable actions of linagliptin against cadmium-triggered testicular impairment.
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Venditti M, Minucci S. Male Reproduction: Regulation, Differentiation and Epigenetics. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13061001. [PMID: 35741763 PMCID: PMC9222395 DOI: 10.3390/genes13061001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
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Minucci S, Venditti M. New Insight on the In Vitro Effects of Melatonin in Preserving Human Sperm Quality. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23095128. [PMID: 35563519 PMCID: PMC9100642 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa (SPZ) are sensitive to stressful conditions, particularly oxidative stress, which alters their quality; thus, the use of protective molecules as an antioxidant is encouraged. Herein, we used melatonin (MLT) to investigate its in vitro effects on human sperm parameters under conditions of oxidative stress induced by cadmium (Cd). Fifteen human semen samples were divided into control, Cd-treated, MLT-treated, and Cd+MLT-treated groups and analyzed after 30 min, 6 h, and 24 h of exposure. Results showed a time-dependent decrease in SPZ motility, DNA integrity, and increased apoptosis induced by oxidative stress, and these effects were counteracted by MLT co-treatment. Based on these data, we further explored additional parameters just at 24 h. The induced oxidative stress, highlighted by the increased lipid peroxidation, reduced the percentage of SPZ able to undertake acrosome reaction and altered the levels and localization of some protein markers of motility (PREP, RSPH6A), morphology (DAAM1), and acrosome membrane (PTMA, IAM38); all these effects were counteracted by MLT co-treatment. Interestingly, MLT alone was able to ameliorate motility at 30 min of incubation compared to the control, while at 24 h, it prevented the physiological alteration in terms of motility, DNA integrity, and apoptosis. Collectively, the data encourage MLT use as an integrative molecule to ameliorate human gamete quality when compromised by stressful conditions.
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Jeng HA, Sikdar S, Huang YL, Pan CH. Mixture analysis of associations between exposure to low levels of multiple metals and semen quality and sperm DNA integrity. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART A, TOXIC/HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING 2022; 57:318-326. [PMID: 35389820 DOI: 10.1080/10934529.2022.2061256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to assess the association of exposure to metal mixtures with semen quality and sperm DNA integrity of coke oven workers (n = 96). Urinary six metals (cadmium, lead, arsenic, zinc, selenium, and copper) were quantified using inductively coupled-mass spectrometry. Semen quality parameters included sperm concentration, sperm concentration, sperm motility, sperm morphology, and sperm viability. Sperm DNA fragmentation and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodGuo) adducts served as biomarkers for assessing sperm DNA integrity. Bayesian kernel machine regression with the hierarchical variable selection process was used for analyzing both individual and joint effects of the metal mixture on the outcomes of semen samples, while adjusting for age, smoking, alcohol consumption, job length, and body mass index. The metal mixture was associated with reduced sperm concentration, motility, viability, and normal morphology. It was novel that a dose-response relationship was observed between exposure of the metal mixture and semen quality. Among the metals tested, cadmium had a reverse relationship with sperm motility, viability, and normal morphology, and a non-linear relationship with sperm viability and sperm motility. The metal mixture and individual metals were not associated with sperm DNA fragmentation and 8-oxodGuo. In conclusion, exposure to metal mixtures and cadmium may exert an association with semen quality and had no association with sperm DNA breakages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hueiwang Anna Jeng
- School of Community and Environmental Health, College of Health Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Sinjini Sikdar
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Sciences, Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Yeou-Lih Huang
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Hon Pan
- Institute of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health, Ministry of Labor, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- School of Public Health, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
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Xiong L, Bin Zhou, Young JL, Wintergerst K, Cai L. Exposure to low-dose cadmium induces testicular ferroptosis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 234:113373. [PMID: 35272187 PMCID: PMC10858319 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.113373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
As an environmental pollutant, cadmium (Cd) has been widely reported to induce male infertility due to its gonadotoxicity. However, the specific mechanism of Cd-induced testicular damage remains unclear. We investigated whether Cd causes testicular injury through ferroptosis. Male C57BL/6 J mice were exposed to 0, 0.5, or 5 ppm Cd via drinking water, starting in utero, and continuing through 24 weeks post-weaning. The results showed that Cd accumulated in the testes in a dose-dependent manner. Cd exposure at a concentration of 5 ppm, but not 0.5 ppm, caused a mass loss and detachment of germ cells, as well as a decreased meiotic index and testis weight. Exposure to 5 ppm Cd caused iron accumulation, increased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitro tyrosine (3-NT), and decreased expression of Nrf2, HO-1 and SOD2. We also found that exposure to 5 ppm Cd significantly decreased the expression of SLC7A11, a marker of ferroptosis in mice, along with the expression of SLC40A1 mRNA and ferritin heavy chain (FTH) protein, whereas there was no obvious change in the mRNA expression of Tfrc, ZIP8, ZIP14, and NCOA4. These findings indicate that 5 ppm Cd exposure increased testicular ferroptosis, which may be attributed to the reduction of stored iron export.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Xiong
- Pediatric Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; Department of Emergency, The Affiliated Children's Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Bin Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Genetics, The Affiliated Children's Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, China
| | - Jamie L Young
- Pediatric Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Kupper Wintergerst
- Wendy Novak Diabetes Center, Norton Children's Hospital, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
| | - Lu Cai
- Pediatric Research Institute, Department of Pediatrics, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; Wendy Novak Diabetes Center, Norton Children's Hospital, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; Radiation Oncology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.
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Effects of Cadmium Exposure on Leydig Cells and Blood Vessels in Mouse Testis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19042416. [PMID: 35206604 PMCID: PMC8878469 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19042416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Environmental exposure to cadmium (Cd) contributes to a decline in the quality of human semen. Although the testis is sensitive to Cd exposure, the mechanism underlying how cadmium affects the testis remains to be defined. In this study, male mice were treated with intraperitoneal injections of 0, 0.5, 1.5 and 2.5 mg CdCl2/kg/day for 10 days, respectively. Both the testicular weight and the 3β-HSD activity of Leydig cells were significantly reduced with the administration of 2.5 mg CdCl2/kg/day. The height of endothelial cells in the interstitial blood vessels significantly increased with the use of 2.5 mg CdCl2/kg/day compared with the control. Western blot data showed that the protein levels of CD31, αSMA, caveolin and Ng2 increased with cadmium exposure, and this increase was particularly significant with the administration of 2.5 mg CdCl2/kg/day. CD31, αSMA, caveolin and Ng2 are related to angiogenesis. Based on our data, cadmium exposure may stimulate the proliferation of the mural cells and endothelial cells of blood vessels, which may lead to abnormal function of the testis.
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Zeng L, Zhou J, Zhang Y, Wang X, Wang M, Su P. Differential Expression Profiles and Potential Intergenerational Functions of tRNA-Derived Small RNAs in Mice After Cadmium Exposure. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:791784. [PMID: 35047503 PMCID: PMC8762212 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.791784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal and ubiquitous environmental endocrine disruptor. Previous studies on Cd-induced damage to male fertility mainly focus on the structure and function of testis, including cytoskeleton, blood-testis barrier, and steroidogenesis. Nevertheless, to date, no studies have investigated the effects of Cd exposure on sperm epigenetic inheritance and intergenerational inheritance. In our study, we systematically revealed the changes in sperm tRNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNA) profiles and found that 14 tsRNAs (9 up-regulated and 5 down-regulated) were significantly altered after Cd exposure. Bioinformatics of tsRNA-mRNA-pathway interactions revealed that the altered biological functions mainly were related to ion transmembrane transport, lipid metabolism and cell membrane system. In addition, we focused on two stages of early embryo development and selected two organs to study the impact of these changes on cell membrane system, especially mitochondrion and lysosome, two typical membrane-enclosed organelles. Surprisingly, we found that the content of mitochondrion was significantly decreased in 2-cell stage, whereas remarkably increased in the morula stage. The contents of mitochondrion and lysosome were increased in the testes of 6-day-old offspring and livers of adult offspring, whereas remarkably decreased in the testes of adult offspring. This provides a possible basis to further explore the effects of paternal Cd exposure on offspring health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Zeng
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinzhao Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanwei Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaofei Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Mei Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Ping Su
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Differential Expression and Localization of EHBP1L1 during the First Wave of Rat Spermatogenesis Suggest Its Involvement in Acrosome Biogenesis. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10010181. [PMID: 35052860 PMCID: PMC8773523 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10010181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The identification and characterization of new proteins involved in spermatogenesis is fundamental, considering that good-quality gametes are basic in ensuring proper reproduction. Here, we further analyzed the temporal and spatial localization during the first spermatogenic wave of rat testis of EHBP1L1, which is involved in vesicular trafficking due to the CH and bMERB domains, which bind to actin and Rab8/10, respectively. Western blot and immunofluorescence analyses showed that EHBP1L1 protein expression started at 21 days post-partum (dpp) concomitantly with the appearance of primary spermatocytes (I SPC). In subsequent stages, EHBP1L1 specifically localized together with actin in the perinuclear cytoplasm close to the acrosomal and Golgian regions of spermatids (SPT) during the different phases of acrosome biogenesis (AB). Moreover, it was completely absent in elongated SPT and in mature spermatozoa, suggesting that its role was completed in previous stages. The combined data, also supported by our previous report demonstrating that EHBP1L1 mRNA was expressed by primary (I) and secondary (II) SPC, lead us to hypothesize its specific role during AB. Although these results are suggestive, further studies are needed to better clarify the underlying molecular mechanisms of AB, with the aim to use EHBP1L1 as a potential new marker for spermatogenesis.
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Dutta S, Sengupta P, Roychoudhury S, Chakravarthi S, Wang CW, Slama P. Antioxidant Paradox in Male Infertility: 'A Blind Eye' on Inflammation. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:167. [PMID: 35052671 PMCID: PMC8772926 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11010167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathophysiology of male infertility involves various interlinked endogenous pathways. About 50% of the cases of infertility in men are idiopathic, and oxidative stress (OS) reportedly serves as a central mechanism in impairing male fertility parameters. The endogenous antioxidant system operates to conserve the seminal redox homeostasis required for normal male reproduction. OS strikes when a generation of seminal reactive oxygen species (ROS) overwhelms endogenous antioxidant capacity. Thus, antioxidant treatment finds remarkable relevance in the case of idiopathic male infertility or subfertility. However, due to lack of proper detection of OS in male infertility, use of antioxidant(s) in some cases may be arbitrary or lead to overuse and induction of 'reductive stress'. Moreover, inflammation is closely linked to OS and may establish a vicious loop that is capable of disruption to male reproductive tissues. The result is exaggeration of cellular damage and disruption of male reproductive tissues. Therefore, limitations of antioxidant therapy in treating male infertility are the failure in the selection of specific treatments targeting inflammation and OS simultaneously, two of the core mechanisms of male infertility. The present review aims to elucidate the antioxidant paradox in male infertility treatment, from the viewpoints of both induction of reductive stress as well as overlooking the inflammatory consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulagna Dutta
- Department of Oral Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, SP2, Bandar Saujana Putra, Jenjarom 42610, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.D.); (S.C.); (C.W.W.)
- School of Medical Sciences, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research (BIHER), 173 Agaram Main Rd, Selaiyur, Chennai 600073, India;
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- School of Medical Sciences, Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research (BIHER), 173 Agaram Main Rd, Selaiyur, Chennai 600073, India;
- Physiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, SP2, Bandar Saujana Putra, Jenjarom 42610, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | - Srikumar Chakravarthi
- Department of Oral Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, SP2, Bandar Saujana Putra, Jenjarom 42610, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.D.); (S.C.); (C.W.W.)
- Physiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, SP2, Bandar Saujana Putra, Jenjarom 42610, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Chee Woon Wang
- Department of Oral Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, SP2, Bandar Saujana Putra, Jenjarom 42610, Selangor, Malaysia; (S.D.); (S.C.); (C.W.W.)
| | - Petr Slama
- Department of Animal Morphology, Physiology and Genetics, Faculty of AgriSciences, Mendel University in Brno, Zemedelska 1, 61300 Brno, Czech Republic
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48
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Bendarska-Czerwińska A, Zmarzły N, Morawiec E, Panfil A, Bryś K, Czarniecka J, Ostenda A, Dziobek K, Sagan D, Boroń D, Michalski P, Pallazo-Michalska V, Grabarek BO. Endocrine disorders and fertility and pregnancy: An update. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:970439. [PMID: 36733805 PMCID: PMC9887196 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.970439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
It is estimated that more and more couples suffer from fertility and pregnancy maintenance disorders. It is associated with impaired androgen secretion, which is influenced by many factors, ranging from genetic to environmental. It is also important to remember that fertility disorders can also result from abnormal anatomy of the reproductive male and female organ (congenital uterine anomalies - septate, unicornuate, bicornuate uterus; acquired defects of the uterus structure - fibroids, polyps, hypertrophy), disturbed hormonal cycle and obstruction of the fallopian tubes resulting from the presence of adhesions due to inflammation, endometriosis, and surgery, abnormal rhythm of menstrual bleeding, the abnormal concentration of hormones. There are many relationships between the endocrine organs, leading to a chain reaction when one of them fails to function properly. Conditions in which the immune system is involved, including infections and autoimmune diseases, also affect fertility. The form of treatment depends on infertility duration and the patient's age. It includes ovulation stimulation with clomiphene citrate or gonadotropins, metformin use, and weight loss interventions. Since so many different factors affect fertility, it is important to correctly diagnose what is causing the problem and to modify the treatment regimen if necessary. This review describes disturbances in the hormone secretion of individual endocrine organs in the context of fertility and the maintenance of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bendarska-Czerwińska
- Department of Molecular, Biology Gyncentrum Fertility Clinic, Katowice, Poland
- Faculty of Medicine, Academy of Silesia, Zabrze, Poland
- American Medical Clinic, Katowice, Poland
- *Correspondence: Anna Bendarska-Czerwińska, ; Nikola Zmarzły, ; Beniamin Oskar Grabarek,
| | - Nikola Zmarzły
- Department of Histology, Cytophysiology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Technology, Academy of Silesia in Katowice, Zabrze, Poland
- *Correspondence: Anna Bendarska-Czerwińska, ; Nikola Zmarzły, ; Beniamin Oskar Grabarek,
| | - Emilia Morawiec
- Department of Molecular, Biology Gyncentrum Fertility Clinic, Katowice, Poland
- Department of Histology, Cytophysiology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Technology, Academy of Silesia in Katowice, Zabrze, Poland
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Technology, Academy of Silesia in Katowice, Zabrze, Poland
| | - Agata Panfil
- Department of Histology, Cytophysiology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Technology, Academy of Silesia in Katowice, Zabrze, Poland
| | - Kamil Bryś
- Department of Histology, Cytophysiology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Technology, Academy of Silesia in Katowice, Zabrze, Poland
| | - Justyna Czarniecka
- Department of Histology, Cytophysiology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Technology, Academy of Silesia in Katowice, Zabrze, Poland
| | | | | | - Dorota Sagan
- Medical Center Dormed Medical SPA, Busko-Zdroj, Poland
| | - Dariusz Boroń
- Department of Histology, Cytophysiology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Technology, Academy of Silesia in Katowice, Zabrze, Poland
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Academy of Silesia, Zabrze, Poland
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics with Gynecologic Oncology, Ludwik Rydygier Memorial Specialized Hospital, Kraków, Poland
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, TOMMED Specjalisci od Zdrowia, Katowice, Poland
| | | | | | - Beniamin Oskar Grabarek
- Department of Molecular, Biology Gyncentrum Fertility Clinic, Katowice, Poland
- Department of Histology, Cytophysiology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Technology, Academy of Silesia in Katowice, Zabrze, Poland
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Academy of Silesia, Zabrze, Poland
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics with Gynecologic Oncology, Ludwik Rydygier Memorial Specialized Hospital, Kraków, Poland
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, TOMMED Specjalisci od Zdrowia, Katowice, Poland
- *Correspondence: Anna Bendarska-Czerwińska, ; Nikola Zmarzły, ; Beniamin Oskar Grabarek,
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Gao S, Wu X, Wang L, Bu T, Perrotta A, Guaglianone G, Silvestrini B, Sun F, Cheng CY. Signaling Proteins That Regulate Spermatogenesis Are the Emerging Target of Toxicant-Induced Male Reproductive Dysfunction. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:800327. [PMID: 35002976 PMCID: PMC8739942 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.800327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
There is emerging evidence that environmental toxicants, in particular endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as cadmium and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), induce Sertoli cell and testis injury, thereby perturbing spermatogenesis in humans, rodents and also widelife. Recent studies have shown that cadmium (e.g., cadmium chloride, CdCl2) and PFOS exert their disruptive effects through putative signaling proteins and signaling cascade similar to other pharmaceuticals, such as the non-hormonal male contraceptive drug adjudin. More important, these signaling proteins were also shown to be involved in modulating testis function based on studies in rodents. Collectively, these findings suggest that toxicants are using similar mechanisms that used to support spermatogenesis under physiological conditions to perturb Sertoli and testis function. These observations are physiologically significant, since a manipulation on the expression of these signaling proteins can possibly be used to manage the toxicant-induced male reproductive dysfunction. In this review, we highlight some of these findings and critically evaluate the possibility of using this approach to manage toxicant-induced defects in spermatrogenesis based on recent studies in animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Gao
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, China
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, China
| | - Tiao Bu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, China
| | - Adolfo Perrotta
- Department of Translational & Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Guaglianone
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, “Azienda Sanitaria Locale (ASL) Roma 4”, Civitavecchia, Italy
| | - Bruno Silvestrini
- Institute of Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fei Sun
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: C. Yan Cheng, ; Fei Sun,
| | - C. Yan Cheng
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Nantong University School of Medicine, Nantong, China
- *Correspondence: C. Yan Cheng, ; Fei Sun,
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