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Lyons HE, Arman BM, Robertson SA, Sharkey DJ. Immune regulatory cytokines in seminal plasma of healthy men: A scoping review and analysis of variance. Andrology 2023; 11:1245-1266. [PMID: 36891953 PMCID: PMC10947054 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13424] [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: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Seminal plasma cytokines are associated with fertility and reproductive health, but progressing their clinical utility is hampered by absence of reference data on concentration ranges of relevant cytokines in healthy men. We employed a systematic approach to assemble current evidence on the concentrations of immune regulatory cytokines present in seminal plasma (SP) of normozoospermic and/or fertile men and evaluated the impact of different platform methodologies for cytokine quantification. EVIDENCE REVIEW A systematic literature search was performed utilising PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus. Databases were searched from inception until 30th June 2022 inclusive, using combinations of keywords pertaining to seminal fluid and cytokines, and was restricted to human participants. Original data with values reported as concentration of specific cytokines in SP of men clearly defined as fertile or normozoospermic were extracted from studies written in English. RESULTS A total of 3769 publications were initially identified, of which 118 fulfilled the eligibility criteria for inclusion. A total of 51 individual cytokines are detectable in SP of healthy men. The number of studies reporting on each cytokine range from 1 to >20. The reported concentrations for many cytokines linked with fertility status, including IL6, CXCL8/IL8, and TNFA, are highly variable between published studies. This is associated with the different immunoassay methodologies utilised and may be exacerbated by a lack of validation of assays to ensure suitability for SP assessment. Due to the large variation between studies, accurate reference ranges for healthy men cannot be determined from the published data. CONCLUSIONS The concentrations of cytokines and chemokines detected in SP is inconsistent and highly variable between studies and cohorts, limiting current capacity to define reference ranges for cytokine concentrations in fertile men. The lack of standardisation in methods used to process and store SP, and variation in platforms used to evaluate cytokine abundance, are factors contributing to the observed heterogeneity. To progress the clinical utility of SP cytokine analysis will require standardisation and validation of methodologies so that reference ranges for healthy fertile men can be defined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah E. Lyons
- Robinson Research Institute and School of BiomedicineUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Bridget M. Arman
- Robinson Research Institute and School of BiomedicineUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleMelbourneAustralia
| | - Sarah A. Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and School of BiomedicineUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - David J. Sharkey
- Robinson Research Institute and School of BiomedicineUniversity of AdelaideAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
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2
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Al-Naqshbandi AA, Nafee Darogha S, Asaaf Maulood K. Genotypic and Allelic Prevalence of the TGF- Β1 +869 C/T SNP and Their Relationship to Seminogram in Infertile Males. Rep Biochem Mol Biol 2023; 12:318-331. [PMID: 38317808 PMCID: PMC10838586 DOI: 10.61186/rbmb.12.2.318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Background The influence of cytokine in the reproductive system is becoming increasingly important. The polymorphisms of the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) gene are involved in male infertility. This study aimed to demonstrate the association between TGF-β1 and infertility and to investigate its impact on semen quality. Methods In this case-control study, serum TGF-β1 concentration was measured in 144 patients diagnosed with infertility and 40 fertile males by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The tetra-amplification refractory mutation system-PCR (T-ARMS-PCR) analysis was performed to detect the genotyping of the TGF-β1 (+869 C/T) (rs1800470) SNPs gene. Results Serum concentration of TGF-β1 was less in infertile males compared to fertile ones. The detected and more effective genotypes and alleles of TGF-β1 gene polymorphic on male infertility were, in normozoospermic group, CT genotype, probability (p)= 0.45, relative risk (RR)= 1.56, confidence intervals (CI): 0.58-4.22, and T allele (p= 0.46, RR= 1.32, CI: 0.65-2.69), in oligozoospermic and azoospermic groups, CC genotype (p= 0.32, RR= 1.58, CI: 0.73-3.41), (p= 0.013, RR= 3.50, CI: 1.40-8.73), and allele C (p= 0.44, RR= 1.32, CI: 0.73-2.38), (p= 0.06, RR= 2.14, CI: 1.02-4.50), respectively. The recessive model (TT+CT) showed increased risk among normozoospermic group (p=0.44, RR=1.67, CI:0.60-4.62). The serum concentration of TGF-β1 with CT and TT genotypes was less than that of CC genotype. TGF-β1 C/T genotype correlated with low sperm number, high immotile sperm, and high abnormal sperm morphology. Conclusions Our study revealed that the TGF-β1(rs1800470) gene polymorphisms are associated negatively with semen quality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Suhaila Nafee Darogha
- Department of Biology, College of Education, Scientific Department, University of Salahaddin, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.
| | - Kalthum Asaaf Maulood
- Department of Biology, College of Education, Scientific Department, University of Salahaddin, Kurdistan Region, Iraq.
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3
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Composition and effects of seminal plasma in the female reproductive tracts on implantation of human embryos. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 151:113065. [PMID: 35550527 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The function of seminal plasma involves acting as a transport medium for sperm and as a means of communication between the reproductive tissues of the male and female. It is also a vital factor to prime the reproductive tracts of the female for optimal pregnancy. When the reproductive tract of the female is exposed to seminal plasma, serious alterations take place, enhancing pathogen and debris clearance observed in the uterus throughout mating. It is also capable of supporting embryo growth, promoting the receptivity of the uterus, and establishing tolerance to the semi-allogenic embryo. Moreover, seminal plasma is capable of regulating the functions of several female reproductive organs and providing an ideal condition for effective embryo implantation and pregnancy. It is believed that the health state of the offspring is affected by exposure to seminal plasma. For the treatment of infertility, assisted reproductive technologies have been extensively employed. The application of seminal plasma as a therapeutic approach to enhance the development of embryo competency and rate of implantation, receptivity of endometrium, and establishment of maternal immune tolerance in cycles of ART appears possible. Herein, current knowledge on the composition of seminal plasma and the physiological roles it possesses on various parts of the female reproductive tract are summarized. Moreover, the role of seminal plasma in the development of embryos, implantation, and the following fetal growth and survival have been reviewed in this article.
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4
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Castleton PE, Deluao JC, Sharkey DJ, McPherson NO. Measuring Reactive Oxygen Species in Semen for Male Preconception Care: A Scientist Perspective. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11020264. [PMID: 35204147 PMCID: PMC8868448 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11020264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress and elevated levels of seminal and sperm reactive oxygen species (ROS) may contribute to up to 80% of male infertility diagnosis, with sperm ROS concentrations at fertilization important in the development of a healthy fetus and child. The evaluation of ROS in semen seems promising as a potential diagnostic tool for male infertility and male preconception care with a number of clinically available tests on the market (MiOXSYS, luminol chemiluminescence and OxiSperm). While some of these tests show promise for clinical use, discrepancies in documented decision limits and lack of cohort studies/clinical trials assessing their benefits on fertilization rates, embryo development, pregnancy and live birth rates limit their current clinical utility. In this review, we provide an update on the current techniques used for analyzing semen ROS concentrations clinically, the potential to use of ROS research tools for improving clinical ROS detection in sperm and describe why we believe we are likely still a long way away before semen ROS concentrations might become a mainstream preconception diagnostic test in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patience E. Castleton
- Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia; (P.E.C.); (J.C.D.)
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia;
- Adelaide Health and Medical School, School of Biomedicine, Discipline of Reproduction and Development, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia
| | - Joshua C. Deluao
- Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia; (P.E.C.); (J.C.D.)
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia;
- Adelaide Health and Medical School, School of Biomedicine, Discipline of Reproduction and Development, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia
| | - David J. Sharkey
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia;
- Adelaide Health and Medical School, School of Biomedicine, Discipline of Reproduction and Development, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia
| | - Nicole O. McPherson
- Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia; (P.E.C.); (J.C.D.)
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia;
- Adelaide Health and Medical School, School of Biomedicine, Discipline of Reproduction and Development, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5005, Australia
- Repromed, 180 Fullarton Rd., Dulwich 5065, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-8-8313-8201
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5
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Marques de Menezes EG, Jang K, George AF, Nyegaard M, Neidleman J, Inglis HC, Danesh A, Deng X, Afshari A, Kim YH, Billaud JN, Marson K, Pilcher CD, Pillai SK, Norris PJ, Roan NR. Seminal Plasma-Derived Extracellular-Vesicle Fractions from HIV-Infected Men Exhibit Unique MicroRNA Signatures and Induce a Proinflammatory Response in Cells Isolated from the Female Reproductive Tract. J Virol 2020; 94:e00525-20. [PMID: 32434889 PMCID: PMC7394899 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00525-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The continuing spread of HIV/AIDS is predominantly fueled by sexual exposure to HIV-contaminated semen. Seminal plasma (SP), the liquid portion of semen, harbors a variety of factors that may favor HIV transmission by facilitating viral entry into host cells, eliciting the production of proinflammatory cytokines, and enhancing the translocation of HIV across the genital epithelium. One important and abundant class of factors in SP is extracellular vesicles (EVs), which, in general, are important intercellular signal transducers. Although numerous studies have characterized blood plasma-derived EVs from both uninfected and HIV-infected individuals, little is known about the properties of EVs from the semen of HIV-infected individuals. We report here that fractionated SP enriched for EVs from HIV-infected men induces potent transcriptional responses in epithelial and stromal cells that interface with the luminal contents of the female reproductive tract. Semen EV fractions from acutely infected individuals induced a more proinflammatory signature than those from uninfected individuals. This was not associated with any observable differences in the surface phenotypes of the vesicles. However, microRNA (miRNA) expression profiling analysis revealed that EV fractions from infected individuals exhibit a broader and more diverse profile than those from uninfected individuals. Taken together, our data suggest that SP EVs from HIV-infected individuals exhibit unique miRNA signatures and exert potent proinflammatory transcriptional changes in cells of the female reproductive tract, which may facilitate HIV transmission.IMPORTANCE Seminal plasma (SP), the major vehicle for HIV, can modulate HIV transmission risk through a variety of mechanisms. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are extremely abundant in semen, and because they play a key role in intercellular communication pathways and immune regulation, they may impact the likelihood of HIV transmission. However, little is known about the properties and signaling effects of SP-derived EVs in the context of HIV transmission. Here, we conduct a phenotypic, transcriptomic, and functional characterization of SP and SP-derived EVs from uninfected and HIV-infected men. We find that both SP and its associated EVs elicit potent proinflammatory transcriptional responses in cells that line the genital tract. EVs from HIV-infected men exhibit a more diverse repertoire of miRNAs than EVs from uninfected men. Our findings suggest that EVs from the semen of HIV-infected men may significantly impact the likelihood of HIV transmission through multiple mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika G Marques de Menezes
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Karen Jang
- Gladstone Institute of Virology and Immunology, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Ashley F George
- Gladstone Institute of Virology and Immunology, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Mette Nyegaard
- Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jason Neidleman
- Gladstone Institute of Virology and Immunology, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Ali Danesh
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Xutao Deng
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | - Young H Kim
- Agilent Technologies, Inc., Santa Clara, California, USA
| | | | - Kara Marson
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Christopher D Pilcher
- Division of HIV, Infectious Diseases and Global Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Satish K Pillai
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Philip J Norris
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Nadia R Roan
- Gladstone Institute of Virology and Immunology, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
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Rametse CL, Adefuye AO, Olivier AJ, Curry L, Gamieldien H, Burgers WA, Lewis DA, Williamson AL, Katz AA, Passmore JAS. Inflammatory Cytokine Profiles of Semen Influence Cytokine Responses of Cervicovaginal Epithelial Cells. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2721. [PMID: 30568652 PMCID: PMC6290331 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Genital inflammatory cytokine responses increase HIV risk. Since male partner semen is a complex mixture of immune-modulatory prostaglandins and cytokines, we hypothesized that exposure to semen may influence genital inflammation in women. Here, we investigated cytokine response kinetics of cervical cells following stimulation with seminal plasma from HIV-negative and HIV-positive men characterized as having low or high concentrations of inflammatory cytokines. Irrespective of the HIV status or semen cytokine profile, in vitro stimulation of cervical cells with seminal plasma resulted in significantly elevated concentrations of secreted IL-6, IL-8, TNF-β, MCP-1, GM-CSF, and VEGF within 8 h of stimulation, which tended to decline by 24 h, although this was only significant for TNF-β. Consistent with this, cervical cells responded to seminal plasma with increases in IL-8 and IL-1β mRNA expression of 10-fold. These findings suggest that the impact of semen on local female genital cytokines is likely transient. Although these findings suggest that the impact of semen on local female genital cytokines may not be sustained long-term, this heightened genital inflammation may have implications for HIV risk in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cosnet L Rametse
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anthonio O Adefuye
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Abraham J Olivier
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lyle Curry
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Hoyam Gamieldien
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,NRF-DST CAPRISA Centre of Excellence in HIV Prevention, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Wendy A Burgers
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - David A Lewis
- Western Sydney Sexual Health Centre, Western Sydney Local Health District, Parramatta, NSW, Australia.,Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Sydney Medical School-Westmead, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,National Health Laboratory Services, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Anna-Lise Williamson
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,SAMRC-UCT Gynaecological Cancer Research Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Arieh A Katz
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,SAMRC-UCT Gynaecological Cancer Research Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jo-Ann S Passmore
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,National Health Laboratory Services, Johannesburg, South Africa.,SAMRC-UCT Gynaecological Cancer Research Centre, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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7
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Sharkey DJ, Tremellen KP, Briggs NE, Dekker GA, Robertson SA. Seminal plasma pro-inflammatory cytokines interferon-γ (IFNG) and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8) fluctuate over time within men. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:1373-1381. [PMID: 28541460 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do seminal plasma pro-inflammatory cytokines interferon-γ (IFNG) and C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8) vary within individual men over time? SUMMARY ANSWER IFNG exhibits substantial variation that is independent of duration of abstinence but correlates with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) content, while CXCL8 varies moderately in association with duration of abstinence. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Pro-inflammatory cytokines IFNG and CXCL8 in seminal fluid can adversely impact male and female fertility. Other cytokines as well as sperm parameters fluctuate considerably within individuals over time, but whether IFNG and CXCL8 vary similarly, and the determinants of variance, are unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Between two and seven semen samples were collected from 14 proven fertile donors at 6-10 week intervals over the course of ~12 months, to assess variation over time in cytokines and LPS, and to investigate relationships with sperm parameters and possible regulatory factors. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The concentrations and total amounts per ejaculate of IFNG and CXCL8 were determined using commercial ELISA. Sperm parameters were assessed according to World Health Organization (WHO) IV standards and LPS was measured by limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) assay. Mixed model analysis was utilized to determine the relative contribution of between- and within-individual factors in explaining variance. Relationships between cytokines, LPS and sperm parameters, as well as effect of age and duration of abstinence, were investigated by correlation analysis. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Within-individual variability contributed to total variance particularly for both IFNG, CXCL8 and LPS, and was a stronger determinant than between-individual variability for IFNG and LPS. Normal sperm motility correlated inversely with CXCL8, and sperm concentration correlated inversely with LPS. Duration of abstinence was a determinant of total CXCL8, but not IFNG or LPS. Associations between LPS, IFNG and CXCL8 suggest IFNG and perhaps CXCL8 are influenced by microbial populations. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION A limited number of donors from a single clinic were investigated. Clinical information on complete microbiology, BMI, nutrition, smoking and other lifestyle factors was unavailable. Further studies are required to determine whether the findings can be generalized to larger populations and different ethnicities. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These data reveal substantial variation over time in pro-inflammatory seminal fluid cytokines and imply existence of microbial or other environmental regulatory factors. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by grants from the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia. The authors have no competing interests to disclose.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Sharkey
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia
| | - Kelton P Tremellen
- School of Medicine, Flinders University, Adelaide SA 5001, Australia.,Repromed Pty Ltd, 180 Fullarton Road, Dulwich SA 5065, Australia
| | - Nancy E Briggs
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia
| | - Gustaaf A Dekker
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia.,Lyell McEwin Hospital, Elizabeth Vale, Adelaide SA 5112, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia
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Nawroth F, von Wolff M. Seminal Plasma Activity to Improve Implantation in In Vitro Fertilization-How Can It Be Used in Daily Practice? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:208. [PMID: 29755413 PMCID: PMC5934414 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Frank Nawroth
- Centre for Infertility, Prenatal Medicine, Endocrinology and Osteology, Amedes, Hamburg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Frank Nawroth,
| | - Michael von Wolff
- Division of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women’s Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
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9
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Nederlof I, Meuleman T, van der Hoorn M, Claas F, Eikmans M. The seed to success: The role of seminal plasma in pregnancy. J Reprod Immunol 2017; 123:24-28. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2017.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 08/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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10
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Sharkey DJ, Tremellen KP, Briggs NE, Dekker GA, Robertson SA. Seminal plasma transforming growth factor-β, activin A and follistatin fluctuate within men over time. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:2183-91. [PMID: 27609985 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 06/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do seminal plasma transforming growth factor-β (TGFB) cytokines vary within individuals over time, and does this relate to sperm parameters, age or prior abstinence? SUMMARY ANSWER Activin A and follistatin, and to a lesser extent TGFB1, TGFB2 and TGFB3, vary within individuals over time, in association with duration of abstinence. WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN Seminal plasma TGFB cytokines can influence sperm function and reproductive success through interactions with the female reproductive tract after coitus. Over time, individual sperm parameters fluctuate considerably. Whether seminal fluid TGFB cytokines vary similarly, and the determinants of any variance, is unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Between two and seven semen samples were collected from each of 14 fertile donors at 6-10 week intervals over the course of 12 months, then seminal plasma cytokines and sperm parameters were measured. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING AND METHOD The concentrations and total amounts per ejaculate of TGFB1, TGFB2, TGFB3, activin A and follistatin were determined using commercial assays. Sperm parameters were assessed according to WHO IV standards. Mixed model analysis was utilised to determine the relative contribution of between- and within-individual factors to the variance. Relationships between cytokines and sperm parameters, as well as effect of age and duration of abstinence, were investigated by correlation analysis. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Within-individual variability contributed to the total variance for all cytokines and sperm parameters, and was a stronger determinant than between-individual variability for activin A and follistatin as well as for total sperm concentration and sperm motility. Positive correlations between each of the three TGFB isoforms, and activin and follistatin, suggest co-regulation of synthesis. Duration of abstinence influenced total content of TGFB1, TGFB2, activin A and follistatin. TGFB1 correlated inversely with age. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION A limited number of donors from a single clinic were investigated. Clinical information on BMI, nutrition, smoking and other lifestyle factors was unavailable. Further studies are required to determine whether the findings can be generalised to larger populations and different ethnicities. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These data reveal substantial variation over time in seminal fluid cytokines and indicate that repeated analyses are required to gain precise representative data on an individual's status. Within-individual variation in seminal fluid components should be taken into account when investigating seminal fluid cytokines. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was supported by grants from the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia, ID453556 and APP1041332. The authors have no competing interests to disclose.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Sharkey
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Kelton P Tremellen
- Repromed Pty Ltd, 180 Fullarton Road, Dulwich, SA 5065, Australia School of Medicine, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - Nancy E Briggs
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Gustaaf A Dekker
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia Lyell McEwin Hospital, University of Adelaide, Elizabeth Vale, Adelaide, SA 5112, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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11
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Robertson SA, Sharkey DJ. Seminal fluid and fertility in women. Fertil Steril 2016; 106:511-9. [PMID: 27485480 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.07.1101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Revised: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Seminal fluid is often viewed as simply a vehicle to carry sperm to fertilize the oocyte, but a more complex function in influencing female reproductive physiology is now evident. Remarkably, seminal fluid contains soluble and exosome-born signaling agents that interact with the female reproductive tract to prime the immune response, with consequences for fertility and pregnancy outcome. Experiments in rodent models demonstrate a key role for seminal fluid in enabling robust embryo implantation and optimal placental development. In particular, seminal fluid promotes leukocyte recruitment and generation of regulatory T cells, which facilitate embryo implantation by suppressing inflammation, assisting uterine vascular adaptation, and sustaining tolerance of fetal antigens. There is emerging evidence of comparable effects in women, where seminal fluid provokes an adaptive immune response in the cervical tissues after contact at intercourse, and spermatozoa accessing the higher tract potentially affect the endometrium directly. These biological responses may have clinical significance, explaining why [1] intercourse in IVF ET cycles improves the likelihood of pregnancy, [2] inflammatory disorders of gestation are more common in women who conceive after limited exposure to seminal fluid of the prospective father, and [3] preeclampsia incidence is elevated after use of donor oocytes or donor sperm where prior contact with conceptus alloantigens has not occurred. It will be important to define the mechanisms through which seminal fluid interacts with female reproductive tissues, to provide knowledge that may assist in preconception planning and infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
| | - David J Sharkey
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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12
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Keogan S, Siegert K, Wigdahl B, Krebs FC. Variability in human semen content and its potential effects in the female reproductive tract. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.7243/2054-0841-4-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Oxidative stress, spermatozoa and leukocytic infiltration: relationships forged by the opposing forces of microbial invasion and the search for perfection. J Reprod Immunol 2013; 100:11-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2013.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2013] [Revised: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 06/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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von Wolff M, Rosner S, Germeyer A, Jauckus J, Griesinger G, Strowitzki T. Intrauterine instillation of diluted seminal plasma at oocyte pick-up does not increase the IVF pregnancy rate: a double-blind, placebo controlled, randomized study. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:3247-52. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
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Friedler S, Ben-Ami I, Gidoni Y, Strassburger D, Kasterstein E, Maslansky B, Komarovsy D, Bern O, Ron-El R, Raziel A. Effect of seminal plasma application to the vaginal vault in in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment cycles-a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2013; 30:907-11. [PMID: 23812801 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-0033-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2013] [Accepted: 06/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To study whether intravaginal application of seminal plasma after follicle aspiration has the potential to increase implantation and clinical pregnancy rates after IVF-ET. METHODS We conducted a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized study of 230 patients undergoing IVF-ET cycles. 500 μL of Fresh seminal plasma from the patient's partner or culture medium (placebo) were injected in the vaginal vault just after follicle aspiration. The main outcome measured was ongoing clinical-pregnancy rate. RESULTS After ET cancellation in ten patients due to lack of fertilization or embryo cleavage, 220 embryo transfers (103 and 117 in the study and control groups) resulted in a clinical pregnancy rate of 36.9 % and 29.1 % for the study and control groups, corresponding to a relative increase of 26.8 %. After an early pregnancy loss of 13.1 % (5/38) and 23.5 % (8/34) in the study and control groups respectively an ongoing pregnancy rate of 32.0 % (33/103) and 22.2 % (26/117) was achieved corresponding to a relative increase of 44.1 %. Multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusted for study group, age, infertility, and cycle characteristics did not demonstrate any parameter that could predict occurrence of clinical pregnancy rates after IVF-ET. CONCLUSIONS Patients who underwent SP intravaginal insemination after oocyte pick-up reached higher implantation and clinical pregnancy rates following ET compared to controls, although the difference did not reach statistical significance. More studies and variable methodologies may clarify the potential clinical effect of SP in improving live birth rates after ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Friedler
- IVF and Infertility unit, Assaf -Harofeh Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
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Wang G, Guo Y, Zhou T, Shi X, Yu J, Yang Y, Wu Y, Wang J, Liu M, Chen X, Tu W, Zeng Y, Jiang M, Li S, Zhang P, Zhou Q, Zheng B, Yu C, Zhou Z, Guo X, Sha J. In-depth proteomic analysis of the human sperm reveals complex protein compositions. J Proteomics 2013; 79:114-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2012.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2012] [Revised: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 12/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Madej M, Hansen C, Johannisson A, Madej A. Heparin-binding proteins from boar seminal plasma affecting the release of prostaglandins and interleukin-6 by porcine endometrial and cervical cells and bovine endometrial cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.4236/ns.2013.57a004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Sharkey DJ, Macpherson AM, Tremellen KP, Mottershead DG, Gilchrist RB, Robertson SA. TGF-β Mediates Proinflammatory Seminal Fluid Signaling in Human Cervical Epithelial Cells. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2012; 189:1024-35. [DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1200005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Rodríguez-Martínez H, Kvist U, Ernerudh J, Sanz L, Calvete JJ. Seminal plasma proteins: what role do they play? Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 66 Suppl 1:11-22. [PMID: 21726334 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2011.01033.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 246] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Semen is a heterogeneous and complex cell suspension in a protein-rich fluid with different functions, some of them well known, others still obscure. METHOD OF STUDY This paper reviews, comparatively, our current knowledge on the growing field of proteomics of the SP and its relevance in relation to the in vivo situation, for the sake of reproductive biology, diagnostics and treatment. RESULTS Ejaculated spermatozoa, primarily bathing in cauda epididymal fluid, are (in vitro) bulky, exposed to most, if not all, secretions from the accessory sexual glands. In vivo, however, not all spermatozoa are necessarily exposed to all secretions from these glands, because sperm cohorts are delivered in differential order and bathe in seminal plasma (SP) with different concentrations of constituents, including peptides and proteins. Proteins are relevant for sperm function and relate to sperm interactions with the various environments along the female genital tract towards the oocyte vestments. Specific peptides and proteins act as signals for the female immune system to modulate sperm rejection or tolerance, perhaps even influencing the relative intrinsic fertility of the male and/or couple by attaining a status of maternal tolerance towards embryo and placental development. CONCLUSIONS Proteins of the seminal plasma have an ample panorama of action, and some appear responsible for establishing fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heriberto Rodríguez-Martínez
- Department of Clinical & Experimental Medicine (IKE), Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
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Rennemeier C, Schwab M, Lermann U, Albert C, Kammerer U, Frambach T, Morschhauser J, Dietl J, Staib P. Seminal plasma protects human spermatozoa and pathogenic yeasts from capture by dendritic cells. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:987-99. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
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Jiwakanon J, Berg M, Persson E, Fossum C, Dalin AM. Cytokine expression in the gilt oviduct: effects of seminal plasma, spermatozoa and extender after insemination. Anim Reprod Sci 2010; 119:244-57. [PMID: 20171026 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2010.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2009] [Revised: 12/21/2009] [Accepted: 01/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Effects of semen components [fresh semen in extender, spermatozoa in extender (Spz), seminal plasma (SP)], or extender alone (Beltsville thawing solution, BTS) on the expression of selected cytokines [interleukin (IL)-1beta, IL-6, IL-10 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1)] as well as the presence of cells positive for CD8 or CD25 were studied in the pig oviduct. In addition, cytokines in SP and oviductal flushings were analyzed. In experiment (Exp) I, groups of gilts were sampled at 5-6h after insemination with SP, Spz, fresh semen in BTS or only BTS (control). In Exp II, gilts were sampled 35-40 h after insemination with SP, Spz, BTS or only catheter insertion (control). Most oviductal flushing samples were positive (> or =detectable limits) for IL-10 and TGF-beta1 but only few for IL-6. The IHC-labelling of IL-6, IL-10 and TGF-beta1 was evident, especially in the epithelial cells of the isthmus and infundibulum as well as in the cells of the regional (mesometrial) lymph node. Cilia of the epithelium were positive for IL-6 (strongest in the infundibulum) and TGF-beta1 (strongest in the isthmus) but negative for IL-10. There were no consistent differences in IHC-labelling of the cytokines in relation to different treatments, except at 35-40 h after insemination (Exp II), when IL-6 was slightly higher in epithelium of the SP group and IL-10 in the infundibular connective tissue was higher in the SP and Spz groups. In the isthmus and infundibulum, there were no differences between animals inseminated with BTS (control) and the semen components for any of the cytokine mRNAs at 5-6h after insemination (Exp I). However, later (35-40 h, Exp II), insemination with SP, Spz and BTS alone appeared to up-regulate TGF-beta1 mRNA expression compared with the control group (without any fluid infused). In all treatment groups, the mRNA level for TGF-beta1 was higher than for IL-1beta, IL-6 and IL-10. Higher mRNA levels of all cytokines were found in the isthmus compared with the infundibulum. Numbers of CD8-positive cells (both in epithelium and connective tissue) appeared higher in the infundibulum compared with the isthmus and were mostly higher shortly (Exp I) after treatment with SP, SPZ and BTS than later (Exp II) in both segments. CD25-positive cells were few and found solely in the sub-epithelial connective tissue. The results indicate that in the porcine oviduct, IL-6, IL-10 and TGF-beta1 are endogenous produced and that TGF-beta1 may have a more important role for immunomodulation than the other cytokines, especially in isthmus. Differences between isthmus and infundibulum in cytokine mRNA expression and in presence of CD8-positive cells indicate different patterns of immune reactivity in the upper and lower parts of the oviduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Jiwakanon
- Division of Reproduction, Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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Iyibozkurt AC, Balcik P, Bulgurcuoglu S, Arslan BK, Attar R, Attar E. Effect of vascular endothelial growth factor on sperm motility and survival. Reprod Biomed Online 2009; 19:784-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2009.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Intravaginal and intracervical application of seminal plasma in in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment cycles—a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized pilot study. Fertil Steril 2009; 91:167-72. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.11.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2007] [Revised: 11/14/2007] [Accepted: 11/14/2007] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Badia R, Iborra A, Palacio JR, Antich M, Martínez P. ORIGINAL ARTICLE: The Effect of Oxidative Environment on Immunosuppressive Properties of Human Seminal Plasma. Am J Reprod Immunol 2008; 60:354-60. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2008.00634.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
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Abstract
In this article we define male subfertility, review clinical indications for the use of intrauterine insemination, evaluate insemination preparation and administration technique, and ultimately advocate for its use as a first-line therapy in the treatment of infertile couples with male subfertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian A Levine
- New York University School of Medicine, NYU Fertility Center, 660 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, USA
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