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Hong Y, Yuan Q, Wang L, Yang Z, Xu P, Guan X, Chen C. Integrative bioinformatics analysis to identify ferroptosis-related genes in non-obstructive azoospermia. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024:10.1007/s10815-024-03155-0. [PMID: 38902567 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03155-0] [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: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of this study was to discern ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) linked to non-obstructive azoospermia and investigate the associated molecular mechanisms. METHOD A dataset related to azoospermia was retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and FRGs were sourced from GeneCards. Ferroptosis-related differentially expressed genes (FRDEGs) were discerned. Subsequently, these genes underwent analyses encompassing Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, as well as protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks and assessments of functional similarity. Following the identification of hub genes, an exploration of immune infiltration, single-cell expression, diagnostic utility, and interactions involving hub genes, RNA-binding proteins (RBPs), transcription factors (TFs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and drugs was conducted. RESULTS A total of 35 differentially expressed FRGs were discerned. These genes demonstrated enrichment in functions and pathways associated with ferroptosis. From the PPI network, eight hub genes were selected. Functional similarity analysis highlighted the potential pivotal roles of HMOX1 and GPX4 in azoospermia. Analysis of immune cell infiltration indicated a significant decrease in activated dendritic cells in the azoospermia group, with notable correlations between hub genes, particularly SAT1 and HMGCR, and immune cell infiltration. Unique expression patterns of hub genes across various cell types in the human testis were observed, with GPX4 prominently enriched in spermatid/sperm. Eight hub genes exhibited robust diagnostic value (AUC > 0.75). Lastly, a comprehensive hub gene-miRNA-TF-RBP-drug network was constructed. CONCLUSION In summary, our investigation unveiled eight FRDEGs associated with azoospermia, which hold potential as biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of azoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanggang Hong
- The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qichao Yuan
- Department of Pediatric Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lingfei Wang
- Department of Pediatric Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Zihan Yang
- Department of Pediatric Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Peiyu Xu
- The Second School of Medicine, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaoju Guan
- Department of Pediatric Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Congde Chen
- Department of Pediatric Urology, the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China.
- Key Laboratory of Children Genitourinary Diseases of Wenzhou, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China.
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Zheng F, Li S, Wang Z, Xiong S, Liu J, Yang L, Yuan Y, Zeng J, Liu X, Xu S, Chen R, Fu B. The enigmatic interplay of immune cells and abnormal spermatozoa through Mendelian randomization. Am J Reprod Immunol 2024; 91:e13846. [PMID: 38650368 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Abnormal spermatozoa significantly impact reproductive health, affecting fertility rates, potentially prolonging conception time, and increasing the risk of miscarriages. This study employs Mendelian randomization to explore their potential link with immune cells, aiming to reveal their potential causal association and wider implications for reproductive health. METHODS We conducted forward and reverse Mendelian randomization analyses to explore the potential causal connection between 731 immune cell signatures and abnormal spermatozoa. Using publicly available genetic data, we investigated various immune signatures such as median fluorescence intensities (MFI), relative cell (RC), absolute cell (AC), and morphological parameters (MP). Robustness was ensured through comprehensive sensitivity analyses assessing consistency, heterogeneity, and potential horizontal pleiotropy. The MR study produced a statistically significant p-value of .0000684, Bonferroni-corrected for the 731 exposures. RESULTS The Mendelian randomization analysis revealed strong indications of a reciprocal relationship between immune cell pathways and sperm integrity. When examining immune cell exposure, a potential causal link with abnormal sperm was observed in 35 different types of immune cells. Conversely, the reverse Mendelian randomization results indicated that abnormal sperm might causally affect 39 types of immune cells. These outcomes suggest a potential mutual influence between alterations in immune cell functionality and the quality of spermatozoa. CONCLUSION This study highlights the close link between immune responses and sperm development, suggesting implications for reproductive health and immune therapies. Further research may offer crucial insights into male fertility and immune disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuchun Zheng
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Institute of Urology, Nanchang, China
| | - Sheng Li
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Institute of Urology, Nanchang, China
| | - Zhipeng Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Institute of Urology, Nanchang, China
| | - Situ Xiong
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Institute of Urology, Nanchang, China
| | - Jiahao Liu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Institute of Urology, Nanchang, China
| | - Lin Yang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Institute of Urology, Nanchang, China
| | - Yuyang Yuan
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Institute of Urology, Nanchang, China
| | - Jin Zeng
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Institute of Urology, Nanchang, China
| | - Xiaoqiang Liu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Institute of Urology, Nanchang, China
| | - Songhui Xu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Institute of Urology, Nanchang, China
| | - Ru Chen
- Department of Urology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, P.R. China
| | - Bin Fu
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, China
- Jiangxi Institute of Urology, Nanchang, China
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Cerván-Martín M, González-Muñoz S, Guzmán-Jiménez A, Higueras-Serrano I, Castilla JA, Garrido N, Luján S, Bassas L, Seixas S, Gonçalves J, Lopes AM, Larriba S, Palomino-Morales RJ, Bossini-Castillo L, Carmona FD. Changes in environmental exposures over decades may influence the genetic architecture of severe spermatogenic failure. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:612-622. [PMID: 38305414 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do the genetic determinants of idiopathic severe spermatogenic failure (SPGF) differ between generations? SUMMARY ANSWER Our data support that the genetic component of idiopathic SPGF is impacted by dynamic changes in environmental exposures over decades. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The idiopathic form of SPGF has a multifactorial etiology wherein an interaction between genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors leads to the disease onset and progression. At the genetic level, genome-wide association studies (GWASs) allow the analysis of millions of genetic variants across the genome in a hypothesis-free manner, as a valuable tool for identifying susceptibility risk loci. However, little is known about the specific role of non-genetic factors and their influence on the genetic determinants in this type of conditions. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Case-control genetic association analyses were performed including a total of 912 SPGF cases and 1360 unaffected controls. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS All participants had European ancestry (Iberian and German). SPGF cases were diagnosed during the last decade either with idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia (n = 547) or with idiopathic non-obstructive oligozoospermia (n = 365). Case-control genetic association analyses were performed by logistic regression models considering the generation as a covariate and by in silico functional characterization of the susceptibility genomic regions. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE This analysis revealed 13 novel genetic association signals with SPGF, with eight of them being independent. The observed associations were mostly explained by the interaction between each lead variant and the age-group. Additionally, we established links between these loci and diverse non-genetic factors, such as toxic or dietary habits, respiratory disorders, and autoimmune diseases, which might potentially influence the genetic architecture of idiopathic SPGF. LARGE SCALE DATA GWAS data are available from the authors upon reasonable request. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Additional independent studies involving large cohorts in ethnically diverse populations are warranted to confirm our findings. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Overall, this study proposes an innovative strategy to achieve a more precise understanding of conditions such as SPGF by considering the interactions between a variable exposome through different generations and genetic predisposition to complex diseases. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the "Plan Andaluz de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación (PAIDI 2020)" (ref. PY20_00212, P20_00583), the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness through the Spanish National Plan for Scientific and Technical Research and Innovation (ref. PID2020-120157RB-I00 funded by MCIN/ AEI/10.13039/501100011033), and the 'Proyectos I+D+i del Programa Operativo FEDER 2020' (ref. B-CTS-584-UGR20). ToxOmics-Centre for Toxicogenomics and Human Health, Genetics, Oncology and Human Toxicology, is also partially supported by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (Projects: UIDB/00009/2020; UIDP/00009/2020). The authors declare no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Cerván-Martín
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Sara González-Muñoz
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Andrea Guzmán-Jiménez
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Higueras-Serrano
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - José A Castilla
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Unidad de Reproducción, UGC Obstetricia y Ginecología, HU Virgen de las Nieves, Granada, Spain
| | - Nicolás Garrido
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, Valencia, Spain
- Servicio de Urología, Hospital Universitari i Politecnic La Fe e Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Saturnino Luján
- Servicio de Urología, Hospital Universitari i Politecnic La Fe e Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Lluís Bassas
- Laboratory of Seminology and Embryology, Andrology Service, Fundació Puigvert, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susana Seixas
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto (I3S), Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Porto, Portugal
| | - João Gonçalves
- Departamento de Genética Humana, Instituto Nacional de Saúde Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Lisbon, Portugal
- ToxOmics-Centro de Toxicogenómica e Saúde Humana, Nova Medical School, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Alexandra M Lopes
- Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto (I3S), Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Porto, Portugal
- Center for Predictive and Preventive Genetics, Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Larriba
- Human Molecular Genetics Group, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rogelio J Palomino-Morales
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular I, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Lara Bossini-Castillo
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - F David Carmona
- Departamento de Genética e Instituto de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
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Dong F, Ping P, Wang SQ, Ma Y, Chen XF. Identification and validation of CCL2 as a potential biomarker relevant to mast cell infiltration in the testicular immune microenvironment of spermatogenic dysfunction. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:94. [PMID: 37221631 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-01034-2] [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: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenic dysfunction is an important cause of azoospermia. Numerous studies have focused on germ-cell-related genes that lead to spermatogenic impairment. However, based on the immune-privileged characteristics of the testis, the relationship of immune genes, immune cells or immune microenvironment with spermatogenic dysfunction has rarely been reported. RESULTS Using integrated methods including single-cell RNA-seq, microarray data, clinical data analyses and histological/pathological staining, we found that testicular mast cell infiltration levels were significantly negatively related to spermatogenic function. We next identified a functional testicular immune biomarker, CCL2, and externally validated that testicular CCL2 was significantly upregulated in spermatogenic dysfunctional testes and was negatively correlated with Johnsen scores (JS) and testicular volumes. We also demonstrated that CCL2 levels showed a significant positive correlation with testicular mast cell infiltration levels. Moreover, we showed myoid cells and Leydig cells were two of the important sources of testicular CCL2 in spermatogenic dysfunction. Mechanistically, we drew a potential "myoid/Leydig cells-CCL2-ACKR1-endothelial cells-SELE-CD44-mast cells" network of somatic cell-cell communications in the testicular microenvironment, which might play roles in spermatogenic dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS The present study revealed CCL2-relevant changes in the testicular immune microenvironment in spermatogenic dysfunction, providing new evidence for the role of immunological factors in azoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Dong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, 200135, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Ping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, 200135, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Si-Qi Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, 200135, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, 200135, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xiang-Feng Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 845 Lingshan Road, Shanghai, 200135, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Human Sperm Bank, Shanghai, China.
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Zhong Y, Zhao J, Deng H, Wu Y, Zhu L, Yang M, Liu Q, Luo G, Ma W, Li H. Integrative bioinformatics analysis to identify novel biomarkers associated with non-obstructive azoospermia. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1088261. [PMID: 36969237 PMCID: PMC10031032 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1088261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
AimThis study aimed to identify autophagy-related genes (ARGs) associated with non-obstructive azoospermia and explore the underlying molecular mechanisms.MethodsTwo datasets associated with azoospermia were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database, and ARGs were obtained from the Human Autophagy-dedicated Database. Autophagy-related differentially expressed genes were identified in the azoospermia and control groups. These genes were subjected to Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, and functional similarity analyses. After identifying the hub genes, immune infiltration and hub gene–RNA-binding protein (RBP)–transcription factor (TF)–miRNA–drug interactions were analyzed.ResultsA total 46 differentially expressed ARGs were identified between the azoospermia and control groups. These genes were enriched in autophagy-associated functions and pathways. Eight hub genes were selected from the PPI network. Functional similarity analysis revealed that HSPA5 may play a key role in azoospermia. Immune cell infiltration analysis revealed that activated dendritic cells were significantly decreased in the azoospermia group compared to those in the control groups. Hub genes, especially ATG3, KIAA0652, MAPK1, and EGFR were strongly correlated with immune cell infiltration. Finally, a hub gene–miRNA–TF–RBP–drug network was constructed.ConclusionThe eight hub genes, including EGFR, HSPA5, ATG3, KIAA0652, and MAPK1, may serve as biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of azoospermia. The study findings suggest potential targets and mechanisms for the occurrence and development of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yucheng Zhong
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Center, Southern Medical University Affiliated Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Jun Zhao
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Center, Southern Medical University Affiliated Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Hao Deng
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Center, Southern Medical University Affiliated Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Yaqin Wu
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Center, Southern Medical University Affiliated Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Li Zhu
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Center, Southern Medical University Affiliated Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Meiqiong Yang
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Center, Southern Medical University Affiliated Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Qianru Liu
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Center, Southern Medical University Affiliated Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Guoqun Luo
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Center, Southern Medical University Affiliated Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, China
| | - Wenmin Ma
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Center, Southern Medical University Affiliated Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, China
- Assist Reproductive Medical Center, Zhaoqing West River Hospital, Zhaoqing, Guangdong, China
- *Correspondence: Wenmin Ma, ; Huan Li,
| | - Huan Li
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Center, Southern Medical University Affiliated Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Foshan, Foshan, Guangdong, China
- *Correspondence: Wenmin Ma, ; Huan Li,
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Chen J, Chen J, Fang Y, Shen Q, Zhao K, Liu C, Zhang H. Microbiology and immune mechanisms associated with male infertility. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1139450. [PMID: 36895560 PMCID: PMC9989213 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1139450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Up to 50% of infertility is caused by the male side. Varicocele, orchitis, prostatitis, oligospermia, asthenospermia, and azoospermia are common causes of impaired male reproductive function and male infertility. In recent years, more and more studies have shown that microorganisms play an increasingly important role in the occurrence of these diseases. This review will discuss the microbiological changes associated with male infertility from the perspective of etiology, and how microorganisms affect the normal function of the male reproductive system through immune mechanisms. Linking male infertility with microbiome and immunomics can help us recognize the immune response under different disease states, providing more targeted immune target therapy for these diseases, and even the possibility of combined immunotherapy and microbial therapy for male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinyu Chen
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yiwei Fang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiuzi Shen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Immune and spermatogenesis-related loci are involved in the development of extreme patterns of male infertility. Commun Biol 2022; 5:1220. [PMID: 36357561 PMCID: PMC9649734 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-04192-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We conducted a genome-wide association study in a large population of infertile men due to unexplained spermatogenic failure (SPGF). More than seven million genetic variants were analysed in 1,274 SPGF cases and 1,951 unaffected controls from two independent European cohorts. Two genomic regions were associated with the most severe histological pattern of SPGF, defined by Sertoli cell-only (SCO) phenotype, namely the MHC class II gene HLA-DRB1 (rs1136759, P = 1.32E-08, OR = 1.80) and an upstream locus of VRK1 (rs115054029, P = 4.24E-08, OR = 3.14), which encodes a protein kinase involved in the regulation of spermatogenesis. The SCO-associated rs1136759 allele (G) determines a serine in the position 13 of the HLA-DRβ1 molecule located in the antigen-binding pocket. Overall, our data support the notion of unexplained SPGF as a complex trait influenced by common variation in the genome, with the SCO phenotype likely representing an immune-mediated condition. A GWAS in a large case-control cohort of European ancestry identifies two genomic regions, the MHC class II gene HLA-DRB1 and an upstream locus of VRK1, that are associated with the most severe phenotype of spermatogenic failure.
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Chen T, Wang Y, Tian L, Guo X, Xia J, Wang Z, Song N. Aberrant Gene Expression Profiling in Men With Sertoli Cell-Only Syndrome. Front Immunol 2022; 13:821010. [PMID: 35833143 PMCID: PMC9273009 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.821010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS) is the most severe and common pathological type of non-obstructive azoospermia. The etiology of SCOS remains largely unknown to date despite a handful of studies reported in this area. According to the gene expression of testicular tissue samples in six datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus, we detected 1441 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between SCOS and obstructive azoospermia (OA) testicular tissue samples. Enriched GO terms and KEGG pathways for the downregulated genes included various terms and pathways related to cell cycle and reproduction, while the enrichment for the upregulated genes yielded many inflammation-related terms and pathways. In accordance with the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, all genes in the most critical module belonged to the downregulated DEGs, and we obtained nine hub genes, including CCNB1, AURKA, CCNA2, BIRC5, TYMS, UBE2C, CDC20, TOP2A, and OIP5. Among these hub genes, six were also found in the most significant SCOS-specific module obtained from consensus module analysis. In addition, most of SCOS-specific modules did not have a consensus counterpart. Based on the downregulated genes, transcription factors (TFs) and kinases within the upstream regulatory network were predicted. Then, we compared the difference in infiltrating levels of immune cells between OA and SCOS samples and found a significantly higher degree of infiltration for most immune cells in SCOS than OA samples. Moreover, CD56bright natural killer cell was significantly associated with six hub genes. Enriched hallmark pathways in SCOS had remarkably more upregulated pathways than the downregulated ones. Collectively, we detected DEGs, significant modules, hub genes, upstream TFs and kinases, enriched downstream pathways, and infiltrated immune cells that might be specifically implicated in the pathogenesis of SCOS. These findings provide new insights into the pathogenesis of SCOS and fuel future advances in its theranostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Chen
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yichun Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Linlin Tian
- Department of Microbiology Laboratory, Nanjing Municipal Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiadong Xia
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Zengjun Wang
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Ninghong Song, ; Zengjun Wang,
| | - Ninghong Song
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- The Affiliated Kezhou People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Kezhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ninghong Song, ; Zengjun Wang,
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Tang XJ, Xiao QH, Wang XL, He Y, Tian YN, Xia BT, Guo Y, Huang JL, Duan P, Tan Y. Single-Cell Transcriptomics-Based Study of Transcriptional Regulatory Features in the Non-Obstructive Azoospermia Testis. Front Genet 2022; 13:875762. [PMID: 35669193 PMCID: PMC9163961 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.875762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is one of the most important causes of male infertility. Although many congenital factors have been identified, the aetiology in the majority of idiopathic NOA (iNOA) cases remains unknown. Herein, using single-cell RNA-Seq data sets (GSE149512) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, we constructed transcriptional regulatory networks (TRNs) to explain the mutual regulatory relationship and the causal relationship between transcription factors (TFs). We defined 10 testicular cell types by their marker genes and found that the proportion of Leydig cells (LCs) and macrophages (tMΦ) was significantly increased in iNOA testis. We identified specific TFs including LHX9, KLF8, KLF4, ARID5B and RXRG in iNOA LCs. In addition, we found specific TFs in iNOA tMΦ such as POU2F2, SPIB IRF5, CEBPA, ELK4 and KLF6. All these identified TFs are strongly engaged in cellular fate, function and homeostasis of the microenvironment. Changes in the activity of the above-mentioned TFs might affect the function of LCs and tMΦ and ultimately cause spermatogenesis failure. This study illustrate that these TFs play important regulatory roles in the occurrence and development of NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-juan Tang
- Department of Andrology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Qiao-hong Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Xue-lin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Yan He
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
- Postgraduate Training Basement of Jinzhou Medicical University, Xiangyang No.1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Ya-nan Tian
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
- Postgraduate Training Basement of Jinzhou Medicical University, Xiangyang No.1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Bin-tong Xia
- Department of Urology Surgery, Xiangyang No.1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Yang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Jiao-long Huang
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Peng Duan
- Key Laboratory of Zebrafish Modeling and Drug Screening for Human Diseases of Xiangyang City, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Xiangyang No. 1 People’s Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Xiangyang, China
| | - Yan Tan
- Department of Andrology, Renmin Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Embryonic Stem Cell Research, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
- Biomedical Engineering College, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, China
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10
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Himelreich-Perić M, Katušić-Bojanac A, Hohšteter M, Sinčić N, Mužić-Radović V, Ježek D. Mast Cells in the Mammalian Testis and Epididymis-Animal Models and Detection Methods. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052547. [PMID: 35269690 PMCID: PMC8909951 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) are an evolutionary well-conserved type of cells, mediating and modulating allergic responses in innate immunity and tissue remodeling after chronic inflammation. Among other tissues, they inhabit both the testis and epididymis. In the testis, MCs usually appear in the interstitial compartment in humans, but not in other standard experimental models, like rats and mice. MCs seem to be responsible for testicular tissue fibrosis in different causes of infertility. Although experimental animal models follow the effect on MC activation or penetration to the interstitial tissue like in humans to some extent, there is an inconsistency in the available literature regarding experimental design, animal strain, and detection methods used. This comprehensive review offers an insight into the literature on MCs in mammalian testes and epididymides. We aimed to find the most suitable model for research on MC and offer recommendations for future experimental designs. When using in vivo animal models, tunica albuginea incorporation and standard histological assessment need to be included. Domesticated boar strains kept in modified controlled conditions exhibit the highest similarity to the MC distribution in the human testis. 3D testicular models are promising but need further fine-tuning to become a valid model for MC investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Himelreich-Perić
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.K.-B.); (N.S.); (D.J.)
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
- Correspondence:
| | - Ana Katušić-Bojanac
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.K.-B.); (N.S.); (D.J.)
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marko Hohšteter
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia;
| | - Nino Sinčić
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.K.-B.); (N.S.); (D.J.)
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vedrana Mužić-Radović
- Hospital for Medical Rehabilitation of the Health and Lung Diseases and Rheumatism “Thalassotherapia-Opatija”, 51410 Opatija, Croatia;
| | - Davor Ježek
- Scientific Centre of Excellence for Reproductive and Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; (A.K.-B.); (N.S.); (D.J.)
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
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11
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Fang Y, Su Y, Xu J, Hu Z, Zhao K, Liu C, Zhang H. Varicocele-Mediated Male Infertility: From the Perspective of Testicular Immunity and Inflammation. Front Immunol 2021; 12:729539. [PMID: 34531872 PMCID: PMC8438154 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.729539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Varicocele (VC) is present in 35 - 40% of men with infertility. However, current surgical and antioxidant treatments are not completely effective. In addition to oxidative stress, it is likely that other factors such as testicular immune microenvironment disorder contribute to irreversible testicular. Evidence suggests that VC is associated with anti-sperm antibodies (ASAs), spermatogenesis and testosterone secretion abnormalities, and testicular cytokine production. Moreover, inhibition of inflammation can alleviate VC-mediated pathogenesis. The normal function of the testis depends on its immune tolerance mechanism. Testicular immune regulation is complex, and many infectious or non-infectious diseases may damage this precision system. Results The testicular immune microenvironment is composed of common immune cells and other cells involved in testicular immunity. The former includes testicular macrophages, T cells, dendritic cells (DCs), and mast cells, whereas the latter include Leydig cells and Sertoli cells (SCs). In animal models and in patients with VC, most studies have revealed an abnormal increase in the levels of ASAs and pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha in the seminal plasma, testicular tissue, and even peripheral blood. It is also involved in the activation of potential inflammatory pathways, such as the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain containing (NLRP)-3 pathway. Finally, the development of VC-mediated infertility (VMI) may be facilitated by abnormal permeability of proteins, such as claudin-11, that constitute the blood-testis barrier (BTB). Conclusions The testicular immune response, including the production of ASAs and inflammatory factors, activation of inflammatory pathways, and destruction of the BTB may be involved in the pathogenesis of VMI it is necessary to further explore how patient outcomes can be improved through immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiwei Fang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yufang Su
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jia Xu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhiyong Hu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Kai Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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12
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Zheng W, Zhang S, Jiang S, Huang Z, Chen X, Guo H, Li M, Zheng S. Evaluation of immune status in testis and macrophage polarization associated with testicular damage in patients with nonobstructive azoospermia. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 86:e13481. [PMID: 34192390 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Immune cells residing in the testicular interstitial space form the immunological microenvironment of the testis. They are assumed to play a role in maintaining testicular homeostasis and immune privilege. However, the immune status and related cell polarization in patients with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) remains poorly characterized. System evaluation of the testis immunological microenvironment in NOA patients may help to reveal the mechanisms of idiopathic azoospermia. STUDY DESIGN The gene expression patterns of immune cells in normal human testes were systematically analyzed by single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and preliminarily verification by the human protein atlas (HPA) online database. The immune cell infiltration profiles and immune status of patients with NOA was analyzed by single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) and gene set variation analysis (GSVA) based on four independent public microarray datasets (GSE45885, GSE45887, GSE9210, and GSE145467), obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) online database. The relationship between immune cells and spermatogenesis score was further analyzed by Spearman correlation analysis. Finally, immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining was performed to identify the main immune cell types and their polarization status in patients with NOA. RESULTS Both scRNA-seq and HPA analysis showed that testicular macrophages represent the largest pool of immune cells in the normal testis, and also exhibit an attenuated inflammatory response by expressing high levels of tolerance proteins (CD163, IL-10, TGF-β, and VEGF) and reduced expression of TLR signaling pathway-related genes. Correlation analysis revealed that the testicular immune score and macrophages including M1 and M2 macrophages were significantly negatively correlated with spermatogenesis score in patients with NOA (GSE45885 and GSE45887). In addition, the number of M1 and M2 macrophages was significantly higher in patients with NOA (GSE9210 and GSE145467) than in normal testis. GSVA analysis indicated that the immunological microenvironment in NOA tissues was manifested by activated immune system and pro-inflammatory status. IHC staining results showed that the number of M1 and M2 macrophages was significantly higher in NOA tissues than in normal testis and negatively correlated with the Johnson score. CONCLUSION Testicular macrophage polarization may play a vital role in NOA development and is a promising potential therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenzhong Zheng
- Department of Urology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Shiqiang Zhang
- Department of Urology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Shaoqin Jiang
- Department of Urology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhangcheng Huang
- Department of Urology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaobao Chen
- Department of Urology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Huan Guo
- Department of Urology, Shenzhen University General Hospital & Shenzhen University Clinical Medical Academy Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Mengqiang Li
- Department of Urology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
| | - Song Zheng
- Department of Urology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fuzhou, China
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13
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Riviere E, Rossi SP, Tavalieri YE, Muñoz de Toro MM, Ponzio R, Puigdomenech E, Levalle O, Martinez G, Terradas C, Calandra RS, Matzkin ME, Frungieri MB. Melatonin daily oral supplementation attenuates inflammation and oxidative stress in testes of men with altered spermatogenesis of unknown aetiology. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 515:110889. [PMID: 32622722 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2020] [Revised: 05/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
We have previously shown an inverse correlation between testicular melatonin concentration and inflammation/oxidative stress-related markers levels in infertile men showing unexplained azoospermia. Here, we evaluated the impact of melatonin oral supplementation (daily 3 mg dose used to treat sleep disorders) in the incidence of local inflammation, oxidative stress, and tubular wall fibrosis development in young and middle-aged infertile adult men. Compared with testes without histological alterations, gonads with morphological abnormalities showed lower melatonin concentration along with increased macrophage numbers, TBARS generation, and expression levels of inflammation-related markers and antioxidant enzymes, as well as tubular wall collagen fibers disorganization and thickening. Melatonin oral supplementation not only increased its own testicular levels but also decreased inflammation- and oxidative stress-related markers levels, and improved the tubular wall aspect. Overall, our work provides insights into the potential benefits of melatonin on the inflammatory and oxidative status in testes of patients suffering from unexplained infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenia Riviere
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1428ADN, Argentina; Cátedra de Química, Ciclo Básico Común, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1405CAE, Argentina
| | - Soledad P Rossi
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1428ADN, Argentina; Cátedra de Bioquímica Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina
| | - Yamil E Tavalieri
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, 3000, Argentina
| | - Mónica M Muñoz de Toro
- Instituto de Salud y Ambiente del Litoral, Facultad de Bioquímica y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional del Litoral, Santa Fe, 3000, Argentina
| | - Roberto Ponzio
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Reproducción, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1121ABG, Argentina
| | | | - Oscar Levalle
- División Endocrinología, Hospital Durand, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1405DCS, Argentina
| | | | - Claudio Terradas
- Instituto Médico PREFER, San Martín, Buenos Aires, B1650, Argentina; División Endocrinología, Hospital Durand, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1405DCS, Argentina; Fertilidad San Isidro, Buenos Aires, B1642, Argentina
| | - Ricardo S Calandra
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1428ADN, Argentina
| | - María E Matzkin
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1428ADN, Argentina; Cátedra de Química, Ciclo Básico Común, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1405CAE, Argentina.
| | - Mónica B Frungieri
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, CONICET, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1428ADN, Argentina; Cátedra de Química, Ciclo Básico Común, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1405CAE, Argentina
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14
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The Cellular Impact of the ZIKA Virus on Male Reproductive Tract Immunology and Physiology. Cells 2020; 9:cells9041006. [PMID: 32325652 PMCID: PMC7226248 DOI: 10.3390/cells9041006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) has been reported by several groups as an important virus causing pathological damage in the male reproductive tract. ZIKV can infect and persist in testicular somatic and germ cells, as well as spermatozoa, leading to cell death and testicular atrophy. ZIKV has also been detected in semen samples from ZIKV-infected patients. This has huge implications for human reproduction. Global scientific efforts are being applied to understand the mechanisms related to arboviruses persistency, pathogenesis, and host cellular response to suggest a potential target to develop robust antiviral therapeutics and vaccines. Here, we discuss the cellular modulation of the immunologic and physiologic properties of the male reproductive tract environment caused by arboviruses infection, focusing on ZIKV. We also present an overview of the current vaccine effects and therapeutic targets against ZIKV infection that may impact the testis and male fertility.
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15
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Djourabchi Borojerdi AS, Welchowski T, Peng W, Buchen A, Novak N, Haidl G, Duan YG, Allam JP. Human spermatozoa of male patients with subfertility express the interleukin-6 receptor. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13511. [PMID: 32052474 DOI: 10.1111/and.13511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Male subfertility has been associated with bacterial infections and chronic inflammation. In this context, several studies investigated cytokine levels in seminal plasma, whereas interleukin-6 (IL-6) appears to be crucial. However, little is known about its receptor, the IL-6R expression on human spermatozoa. Thus, the aim of the present study was to screen spermatozoa for IL-6R expression and to identify its localisation. Semen samples of 137 patients (median age 37.69, SD ± 7.82) with subfertility were analysed. Sperm analysis including determination of IL-6 was performed following the World Health Organization criteria. Also, flow cytometry was performed for sperm IL-6R expression. IL-6R+ cells were used for immunofluorescence staining to identify receptor localisation. The results showed positive staining for IL-6R in the midpiece of spermatozoa. Furthermore, a significant correlation between sperm IL-6R expression, seminal plasma IL-6 and total sperm count could be demonstrated, whereas a negative correlation was observed in sperm IL-6R expression and motility. However, no statistical significance could be observed between IL-6R expression, vitality and morphology. Moreover, incubation of spermatozoa with IL-6 led to a slight but significant decrease in motility after 24 hr. These data suggest that IL-6R expression may play a role in impaired sperm function during inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas Welchowski
- Department of Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Wenming Peng
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Andrology Unit, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Alexa Buchen
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Andrology Unit, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Natalija Novak
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Andrology Unit, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Gerhard Haidl
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Andrology Unit, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Yong-Gang Duan
- Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology (CARE), The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital (HKU-SZH), Shenzhen, China
| | - Jean-Pierre Allam
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Andrology Unit, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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16
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Borelli V, Martinelli M, Luppi S, Vita F, Romano F, Fanfani F, Trevisan E, Celsi F, Zabucchi G, Zanconati F, Bottin C, Ricci G. Mast Cells in Peritoneal Fluid From Women With Endometriosis and Their Possible Role in Modulating Sperm Function. Front Physiol 2020; 10:1543. [PMID: 31998139 PMCID: PMC6964357 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2019.01543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a local pelvic inflammatory process, frequently associated with infertility, with altered function of immune-related cells in the peritoneal environment. Mast cells are known to be key players of the immune system and have been recently involved in endometriosis and in infertility, with their mediators directly suppressing sperm motility. In this study, we evaluated the mast cell population and their mediators in the peritoneal fluid of infertile patients with endometriosis and their impact on human sperm motility. Peritoneal fluids, collected by laparoscopy from 11 infertile patients with endometriosis and 9 fertile controls were evaluated for the presence of mast cells, tryptase levels and their effect on sperm motility. Furthermore, an in vitro model of mast cells-sperm interaction in peritoneal fluid was set up, using LAD2 cell line as a mast cell model, and analyzed from a functional as well as a morphological point of view. Mast cell peritoneal fluid population and its main mediator, tryptase, is more represented in endometriosis confirming an involvement of these cells in this disease. Anyway it appears unlikely that tryptase enriched peritoneal fluid, which fails to inhibit sperm motility, could contribute to endometriosis associated infertility. Despite of this, sperm interaction with the mast cell surface (LAD2) induced a significantly mast cell-degranulation response in the peritoneal fluid from endometriosis which could directly modulate sperm function other than motility. This evidence lead us to suppose that there is, between these elements, an interrelationship which deserves further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Violetta Borelli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Monica Martinelli
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Stefania Luppi
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Francesca Vita
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Federico Romano
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy
| | - Francesco Fanfani
- UOC di Ginecologia Oncologica, Dipartimento Scienze della Salute della Donna e del Bambino, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Trevisan
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Fulvio Celsi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Fabrizio Zanconati
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Cristina Bottin
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo", Trieste, Italy.,Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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17
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Qu N, Ogawa Y, Kuramasu M, Nagahori K, Sakabe K, Itoh M. Immunological microenvironment in the testis. Reprod Med Biol 2020; 19:24-31. [PMID: 31956282 PMCID: PMC6955586 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The testis is specific in that it produces haploid germ cells of which autoantigens newly appear long after the neonatal immune tolerance. Under normal condition, these autoantigens are protected by the blood-testis barrier formed by Sertoli cells. Thus, the testis is an immunologically privileged site where haploid cells are protected from autoimmune attack. METHODS The immunological microenvironment in the testis was experimentally investigated using mice and rats. MAIN FINDINGS Not only the blood-testis barrier but also various immuno-suppressive factors are involved in the immune-privileged testis. Indeed, germ cells transplanted into the xenogeneic seminiferous tubules could proliferate and differentiate with no aid of artificial immunosuppression. On the other hand, autoimmune orchitis could be experimentally produced by various methods of immunization with syngeneic or xenogeneic germ cell antigens. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that the testis is immunologically privileged but also immunologically fragile organ. Therefore, the dual nature is critical for immunoregulation of testicular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Qu
- Department of AnatomyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
- Department of Anatomy, Division of Basic Medical ScienceTokai University School of MedicineKanagawaJapan
| | - Yuki Ogawa
- Department of AnatomyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | | | | | - Kou Sakabe
- Department of Anatomy, Division of Basic Medical ScienceTokai University School of MedicineKanagawaJapan
| | - Masahiro Itoh
- Department of AnatomyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
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18
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Wang LL, Li ZH, Duan YG, Yuan SQ, Mor G, Liao AH. Identification of programmed cell death 1 and its ligand in the testicular tissue of mice. Am J Reprod Immunol 2018; 81:e13079. [PMID: 30578744 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 12/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM This study aims to determine the expression and localization of programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) and programmed cell death 1 ligand 1 (PD-L1) in the testes of mice at different developmental stages. METHOD OF STUDY By means of RT-qPCR, Western blot and immunofluorescence, the expression and localization of PD-1 and PD-L1 were detected in the testicular tissues of mice at different postnatal times: P7, P14, P21, P28, P35, and adulthood. Meanwhile, the level of soluble PD-L1 (sPD-L1) was evaluated by ELISA in the testicular interstitial fluid (IF) of the adult mice, culture supernatants of TM4 cell lines (Sertoli cells lines), and primary Sertoli cells at P14. RESULTS Pd-1 mRNA levels were unexpectedly low. From P7 to P21, there was limited PD-1 protein detected while PD-1 was evident at P28 and afterward at significantly higher levels than at P14 and P21 (P < 0.05). Despite being found in the interstitial area at P7, P14, and P21, PD-1 was also detected in the germ cells of the seminiferous tubules after P28. Pd-l1 mRNA exhibited age-related changes, peaking at P21, while PD-L1 protein was constitutively expressed at any stage, specifically localized in the nucleus of Sertoli cells. Moreover, the level of sPD-L1 in IF was significantly higher than that in the culture supernatants of both TM4 and primary Sertoli cells at P14. CONCLUSIONS PD-1 and PD-L1 were present in the testicular tissue of adult mice. The expression and localization of PD-1 fluctuated with age, and PD-1 was mainly localized to advanced germ cells, suggesting that it may play a role in spermiogenesis. PD-L1 was constitutively expressed in the nucleus of Sertoli cells, which could secrete sPD-L1 into the testicular interstitial space and thus may be involved in testicular immune privilege.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Ling Wang
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhi-Hui Li
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yong-Gang Duan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Center of Assisted Reproduction and Embryology, The University of Hong Kong - ShenZhen Hospital, Guangdong, China
| | - Shui-Qiao Yuan
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Gil Mor
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Reproductive Immunology Unit, Department of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Ai-Hua Liao
- Family Planning Research Institute, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Huang M, Zhu M, Jiang T, Wang Y, Wang C, Jin G, Guo X, Sha J, Dai J, Wang X, Hu Z. Fine mapping the MHC region identified rs4997052 as a new variant associated with nonobstructive azoospermia in Han Chinese males. Fertil Steril 2018; 111:61-68. [PMID: 30502936 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.08.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between genetic variants in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) region and nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) susceptibility. DESIGN MHC region fine-mapping analysis based on previous NOA genome-wide association study (GWAS) data. SETTING Medical university. PATIENT(S) Nine hundred and eighty-one men with NOA and 1,657 normal fertile male controls. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The MHC region imputation assessed with SNP2HLA software, taking the specific Han-MHC database as a reference panel; statistical significance of the MHC variants calculated using logistic regression models; functional annotation based on online public databases; and phenotypic variances explained by specific groups of genetic variants estimated using the fixed effects model from individual associations. RESULT(S) Two independent risk loci, rs7194 (odds ratio [OR] 1.37) at MHC class II molecules and rs4997052 (OR 1.30) at MHC class I molecules, were identified. Functional annotation showed rs7194 may tag the effect of multiple amino acid residues and the expression of HLA-DQB1 and HLA-DRB1; while rs4997052 showed the effect of amino acid changes of HLA-B at position 116 as well as the expression of HLA-B and CCHCR1, which coexpressed with genes enriched in pathways of spermatogenesis and male gamete generation. The novel variant rs4997052 identified in our study can explain another approximately 0.66% of the phenotypic variances of NOA. CONCLUSION(S) We fine-mapped the MHC region and identified two loci that independently drove NOA susceptibility. These results provide a deeper understanding of the association mechanisms of MHC and NOA risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingtao Huang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Zhu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tingting Jiang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifeng Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangfu Jin
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiahao Sha
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Juncheng Dai
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoming Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhibin Hu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
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20
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Voss JJLP, Stermer AR, Ghaffari R, Tiwary R, Richburg JH. MEHP-induced rat testicular inflammation does not exacerbate germ cell apoptosis. Reproduction 2018; 156:35-46. [PMID: 29743262 DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The testis is an organ that maintains an immune suppressive environment. We previously revealed that exposure of pre-pubertal rats to an acute dose of a well-described Sertoli cell toxicant, mono-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), leads to an accumulation of CD11b+ immune cells in the testicular interstitial space that closely correlates with a robust incidence of germ cell (GC) apoptosis. Here, we test the hypothesis that the infiltrating immune cells contribute to GC apoptosis. Postnatal day 28 Fischer rats that received an oral dose of 700 mg/kg MEHP showed a significant infiltration of both CD11bc+/CD68+/CD163- macrophages and neutrophils. The infiltration peaked at 12 h, but had reduced by 48 h. Testicular macrophages from MEHP-treated rats showed significantly upregulated expression of Tnfa and Il6, and the Arg1/Nos2 ratio was reduced compared to controls. However, small increases in anti-inflammatory genes Il10 and Tgfb1 were also observed. Depletion of circulating monocytes with clodronate liposomes prior to MEHP treatment reduced the macrophage influx into the testis, but did not lower GC apoptosis. Additionally, depletion of neutrophils using an anti-polymorphonuclear cell antibody prevented both macrophage and neutrophil infiltration into the testis, and also did not affect GC apoptosis. Together, these results show that exposure to MEHP leads to a rapid and temporary influx of pro-inflammatory monocytes and neutrophils in the interstitium of the testis. However, with this acute dosing paradigm, these infiltrating leukocytes do not appear to contribute to MEHP-induced testicular GC apoptosis leaving the functional significance of these infiltrating cells in the pathogenesis of MEHP-induced testicular injury unresolved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorine J L P Voss
- Center for Molecular Carcinogenesis and ToxicologyDivision of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Angela R Stermer
- Center for Molecular Carcinogenesis and ToxicologyDivision of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Rashin Ghaffari
- University of Texas at AustinInstitute of Cellular and Molecular Biology, College of Natural Sciences, The Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Richa Tiwary
- Center for Molecular Carcinogenesis and ToxicologyDivision of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - John H Richburg
- Center for Molecular Carcinogenesis and ToxicologyDivision of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
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21
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Razavi SM, Sabbaghian M, Jalili M, Divsalar A, Wolkenhauer O, Salehzadeh-Yazdi A. Comprehensive functional enrichment analysis of male infertility. Sci Rep 2017; 7:15778. [PMID: 29150651 PMCID: PMC5693951 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-16005-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a multifactorial process that forms differentiated sperm cells in a complex microenvironment. This process involves the genome, epigenome, transcriptome, and proteome to ensure the stability of the spermatogonia and supporting cells. The identification of signaling pathways linked to infertility has been hampered by the inherent complexity and multifactorial aspects of spermatogenesis. Systems biology is a promising approach to unveil underlying signaling pathways and genes and identify putative biomarkers. In this study, we analyzed thirteen microarray libraries of infertile humans and mice, and different classes of male infertility were compared using differentially expressed genes and functional enrichment analysis. We found regulatory processes, immune response, glutathione transferase and muscle tissue development to be among the most common biological processes in up-regulated genes, and genes involved in spermatogenesis were down-regulated in maturation arrest (MArrest) and oligospermia cases. We also observed the overexpression of genes involved in steroid metabolism in post-meiotic and meiotic arrest. Furthermore, we found that the infertile mouse model most similar to human MArrest was the Dazap1 mutant mouse. The results of this study could help elucidate features of infertility etiology and provide the basis for diagnostic markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Morteza Razavi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marjan Sabbaghian
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mahdi Jalili
- Hematology, Oncology and SCT Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Adeleh Divsalar
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Kharazmi University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Olaf Wolkenhauer
- Department of Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, University of Rostock, 18051, Rostock, Germany
| | - Ali Salehzadeh-Yazdi
- Department of Systems Biology and Bioinformatics, University of Rostock, 18051, Rostock, Germany.
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22
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Loveland KL, Klein B, Pueschl D, Indumathy S, Bergmann M, Loveland BE, Hedger MP, Schuppe HC. Cytokines in Male Fertility and Reproductive Pathologies: Immunoregulation and Beyond. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:307. [PMID: 29250030 PMCID: PMC5715375 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Germline development in vivo is dependent on the environment formed by somatic cells and the differentiation cues they provide; hence, the impact of local factors is highly relevant to the production of sperm. Knowledge of how somatic and germline cells interact is central to achieving biomedical goals relating to restoring, preserving or restricting fertility in humans. This review discusses the growing understanding of how cytokines contribute to testicular function and maintenance of male reproductive health, and to the pathologies associated with their abnormal activity in this organ. Here we consider both cytokines that signal through JAKs and are regulated by SOCS, and those utilizing other pathways, such as the MAP kinases and SMADs. The importance of cytokines in the establishment and maintenance of the testis as an immune-privilege site are described. Current research relating to the involvement of immune cells in testis development and disease is highlighted. This includes new data relating to testicular cancer which reinforce the understanding that tumorigenic cells shape their microenvironment through cytokine actions. Clinical implications in pathologies relating to local inflammation and to immunotherapies are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate L. Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kate L. Loveland,
| | - Britta Klein
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Dana Pueschl
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sivanjah Indumathy
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Martin Bergmann
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Mark P. Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash Medical Centre, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Hans-Christian Schuppe
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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23
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Khramtsova YS, Artashyan OS, Yushkov BG, Volkova YL, Nezgovorova NY. The influence of mast cells on reparative regeneration of tissues characterized by various degrees of immune privilege. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1134/s1990519x16050060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Abstract
If untreated, cryptorchidism leads to age dependent decreases in germ cell number (GCN) and testicular fibrosis. The pathophysiology of this process and its long-term effects on fertility are unclear. Mast cells are intricately involved in inflammation and fibrosis in a variety of organ systems. Their secretory products have mitogenic effects on fibroblasts and promote collagen deposition. Mast cell activation and migration are under the influence of estrogens and this interaction has been demonstrated in the testes in several animal models. Models of cryptorchidism have shown increased estrogen levels and expression of estrogen receptors in undescended testes compared to controls. Mast cell numbers have positively correlated with testicular fibrosis in human studies and decreased spermatogenesis as well. We found no human studies of mast cells in cryptorchid testes. However several animal models have investigated the effect of estrogens on mast cells and spermatogenesis in undescended testes. In this review we examine the possible links between estrogens, mast cells, and testicular fibrosis in cryptorchidism, focusing on histological studies.
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25
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Chen SJ, Duan YG, Haidl G, Allam JP. Predomination of IL-17-producing tryptase-positive/chymase-positive mast cells in azoospermic chronic testicular inflammation. Andrologia 2015; 48:617-25. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- S.-J. Chen
- Department of Dermatology/Andrology Unit; Rheinische Friedrich Wilhelm University; Bonn Germany
| | - Y.-G. Duan
- Department of Dermatology/Andrology Unit; Rheinische Friedrich Wilhelm University; Bonn Germany
| | - G. Haidl
- Department of Dermatology/Andrology Unit; Rheinische Friedrich Wilhelm University; Bonn Germany
| | - J.-P. Allam
- Department of Dermatology/Andrology Unit; Rheinische Friedrich Wilhelm University; Bonn Germany
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26
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Acikgoz A, Asci R, Aydin O, Çavuş H, Donmez G, Buyukalpelli R. The role of ketotifen in the prevention of testicular damage in rats with experimental unilateral undescended testes. Drug Des Devel Ther 2014; 8:2089-97. [PMID: 25364234 PMCID: PMC4211872 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s67941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aims of this study conducted on rats were to determine mast cell (MC) proliferation on undescended testes (UDTs); whether there is a correlation between MC proliferation and testicular damage; and whether testicular damage can be prevented with administration of an MC blocker. Sixty-five newborn male rats were divided into three groups. During the neonatal period, unilateral UDTs were experimentally induced in Group 2 and Group 3. The rats in Group 3 were given 1 mg/kg/day ketotifen orally until the end of the study. Groups 2 (n=30) and 3 (n=15) were divided into groups of ten and five rats, respectively, each of which underwent bilateral orchiectomy in either the prepubertal, pubertal, or adult period. Group 1 (n=15) underwent a sham operation followed by bilateral orchiectomy, with five rats in each of the prepubertal, pubertal, and adult periods. Testicular MCs in the interstitial and subtubular areas, biopsy scores, interstitial connective tissue, seminiferous tubule (ST) diameters, and the basement membrane thickness of STs were evaluated. In Group 2 the ST diameters in the UDTs decreased, the number of MCs in the interstitial and subtubular areas increased, ST basement membranes thickened, and spermatogenesis decreased. The number of MCs in the interstitial and subtubular areas of the descended testes increased and spermatogenesis decreased. In Group 3, the number of MCs in the interstitial and subtubular areas decreased. In unilateral UDTs, the number of MCs in the interstitial and subtubular areas increased in both testes. Fibrosis developed in the ST basement membranes and interstitial areas, and spermatogenesis deteriorated. Testicular fibrosis may be prevented with administration of an MC blocker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Acikgoz
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Kemerburgaz University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ramazan Asci
- Department of Urology, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Oguz Aydin
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Hikmet Çavuş
- Department of Urology, Medical Park Samsun Hospital, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Gamze Donmez
- Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
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27
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Pérez CV, Theas MS, Jacobo PV, Jarazo-Dietrich S, Guazzone VA, Lustig L. Dual role of immune cells in the testis: Protective or pathogenic for germ cells? SPERMATOGENESIS 2014; 3:e23870. [PMID: 23687616 PMCID: PMC3644047 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.23870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to describe how the immune cells present in the testis interact with the germinal epithelium contributing to survival or apoptosis of germ cells (GCs). Physiologically, the immunosuppressor testicular microenvironment protects GCs from immune attack, whereas in inflammatory conditions, tolerance is disrupted and immune cells and their mediators respond to GC self antigens, inducing damage of the germinal epithelium. Considering that experimental models of autoimmune orchitis have clarified the local immune mechanisms by which protection of the testis is compromised, we described the following topics in the testis of normal and orchitic rats: (1) cell adhesion molecule expression of seminiferous tubule specialized junctions and modulation of blood-testis barrier permeability by cytokines (2) phenotypic and functional characteristics of testicular dendritic cells, macrophages, effector and regulatory T cells and mast cells and (3) effects of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6 and FasL) and the nitric oxide-nitric oxide synthase system on GC apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia V Pérez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas; UBA/CONICET; Facultad de Medicina; Universidad de Buenos Aires; Buenos Aires, Argentina
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28
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Zhao S, Zhu W, Xue S, Han D. Testicular defense systems: immune privilege and innate immunity. Cell Mol Immunol 2014; 11:428-37. [PMID: 24954222 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2014.38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Revised: 05/03/2014] [Accepted: 05/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The mammalian testis possesses a special immunological environment because of its properties of remarkable immune privilege and effective local innate immunity. Testicular immune privilege protects immunogenic germ cells from systemic immune attack, and local innate immunity is important in preventing testicular microbial infections. The breakdown of local testicular immune homeostasis may lead to orchitis, an etiological factor of male infertility. The mechanisms underlying testicular immune privilege have been investigated for a long time. Increasing evidence shows that both a local immunosuppressive milieu and systemic immune tolerance are involved in maintaining testicular immune privilege status. The mechanisms underlying testicular innate immunity are emerging based on the investigation of the pattern recognition receptor-mediated innate immune response in testicular cells. This review summarizes our current understanding of testicular defense mechanisms and identifies topics that merit further investigation.
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29
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Mechlin CW, Levesque J, Feustel P, Kogan BA. Mast cell numbers negatively correlate with fibrosis in cryptorchid testes. J Pediatr Urol 2014; 10:527-31. [PMID: 24406204 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2013.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2013] [Accepted: 11/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Mast cells have been found to play a role in fibrotic processes in multiple organ systems and are increased in number in the testes of infertile men. We have reviewed the literature and to date have found no studies investigating the role of mast cells in fibrosis of undescended testis. We examined the expression of mast cells in human cryptorchid testes and compared mast cell expression with testicular fibrosis in these testes. METHODS Testicular biopsies from cryptorchid testis were collected over 2 years. Biopsies from 78 patients were retrospectively sectioned, stained, and reviewed for the amount of fibrosis (graded 0-3) as well as mast cell number (MCN). MCNs were quantified by tryptase staining, and the average MCN per high-powered field (HPF) was determined. Statistical analysis was performed using a one-way ANOVA with a Kruskal-Wallis test and post hoc analysis with the Dunn test when significant. RESULTS Larger MCNs were significantly associated with lower fibrotic indices at the time of orchidopexy. The average MCNs were 2.06, 0.86, 0.37, and 0.58 for fibrotic indices of 0, 1, 2, and 3, respectively. MCNs were significantly higher in biopsies with a fibrotic index of 0 than all other groups (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Mast cell expression correlates inversely with testicular fibrosis in cryptorchid testes. Further studies correlating mast cell expression with testicular function in boys with cryptorchidism are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clay W Mechlin
- Department of Surgery, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA.
| | - Jessica Levesque
- Department of Pathology, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Paul Feustel
- Department of Surgery, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Barry A Kogan
- Department of Surgery, Albany Medical College, Albany, NY, USA
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30
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Haidl G, Duan YG, Chen SJ, Kohn FM, Schuppe HC, Allam JP. The role of mast cells in male infertility. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2014; 7:627-34. [DOI: 10.1586/eci.11.57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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31
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Abstract
In healthy men, several layers of inconspicuously flat cells and extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins build the wall of the seminiferous tubules. The cells of this wall, peritubular cells, are not well characterized. They are smooth-muscle-like and contractile and transport immotile sperm, a function important for male fertility. However, their full functional importance, especially their potential contribution to the paracrine regulation of the male gonad, is unknown. In men with impaired spermatogenesis, the architecture of the tubular wall is frequently altered. Deposits of ECM and morphological changes of peritubular cells imply that functions of peritubular cells may be fundamentally altered. To be able to study human peritubular cells and their functions, a culture method was established. It is based on small biopsies of patients with obstructive azoospermia but normal spermatogenesis (human testicular peritubular cells, HTPCs) and non-obstructive azoospermia, impaired spermatogenesis, and testicular fibrosis (HTPCFs). Results obtained from cellular studies and parallel examinations of biopsies provide insights into the repertoire of the secretion products, contractile properties, and plasticity of human peritubular cells. They produce ECM components, including the proteoglycan decorin, which may influence paracrine signaling between testicular cells. They may contribute to the spermatogonial stem cell niche via secreted factors. They are regulated by mast cell and macrophage products, and in response produce factors that can fuel inflammatory changes. They possess a high degree of plasticity, which results in hypertrophy and loss of contractile abilities. The data collectively indicate important roles of inconspicuous testicular peritubular cells in human male fertility and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artur Mayerhofer
- Anatomy III-Cell Biology, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Biedersteiner Strasse 29, D-80802 Munich, Germany.
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32
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Li N, Wang T, Han D. Structural, cellular and molecular aspects of immune privilege in the testis. Front Immunol 2012; 3:152. [PMID: 22701457 PMCID: PMC3371599 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2012.00152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2012] [Accepted: 05/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The testis presents a special immunological environment, considering its property of immune privilege that tolerates allo- and auto-antigens. Testicular immune privilege was once believed to be mainly based on the sequestration of antigens from the immune system by the blood–testis barrier in the seminiferous epithelium. Substantial evidence supports the view that the combination of physical structure, testicular cells, and cytokines controls immune responses in the testis to preserve the structural and functional integrity of testicular immune privilege. Both systemic immune tolerance and local immunosuppression help maintain the immune privilege status. Constitutive expression of anti-inflammatory factors in testicular cells is critical for local immunosuppression. However, the testis locally generates an efficient innate immune system against pathogens. Disruption of these mechanisms may lead to orchitis and impair fertility. This review article highlights the current understanding of structural, cellular, and molecular mechanisms underlying the unique immune environment of the testis, particularly its immune privilege status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Li
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Azadi L, Abbasi H, Deemeh MR, Tavalaee M, Arbabian M, Pilevarian AA, Nasr-Esfahani MH. Zaditen (Ketotifen), as mast cell blocker, improves sperm quality, chromatin integrity and pregnancy rate after varicocelectomy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ANDROLOGY 2011; 34:446-52. [PMID: 20874726 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2010.01112.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Surgery is considered the most common choice for the treatment of male infertility with clinical varicocele. Increased numbers of mast cells (MCs) have been associated with different types of infertility, including varicocele. Despite there being different reports on improved fertility following administration of MC blockers, there is no report on the effect of a MC blocker on varicocele or after varicocelectomy. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Zaditen on semen quality, protamine content, DNA damage and fertility post-surgery. The study included 103 infertile men who were referred to Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center for varicocelectomy. Varicocele individuals were randomly divided into control (52) and treatment groups (51). Semen parameters, WBC/mL, protamine content (chromomycin A3 staining) and DNA integrity (sperm chromatin dispersion test) were assessed before and 3 months after surgery. Comparison of the aforesaid parameters between the two groups revealed significant improvement in the treatment group compared with the control group, with the exception of DNA integrity. In addition, the cumulative pregnancy significantly improved by 9 months post-surgery in the treatment group (41.17%) compared with the control group (21.15%). The results of this study, for the first time, reveal that MC blockers such as Zaditen improve semen parameters, chromatin integrity and pregnancy rates when administered as adjunct therapy post-varicocelectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Azadi
- Isfahan Payame Noor University, Isfahan, Iran
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Mondillo C. La histamina en el testículo: nuevas funciones a través de receptores clásicos H1 y H2. Rev Int Androl 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/s1698-031x(11)70014-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Spinal cord injury causes sustained disruption of the blood-testis barrier in the rat. PLoS One 2011; 6:e16456. [PMID: 21298060 PMCID: PMC3027675 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0016456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2010] [Accepted: 12/17/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a high incidence of infertility in males following traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). Quality of semen is frequently poor in these patients, but the pathophysiological mechanism(s) causing this are not known. Blood-testis barrier (BTB) integrity following SCI has not previously been examined. The objective of this study was to characterize the effects of spinal contusion injury on the BTB in the rat. 63 adult, male Sprague Dawley rats received SCI (n = 28), laminectomy only (n = 7) or served as uninjured, age-matched controls (n = 28). Using dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI), BTB permeability to the vascular contrast agent gadopentate dimeglumine (Gd) was assessed at either 72 hours-, or 10 months post-SCI. DCE-MRI data revealed that BTB permeability to Gd was greater than controls at both 72 h and 10 mo post-SCI. Histological evaluation of testis tissue showed increased BTB permeability to immunoglobulin G at both 72 hours- and 10 months post-SCI, compared to age-matched sham-operated and uninjured controls. Tight junctional integrity within the seminiferous epithelium was assessed; at 72 hours post-SCI, decreased expression of the tight junction protein occludin was observed. Presence of inflammation in the testes was also examined. High expression of the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 beta was detected in testis tissue. CD68+ immune cell infiltrate and mast cells were also detected within the seminiferous epithelium of both acute and chronic SCI groups but not in controls. In addition, extensive germ cell apoptosis was observed at 72 h post-SCI. Based on these results, we conclude that SCI is followed by compromised BTB integrity by as early as 72 hours post-injury in rats and is accompanied by a substantial immune response within the testis. Furthermore, our results indicate that the BTB remains compromised and testis immune cell infiltration persists for months after the initial injury.
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Adly MA, Hussein MRA. Immunohistological profile of the Ras homologous B protein (RhoB) in human testes showing normal spermatogenesis, spermatogenic arrest and Sertoli cell only syndrome. Pathol Oncol Res 2009; 16:427-33. [PMID: 19997872 DOI: 10.1007/s12253-009-9232-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2009] [Accepted: 11/16/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Ras homologous B protein (RhoB) belongs to the Ras homologous subfamily which consists of low molecular weight (21 kDa) GTP-binding proteins. Rho proteins are regulatory molecules associated with various kinases and as such they mediate changes in cell shape, contractility, motility and gene expression. To date, no data are available about the expression pattern of RhoB protein in the human testis showing normal and abnormal spermatogenesis. The present study addresses these issues. Human testicular biopsy specimens were obtained from patients suffering from post-testicular infertility (testis showing normal spermatogenesis, 10 cases) and testicular infertility (testis showing Sertoli cell only syndrome and spermatogenic arrest, 10 patients each). The expression of RhoB was examined using in situ immunofluorescent staining methods. In testes showing normal spermatogenesis, RhoB had a strong expression in the seminiferous epithelium (cytoplasm of Sertoli-cells, spermatogonia and spermatocytes) and in the interstitium (Leydig cells). RhoB expression was weak in the myofibroblasts and absent in the spermatids and sperms. In the testes showing abnormal spermatogenesis, RhoB expression was moderate in the seminiferous epithelium (cytoplasm of Sertoli cells, spermatogonia and spermatocytes) and was completely absent in the Leydig cells, myofibroblasts, spermatids and sperms. To the best of our knowledge, this study provides the first morphological indication that RhoB protein is expressed in human testis and its expression undergoes testicular infertility associated changes. These findings suggest the involvement of RhoB in the process of spermatogenesis in human and their possible therapeutic ramifications in testicular infertility are open for further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed A Adly
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
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Albrecht M. Insights into the nature of human testicular peritubular cells. Ann Anat 2009; 191:532-40. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2009.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2009] [Accepted: 08/11/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Hussein MR, Abd-Elwahed AR, Abodeif ES, Abdulwahed SR. Decidual Immune Cell Infiltrate in Hydatidiform Mole. Cancer Invest 2009; 27:60-6. [DOI: 10.1080/07357900802161054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Białas M, Fiszer D, Rozwadowska N, Kosicki W, Jedrzejczak P, Kurpisz M. ORIGINAL ARTICLE: The Role of IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α and its Receptors TNFR1 and TNFR2 in the Local Regulatory System of Normal and Impaired Human Spermatogenesis. Am J Reprod Immunol 2009; 62:51-9. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2009.00711.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
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Hussein MRA, Aboulhagag NM, Atta HS, Atta SM. Evaluation of the profile of the immune cell infiltrate in lichen planus, discoid lupus erythematosus, and chronic dermatitis. Pathology 2009; 40:682-93. [PMID: 18728929 DOI: 10.1080/00313020802320739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The term 'interface dermatitis' refers to those dermatoses in which an inflammatory process involves the dermoepidermal junction, with injury and even necrosis of the basal cell keratinocytes. Interface dermatitis can be characterised further as being either vacuolar or lichenoid changes. Immune cell infiltrate is a constant feature in interface dermatitis. In this study, we hypothesised that 'the profile of the immune cell infiltrate varies between lichenoid and vacuolar interface dermatitis'. This investigation tries to test this hypothesis and to characterise immune cells in interface dermatitis. METHODS Thirty-one interface dermatitis lesions (interface dermatitis group: 19 cases of lichen planus, LP; and 12 cases of discoid lupus erythematosus, DLE) and 20 specimens of normal skin (control group) were examined using immunoperoxidase staining methods. Antibodies targeting histiocytes/dendritic cells (CD68+), T cells (CD3+), B cells (CD20+), T cells with either cytotoxic potential (TIA-1+) or cytotoxic activity (Granzyme-B+) were used to decorate the immune cells. In addition, 16 cases of chronic dermatitis [lichen simplex chronicus (LSC), non-interface dermatitis group] were included to substantiate findings in the interface dermatitis group. The results were scored as mean values of positively stained immune cells. RESULTS The numbers of immune cells were significantly high (p < 0.05) in the lesional skin (LP, DLE and LSC) compared with normal skin. The most prevalent cell populations were CD3+ T lymphocytes followed by CD68+ cells. Most of the CD3+ cells were resting (TIA-1+, cytotoxic potential) rather than active T cells (Granzyme-B+, active cytotoxicity). Numeric variations were seen between interface and chronic dermatitis groups with significant increase of the density of immune cells in the interface dermatitis (p < 0.05). We found some variations in the composition and distribution of immune cell infiltrate between LP (lichenoid change) and DLE (vacuolar changes). The mean counts of CD3+ cells were high in LP compared with DLE (p < 0.05). Alternatively, the density of CD20+ cells was high in DLE compared with LP (p < 0.05). High density of CD3+ (perivascular location and dermoepidermal junction, p < 0.05) positively stained cells was found in LP compared with DLE. In contrast, high density of CD20+ (perivascular location and dermoepidermal junction, p < 0.05), TIA-1+ and Granzyme-B+ (perivascular location and dermoepidermal junction, p > 0.05) positively stained cells was observed in DLE compared with LP. CONCLUSIONS Here we report some variations in the profile (density and positioning) of the immune cell infiltrate between LP and DLE. These variations include high density of CD68+ cells and CD3+ T lymphocytes in LP and DLE; and the numeric dominance of CD20+ B-lymphocytes in DLE compared with LP. Also, some differences in the density of TIA-1+ and Granzyme-B+ cytotoxic T cells between LP and DLE were observed. Our findings suggest a possible link between the type of these cells and the development of interface dermatitis lesions. The possible ramifications of these findings are open for further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud-Rezk A Hussein
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Assuit University Hospitals, Assuit, Egypt.
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Hussein MRA, Al-Assiri M, Musalam AO. Phenotypic characterization of the infiltrating immune cells in normal prostate, benign nodular prostatic hyperplasia and prostatic adenocarcinoma. Exp Mol Pathol 2008; 86:108-13. [PMID: 19111537 DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2008.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2008] [Revised: 10/19/2008] [Accepted: 11/26/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immune cell infiltrate is a constant feature in normal prostate, benign nodular prostatic hyperplasia and prostatic adenocarcinoma. This study elaborates on the cells of the immune system present in normal prostate, benign nodular prostatic hyperplasia and prostatic adenocarcinoma. HYPOTHESIS Here, we hypothesized that "the development of benign nodular prostatic hyperplasia and prostatic adenocarcinoma is associated with numeric alterations of the immune cell infiltrate". MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 50 transurethral prostatic resection specimens, each entailing normal prostate, benign nodular prostatic hyperplasia and high grade prostatic adenocarcinoma were evaluated for the density and phenotype of the immune cells using immunohistological methods and mouse monoclonal antibodies decorating T cells (CD3), histiocytes (CD68) and B lymphocytes (CD20). RESULTS Immune cell infiltrate was composed of T cells, histiocytes and B-lymphocytes. CD(+)3 T lymphocytes and CD68(+) cells were the predominant cell populations. We observed variations in the density of the immune cells among the normal prostate, benign nodular prostatic hyperplasia and high grade prostatic adenocarcinoma. Compared with normal prostate, benign nodular prostatic hyperplasia had a statistically significant high density of immune cells (3.4+/-0.4versus 13.5+/-1.0, P<0.00). In contrast, a significant decrease in the counts of these cells was observed in high-grade prostatic adenocarcinoma compared to benign nodular prostatic hyperplasia (13.5+/-1.0 versus 5.2+/-0.3, P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS The increased density of immune cells (predominantly CD(+)3 T cells) in benign nodular prostatic hyperplasia suggests that the initial response to cellular damage is mediated by cell-mediated immunity. The decreased density of immune cells in high-grade prostatic adenocarcinoma may reflect immunosuppression. The underlying mechanisms of these numeric variations are open for further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud-Rezk A Hussein
- Departments of Pathology and Urology, Assir Central Hospital and King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia.
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Phenotypical characteristics of the immune cells in allergic contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis and pityriasis rosea. Pathol Oncol Res 2008; 15:73-9. [PMID: 18798012 DOI: 10.1007/s12253-008-9103-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2008] [Accepted: 09/02/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) is a cell-mediated, delayed type IV immunologic reaction. Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that results from a complex interaction between immunologic, genetic, and environmental factors. Pityriasis rosea (PR) is a self-limited eruption of unknown etiology. Immune cell infiltrate is a constant feature in the inflammatory skin diseases. Here, we performed phenotypical characterization of the immune cells in ACD, AD and PR (ten cases each). We performed immunohistochemical stains for B cells (CD20), T cells (CD3), histiocytes (CD68) and T cells with cytotoxic activity (granzyme-B). The data were compared with findings in 20 specimens of normal skin. The results were scored as mean values of positively stained immune cells. Immunohistochemistry showed significantly high counts of immune cells in lesional skin (ACD, AD and PR) compared to the normal one (p < 0.05). In the lesional skin, the immune cells were composed predominantly of CD3(+) T lymphocytes and CD68(+) cells (histiocytes). Some of the CD3(+) cells were granzyme B(+). The counts of some immune cells (CD3(+) and CD68(+)) were high in ACD compared to AD and PR. The counts of CD20(+) and granzyme B(+) cells were high in PR compared to ACD and AD. However, these differences did not reach the level of statistical significance. The present data describe the profile of the immune cell infiltrate in AD, ACD and PR. The cell-mediated immunity seems to have critical role in the development of these lesions.
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Schell C, Albrecht M, Mayer C, Schwarzer JU, Frungieri MB, Mayerhofer A. Exploring human testicular peritubular cells: identification of secretory products and regulation by tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Endocrinology 2008; 149:1678-86. [PMID: 18187550 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-1064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Testicular peritubular cells are myofibroblastic cells, which represent the major cellular components of the wall of the seminiferous tubules. In men their phenotypic characteristics, including possible secretory activity and regulation, are not well known, in neither normal nor pathologically altered testes. Especially in testes of men with impaired spermatogenesis, the cytoarchitecture of the tubular wall is frequently remodeled and presents fibrotic thickening, increased innervation, and infiltration by macrophages and mast cells. The latter are two sources of TNF-alpha. The purpose of our study was to explore human testicular peritubular cells and mechanisms of their regulation. To this end we primarily studied cultured human testicular peritubular cells (HTPCs), isolated from adult human testes. Having established that HTPCs express TNF-alpha receptors 1 and 2 and respond to recombinant human TNF-alpha by a rapid phosphorylation of ERK1/2, we used complementary approaches, including gene array/RT-PCR studies, Western blotting/immunocytochemistry, and ELISA techniques to study phenotypic characteristics of HTPCs and actions of TNFalpha. We found that HTPCs express the nerve growth factor gene and TNF-alpha-stimulated mRNA levels and secretion of nerve growth factor in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Similarly, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 was identified as a product of HTPCs, which was regulated by TNF-alpha in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. TNF-alpha furthermore strongly enhanced expression and/or synthesis of other inflammatory molecules, namely IL-6 and cyclooxygenase-2. Active cyclooxygenase-2 is indicated by increased prostaglandin D2 levels. In addition, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, which was not detected at protein level in the absence of TNF-alpha, was induced upon TNF-alpha stimulation. In conclusion, these results provide novel insights into the nature of human peritubular cells, which are able to secrete potent signaling molecules and are regulated by TNF-alpha. These results also hint to an as-yet-unknown role of peritubular cells in normal human testis and involvement in the pathomechanisms associated with impaired spermatogenesis in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Schell
- Institute of Anatomy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Biedersteiner Strasse 29, Munich, Germany
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El-Karaksy A, Mostafa T, Shaeer OK, Bahgat DR, Samir N. Seminal mast cells in infertile asthenozoospermic males. Andrologia 2007; 39:244-7. [PMID: 18076424 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2007.00795.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This work aimed to assess the possible association between the presence of seminal mast cells and asthenozoospermia. One hundred and seventy-six male subjects were investigated: group (Gr)1 (n=46) normozoospermic fertile controls, Gr2 (n=62) idiopathic asthenozoospermia, Gr3 (n=32) asthenozoospermia with scrotal varicocele and Gr4 (n=36) asthenozoospermia with leucocytospermia. Four smear slides were prepared for each semen sample to be stained with toluidine blue-pyronin to detect mast cells. A significant increase was shown in mast cell-positive samples among varicocele-associated and idiopathic asthenozoospermic patients in comparison with fertile controls. Seminal mast cells were also detected at higher frequency among smokers and in age group over 40 years. It is concluded that mast cells and their products may play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of asthenozoospermia, possibly proposing a new goal for medical treatment of infertile males to pursue. In addition, this concept may in a way detain smoking as a cause of male infertility considering the clear abundance of mast cells in semen samples of smokers.
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Affiliation(s)
- A El-Karaksy
- Department of Andrology and Sexology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Abstract
This work aimed at identifying mast cells in testicular biopsies from 10 normal fertile controls, 20 patients with obstructive azoospermia and 70 patients with nonobstructive azoospermia. The biopsies were stained with haematoxylin and eosin stain for tubular-modified Johnson score and with toluidine blue stain for mast cells. Two populations of mast cells, peritubular and interstitial, were demonstrated in all sections with varied counts. Testicular sections with Sertoli cell only and spermatogenic arrest patterns demonstrated a significant increase in both peritubular and interstitial mast cells compared with other groups, whereas obstructive azoospermia demonstrated a nonsignificant increase compared with the controls. Mast cell count was significantly correlated negatively with Johnson score for both peritubular (P = 0.001) and interstitial (P = 0.001) populations. Whether these results could be a cause or an effect, a special role might be assigned to mast cells in the pathogenesis of disturbed spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M F Roaiah
- Department of Andrology and Sexology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Rozwadowska N, Fiszer D, Jedrzejczak P, Kosicki W, Kurpisz M. Interleukin-1 superfamily genes expression in normal or impaired human spermatogenesis. Genes Immun 2007; 8:100-7. [PMID: 17215863 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gene.6364356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a pleiotropic cytokine that may play a role in contributing to the specific immune environment of mammalian testis and in regulating cell differentiation. We have determined the transcription activity of the IL-1 gene family (using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR)) in two main functional testicular compartments (interstitial and intratubular ones), and in tissue homogenates obtained from patients with fertility disorders (spermatogenic arrest and testicular tumors). We observed the prominent expression of gene coding for IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) in a purified fraction of gametogenic cells (normal gonad). Caspase-1 (ICE - IL-1beta-converting enzyme) was highly expressed (on mRNA level) in interstitial compartments as well in testicular tumors (immune enhancement?). In addition we found, that the activity of IL-1RA gene decreased along spermatogenic alteration in an inversely related manner with IL-1alpha (from normal gonad through spermatogenic arrest to Sertoli cell only syndrome). Therefore, the quotient value of IL-1alpha/IL-1RA could potentially serve as the diagnostic molecular probe for spermatogenesis assessment. The precise level of mRNA for IL-1-IL-18 cytokines and their receptors, and specifically of the receptor antagonist in immune privileged gonad, could be one of the main factors responsible for maintaining testicular homeostasis, thus enabling generation of the mature spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Rozwadowska
- Institute of Human Genetics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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Abstract
The production, differentiation, and presence of male gametes represent inimitable challenges to the immune system, as they are unique to the body and appear long after the maturation of the immune system and formation of systemic self-tolerance. Known to protect germ cells and foreign tissue grafts from autoimmune attack, the 'immune privilege' of the testis was originally, and somewhat simplistically, attributed to the existence of the blood-testis barrier. Recent research has shown a previously unknown level of complexity with a multitude of factors, both physical and immunological, necessary for the establishment and maintenance of the immunotolerance in the testis. Besides the blood-testis barrier and a diminished capability of the large testicular resident macrophage population to mount an inflammatory response, it is the constitutive expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines in the testis by immune and particularly somatic cells, that represents an essential element for local immunosuppression. The role of androgens in testicular immune regulation has long been underestimated; yet, accumulating evidence now shows that they orchestrate the inhibition of proinflammatory cytokine expression and shift cytokine balance toward a tolerogenic environment. Furthermore, the role of the testicular dendritic cells in suppressing antigen-specific immunity and T-lymphocyte activation is discussed. Finally, the active role mast cells play in the induction and amplification of immune responses, both in infertile humans and in experimental models, highlights the importance of preventing mast cell activation to maintain the immune-privileged status of the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Fijak
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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Albrecht M, Rämsch R, Köhn FM, Schwarzer JU, Mayerhofer A. Isolation and cultivation of human testicular peritubular cells: a new model for the investigation of fibrotic processes in the human testis and male infertility. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2006; 91:1956-60. [PMID: 16478819 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2005-2169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Fibrotic remodeling, especially of the tubule wall, in testes of infertile men is common, but reasons or consequences of these striking changes are not known. Based on cell culture and ex vivo studies, we previously suggested that mast cells via their products tryptase and histamine are involved in the development of fibrosis. However, studies in a relevant human testicular model are required to further test this hypothesis and the mechanisms of testicular fibrosis in general. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was the isolation, culture, and characterization of adult human testicular peritubular cells. PATIENTS AND INTERVENTIONS Peritubular cells were obtained from biopsies of men suffering from obstructive azoospermia (n = 8) and varicocele (n = 2) but displaying normal spermatogenesis. RESULTS Explant cultures were obtained from all biopsies. Immunostaining of the cultured cells and corresponding paraffin-embedded tissues with antibodies against markers of fibroblasts (CD90/Thy-1) and smooth muscle cells (alpha-smooth muscle actin) clearly proved their origin from the peritubular region. These cells displayed morphological features of myofibroblasts, and gene array analyses as well as immunohistochemistry revealed the predominant expression of extracellular matrix genes and genes coding for basement membrane components. The cultured cells retain receptors for the major mast cell products histamine and tryptase. The addition of histamine (100 microm) and the tryptase agonist peptide SLIGKV (10 microm) resulted in a transient increase in intracellular calcium levels, confirming the functionality of the receptors. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that human peritubular cells are a novel model for the investigation of paracrine, including mast cell initiated, interactions in the human testis, which will allow the study of fibrotic processes underlying male idiopathic infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Albrecht
- Institute of Anatomy, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Biedersteiner Strasse 29, 80802 Munich, Germany
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