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Balder P, Jones C, Coward K, Yeste M. Sperm chromatin: Evaluation, epigenetic signatures and relevance for embryo development and assisted reproductive technology outcomes. Eur J Cell Biol 2024; 103:151429. [PMID: 38905808 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2024.151429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Sperm chromatin is distinct from somatic cell chromatin, as a result of extensive remodeling during the final stages of spermatogenesis. In this process, the majority of histones is replaced with protamines. The chromatin is consequently highly condensed and inert, which facilitates protection of the DNA. The sperm epigenomic landscape is shaped by histone retention, histone and protamine modification, DNA methylation, and RNAs. In recent years, sperm chromatin integrity and its epigenetic marks have been increasingly studied, and the constitution of sperm chromatin is steadily being uncovered. This growing body of research prompts assessment of the frequently overlooked involvement of sperm in fertility and embryonic development. Moreover, numerous endogenous and exogenous factors are known to affect sperm chromatin, which may in turn impact the reproductive success. Concerns have been raised about the effects of assisted reproductive technology (ART) on the sperm epigenome, embryonic development and offspring health. This review examines the structure and epigenetic signatures of sperm chromatin in the context of fertility and early embryonic development. Additionally, sperm chromatin evaluation and causes of aberrant integrity are outlined. Building on the knowledge discussed in the current review, future research should aim to elucidate the intricate relationship between all aspects of sperm chromatin and embryo development. This could lead to the uncovering of new targets for treating infertility, as well as the acquisition of much needed insights into the possible reciprocal association between ART and sperm chromatin integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Balder
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Celine Jones
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Kevin Coward
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain; Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain; Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona ES-08010, Spain.
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2
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Pandya RK, Jijo A, Cheredath A, Uppangala S, Salian SR, Lakshmi VR, Kumar P, Kalthur G, Gupta S, Adiga SK. Differential sperm histone retention in normozoospermic ejaculates of infertile men negatively affects sperm functional competence and embryo quality. Andrology 2024; 12:881-890. [PMID: 37801310 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13541] [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: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The unique epigenetic architecture that sperm cells acquire during spermiogenesis by retaining <15% of either canonical or variant histone proteins in their genome is essential for normal embryogenesis. Whilst heterogeneous levels of retained histones are found in morphologically normal spermatozoa, their effect on reproductive outcomes is not fully understood. METHODS Processed spermatozoa (n = 62) were tested for DNA integrity by sperm chromatin dispersion assay, and retained histones were extracted and subjected to dot-blot analysis. The impact of retained histone modifications in normozoospermic patients on sperm functional characteristics, embryo quality, metabolic signature in embryo spent culture medium and pregnancy outcome was studied. RESULTS Dot-blot analysis showed heterogeneous levels of retained histones in the genome of normozoospermic ejaculates. Post-wash sperm yield was affected by an increase in H3K27Me3 and H4K20Me3 levels in the sperm chromatin (p < 0.05). Also, spermatozoa with higher histone H3 retention had increased DNA damage (p < 0.05). Spermatozoa from these cohorts, when injected into donor oocytes, correlated to a significant decrease in the fertilisation rate with an increase in sperm histone H3 (p < 0.05) and H3K27Me3 (p < 0.01). An increase in histone H3 negatively affected embryo quality (p < 0.01) and clinical pregnancy outcome post-embryo transfer (p < 0.05). On the other hand, spent culture medium metabolites assessed by high-resolution (800 MHz) nuclear magnetic resonance showed an increased intensity of the amino acid methionine in the non-pregnant group than in the pregnant group (p < 0.05) and a negative correlation with sperm histone H3 in the pregnant group (p < 0.05). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Histone retention in spermatozoa can be one of the factors behind the development of idiopathic male infertility. Such spermatozoa may influence embryonic behaviour and thereby affect the success rate of assisted reproductive technology procedures. These results, although descriptive in nature, warrant further research to address the underlying mechanisms behind these clinically important observations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riddhi Kirit Pandya
- Centre of Excellence in Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Ameya Jijo
- Centre of Excellence in Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Aswathi Cheredath
- Centre of Excellence in Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Shubhashree Uppangala
- Division of Reproductive Genetics, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Sujith Raj Salian
- Centre of Excellence in Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Vani R Lakshmi
- Department of Data Science, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Pratap Kumar
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Guruprasad Kalthur
- Division of Reproductive Biology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Sanjay Gupta
- KS313, Epigenetics and Chromatin Biology Group, Gupta Lab, Cancer Research Institute, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Satish Kumar Adiga
- Centre of Excellence in Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
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3
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Jiang H, Huang CJ. Aberrant protamination in sperm correlates to anomalous nuclear and cytoplasmic architectures in infertile males with sperm dysmorphology. Asian J Androl 2024; 26:183-188. [PMID: 37921517 PMCID: PMC10919428 DOI: 10.4103/aja202360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Aberrant sperm protamination is linked to sperm dysmorphology and nuclear chromatin condensation. Yet, its effects on sperm cytoplasmic maturation remain largely unexplored. The relationships of protamines, sperm morphology, DNA damage, and cytoplasmic remodeling were illustrated in this study to provide fresh perspectives on the mechanisms of male infertility. A total of 205 infertile males were allocated into 5 groups according to the percentage of spermatozoa exhibiting abnormal morphology within their samples. Sperm concentration, motility, abnormal sperm morphology, cytoplasmic droplets (CDs), and excess residual cytoplasm (ERC) were analyzed according to the World Health Organization manual (2010). Sperm nuclear vacuoles (NVs) were determined by propidium iodide (PI) staining. Sperm protamine expressions (P1 and P2) were detected by western blot. DNA damage was measured by acridine orange test (AOT) to calculate the proportion of sperm with single-strand DNA breaks (SSBs). Our data showed that sperm concentration and motility in infertile males significantly decreased with the severity of abnormal sperm morphology (both P < 0.01). P1 level, P1/P2 ratio, and SSB rate increased with the severity of sperm dysmorphology, whilst the P2 level decreased (all P < 0.01). NVs, CDs, and ERC were more common in males with sperm dysmorphology and positively correlated with the SSB rate (all P < 0.01). The relationships between the SSB rate and the P1/P2 ratio were also significant ( P < 0.01). Aberrant protamination may cause sperm dysmorphology and compromise male fertility by impairing sperm's nucleus and cytoplasm maturation, with the P1/P2 ratio potentially serving as a valuable indicator of sperm quality and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Jiang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Longgang District Maternity & Child Healthcare Hospital of Shenzhen City (Longgang Maternity and Child Institute of Shantou University Medical College), Shenzhen 518172, China
| | - Chu-Jie Huang
- Institute of Reproductive Immunology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China
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4
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Klutstein M, Gonen N. Epigenetic aging of mammalian gametes. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:785-803. [PMID: 37997675 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23717] [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: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
The process of aging refers to physiological changes that occur to an organism as time progresses and involves changes to DNA, proteins, metabolism, cells, and organs. Like the rest of the cells in the body, gametes age, and it is well established that there is a decline in reproductive capabilities in females and males with aging. One of the major pathways known to be involved in aging is epigenetic changes. The epigenome is the multitude of chemical modifications performed on DNA and chromatin that affect the ability of chromatin to be transcribed. In this review, we explore the effects of aging on female and male gametes with a focus on the epigenetic changes that occur in gametes throughout aging. Quality decline in oocytes occurs at a relatively early age. Epigenetic changes constitute an important part of oocyte aging. DNA methylation is reduced with age, along with reduced expression of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs). Histone deacetylases (HDAC) expression is also reduced, and a loss of heterochromatin marks occurs with age. As a consequence of heterochromatin loss, retrotransposon expression is elevated, and aged oocytes suffer from DNA damage. In sperm, aging affects sperm number, motility and fecundity, and epigenetic changes may constitute a part of this process. 5 methyl-cytosine (5mC) methylation is elevated in sperm from aged men, but methylation on Long interspersed nuclear elements (LINE) elements is reduced. Di and trimethylation of histone 3 lysine 9 (H3K9me2/3) is reduced in sperm from aged men and trimethylation of histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27me3) is elevated. The protamine makeup of sperm from aged men is also changed, with reduced protamine expression and a misbalanced ratio between protamine proteins protamine P1 and protamine P2. The study of epigenetic reproductive aging is recently gaining interest. The current status of the field suggests that many aspects of gamete epigenetic aging are still open for investigation. The clinical applications of these investigations have far-reaching consequences for fertility and sociological human behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Klutstein
- Institute of Biomedical and Oral Research, Faculty of Dental Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nitzan Gonen
- The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
- Institute of Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
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5
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Moritz L, Schon SB, Rabbani M, Sheng Y, Agrawal R, Glass-Klaiber J, Sultan C, Camarillo JM, Clements J, Baldwin MR, Diehl AG, Boyle AP, O'Brien PJ, Ragunathan K, Hu YC, Kelleher NL, Nandakumar J, Li JZ, Orwig KE, Redding S, Hammoud SS. Sperm chromatin structure and reproductive fitness are altered by substitution of a single amino acid in mouse protamine 1. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2023; 30:1077-1091. [PMID: 37460896 PMCID: PMC10833441 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-023-01033-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Conventional dogma presumes that protamine-mediated DNA compaction in sperm is achieved by electrostatic interactions between DNA and the arginine-rich core of protamines. Phylogenetic analysis reveals several non-arginine residues conserved within, but not across species. The significance of these residues and their post-translational modifications are poorly understood. Here, we investigated the role of K49, a rodent-specific lysine residue in protamine 1 (P1) that is acetylated early in spermiogenesis and retained in sperm. In sperm, alanine substitution (P1(K49A)) decreases sperm motility and male fertility-defects that are not rescued by arginine substitution (P1(K49R)). In zygotes, P1(K49A) leads to premature male pronuclear decompaction, altered DNA replication, and embryonic arrest. In vitro, P1(K49A) decreases protamine-DNA binding and alters DNA compaction and decompaction kinetics. Hence, a single amino acid substitution outside the P1 arginine core is sufficient to profoundly alter protein function and developmental outcomes, suggesting that protamine non-arginine residues are essential for reproductive fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Moritz
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Samantha B Schon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Mashiat Rabbani
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Yi Sheng
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ritvija Agrawal
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Juniper Glass-Klaiber
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Caleb Sultan
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jeannie M Camarillo
- Departments of Chemistry, Molecular Biosciences, and the National Resource for Translational and Developmental Proteomics, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Jourdan Clements
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Michael R Baldwin
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Adam G Diehl
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Alan P Boyle
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Patrick J O'Brien
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | - Yueh-Chiang Hu
- Division of Developmental Biology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Neil L Kelleher
- Departments of Chemistry, Molecular Biosciences, and the National Resource for Translational and Developmental Proteomics, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Jayakrishnan Nandakumar
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jun Z Li
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Computational Medicine and Bioinformatics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Sy Redding
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Saher Sue Hammoud
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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6
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Lismer A, Kimmins S. Emerging evidence that the mammalian sperm epigenome serves as a template for embryo development. Nat Commun 2023; 14:2142. [PMID: 37059740 PMCID: PMC10104880 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-37820-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Although more studies are demonstrating that a father's environment can influence child health and disease, the molecular mechanisms underlying non-genetic inheritance remain unclear. It was previously thought that sperm exclusively contributed its genome to the egg. More recently, association studies have shown that various environmental exposures including poor diet, toxicants, and stress, perturbed epigenetic marks in sperm at important reproductive and developmental loci that were associated with offspring phenotypes. The molecular and cellular routes that underlie how epigenetic marks are transmitted at fertilization, to resist epigenetic reprogramming in the embryo, and drive phenotypic changes are only now beginning to be unraveled. Here, we provide an overview of the state of the field of intergenerational paternal epigenetic inheritance in mammals and present new insights into the relationship between embryo development and the three pillars of epigenetic inheritance: chromatin, DNA methylation, and non-coding RNAs. We evaluate compelling evidence of sperm-mediated transmission and retention of paternal epigenetic marks in the embryo. Using landmark examples, we discuss how sperm-inherited regions may escape reprogramming to impact development via mechanisms that implicate transcription factors, chromatin organization, and transposable elements. Finally, we link paternally transmitted epigenetic marks to functional changes in the pre- and post-implantation embryo. Understanding how sperm-inherited epigenetic factors influence embryo development will permit a greater understanding related to the developmental origins of health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane Lismer
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3G 1Y6, Canada
| | - Sarah Kimmins
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, H3G 1Y6, Canada.
- Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, QC, H2X 0A9, Canada.
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7
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de la Iglesia A, Jodar M, Oliva R, Castillo J. Insights into the sperm chromatin and implications for male infertility from a protein perspective. WIREs Mech Dis 2023; 15:e1588. [PMID: 36181449 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Male germ cells undergo an extreme but fascinating process of chromatin remodeling that begins in the testis during the last phase of spermatogenesis and continues through epididymal sperm maturation. Most of the histones are replaced by small proteins named protamines, whose high basicity leads to a tight genomic compaction. This process is epigenetically regulated at many levels, not only by posttranslational modifications, but also by readers, writers, and erasers, in a context of a highly coordinated postmeiotic gene expression program. Protamines are key proteins for acquiring this highly specialized chromatin conformation, needed for sperm functionality. Interestingly, and contrary to what could be inferred from its very specific DNA-packaging function across protamine-containing species, human sperm chromatin contains a wide spectrum of protamine proteoforms, including truncated and posttranslationally modified proteoforms. The generation of protamine knock-out models revealed not only chromatin compaction defects, but also collateral sperm alterations contributing to infertile phenotypes, evidencing the importance of sperm chromatin protamination toward the generation of a new individual. The unique features of sperm chromatin have motivated its study, applying from conventional to the most ground-breaking techniques to disentangle its peculiarities and the cellular mechanisms governing its successful conferment, especially relevant from the protein point of view due to the important epigenetic role of sperm nuclear proteins. Gathering and contextualizing the most striking discoveries will provide a global understanding of the importance and complexity of achieving a proper chromatin compaction and exploring its implications on postfertilization events and beyond. This article is categorized under: Reproductive System Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics Reproductive System Diseases > Molecular and Cellular Physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto de la Iglesia
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Meritxell Jodar
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain.,Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rafael Oliva
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain.,Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Judit Castillo
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Departament de Biomedicina, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain
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8
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Ma J, Gao W, Li D. Recurrent implantation failure: A comprehensive summary from etiology to treatment. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 13:1061766. [PMID: 36686483 PMCID: PMC9849692 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1061766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Implantation is the first step in human reproduction. Successful implantation depends on the crosstalk between embryo and endometrium. Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a clinical phenomenon characterized by a lack of implantation after the transfer of several embryos and disturbs approximately 10% couples undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer. Despite increasing literature on RIF, there is still no widely accepted definition or standard protocol for the diagnosis and treatment of RIF. Progress in predicting and preventing RIF has been hampered by a lack of widely accepted definitions. Most couples with RIF can become pregnant after clinical intervention. The prognosis for couples with RIF is related to maternal age. RIF can be caused by immunology, thrombophilias, endometrial receptivity, microbiome, anatomical abnormalities, male factors, and embryo aneuploidy. It is important to determine the most possible etiologies, and individualized treatment aimed at the primary cause seems to be an effective method for increasing the implantation rate. Couples with RIF require psychological support and appropriate clinical intervention. Further studies are required to evaluate diagnostic method and he effectiveness of each therapy, and guide clinical treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junying Ma
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine, China Medical University, National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
- Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Diseases and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
| | - Wenyan Gao
- Department of Obstetrics, the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Da Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive and Genetic Medicine, China Medical University, National Health Commission, Shenyang, China
- Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Diseases and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, China
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9
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Merges GE, Meier J, Schneider S, Kruse A, Fröbius AC, Kirfel G, Steger K, Arévalo L, Schorle H. Loss of Prm1 leads to defective chromatin protamination, impaired PRM2 processing, reduced sperm motility and subfertility in male mice. Development 2022; 149:275502. [PMID: 35608054 PMCID: PMC9270976 DOI: 10.1242/dev.200330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
One of the key events during spermiogenesis is the hypercondensation of chromatin by substitution of the majority of histones by protamines. In humans and mice, protamine 1 (PRM1/Prm1) and protamine 2 (PRM2/Prm2) are expressed in a species-specific ratio. Using CRISPR-Cas9-mediated gene editing, we generated Prm1-deficient mice and demonstrated that Prm1+/- mice were subfertile, whereas Prm1-/- mice were infertile. Prm1-/- and Prm2-/- sperm showed high levels of reactive oxygen species-mediated DNA damage and increased histone retention. In contrast, Prm1+/- sperm displayed only moderate DNA damage. The majority of Prm1+/- sperm were CMA3 positive, indicating protamine-deficient chromatin, although this was not the result of increased histone retention in Prm1+/- sperm. However, sperm from Prm1+/- and Prm1-/- mice contained high levels of incompletely processed PRM2. Furthermore, the PRM1:PRM2 ratio was skewed from 1:2 in wild type to 1:5 in Prm1+/- animals. Our results reveal that PRM1 is required for proper PRM2 processing to produce mature PRM2, which, together with PRM1, is able to hypercondense DNA. Thus, the species-specific PRM1:PRM2 ratio has to be precisely controlled in order to retain full fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina Esther Merges
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Julia Meier
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Simon Schneider
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Alexander Kruse
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Section Molecular Andrology, Biomedical Research Center of the Justus-Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Christian Fröbius
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Section Molecular Andrology, Biomedical Research Center of the Justus-Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Gregor Kirfel
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute for Cell Biology, University of Bonn, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Klaus Steger
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Section Molecular Andrology, Biomedical Research Center of the Justus-Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Lena Arévalo
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Hubert Schorle
- Department of Developmental Pathology, Institute of Pathology, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
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10
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Rezaei-Gazik M, Vargas A, Amiri-Yekta A, Vitte AL, Akbari A, Barral S, Esmaeili V, Chuffart F, Sadighi-Gilani MA, Couté Y, Eftekhari-Yazdi P, Khochbin S, Rousseaux S, Totonchi M. Direct visualization of pre-protamine 2 detects protamine assembly failures and predicts ICSI success. Mol Hum Reprod 2022; 28:6527641. [PMID: 35150275 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaac004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Histone-to-protamine transition is an essential step in the generation of fully functional spermatozoa in various mammalian species. In human and mouse, one of the two protamine-encoding genes produces a precursor pre-protamine 2 (pre-PRM2) protein, which is then processed and assembled. Here we design an original approach based on the generation of pre-PRM2-specific antibodies to visualize the unprocessed pre-PRM2 by microscopy, flow cytometry and immunoblotting. Using mouse models with characterized failures in histone-to-protamine replacement, we show that pre-Prm2 retention is tightly linked to nucleosome disassembly. Additionally, in elongating/condensing spermatids, we observe that pre-Prm2 and transition protein are co-expressed spatiotemporally, and their physical interaction suggests that these proteins act simultaneously rather than successively during histone replacement. By using our anti-human pre-PRM2 antibody we also measured pre-PRM2 retention rates in the spermatozoa from 49 men of a series of infertile couples undergoing ICSI, which shed new light on the debated relation between pre-PRM2 retention and sperm parameters. Finally, by monitoring 2-pronuclei (2PN) embryo formation following ICSI, we evaluated the fertilization ability of the sperm in these 49 patients. Our results suggest that the extent of pre-PRM2 retention in sperm, rather than pre-PRM2 accumulation per se, is associated with fertilization failure. Hence, anti-pre-PRM2/pre-Prm2 antibodies are valuable tools which could be used in routine monitoring of sperm parameters in fertility clinics, as well as in experimental research programmes to better understand the obscure process of histone-to-protamine transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Rezaei-Gazik
- Department of Developmental Biology, University of Science and Culture, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alexandra Vargas
- CNRS UMR 5309, Inserm U1209, Université Grenoble Alpes, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, 38700, France
| | - Amir Amiri-Yekta
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.,CNRS UMR 5309, Inserm U1209, Université Grenoble Alpes, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, 38700, France
| | - Anne-Laure Vitte
- CNRS UMR 5309, Inserm U1209, Université Grenoble Alpes, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, 38700, France
| | - Arvand Akbari
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sophie Barral
- CNRS UMR 5309, Inserm U1209, Université Grenoble Alpes, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, 38700, France
| | - Vahid Esmaeili
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Florent Chuffart
- CNRS UMR 5309, Inserm U1209, Université Grenoble Alpes, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, 38700, France
| | - Mohammad Ali Sadighi-Gilani
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yohann Couté
- Université Grenoble Alpes; Inserm, CEA, UMR BioSanté U1292, CNRS CEA FR2048, Grenoble, 38000, France
| | - Poopak Eftekhari-Yazdi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saadi Khochbin
- CNRS UMR 5309, Inserm U1209, Université Grenoble Alpes, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, 38700, France
| | - Sophie Rousseaux
- CNRS UMR 5309, Inserm U1209, Université Grenoble Alpes, Institute for Advanced Biosciences, Grenoble, 38700, France
| | - Mehdi Totonchi
- Department of Genetics, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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11
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Moritz L, Hammoud SS. The Art of Packaging the Sperm Genome: Molecular and Structural Basis of the Histone-To-Protamine Exchange. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:895502. [PMID: 35813619 PMCID: PMC9258737 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.895502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Male fertility throughout life hinges on the successful production of motile sperm, a developmental process that involves three coordinated transitions: mitosis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis. Germ cells undergo both mitosis and meiosis to generate haploid round spermatids, in which histones bound to the male genome are replaced with small nuclear proteins known as protamines. During this transformation, the chromatin undergoes extensive remodeling to become highly compacted in the sperm head. Despite its central role in spermiogenesis and fertility, we lack a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the remodeling process, including which remodelers/chaperones are involved, and whether intermediate chromatin proteins function as discrete steps, or unite simultaneously to drive successful exchange. Furthermore, it remains largely unknown whether more nuanced interactions instructed by protamine post-translational modifications affect chromatin dynamics or gene expression in the early embryo. Here, we bring together past and more recent work to explore these topics and suggest future studies that will elevate our understanding of the molecular basis of the histone-to-protamine exchange and the underlying etiology of idiopathic male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Moritz
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- *Correspondence: Lindsay Moritz, ; Saher Sue Hammoud,
| | - Saher Sue Hammoud
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- *Correspondence: Lindsay Moritz, ; Saher Sue Hammoud,
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12
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Ghasemian F, Bahadori MH, Hosseini Kolkooh SZ, Esmaeili M. Using Deep Learning Algorithm: The Study of Sperm Head Vacuoles and Its Correlation with Protamine mRNA Ratio. CELL JOURNAL 2022; 24:7-14. [PMID: 35182059 PMCID: PMC8876261 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2022.7448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Objective It is necessary to evaluate fertility effective agents to predict assisted reproduction outcomes. This study was
designed to examine sperm vacuole characteristics, and its association with sperm chromatin status and protamine-1
(PRM1) to protamine-2 (PRM2) ratio, to predict assisted pregnancy outcomes.
Materials and Methods In this experimental study, ninety eight semen samples from infertile men were classified based
on Vanderzwalmen’s criteria as follows: grade I: no vacuoles; grade II: <2 small vacuoles; grade III: <1 large vacuole
and grade IV: large vacuole with other abnormalities. The location, frequency and size of vacuoles were assessed
using high magnification, a deep learning algorithm, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The chromatin integrity,
condensation, viability and acrosome integrity, and protamination status were evaluated for vacuolated samples
by toluidine blue (TB) staining, aniline blue, triple staining, and CMA3 staining, respectively. Also, Protamine-1 and
protamine-2 genes expression was analysed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
The assisted reproduction outcomes were also followed for each cycle.
Results The results show a significant correlation between the vacuole size (III and IV) and abnormal sperm chromatin
condensation (P=0.03 and P=0.02, respectively), and also, protamine-deficient (P=0.04 and P=0.03, respectively).
The percentage of reacting acrosomes was significantly higher in the grades III and IV spermatozoa in comparison
with normal group. The vacuolated spermatozoa with grade IV showed a high protamine mRNA ratio (PRM-2 was
underexpressed, P=0.01). In the IVF cycles, we observed a negative association between sperm head vacuole and
fertilization rate (P=0.01). This negative association was also significantly observed in pregnancy and live birth rate in
the groups with grade III and IV (P=0.04 and P=0.03, respectively).
Conclusion The results of our study highlight the importance sperm parameters such as sperm head vacuole
characteristics, particularly those parameters with the potency of reflecting protamine-deficiency and in vitro fertilization/
intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) outcomes predicting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Ghasemian
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Hadi Bahadori
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Zahra Hosseini Kolkooh
- Reproductive Health Research Center (IVF Center), Alzahra Educational and Remedial Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Maryam Esmaeili
- Reproductive Health Research Center (IVF Center), Alzahra Educational and Remedial Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
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13
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DNA Repair in Haploid Context. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212418. [PMID: 34830299 PMCID: PMC8620282 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA repair is a well-covered topic as alteration of genetic integrity underlies many pathological conditions and important transgenerational consequences. Surprisingly, the ploidy status is rarely considered although the presence of homologous chromosomes dramatically impacts the repair capacities of cells. This is especially important for the haploid gametes as they must transfer genetic information to the offspring. An understanding of the different mechanisms monitoring genetic integrity in this context is, therefore, essential as differences in repair pathways exist that differentiate the gamete’s role in transgenerational inheritance. Hence, the oocyte must have the most reliable repair capacity while sperm, produced in large numbers and from many differentiation steps, are expected to carry de novo variations. This review describes the main DNA repair pathways with a special emphasis on ploidy. Differences between Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Schizosaccharomyces pombe are especially useful to this aim as they can maintain a diploid and haploid life cycle respectively.
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14
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Protamine Characterization by Top-Down Proteomics: Boosting Proteoform Identification with DBSCAN. Proteomes 2021; 9:proteomes9020021. [PMID: 33946530 PMCID: PMC8162566 DOI: 10.3390/proteomes9020021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Protamines replace histones as the main nuclear protein in the sperm cells of many species and play a crucial role in compacting the paternal genome. Human spermatozoa contain protamine 1 (P1) and the family of protamine 2 (P2) proteins. Alterations in protamine PTMs or the P1/P2 ratio may be associated with male infertility. Top-down proteomics enables large-scale analysis of intact proteoforms derived from alternative splicing, missense or nonsense genetic variants or PTMs. In contrast to current gold standard techniques, top-down proteomics permits a more in-depth analysis of protamine PTMs and proteoforms, thereby opening up new perspectives to unravel their impact on male fertility. We report on the analysis of two normozoospermic semen samples by top-down proteomics. We discuss the difficulties encountered with the data analysis and propose solutions as this step is one of the current bottlenecks in top-down proteomics with the bioinformatics tools currently available. Our strategy for the data analysis combines two software packages, ProSight PD (PS) and TopPIC suite (TP), with a clustering algorithm to decipher protamine proteoforms. We identified up to 32 protamine proteoforms at different levels of characterization. This in-depth analysis of the protamine proteoform landscape of normozoospermic individuals represents the first step towards the future study of sperm pathological conditions opening up the potential personalized diagnosis of male infertility.
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15
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Zatecka E, Bohuslavova R, Valaskova E, Margaryan H, Elzeinova F, Kubatova A, Hylmarova S, Peknicova J, Pavlinkova G. The Transgenerational Transmission of the Paternal Type 2 Diabetes-Induced Subfertility Phenotype. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:763863. [PMID: 34803926 PMCID: PMC8602877 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.763863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia and associated with many health complications due to the long-term damage and dysfunction of various organs. A consequential complication of diabetes in men is reproductive dysfunction, reduced fertility, and poor reproductive outcomes. However, the molecular mechanisms responsible for diabetic environment-induced sperm damage and overall decreased reproductive outcomes are not fully established. We evaluated the effects of type 2 diabetes exposure on the reproductive system and the reproductive outcomes of males and their male offspring, using a mouse model. We demonstrate that paternal exposure to type 2 diabetes mediates intergenerational and transgenerational effects on the reproductive health of the offspring, especially on sperm quality, and on metabolic characteristics. Given the transgenerational impairment of reproductive and metabolic parameters through two generations, these changes likely take the form of inherited epigenetic marks through the germline. Our results emphasize the importance of improving metabolic health not only in women of reproductive age, but also in potential fathers, in order to reduce the negative impacts of diabetes on subsequent generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Zatecka
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS), Biotechnology and Biomedicine Center of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University in Vestec (BIOCEV), Vestec, Czechia
| | - Romana Bohuslavova
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathogenetics, Institute of Biotechnology Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS), Biotechnology and Biomedicine Center of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University in Vestec (BIOCEV), Vestec, Czechia
| | - Eliska Valaskova
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS), Biotechnology and Biomedicine Center of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University in Vestec (BIOCEV), Vestec, Czechia
| | - Hasmik Margaryan
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS), Biotechnology and Biomedicine Center of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University in Vestec (BIOCEV), Vestec, Czechia
| | - Fatima Elzeinova
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS), Biotechnology and Biomedicine Center of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University in Vestec (BIOCEV), Vestec, Czechia
| | - Alena Kubatova
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS), Biotechnology and Biomedicine Center of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University in Vestec (BIOCEV), Vestec, Czechia
| | - Simona Hylmarova
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathogenetics, Institute of Biotechnology Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS), Biotechnology and Biomedicine Center of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University in Vestec (BIOCEV), Vestec, Czechia
- Department of Internal Medicine, Second Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czechia
| | - Jana Peknicova
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS), Biotechnology and Biomedicine Center of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University in Vestec (BIOCEV), Vestec, Czechia
| | - Gabriela Pavlinkova
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathogenetics, Institute of Biotechnology Czech Academy of Sciences (CAS), Biotechnology and Biomedicine Center of the Academy of Sciences and Charles University in Vestec (BIOCEV), Vestec, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Gabriela Pavlinkova,
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16
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Gòdia M, Reverter A, González-Prendes R, Ramayo-Caldas Y, Castelló A, Rodríguez-Gil JE, Sánchez A, Clop A. A systems biology framework integrating GWAS and RNA-seq to shed light on the molecular basis of sperm quality in swine. Genet Sel Evol 2020; 52:72. [PMID: 33292187 PMCID: PMC7724732 DOI: 10.1186/s12711-020-00592-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic pressure in animal breeding is sparking the interest of breeders for selecting elite boars with higher sperm quality to optimize ejaculate doses and fertility rates. However, the molecular basis of sperm quality is not yet fully understood. Our aim was to identify candidate genes, pathways and DNA variants associated to sperm quality in swine by analysing 25 sperm-related phenotypes and integrating genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and RNA-seq under a systems biology framework. RESULTS By GWAS, we identified 12 quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated to the percentage of head and neck abnormalities, abnormal acrosomes and motile spermatozoa. Candidate genes included CHD2, KATNAL2, SLC14A2 and ABCA1. By RNA-seq, we identified a wide repertoire of mRNAs (e.g. PRM1, OAZ3, DNAJB8, TPPP2 and TNP1) and miRNAs (e.g. ssc-miR-30d, ssc-miR-34c, ssc-miR-30c-5p, ssc-miR-191, members of the let-7 family and ssc-miR-425-5p) with functions related to sperm biology. We detected 6128 significant correlations (P-value ≤ 0.05) between sperm traits and mRNA abundances. By expression (e)GWAS, we identified three trans-expression QTL involving the genes IQCJ, ACTR2 and HARS. Using the GWAS and RNA-seq data, we built a gene interaction network. We considered that the genes and interactions that were present in both the GWAS and RNA-seq networks had a higher probability of being actually involved in sperm quality and used them to build a robust gene interaction network. In addition, in the final network we included genes with RNA abundances correlated with more than four semen traits and miRNAs interacting with the genes on the network. The final network was enriched for genes involved in gamete generation and development, meiotic cell cycle, DNA repair or embryo implantation. Finally, we designed a panel of 73 SNPs based on the GWAS, eGWAS and final network data, that explains between 5% (for sperm cell concentration) and 36% (for percentage of neck abnormalities) of the phenotypic variance of the sperm traits. CONCLUSIONS By applying a systems biology approach, we identified genes that potentially affect sperm quality and constructed a SNP panel that explains a substantial part of the phenotypic variance for semen quality in our study and that should be tested in other swine populations to evaluate its relevance for the pig breeding sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Gòdia
- Animal Genomics Group, Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB, Campus UAB, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Antonio Reverter
- CSIRO Agriculture and Food, Queensland Bioscience Precinct, 306 Carmody Rd., St. Lucia, Brisbane, QLD, 4067, Australia
| | - Rayner González-Prendes
- Animal Breeding and Genomics, Wageningen University & Research, 6708PB, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Yuliaxis Ramayo-Caldas
- Animal Breeding and Genetics Program, Institute for Research and Technology in Food and Agriculture (IRTA), Torre Marimon, 08140, Caldes de Montbui, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Anna Castelló
- Animal Genomics Group, Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB, Campus UAB, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.,Unit of Animal Science, Department of Animal and Food Science, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Joan-Enric Rodríguez-Gil
- Unit of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Armand Sánchez
- Unit of Animal Science, Department of Animal and Food Science, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Alex Clop
- Animal Genomics Group, Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics (CRAG) CSIC-IRTA-UAB-UB, Campus UAB, Cerdanyola del Vallès, 08193, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. .,Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 08003, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
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17
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Aitken RJ, De Iuliis GN, Nixon B. The Sins of Our Forefathers: Paternal Impacts on De Novo Mutation Rate and Development. Annu Rev Genet 2020; 54:1-24. [DOI: 10.1146/annurev-genet-112618-043617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are generally characterized by excellent DNA surveillance and repair, resulting in one of the lowest spontaneous mutation rates in the body. However, the barriers to mutagenesis can be overwhelmed under two sets of circumstances. First, replication errors may generate age-dependent mutations that provide the mutant cells with a selective advantage, leading to the clonal expansions responsible for dominant genetic diseases such as Apert syndrome and achondroplasia. The second mechanism centers on the vulnerability of the male germline to oxidative stress and the induction of oxidative DNA damage in spermatozoa. Defective repair of such oxidative damage in the fertilized oocyte results in the creation of mutations in the zygote that can influence the health and well-being of the offspring. A particular hot spot for such oxidative attack on chromosome 15 has been found to align with several mutations responsible for paternally mediated disease, including cancer, psychiatric disorders, and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales 2305, Australia
| | - Geoffry N. De Iuliis
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales 2305, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales 2305, Australia
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18
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Ben Maamar M, Beck D, Nilsson E, McCarrey JR, Skinner MK. Developmental origins of transgenerational sperm histone retention following ancestral exposures. Dev Biol 2020; 465:31-45. [PMID: 32628935 PMCID: PMC7484192 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2020.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Numerous environmental toxicants have been shown to induce the epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of disease and phenotypic variation. Alterations in the germline epigenome are necessary to transmit transgenerational phenotypes. In previous studies, the pesticide DDT (dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) and the agricultural fungicide vinclozolin were shown to promote the transgenerational inheritance of sperm differential DNA methylation regions, non-coding RNAs and histone retention, which are termed epimutations. These epimutations are able to mediate this epigenetic inheritance of disease and phenotypic variation. The current study was designed to investigate the developmental origins of the transgenerational differential histone retention sites (called DHRs) during gametogenesis of the sperm. Vinclozolin and DDT were independently used to promote the epigenetic transgenerational inheritance of these DHRs. Male control lineage, DDT lineage and vinclozolin lineage F3 generation rats were used to isolate round spermatids, caput epididymal spermatozoa, and caudal sperm. The DHRs distinguishing the control versus DDT lineage or vinclozolin lineage samples were determined at these three developmental stages. DHRs and a reproducible core of histone H3 retention sites were observed using an H3 chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing (ChIP-Seq) analysis in each of the germ cell populations. The chromosomal locations and genomic features of the DHRs were analyzed. A cascade of epigenetic histone retention site alterations was found to be initiated in the round spermatids and then further modified during epididymal sperm maturation. Observations show that in addition to alterations in sperm DNA methylation and ncRNA expression previously identified, the induction of differential histone retention sites (DHRs) in the later stages of spermatogenesis also occurs. This novel component of epigenetic programming during spermatogenesis can be environmentally altered and transmitted to subsequent generations through epigenetic transgenerational inheritance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Millissia Ben Maamar
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-4236, USA
| | - Daniel Beck
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-4236, USA
| | - Eric Nilsson
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-4236, USA
| | - John R McCarrey
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Michael K Skinner
- Center for Reproductive Biology, School of Biological Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-4236, USA.
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19
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Johnston SD, López-Fernández C, Arroyo F, Roy R, Holt WV, Gosálvez J. Protamine composition of koala and wombat spermatozoa provides new insights into DNA stability following cryopreservation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 31:1558-1566. [PMID: 31167697 DOI: 10.1071/rd18512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate differences in the post-thaw DNA stability of koala and wombat spermatozoa, protamine amino acid sequences were compared and it was found that there were three more arginine residues for the wombat. Koala and wombat spermatozoa, cryopreserved using identical protocols, were examined for changes in sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) dynamics over 24h of post-thaw incubation. Following validation of a wombat sperm chromatin dispersion test, wombat DNA showed a rate of SDF that was 6-fold higher than for koala spermatozoa (P=0.038). Finally, we examined whether expected differences in chromatin compactness, associated with protamine sequence, had an effect on restriction site accessibility of sperm DNA. Thawed spermatozoa were exposed to Alu I and EcoR1 endonuclease restriction enzymes and the SDF dynamics were observed. Koala spermatozoa exposed to Alu I showed a greater rate of SDF (P=0.01), whereas wombat spermatozoa exposed to EcoR1 showed a greater rate of SDF (P=0.032). We conclude that restriction sites in these species are differentially present or exposed and potentially account for differences in SDF dynamics. Although differences in the arginine composition of protamine may explain relative differences in SDF following cryopreservation, they do not support the hypothesis that increased arginine composition increases DNA stability; rather, increased arginine composition in the wombat may reduce post-thaw chromatin swelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- S D Johnston
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Qld 4343, Australia; and Corresponding author.
| | - C López-Fernández
- Department of Biology, Autonomous University of Madrid, Cantoblanco, Madrid, 28049, Spain
| | - F Arroyo
- Department of Biology, Autonomous University of Madrid, Cantoblanco, Madrid, 28049, Spain
| | - R Roy
- Department of Biology, Autonomous University of Madrid, Cantoblanco, Madrid, 28049, Spain
| | - W V Holt
- Academic unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S10 2TN, UK
| | - J Gosálvez
- Department of Biology, Autonomous University of Madrid, Cantoblanco, Madrid, 28049, Spain
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Szumilas K, Szumilas P, Grzywacz A, Wilk A. The Effects of E-Cigarette Vapor Components on the Morphology and Function of the Male and Female Reproductive Systems: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17176152. [PMID: 32847119 PMCID: PMC7504689 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17176152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
E-cigarettes, a comparatively new phenomenon, are regarded as a safer alternative to conventional cigarettes. They are increasingly popular among adolescents of both sexes, and many smokers use e-cigarettes in their attempts to quit smoking. There is little understanding of the effects of exposure to e-cigarette vapors on human reproductive health, human development, or the functioning of the organs of the male and female reproductive systems. Data on the effects of the exposure were derived mainly from animal studies, and they show that e-cigarettes can affect fertility. Here, we review recent studies on the effects of exposure to e-cigarettes on facets of morphology and function in the male and female reproductive organs. E-cigarettes, even those which are nicotine-free, contain many harmful substances, including endocrine disruptors, which disturb hormonal balance and morphology and the function of the reproductive organs. E-cigarettes cannot be considered a completely healthy alternative to smoking. As is true for smoking, deleterious effects on the human reproductive system from vaping are likely, from the limited evidence to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Szumilas
- Department of Physiology, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Paweł Szumilas
- Department of Social Medicine and Public Health, Pomeranian Medical University, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Anna Grzywacz
- Independent Laboratory of Health Promotion, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Aleksandra Wilk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-91-4661681
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21
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Gunes S, Esteves SC. Role of genetics and epigenetics in male infertility. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13586. [PMID: 32314821 DOI: 10.1111/and.13586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a complex condition with a strong genetic and epigenetic background. This review discusses the importance of genetic and epigenetic factors in the pathophysiology of male infertility. The interplay between thousands of genes, the epigenetic control of gene expression, and environmental and lifestyle factors, which influence genetic and epigenetic variants, determines the resulting male infertility phenotype. Currently, karyotyping, Y-chromosome microdeletion screening and CFTR gene mutation tests are routinely performed to investigate a possible genetic aetiology in patients with azoospermia and severe oligozoospermia. However, current testing is limited in its ability to identify a variety of genetic and epigenetic conditions that might be implicated in both idiopathic and unexplained infertility. Several epimutations of imprinting genes and developmental genes have been postulated to be candidate markers for male infertility. As such, development of novel diagnostic panels is essential to change the current landscape with regard to prevention, diagnosis and management. Understanding the underlying genetic mechanisms related to the pathophysiology of male infertility, and the impact of environmental exposures and lifestyle factors on gene expression might aid clinicians in developing individualised treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sezgin Gunes
- Medical Biology, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey.,Molecular Medicine, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Referral Center for Male Reproduction, Campinas, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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22
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Soler-Ventura A, Gay M, Jodar M, Vilanova M, Castillo J, Arauz-Garofalo G, Villarreal L, Ballescà JL, Vilaseca M, Oliva R. Characterization of Human Sperm Protamine Proteoforms through a Combination of Top-Down and Bottom-Up Mass Spectrometry Approaches. J Proteome Res 2019; 19:221-237. [PMID: 31703166 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.9b00499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Protamine 1 (P1) and protamine 2 (P2) family are extremely basic, sperm-specific proteins, packing 85-95% of the paternal DNA. P1 is synthesized as a mature form, whereas P2 components (HP2, HP3, and HP4) arise from the proteolysis of the precursor (pre-P2). Due to the particular protamine physical-chemical properties, their identification by standardized bottom-up mass spectrometry (MS) strategies is not straightforward. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify the sperm protamine proteoforms profile, including their post-translational modifications, in normozoospermic individuals using two complementary strategies, a top-down MS approach and a proteinase-K-digestion-based bottom-up MS approach. By top-down MS, described and novel truncated P1 and pre-P2 proteoforms were identified. Intact P1, pre-P2, and P2 mature proteoforms and their phosphorylation pattern were also detected. Additionally, a +61 Da modification in different proteoforms was observed. By the bottom-up MS approach, phosphorylated residues for pre-P2, as well as the new P2 isoform 2, which is not annotated in the UniProtKB database, were revealed. Implementing these strategies in comparative studies of different infertile phenotypes, together with the evaluation of P1/P2 and pre-P2/P2 MS-derived ratios, would permit determining specific alterations in the protamine proteoforms and elucidate the role of phosphorylation/dephosphorylation dynamics in male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ada Soler-Ventura
- EUGIN-UB Research Excellence Program, Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica (FCRB), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , University of Barcelona , 08036 Barcelona , Spain
| | - Marina Gay
- EUGIN-UB Research Excellence Program, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona) , The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology , Baldiri Reixac, 10 , 08028 Barcelona , Spain
| | - Meritxell Jodar
- EUGIN-UB Research Excellence Program, Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica (FCRB), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , University of Barcelona , 08036 Barcelona , Spain
| | - Mar Vilanova
- EUGIN-UB Research Excellence Program, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona) , The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology , Baldiri Reixac, 10 , 08028 Barcelona , Spain
| | - Judit Castillo
- EUGIN-UB Research Excellence Program, Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica (FCRB), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , University of Barcelona , 08036 Barcelona , Spain
| | - Gianluca Arauz-Garofalo
- EUGIN-UB Research Excellence Program, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona) , The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology , Baldiri Reixac, 10 , 08028 Barcelona , Spain
| | - Laura Villarreal
- EUGIN-UB Research Excellence Program, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona) , The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology , Baldiri Reixac, 10 , 08028 Barcelona , Spain
| | | | - Marta Vilaseca
- EUGIN-UB Research Excellence Program, Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona) , The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology , Baldiri Reixac, 10 , 08028 Barcelona , Spain
| | - Rafael Oliva
- EUGIN-UB Research Excellence Program, Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica (FCRB), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , University of Barcelona , 08036 Barcelona , Spain
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23
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Štiavnická M, García-Álvarez O, Ulčová-Gallová Z, Sutovsky P, Abril-Parreño L, Dolejšová M, Řimnáčová H, Moravec J, Hošek P, Lošan P, Gold L, Fenclová T, Králíčková M, Nevoral J. H3K4me2 accompanies chromatin immaturity in human spermatozoa: an epigenetic marker for sperm quality assessment. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2019; 66:3-11. [DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2019.1666435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Miriama Štiavnická
- Biomedical Center in Pilsen, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Olga García-Álvarez
- Biomedical Center in Pilsen, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
- Health and Biotechnology (SaBio) GroupIREC, (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Albacete, Spain
| | - Zděnka Ulčová-Gallová
- Genetika Plzeň, s.r.o. (Ltd.), Pilsen – Černice, Czech Republic
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Laura Abril-Parreño
- Biomedical Center in Pilsen, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Irelan
| | - Martina Dolejšová
- Biomedical Center in Pilsen, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Hedvika Řimnáčová
- Biomedical Center in Pilsen, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Moravec
- Biomedical Center in Pilsen, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Hošek
- Biomedical Center in Pilsen, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Lošan
- Genetika Plzeň, s.r.o. (Ltd.), Pilsen – Černice, Czech Republic
| | - Lukáš Gold
- Biomedical Center in Pilsen, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Tereza Fenclová
- Biomedical Center in Pilsen, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Milena Králíčková
- Biomedical Center in Pilsen, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Plzeň, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Nevoral
- Biomedical Center in Pilsen, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Plzeň, Czech Republic
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Abstract
Infertility affects nearly 15 per cent of all couples within the reproductive age worldwide, with about 50 per cent being exhibited in the male, called male factor infertility. Successful reproduction is dependent on sperm chromatin integrity. Spermatozoa are highly specialized cells that aim to transmit the paternal genomic blueprint to the oocyte. The spermatozoon is regulated by redox mechanisms during its epididymal transit to acquire fertilizing ability. While, at physiological levels, the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) supports the spermatozoon to acquire its fertilizing ability, at high concentrations, it affects sperm function leading to infertility. Emerging proteomic technologies provide an opportunity to address these key issues that may solve many fertility-associated problems resulting from oxidative stress (OS). This review highlights the need for an efficient therapeutic approach to male infertility with the application of high-throughput OS-mediated proteomic technology, and also addresses the question as to whether targeting these altered sperm-specific proteins may help in designing an efficient and reversible male contraceptive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayatri Mohanty
- Department of Zoology, Redox Biology Laboratory, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, India
| | - Luna Samanta
- Department of Zoology, Redox Biology Laboratory, Ravenshaw University, Cuttack, India
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25
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Amor H, Shelko N, Hamad MF, Zeyad A, Hammadeh ME. An additional marker for sperm DNA quality evaluation in spermatozoa of male partners of couples undergoing assisted reproduction technique (IVF/ICSI): Protamine ratio. Andrologia 2019; 51:e13400. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 07/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Houda Amor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine Biochemistry & Molecular Biology of Reproductive Medicine Saarland University Clinic Homburg Germany
| | - Nyaz Shelko
- Community Health Department Technical College of Health Sulaimani Polytechnic University Sulaimanyah Iraq
| | - Mohammed F. Hamad
- Department of Basic Sciences College of Science and Health Professions King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences Jeddah Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Zeyad
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine Biochemistry & Molecular Biology of Reproductive Medicine Saarland University Clinic Homburg Germany
| | - Mohamad Eid Hammadeh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine Biochemistry & Molecular Biology of Reproductive Medicine Saarland University Clinic Homburg Germany
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Hamilton TRS, Simões R, Mendes CM, Goissis MD, Nakajima E, Martins EAL, Visintin JA, Assumpção MEOA. Detection of protamine 2 in bovine spermatozoa and testicles. Andrology 2019; 7:373-381. [PMID: 30920782 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sperm DNA integrity is crucial for transmission of genetic information to future generations and DNA damage can occur during chromatin packaging. Chromatin packaging involves the replacement of somatic nucleosomal histones by nuclear proteins called protamines. Protamine 1 (PRM1) is transcribed and translated in spermatids of all mammals; however, protamine 2 (PRM2) is transcribed in low levels in spermatids and it is not yet described in bull mature spermatozoa. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to assess gene and protein expression of PRM2 and corroborate gene and protein expression of PRM1 in bull spermatozoa and testis. MATERIALS AND METHODS For this purpose, absolute q-RT-PCR was performed to calculate the number of copies of PRM1 and PRM2 mRNAs in bovine epididymal spermatozoa and testicular tissue. Western blot and mass spectrometry were performed to identify PRM1 and PRM2 in samples of bovine epididymal spermatozoa. Samples of bovine testicular tissue were collected to identify PRM1 and PRM2 by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS We evaluated that the number of PRM1 mRNA copies was about hundred times higher than PRM2 mRNA copies in sperm and testicular samples (p < 0.0001). In addition, we estimated the PRM1: PRM2 ratio based on mRNA number of copies. In spermatozoa, the ratio was 1: 0.014, and in testicle, the ratio was 1: 0.009. We also evaluated the immunolocalization for PRM1 and PRM2 in bovine testis, and both proteins were detected in spermatids. Western blot and mass spectrometry in bovine epididymal spermatozoa confirmed these results. CONCLUSION Our work identifies, for the first time, PRM2 in bovine epididymal spermatozoa and in testis. Further studies are still needed to understand the role of PRM2 on the chromatin of the spermatozoa and to verify how possible changes in PRM2 levels may influence the bull fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- T R S Hamilton
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Doutor Orlando Marques de Paiva, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - R Simões
- Center for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, Santo André, Brazil
| | - C M Mendes
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Doutor Orlando Marques de Paiva, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - M D Goissis
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Doutor Orlando Marques de Paiva, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - E Nakajima
- Process Development Laboratory, Inovation Division, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - E A L Martins
- Process Development Laboratory, Inovation Division, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - J A Visintin
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Doutor Orlando Marques de Paiva, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - M E O A Assumpção
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Doutor Orlando Marques de Paiva, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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Hamad MF. Quantification of histones and protamines mRNA transcripts in sperms of infertile couples and their impact on sperm's quality and chromatin integrity. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:6-13. [PMID: 30876814 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Revised: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The proper transition of histones to protamine during spermiogenesis is critical for male fertility. This study aimed to quantify the levels of histones and protamines mRNA in sperms of infertile couples and their possible effect on the sperm's quality and chromatin integrity. Spermatozoa from 53 normal and 75 patients were enrolled in this study. Histones and Protamine mRNAs were extracted, reverse-transcribed and applied to real-time quantitative PCR. Chromomycin A3 staining was used to assess protamination and chromatin integrity, and Eosin-Nigrosine-Test and HOS-Test was used to evaluate the sperm's vitality and membrane integrity respectively. Levels of histones H2A and H2B mRNA in patient's sperms were significantly (p < 0.01) higher than that of normal (31.22 ± 2.91, 30.03 ± 2.05 vs. 25.62 ± 1.98, 27.23 ± 3.04, respectively). Protamine PRM2 mRNA in patient's sperms (20.55 ± 2.01) was significantly lower than in normal (21.73 ± 2.64, p < 0.01). The PRM1/PRM2 and H2A/H2B mRNAs ratios were significantly higher (p < 0.01) in patients than normal (1.02 ± 0.10, 1.04 ± 0.07 vs. 0.98 ± 0.06, 0.94 ± 0.08 respectively). Also, the sperm's nuclear histones to protamines transcripts ((H2A + H2B)/(PRM1 + PRM2)) ratios of patients (1.49 ± 0.16) was significantly higher (p < 0.01) than that of normal (1.25 ± 0.15). Histone/protamine transcripts [((H2A + H2B)/(PRM1 + PRM2)) mRNAs ratios] were negatively correlated (p < 0.05) with sperm's count, total count, motility, progressive motility, normal morphology, membrane integrity and positively with chromatin decondensation. The data suggests that histones/protamines mRNAs ratios are important for a sperm's quality and therefore could be used as predictors for male infertility. Also, validation study may be required to confirm the study conclusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Faiz Hamad
- Department of Basic Sciences, College of Science and Health Professions, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; IVF & Andrology Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar, Germany.
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28
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DNA Damage and Repair in Human Reproductive Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2018; 20:ijms20010031. [PMID: 30577615 PMCID: PMC6337641 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20010031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Revised: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The fundamental underlying paradigm of sexual reproduction is the production of male and female gametes of sufficient genetic difference and quality that, following syngamy, they result in embryos with genomic potential to allow for future adaptive change and the ability to respond to selective pressure. The fusion of dissimilar gametes resulting in the formation of a normal and viable embryo is known as anisogamy, and is concomitant with precise structural, physiological, and molecular control of gamete function for species survival. However, along the reproductive life cycle of all organisms, both male and female gametes can be exposed to an array of “stressors” that may adversely affect the composition and biological integrity of their proteins, lipids and nucleic acids, that may consequently compromise their capacity to produce normal embryos. The aim of this review is to highlight gamete genome organization, differences in the chronology of gamete production between the male and female, the inherent DNA protective mechanisms in these reproductive cells, the aetiology of DNA damage in germ cells, and the remarkable DNA repair mechanisms, pre- and post-syngamy, that function to maintain genome integrity.
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Colaco S, Sakkas D. Paternal factors contributing to embryo quality. J Assist Reprod Genet 2018; 35:1953-1968. [PMID: 30206748 PMCID: PMC6240539 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-018-1304-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Advancing maternal and paternal age leads to a decrease in fertility, and hence, many infertile couples opt for assisted reproductive technologies [ART] to achieve biological parenthood. One of the key determinants of achieving a live outcome of ART, embryo quality, depends on both the quality of the oocyte and sperm that have created the embryo. Several studies have explored the effect of oocyte parameters on embryo quality, but the effects of sperm quality on the embryo have not been comprehensively evaluated. METHOD In this review, we assess the effect of various genetic factors of paternal origin on the quality and development of the embryo. RESULTS The effects of sperm aneuploidy, sperm chromatin structure, deoxyribonucleic acid [DNA] fragmentation, role of protamines and histones, sperm epigenetic profile, and Y chromosome microdeletions were explored and found to negatively affect embryo quality. CONCLUSION We propose that careful assessment of spermatozoal parameters is essential to achieve embryo development and a healthy live birth. However, the heterogeneity in test results and the different approaches of assessing a single sperm parameter highlight the need for more research and the development of standardized protocols to assess the role of sperm factors affecting embryo quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacy Colaco
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Laboratory, Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, JM Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India.
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30
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Balhorn R, Steger K, Bergmann M, Schuppe HC, Neuhauser S, Balhorn MC. New monoclonal antibodies specific for mammalian protamines P1 and P2. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2018; 64:424-447. [DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1510063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rod Balhorn
- Briar Patch Biosciences LLC, Livermore, CA, USA
| | - Klaus Steger
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Section Molecular Andrology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Martin Bergmann
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Stefanie Neuhauser
- Pferdezentrum Bad Saarow, Veterinary Faculty of the University, Berlin, Germany
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Barrachina F, Anastasiadi D, Jodar M, Castillo J, Estanyol JM, Piferrer F, Oliva R. Identification of a complex population of chromatin-associated proteins in the European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) sperm. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2018; 64:502-517. [PMID: 29939100 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1482383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
A very common conception about the function of the spermatozoon is that its unique role is to transmit the paternal genome to the next generation. Most of the sperm genome is known to be condensed in many species by protamines, which are small and extremely positively charged proteins (50-70% arginine) with the functions of streamlining the sperm cell and protecting its DNA. However, more recently, it has been shown in mammals that 2-10% of its mature sperm chromatin is also associated to a complex population of histones and chromatin-associated proteins differentially distributed in the genome. These proteins are transferred to the oocyte upon fertilization and may be involved in the epigenetic marking of the paternal genome. However, little information is so far available on the additional potential sperm chromatin proteins present in other protamine-containing non-mammalian vertebrates detected through high-throughput mass spectrometry. Thus, we started the present work with the goal of characterizing the mature sperm proteome of the European sea bass, with a particular focus on the sperm chromatin, chosen as a representative of non-mammalian vertebrate protamine-containing species. Proteins were isolated by acidic extraction from purified sperm cells and from purified sperm nuclei, digested with trypsin, and subsequently the peptides were separated using liquid chromatography and identified through tandem mass spectrometry. A total of 296 proteins were identified. Of interest, the presence of 94 histones and other chromatin-associated proteins was detected, in addition to the protamines. These results provide phylogenetically strategic information, indicating that the coexistence of histones, additional chromatin proteins, and protamines in sperm is not exclusive of mammals, but is also present in other protamine-containing vertebrates. Thus, it indicates that the epigenetic marking of the sperm chromatin, first demonstrated in mammals, could be more fundamental and conserved than previously thought. Abbreviations: AU-PAGE: acetic acid-urea polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis; CPC: chromosomal passenger complex; DTT: dithiothreitol; EGA: embryonic genome activation; FDR: false discovery rate; GO: Gene Ontology; IAA: iodoacetamide; LC: liquid chromatography; LC-MS/MS: liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry; MS: mass spectrometry; MS/MS: tandem mass spectrometry; MW: molecular weight; PAGE: polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis; PBS: phosphate buffered saline; SDS: sodium dodecyl sulfate; SDS-PAGE: sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis; TCA: trichloroacetic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferran Barrachina
- a Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,b Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service , Hospital Clínic , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Dafni Anastasiadi
- c Institut de Ciències del Mar , Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Meritxell Jodar
- a Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,b Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service , Hospital Clínic , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Judit Castillo
- a Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,b Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service , Hospital Clínic , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Josep Maria Estanyol
- d Proteomics Unit, Scientific and Technological Centers from the University of Barcelona , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Francesc Piferrer
- c Institut de Ciències del Mar , Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Rafael Oliva
- a Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,b Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service , Hospital Clínic , Barcelona , Spain
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H M Y, Kumar S, Chaudhary R, Mishra C, A S, Kumar A, Chauhan A, Ghosh SK, Mitra A. Nucleotide variability of protamine genes influencing bull sperm motility variables. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 193:126-139. [PMID: 29657074 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.04.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2017] [Revised: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Protamines (PRMs), important proteins of chromatin condensation in spermiogenesis, are promising candidate genes to explore markers of sperm motility. The coding and in-silico predicted promoter regions of these genes were investigated in 102 crossbred and 32 purebred cattle. Also, mRNA quantification was done to explore its possibility as diagnostic tool of infertility. The PCR-SSCP analysis indicated there were two band patterns only in fragment I of the PRM1 and fragment II of the PRM2 gene. The sequence analysis revealed A152G and G179A transitions in the PRM1 gene. Similarly, G35A, A49G and A64G transitions were identified in the PRM2 gene which resulted in altered amino acid sequences from arginine (R) to glutamine (Q), from arginine (R) to glycine (G) and from arginine (R) to glycine (G), respectively. This caused the reduction in molecular weight of PRM2 from 2157.66 to 1931.33 Da due to reduction in the number of basic amino acids. These altered properties of the PRM2 protein led to the reduction in Mass Motility (MM: P < 0.01), Initial Progressive Motility (IPM; P < 0.05) and Post Thaw Motility (PTM; P < 0.05) in crossbred bulls. The least squares analysis of variance indicated there was an effect of PRM2 haplotypes on MM (P = 0.0069), IPM (P = 0.0306) and PTM (P = 0.0500) in crossbred cattle and on PTM (P = 0.0408) in the overall cattle population. Based on the RT-qPCR analysis, however, there was not any significant variation of PRM1 and PRM2 gene expression among sperm of Vrindavani bulls with relatively lesser and greater sperm motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yathish H M
- Division of Animal Genetics, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly, 243 122, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Subodh Kumar
- Division of Animal Genetics, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly, 243 122, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Rajni Chaudhary
- Division of Animal Genetics, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly, 243 122, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Chinmoy Mishra
- Division of Animal Genetics, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly, 243 122, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sivakumar A
- Division of Animal Genetics, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly, 243 122, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Amit Kumar
- Division of Animal Genetics, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly, 243 122, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anuj Chauhan
- Division of Animal Genetics, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly, 243 122, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - S K Ghosh
- Division of Animal Genetics, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly, 243 122, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abhijit Mitra
- Division of Animal Genetics, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, Bareilly, 243 122, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Fournier C, Labrune E, Lornage J, Soignon G, Giscard d'Estaing S, Guérin JF, Benchaib M. The impact of histones linked to sperm chromatin on embryo development and ART outcome. Andrology 2018; 6:436-445. [PMID: 29499098 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between the proportion of sperm chromatin linked to remaining histone and assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcome. A prospective cohort study was performed on couples undergoing ART process at the Department of Reproduction Medicine (HFME, Bron, France). The histone-to-protamine ratio (HPR) was measured using the method described by Wykes & Krawetz (2003) J Biol Chem 278, 29471. The correlations with sperm DFI, blastocyst formation, pregnancy rate, and delivery rate were investigated. A total of 291 ART cycles were included (42 c-IVF and 249 ICSI procedures): 3870 oocytes were punctured and 2211 embryos were obtained, among which 507 were transferred and 336 frozen. The mean HPR was 18.9%. A significant negative correlation was found between HPR and DFI (r = -0.12, p < 0.05). Regarding the type of ART procedure (c-IVF or ICSI), the same kind of relationship between HPR and ART parameters was observed. Regardless of the type of ART procedure used, when the HPR was within the range [6%; 26%], the blastocyst formation rate was higher: 87.8% vs. 71.2% (HPR<6%; p < 0.01) and 74.6% (HPR >26%; p < 0.01). The highest delivery rate (DR; 24.5%) was obtained for HPR within the range [6%; 26%]; DR was 21.9% for HPR<6% and 18.3% for HPR>26%; however, the differences were not statistically significant. The procedure described in this study seems to be a reliable evaluation of the HPR. The HPR parameter seems to be correlated to embryonic development up to the blastocyst stage, but its involvement in clinical pregnancy/delivery could not be confirmed. HPR should be further investigated for confirming the relationship with blastocyst formation. After this, the next step will be to investigate the etiologies of HPR alterations for improving the sperm nucleus quality for increasing the chance of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - E Labrune
- Inserm U1208, Lyon, France.,Biologie de la Reproduction, Hospice Civil de Lyon, HFME, Lyon, France.,Faculté de Médecine Lyon Est, Université Claude Bernard, Lyon, France
| | - J Lornage
- Inserm U1208, Lyon, France.,Biologie de la Reproduction, Hospice Civil de Lyon, HFME, Lyon, France.,Faculté de Médecine Lyon-Sud, Université Claude Bernard, Lyon, France
| | - G Soignon
- Biologie de la Reproduction, Hospice Civil de Lyon, HFME, Lyon, France.,Faculté de Médecine Lyon Est, Université Claude Bernard, Lyon, France
| | - S Giscard d'Estaing
- Inserm U1208, Lyon, France.,Biologie de la Reproduction, Hospice Civil de Lyon, HFME, Lyon, France.,Faculté de Médecine Lyon-Sud, Université Claude Bernard, Lyon, France
| | - J-F Guérin
- Inserm U1208, Lyon, France.,Biologie de la Reproduction, Hospice Civil de Lyon, HFME, Lyon, France.,Faculté de Médecine Lyon Est, Université Claude Bernard, Lyon, France
| | - M Benchaib
- Inserm U1208, Lyon, France.,Biologie de la Reproduction, Hospice Civil de Lyon, HFME, Lyon, France.,Faculté de Médecine Lyon Est, Université Claude Bernard, Lyon, France
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Hamad M, Shelko N, Montenarh M, Hammadeh ME. The impact of cigarette smoking on protamines 1 and 2 transcripts in human spermatozoa. HUM FERTIL 2017; 22:104-110. [DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2017.1382733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Hamad
- College of Science and Health Professions, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
- IVF & Andrology Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Nyaz Shelko
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
- IVF & Andrology Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Mathias Montenarh
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Mohammed Eid Hammadeh
- IVF & Andrology Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saarland University, Homburg/Saar, Germany
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35
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Pavlinkova G, Margaryan H, Zatecka E, Valaskova E, Elzeinova F, Kubatova A, Bohuslavova R, Peknicova J. Transgenerational inheritance of susceptibility to diabetes-induced male subfertility. Sci Rep 2017; 7:4940. [PMID: 28694462 PMCID: PMC5504044 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-05286-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 05/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a worldwide problem associated with genetic background, environmental factors, and diseases. One of the suspected contributing factors to male infertility is diabetes mellitus. We investigated the molecular and morphological changes in sperms and testicular tissue of diabetic males. The study was performed in streptozotocin-induced type 1 diabetes mouse model. Diabetes decreased sperm concentration and viability and increased sperm apoptosis. Changes in protamine 1/protamine 2 ratio indicated reduced sperm quality. The testicular tissue of diabetic males showed significant tissue damage, disruption of meiotic progression, and changes in the expression of genes encoding proteins important for spermiogenesis. Paternal diabetes altered sperm quality and expression pattern in the testes in offspring of two subsequent generations. Our study revealed that paternal diabetes increased susceptibility to infertility in offspring through gametic alternations. Our data also provide a mechanistic basis for transgenerational inheritance of diabetes-associated pathologies since protamines may be involved in epigenetic regulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Pavlinkova
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathogenetics, Institute of Biotechnology CAS, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czechia.
| | - Hasmik Margaryan
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology CAS, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czechia
| | - Eva Zatecka
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology CAS, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czechia
| | - Eliska Valaskova
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology CAS, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czechia
| | - Fatima Elzeinova
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology CAS, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czechia
| | - Alena Kubatova
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology CAS, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czechia
| | - Romana Bohuslavova
- Laboratory of Molecular Pathogenetics, Institute of Biotechnology CAS, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czechia
| | - Jana Peknicova
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology CAS, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czechia
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36
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Epigenetic dynamics and interplay during spermatogenesis and embryogenesis: implications for male fertility and offspring health. Oncotarget 2017; 8:53804-53818. [PMID: 28881852 PMCID: PMC5581151 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.17479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Mapping epigenetic modifications and identifying their roles in the regulation of spermatogenesis and embryogenesis are essential for gaining fundamental medical understandings and for clinical applications. More and more evidence has shown that specific epigenetic modifications are established during spermatogenesis, which will be transferred into oocyte via fertilisation, and play an important role in the early embryo development. Defects in epigenetic patterns may increase the risk of abnormal spermatogenesis, fertilisation failure, early embryogenesis abnormality and several other complications during pregnancy. This review mainly discusses the relationship between altered epigenetic profiles and reproductive diseases, highlighting how epigenetic defects affect the quality of sperm and embryo.
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37
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Ni K, Spiess AN, Schuppe HC, Steger K. The impact of sperm protamine deficiency and sperm DNA damage on human male fertility: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Andrology 2016; 4:789-99. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Revised: 04/11/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. Ni
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Urologie, Kinderurologie und Andrologie; Justus-Liebig-Universität; Giessen Germany
| | - A.-N. Spiess
- Department of Andrology; University Hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf; Hamburg Germany
| | - H.-C. Schuppe
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Urologie, Kinderurologie und Andrologie; Justus-Liebig-Universität; Giessen Germany
| | - K. Steger
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Urologie, Kinderurologie und Andrologie; Justus-Liebig-Universität; Giessen Germany
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38
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Castillo J, Estanyol JM, Ballescá JL, Oliva R. Human sperm chromatin epigenetic potential: genomics, proteomics, and male infertility. Asian J Androl 2016; 17:601-9. [PMID: 25926607 PMCID: PMC4492051 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.153302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The classical idea about the function of the mammalian sperm chromatin is that it serves to transmit a highly protected and transcriptionally inactive paternal genome, largely condensed by protamines, to the next generation. In addition, recent sperm chromatin genome-wide dissection studies indicate the presence of a differential distribution of the genes and repetitive sequences in the protamine-condensed and histone-condensed sperm chromatin domains, which could be potentially involved in regulatory roles after fertilization. Interestingly, recent proteomic studies have shown that sperm chromatin contains many additional proteins, in addition to the abundant histones and protamines, with specific modifications and chromatin affinity features which are also delivered to the oocyte. Both gene and protein signatures seem to be altered in infertile patients and, as such, are consistent with the potential involvement of the sperm chromatin landscape in early embryo development. This present work reviews the available information on the composition of the human sperm chromatin and its epigenetic potential, with a particular focus on recent results derived from high-throughput genomic and proteomic studies. As a complement, we provide experimental evidence for the detection of phosphorylations and acetylations in human protamine 1 using a mass spectrometry approach. The available data indicate that the sperm chromatin is much more complex than what it was previously thought, raising the possibility that it could also serve to transmit crucial paternal epigenetic information to the embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Rafael Oliva
- Human Genetics Research Group, IDIBAPS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Casanova 143; Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Biomedical Diagnostic Centre, Hospital Clinic, Villarroel 170, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
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39
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Gunes S, Arslan MA, Hekim GNT, Asci R. The role of epigenetics in idiopathic male infertility. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:553-569. [PMID: 26941097 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0682-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a complex disorder with multiple genetic and environmental causes. Although some specific mutations have been identified, other factors responsible for sperm defects remain largely unknown. Despite considerable efforts to identify the pathophysiology of the disease, we cannot explain the underlying mechanisms of approximately half of infertility cases. This study reviews current data on epigenetic regulation and idiopathic male infertility. Recent data have shown an association between epigenetic modifications and idiopathic infertility. In this regard, epigenetics has emerged as one of the promising research areas in understanding male infertility. Many studies have indicated that epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation in imprinted and developmental genes, histone tail modifications and short non-coding RNAs in spermatozoa may have a role in idiopathic male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sezgin Gunes
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
- Health Sciences Institute, Department of Multidisciplinary Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
| | - Mehmet Alper Arslan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
- Health Sciences Institute, Department of Multidisciplinary Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
| | | | - Ramazan Asci
- Health Sciences Institute, Department of Multidisciplinary Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, Ondokuz Mayis University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey
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40
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Epigenetic Alterations in Density Selected Human Spermatozoa for Assisted Reproduction. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0145585. [PMID: 26709917 PMCID: PMC4692407 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0145585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological evidence indicates that assisted reproductive technologies (ART) may be associated with several epigenetic diseases such as Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) or Silver-Russell syndrome (SRS). Selection of sperm by density-gradients in ART has improved DNA integrity and sperm quality; however, epigenetic alterations associated with this approach are largely unknown. In the present study, we investigated DNA methylation and histone retention profiles in raw sperm and selected sperm derived from the same individual and separated by using density-gradients. Results from a study group consisting of 93 males demonstrated that both global DNA methylation and histone retention levels decreased in density selected sperm. Compared to unselected raw sperm, histone transition rates decreased by an average of 27.2% in selected sperm, and the global methylation rate was 3.8% in unselected sperm and 3.3% in the selected sperm. DNA methylation and histone retention location profiling analyses suggested that these alterations displayed specific location patterns in the human genome. Changes in the pattern of hypomethylation largely occurred in transcriptional factor gene families such as HOX, FOX, and GATA. Histone retention increased in 67 genes, whereas it was significantly clustered in neural development-related gene families, particularly the olfactory sensor gene family. Although a causative relationship could not be established, the results of the present study suggest the possibility that sperm with good density also possess unique epigenetic profiles, particularly for genes involved in neural and olfactory development. As increasing evidence demonstrates that epigenetics plays a key role in embryonic development and offspring growth characteristics, the specific epigenetic alterations we observed in selected sperm may influence the transcriptional process and neural development in embryos.
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41
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The "omics" of human male infertility: integrating big data in a systems biology approach. Cell Tissue Res 2015; 363:295-312. [PMID: 26661835 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2320-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process in which >2300 genes are temporally and spatially regulated to form a terminally differentiated sperm cell that must maintain the ability to contribute to a totipotent embryo which can successfully differentiate into a healthy individual. This process is dependent on fidelity of the genome, epigenome, transcriptome, and proteome of the spermatogonia, supporting cells, and the resulting sperm cell. Infertility and/or disease risk may increase in the offspring if abnormalities are present. This review highlights the recent advances in our understanding of these processes in light of the "omics revolution". We briefly review each of these areas, as well as highlight areas of future study and needs to advance further.
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42
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Dogan S, Vargovic P, Oliveira R, Belser LE, Kaya A, Moura A, Sutovsky P, Parrish J, Topper E, Memili E. Sperm protamine-status correlates to the fertility of breeding bulls. Biol Reprod 2015; 92:92. [PMID: 25673563 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.124255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
During fertilization, spermatozoa make essential contributions to embryo development by providing oocyte activating factors, centrosomal components, and paternal chromosomes. Protamines are essential for proper packaging of sperm DNA; however, in contrast to the studies of oocyte-related female infertility, the influence of sperm chromatin structure on male infertility has not been evaluated extensively. The objective of this study was to determine the sperm chromatin content of bull spermatozoa by evaluating DNA fragmentation, chromatin maturity/protamination, PRM1 protein status, and nuclear shape in spermatozoa from bulls with different fertility. Relationships between protamine 1 (PRM1) and the chromatin integrity were ascertained in spermatozoa from Holstein bulls with varied (high vs. low) but acceptable fertility. Sperm DNA fragmentation and chromatin maturity (protamination) were tested using Halomax assay and toluidine blue staining, respectively. The PRM1 content was assayed using Western blotting and in-gel densitometry, flow cytometry, and immunocytochemistry. Fragmentation of DNA was increased and chromatin maturity significantly reduced in spermatozoa from low-fertility bulls compared to those from high-fertility bulls. Field fertility scores of the bulls were negatively correlated with the percentage of spermatozoa displaying reduced protamination and fragmented DNA using toluidine blue and Halomax, respectively. Bull fertility was also positively correlated with PRM1 content by Western blotting and flow cytometry. However, detection of PRM1 content by Western blotting alone was not predictive of bull fertility. In immunocytochemistry, abnormal spermatozoa showed either a lack of PRM1 or scattered localization in the apical/acrosomal region of the nuclei. The nuclear shape was distorted in spermatozoa from low-fertility bulls. In conclusion, we showed that inadequate amount and localization of PRM1 were associated with defects in sperm chromatin structure, coinciding with reduced fertility in bulls. These findings are highly significant because they reveal molecular and morphological phenotypes of mammalian spermatozoa that influence fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sule Dogan
- Mississippi State University, Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State, Mississippi
| | - Peter Vargovic
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | | | - Lauren E Belser
- Mississippi State University, Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State, Mississippi
| | | | | | - Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - John Parrish
- Department of Animal Science, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Einko Topper
- Alta Genetics Incorporated, Watertown, Wisconsin
| | - Erdoğan Memili
- Mississippi State University, Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State, Mississippi
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43
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Castillo J, Amaral A, Azpiazu R, Vavouri T, Estanyol JM, Ballesca JL, Oliva R. Genomic and proteomic dissection and characterization of the human sperm chromatin. Mol Hum Reprod 2014; 20:1041-53. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gau079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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44
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Zatecka E, Castillo J, Elzeinova F, Kubatova A, Ded L, Peknicova J, Oliva R. The effect of tetrabromobisphenol A on protamine content and DNA integrity in mouse spermatozoa. Andrology 2014; 2:910-7. [PMID: 25146423 DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2014.00257.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2014] [Revised: 07/15/2014] [Accepted: 07/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) is a widely used brominated flame retardant of increasing concern to human health because of its action as an endocrine disruptor. We have previously demonstrated that TBBPA is able to increase apoptosis of testicular cells and other changes in the first and second generations of mice exposed to TBBPA. However, the potential effects of TBBPA on mouse epididymal spermatozoa have not yet been investigated. Therefore, we initiated this study to determine whether TBBPA exposure could also result in increased DNA fragmentation in epididymal spermatozoa and whether it had an effect on the protamines as the major nuclear proteins. C57Bl/6J mouse pups (n = 10) were exposed to TBBPA (experimental group) during the gestation, lactation, pre-pubertal and pubertal periods up to the age of 70 days as previously described and compared to control mouse pups (n = 10) that were not exposed. The results demonstrate that TBBPA treatment results in a significantly decreased protamine 1/protamine 2 ratio (0.362 vs. 0.494; p < 0.001), increased total protamine/DNA ratio (0.517 vs. 0.324; p < 0.001) and increased number of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling positive spermatozoa (39.5% vs. 21.2%; p < 0.05) observed between TBBPA and control mice respectively. These findings indicate that TBBPA exposure, in addition to the resulting increased sperm DNA damage, also has the potential to alter the epigenetic marking of sperm chromatin through generation of an anomalous content and distribution of protamines. The possibility is now open to study whether the detected altered protamine content and DNA integrity are related to the previously observed second-generation effects upon TBBPA exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Zatecka
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Biotechnology, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, v. v. i., Prague, Czech Republic
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45
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Hamad MF, Shelko N, Kartarius S, Montenarh M, Hammadeh ME. Impact of cigarette smoking on histone (H2B) to protamine ratio in human spermatozoa and its relation to sperm parameters. Andrology 2014; 2:666-77. [DOI: 10.1111/j.2047-2927.2014.00245.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2014] [Revised: 06/14/2014] [Accepted: 06/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. F. Hamad
- Department of Basic Sciences; College of Science and Health Professions; King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences; Riyadh Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Biochemistry & Molecular Biology; University of the Saarland; Homburg/Saar Germany
- IVF & Andrology Laboratory; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University of the Saarland; Homburg/Saar Germany
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences; Petra University; Amman Jordan
| | - N. Shelko
- Department of Medical Biochemistry & Molecular Biology; University of the Saarland; Homburg/Saar Germany
- IVF & Andrology Laboratory; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University of the Saarland; Homburg/Saar Germany
| | - S. Kartarius
- Department of Medical Biochemistry & Molecular Biology; University of the Saarland; Homburg/Saar Germany
| | - M. Montenarh
- Department of Medical Biochemistry & Molecular Biology; University of the Saarland; Homburg/Saar Germany
| | - M. E. Hammadeh
- IVF & Andrology Laboratory; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University of the Saarland; Homburg/Saar Germany
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46
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Francis S, Yelumalai S, Jones C, Coward K. Aberrant protamine content in sperm and consequential implications for infertility treatment. HUM FERTIL 2014; 17:80-9. [DOI: 10.3109/14647273.2014.915347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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47
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Azpiazu R, Amaral A, Castillo J, Estanyol JM, Guimerà M, Ballescà JL, Balasch J, Oliva R. High-throughput sperm differential proteomics suggests that epigenetic alterations contribute to failed assisted reproduction. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:1225-37. [PMID: 24781426 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are there quantitative alterations in the proteome of normozoospermic sperm samples that are able to complete IVF but whose female partner does not achieve pregnancy? SUMMARY ANSWER Normozoospermic sperm samples with different IVF outcomes (pregnancy versus no pregnancy) differed in the levels of at least 66 proteins. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The analysis of the proteome of sperm samples with distinct fertilization capacity using low-throughput proteomic techniques resulted in the detection of a few differential proteins. Current high-throughput mass spectrometry approaches allow the identification and quantification of a substantially higher number of proteins. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a case-control study including 31 men with normozoospermic sperm and their partners who underwent IVF with successful fertilization recruited between 2007 and 2008. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Normozoospermic sperm samples from 15 men whose female partners did not achieve pregnancy after IVF (no pregnancy) and 16 men from couples that did achieve pregnancy after IVF (pregnancy) were included in this study. To perform the differential proteomic experiments, 10 no pregnancy samples and 10 pregnancy samples were separately pooled and subsequently used for tandem mass tags (TMT) protein labelling, sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) identification and peak intensity relative protein quantification. Bioinformatic analyses were performed using UniProt Knowledgebase, DAVID and Reactome. Individual samples (n = 5 no pregnancy samples; n = 6 pregnancy samples) and aliquots from the above TMT pools were used for western blotting. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE By using TMT labelling and LC-MS/MS, we have detected 31 proteins present at lower abundance (ratio no pregnancy/pregnancy < 0.67) and 35 at higher abundance (ratio no pregnancy/pregnancy > 1.5) in the no pregnancy group. Bioinformatic analyses showed that the proteins with differing abundance are involved in chromatin assembly and lipoprotein metabolism (P values < 0.05). In addition, the differential abundance of one of the proteins (SRSF protein kinase 1) was further validated by western blotting using independent samples (P value < 0.01). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION For individual samples the amount of recovered sperm not used for IVF was low and in most of the cases insufficient for MS analysis, therefore pools of samples had to be used to this end. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Alterations in the proteins involved in chromatin assembly and metabolism may result in epigenetic errors during spermatogenesis, leading to inaccurate sperm epigenetic signatures, which could ultimately prevent embryonic development. These sperm proteins may thus possibly have clinical relevance. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness (Ministerio de Economia y Competividad; FEDER BFU 2009-07118 and PI13/00699) and Fundación Salud 2000 SERONO13-015. There are no competing interests to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubén Azpiazu
- Human Genetics Research Group, IDIBAPS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Casanova 143, Barcelona 08036, Spain
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Jodar M, Oliva R. Protamine Alterations in Human Spermatozoa. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 791:83-102. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-7783-9_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Yu B, Qi Y, Liu D, Gao X, Chen H, Bai C, Huang Z. Cigarette smoking is associated with abnormal histone-to-protamine transition in human sperm. Fertil Steril 2014; 101:51-57.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2013] [Revised: 08/23/2013] [Accepted: 09/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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O'Flaherty C. Iatrogenic genetic damage of spermatozoa. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2014; 791:117-35. [PMID: 23955676 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-7783-9_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Various factors that negatively influence male fertility can affect sperm morphology and physiology. Many studies on humans and animals suggest that both radiation and chemotherapy alter the sperm chromatin, inducing significant damage to sperm DNA, and decrease the level of protamination, thereby altering DNA compaction. Spermatozoa from cancer survivors are affected by chemotherapy even years after the end of treatment. We are exposed to various toxicants present in the environment (e.g., products of air pollution, pesticides, and plasticizers) whose impact on human male reproduction has not yet been established.This chapter aims to update our knowledge on how the sperm chromatin structure is modified by external agents and to describe the different strategies available to better study this complex structure in infertile men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristian O'Flaherty
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, McGill University and the Research Institute- McGill University Health Centre, Royal Victoria Hospital, room H6.46, 687 Avenue des Pins Ouest, Montréal, Québec, H3A 1A1, Canada,
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