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Salehi Novin M, Mehdizadeh A, Artimani T, Bakhtiari M, Mehdizadeh M, Aflatoonian R, Zandieh Z. MACS-DGC sperm preparation method resulted in high-quality sperm, top-quality embryo, and higher blastocyst rate in male factor infertile couples with high DNA fragmented sperm. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:1408-1416. [PMID: 37469268 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2023.2236297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
Conventional sperm selection based on motility and morphology fails to provide detailed information on sperm functional and molecular status. Magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) protocol aims to optimize this process by selecting apoptotic sperm cells. Phospholipase C zeta-1 (PLCz1) is a physiological stimulus for oocyte activation and early embryonic development. The purpose of this study was to examine seminal parameters, DNA fragmentation index (DFI), and PLCz1 expression levels in MACS-DGC sorted specimens (DFI > 30%) and assess early development in resulting embryos. Semen specimens from 60 patients diagnosed with male factor infertility were collected and processed by either density gradient centrifugation (DGC) or MACS-DGC protocols. Pre and post-preparation analysis was performed. PLCz1 expression was assessed using the RT-PCR method. Retrieved eggs from their partners were divided into two groups in which they were injected with different sorted sperm. The fertilization rate and embryonic development were evaluated. While sperm's progressive motility and morphology significantly improved, there was a substantial decline in DFI following MACS-DGC. Fertilization rates were almost the same between the groups, and the latter resulted in remarkably more top-quality embryos and more blastocysts. PLCz1 expression was considerably higher in the MACS-DGC group. By eliminating apoptotic cells, the MACS-DGC technique could sort highly PLCz1-expressed sperm, optimize sperm selection in individuals with elevated DFI, development of resulting embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tayebe Artimani
- Endometrium & Endometriosis Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Bakhtiari
- Department of Anatomy, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mehdizadeh
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Centre, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Zandieh
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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2
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Zhang X, Hu C, Wu L. Advances in the study of genetic factors and clinical interventions for fertilization failure. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:1787-1805. [PMID: 37289376 PMCID: PMC10371943 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02810-2] [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: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Fertilization failure refers to the failure in the pronucleus formation, evaluating 16-18 h post in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection. It can be caused by sperm, oocytes, and sperm-oocyte interaction and lead to great financial and physical stress to the patients. Recent advancements in genetics, molecular biology, and clinical-assisted reproductive technology have greatly enhanced research into the causes and treatment of fertilization failure. Here, we review the causes that have been reported to lead to fertilization failure in fertilization processes, including the sperm acrosome reaction, penetration of the cumulus and zona pellucida, recognition and fusion of the sperm and oocyte membranes, oocyte activation, and pronucleus formation. Additionally, we summarize the progress of corresponding treatment methods of fertilization failure. This review will provide the latest research advances in the genetic aspects of fertilization failure and will benefit both researchers and clinical practitioners in reproduction and genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangjun Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Congyuan Hu
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Limin Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China.
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Quintana-Vehí A, Martínez M, Zamora MJ, Rodríguez A, Vassena R, Miguel-Escalada I, Popovic M. Significant differences in efficiency between two commonly used ionophore solutions for assisted oocyte activation (AOA): a prospective comparison of ionomycin and A23187. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:1661-1668. [PMID: 37247099 PMCID: PMC10352473 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02833-9] [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: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite the success of ICSI in treating severe male factor infertile patients, total fertilization failure (FF) still occurs in around 1-3% of ICSI cycles. To overcome FF, the use of calcium ionophores has been proposed to induce oocyte activation and restore fertilization rates. However, assisted oocyte activation (AOA) protocols and ionophores vary between laboratories, and the morphokinetic development underlying AOA remains understudied. METHODS A prospective single-center cohort study involving 81 in vitro matured metaphase-II oocytes from 66 oocyte donation cycles artificially activated by A23187 (GM508 CultActive, Gynemed) (n=42) or ionomycin (n=39). Parthenogenesis was induced, and morphokinetic parameters (tPNa, tPNf, t2-t8, tSB, and tB) were compared between the 2 study groups and a control group comprising 39 2PN-zygotes from standard ICSI cycles. RESULTS Ionomycin treatment resulted in higher activation rates compared to A23187 (38.5% vs 23.8%, p=0.15). Importantly, none of the A23187-activated parthenotes formed blastocysts. When evaluating the morphokinetic dynamics between the two ionophores, we found that tPNa and tPNf were significantly delayed in the group treated by A23187 (11.84 vs 5.31, p=0.002 and 50.15 vs 29.69, p=0.005, respectively). t2 was significantly delayed in A23187-activated parthenotes when compared to the double heterologous control embryo group. In contrast, the morphokinetic development of ionomycin-activated parthenotes was comparable to control embryos (p>0.05). CONCLUSION Our results suggest that A23187 leads to lower oocyte activation rates and profoundly affects morphokinetic timings and preimplantation development in parthenotes. Despite our limited sample size and low parthenote competence, standardization and further optimization of AOA protocols may allow wider use and improved outcomes for FF cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M Martínez
- Clínica EUGIN, C/ Balmes 236, 08006, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M J Zamora
- Clínica EUGIN, C/ Balmes 236, 08006, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - R Vassena
- Eugin Group, 08006, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - M Popovic
- Eugin Group, 08006, Barcelona, Spain
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Yu W, Li Y, Chen H, Cui Y, Situ C, Yao L, Zhang X, Lu S, Liu L, Li L, Ren J, Guo Y, Huo Z, Chen Y, Li H, Jiang T, Gu Y, Wang C, Zhu T, Li Y, Hu Z, Guo X. STK33 phosphorylates fibrous sheath protein AKAP3/4 to regulate sperm flagella assembly in spermiogenesis. Mol Cell Proteomics 2023:100564. [PMID: 37146716 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcpro.2023.100564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis defects are important for male infertility; however, the etiology and pathogenesis are still unknown. Herein, we identified two loss of function mutations of STK33 in 7 individuals with non-obstructive azoospermia. Further functional studies of these frameshift and nonsense mutations revealed that Stk33-/KI male mice were sterile, and Stk33-/KI sperm were abnormal with defects in the mitochondrial sheath (MS), fibrous sheath (FS), outer dense fiber (ODF) and axoneme. Stk33KI/KI male mice were subfertile and had oligoasthenozoospermia. Differential phosphoproteomic analysis and in vitro kinase assay identified novel phosphorylation substrates of STK33, fibrous sheath components AKAP3 and AKAP4, whose expression levels decreased in testis after deletion of Stk33. STK33 regulated the phosphorylation of AKAP3/4, affected the assembly of fibrous sheath in the sperm, and played an essential role in spermiogenesis and male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiling Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; School of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China
| | - Hong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yiqiang Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Chenghao Situ
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Liping Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Xiangzheng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Shuai Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; School of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China
| | - Li Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Laihua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Jie Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yueshuai Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Zian Huo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Haojie Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; School of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China
| | - Yayun Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; School of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; School of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China
| | - Tianyu Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Yan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China
| | - Zhibin Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China; School of Public Health, Center for Global Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 211100, China.
| | - Xuejiang Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211166, China.
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Artificial oocyte activation with ionomycin compared with A23187 among patients at risk of failed or impaired fertilization. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 46:35-45. [PMID: 36379856 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.08.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Do fertilization rates differ between intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles treated with artificial oocyte activation (AOA) using 10 µmol/l ionomycin or commercial A23187 in women at risk of failed or impaired fertilization? DESIGN This single-centre, 7-year retrospective cohort study included 157 couples with a history of total fertilization failure (TFF, 0%) or low fertilization (<30%) after ICSI, or with severe oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia (OAT) in the male partner. Couples and underwent 171 ICSI-AOA cycles using either 10 µmol/l ionomycin or commercial A23187. The embryological and clinical outcomes were compared. RESULTS Fertilization rates in the ionomycin group were significantly higher than those in the A23187 group for all three subgroups (TFF, 46.9% versus 28.4%, P = 0.002; low fertilization, 67.7% versus 49.2%, P < 0.001; severe OAT, 66.4% versus 31.6%, P < 0.001). AOA with ionomycin significantly increased the day 3 cleavage rate (P = 0.009) when compared with A23187 in the low fertilization group, but not in the TFF or severe OAT group (both P > 0.05). The rates of day 3 good-quality embryos, clinical pregnancy, implantation and live birth, and the cumulative live birth, did not differ between the two groups (all P > 0.05). A total of 64 live births resulted in 72 healthy babies born. CONCLUSIONS AOA with 10 µmol/l ionomycin may be more effective than commercial A23187 in improving oocyte activation in patients at risk of failed or impaired fertilization, especially in cases of sperm-related defects.
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Cabeza JP, Cámera J, Briski O, Felipe MY, Salamone DF, Gambini A. Preimplantation Developmental Competence of Bovine and Porcine Oocytes Activated by Zinc Chelation. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12243560. [PMID: 36552480 PMCID: PMC9774810 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
After sperm-oocyte fusion, intracytoplasmic rises of calcium (Ca) induce the release of zinc (Zn) out of the oocyte (Zn sparks). Both phenomena are known to play an essential role in the oocyte activation process. Our work aimed to explore different protocols for activating bovine and porcine oocytes using the novel zinc chelator 1,10-phenanthroline (PHEN) and to compare developmental rates and quality to bovine IVF and parthenogenetic ionomycin-induced embryos in both species. Different incubation conditions for the zinc chelator were tested, including its combination with ionomycin. Embryo quality was assessed by immunofluorescence of SOX2, SOX17, OCT4, and CDX2 and total cell number at the blastocyst stage. Even though blastocyst development was achieved using a zinc chelator in bovine, bypassing calcium oscillations, developmental rates, and blastocyst quality were compromised compared to embryos generated with sperm-induced or ionomycin calcium rise. On the contrary, zinc chelation is sufficient to trigger oocyte activation in porcine. Additionally, we determined the optimal exposure to PHEN for this species. Zinc chelation and artificial induction of calcium rise combined did not improve developmental competence. Our results contribute to understanding the role of zinc during oocyte activation and preimplantation embryo development across different mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan P. Cabeza
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
| | - Juan Cámera
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
| | - Olinda Briski
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
| | - Minerva Yauri Felipe
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
| | - Daniel F. Salamone
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
| | - Andrés Gambini
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia
- Correspondence:
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Dai J, Li Q, Zhou Q, Zhang S, Chen J, Wang Y, Guo J, Gu Y, Gong F, Tan Y, Lu G, Zheng W, Lin G. IQCN disruption causes fertilization failure and male infertility due to manchette assembly defect. EMBO Mol Med 2022; 14:e16501. [PMID: 36321563 PMCID: PMC9728048 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202216501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Total fertilization failure (TFF) is an important cause of infertility; however, the genetic basis of TFF caused by male factors remains to be clarified. In this study, whole-exome sequencing was firstly used to screen for genetic causes of TFF after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and homozygous variants in the novel gene IQ motif-containing N (IQCN) were identified in two affected individuals with abnormal acrosome structures. Then, Iqcn-knockout mice were generated by CRISPR-Cas9 technology and showed that the knockout male mice resembled the human phenotypes. Additionally, we found that IQCN regulates microtubule nucleation during manchette assembly via calmodulin and related calmodulin-binding proteins, which resulted in head deformity with aberrant oocyte activation factor PLCζ. Fortunately, ICSI with assisted oocyte activation can overcome IQCN-associate TFF and male infertility. Thus, our study firstly identified the function of IQCN, highlights the relationship between the manchette assembly and fertilization, and provides a genetic marker and a therapeutic option for male-source TFF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Dai
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical ScienceCentral South UniversityChangShaChina,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina
| | - Qi Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangShaChina
| | - Qinwei Zhou
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina
| | - Shen Zhang
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina
| | - Junru Chen
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina
| | - Yize Wang
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical ScienceCentral South UniversityChangShaChina
| | - Jing Guo
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina
| | - Yifan Gu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical ScienceCentral South UniversityChangShaChina,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangShaChina
| | - Fei Gong
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical ScienceCentral South UniversityChangShaChina,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangShaChina
| | - Yueqiu Tan
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical ScienceCentral South UniversityChangShaChina,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangShaChina
| | - Guangxiu Lu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangShaChina
| | - Wei Zheng
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina
| | - Ge Lin
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical ScienceCentral South UniversityChangShaChina,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangShaChina
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Tsai TE, Lin PH, Lian PF, Li CJ, Vitale SG, Mikuš M, Su WP, Tsai HW, Tsui KH, Lin LT. Artificial oocyte activation may improve embryo quality in older patients with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing IVF-ICSI cycles. J Ovarian Res 2022; 15:102. [PMID: 36085215 PMCID: PMC9463812 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-01036-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Artificial oocyte activation (AOA) is used to improve fertilization rate following fertilization failure after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Several studies have also shown that AOA may be involved in embryo development. Women with poor ovarian response are more likely to encounter in vitro fertilization (IVF) failure due to poor embryo quality. The aim of this study was to investigate whether AOA could improve embryo quality in older patients with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing IVF-ICSI cycles. METHODS The retrospective cohort study consisted of 308 patients who fulfilled the POSEIDON Group 4 criteria and received IVF-ICSI cycles. The study group included 91 patients receiving AOA with calcium ionophores following ICSI. A total of 168 patients in the control group underwent ICSI without AOA. The baseline and cycle characteristics and embryo quality were compared between the two groups. RESULTS At baseline, there were more IVF attempts, greater primary infertility, higher basal FSH levels and lower anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels in the AOA group than in the non-AOA group. In terms of embryo quality, there were higher cleavage rates and top-quality Day 3 embryo (TQE) rates, as well as higher percentages of more than 1 TQE and TQE rates ≥50 in the AOA group than in the non-AOA group. The multivariate analysis revealed that AOA was positively associated with more than 1 TQE (adjusted OR 3.24, 95% CI 1.63-6.45, P = 0.001) and a TQE rate ≥ 50 (adjusted OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.20-3.80, P = 0.010). When the study population was divided into 2 subgroups based on the age of 40 years old, the beneficial effects of AOA on embryo quality were only observed in the subgroup of age ≥ 40 years old. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that AOA with calcium ionophores may improve embryo quality in older patients with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing IVF-ICSI cycles, especially in women aged ≥40 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzung-En Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Hsuan Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Fen Lian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jung Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.,Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Salvatore Giovanni Vitale
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95124, Catania, Italy
| | - Mislav Mikuš
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Wan-Ping Su
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Wen Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Hao Tsui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.,Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Li-Te Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan. .,Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei City, Taiwan. .,Department of Biological Science, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.
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9
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Differential Expression and Localization of EHBP1L1 during the First Wave of Rat Spermatogenesis Suggest Its Involvement in Acrosome Biogenesis. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10010181. [PMID: 35052860 PMCID: PMC8773523 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10010181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The identification and characterization of new proteins involved in spermatogenesis is fundamental, considering that good-quality gametes are basic in ensuring proper reproduction. Here, we further analyzed the temporal and spatial localization during the first spermatogenic wave of rat testis of EHBP1L1, which is involved in vesicular trafficking due to the CH and bMERB domains, which bind to actin and Rab8/10, respectively. Western blot and immunofluorescence analyses showed that EHBP1L1 protein expression started at 21 days post-partum (dpp) concomitantly with the appearance of primary spermatocytes (I SPC). In subsequent stages, EHBP1L1 specifically localized together with actin in the perinuclear cytoplasm close to the acrosomal and Golgian regions of spermatids (SPT) during the different phases of acrosome biogenesis (AB). Moreover, it was completely absent in elongated SPT and in mature spermatozoa, suggesting that its role was completed in previous stages. The combined data, also supported by our previous report demonstrating that EHBP1L1 mRNA was expressed by primary (I) and secondary (II) SPC, lead us to hypothesize its specific role during AB. Although these results are suggestive, further studies are needed to better clarify the underlying molecular mechanisms of AB, with the aim to use EHBP1L1 as a potential new marker for spermatogenesis.
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10
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Liang R, Fang F, Li S, Chen X, Zhang X, Lu Q. Is there any effect on imprinted genes H19, PEG3, and SNRPN during AOA? Open Med (Wars) 2022; 17:174-184. [PMID: 35071778 PMCID: PMC8760930 DOI: 10.1515/med-2022-0410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Assisted oocyte activation (AOA) has been proposed as an effective technique to overcome the problem of impaired fertilization after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) but the safety of AOA remains a concern. We aimed to investigate if AOA induces imprinting effects on embryos. We used 13 cleavage embryos, nine blastocysts, and eight placentas from 15 patients. The subjects were divided into six groups by tissue type and with or without AOA. The methylation levels of imprinted genes (H19, paternally expressed gene [PEG3] and small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptide N [SNRPN]) were tested by pyrosequencing. We observed different methylation levels among cleavage embryos. The variability was much more remarkable between cleavage embryos than blastocysts and placenta tissues. The methylation levels were especially higher in SNRPN and lower in the H19 gene in AOA embryos than those without AOA. No significant difference was found either among blastocysts or among placenta tissues regardless of AOA. The methylation levels of the three genes in blastocysts were very similar to those in the placenta. Compared to conventional ICSI, AOA changed imprinting methylation rates at H19 and SNRPN in cleavage embryos but not in the blastocyst stage and placenta. We recommend that blastocyst transfer should be considered for patients undergoing AOA during in vitro fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Liang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital , Beijing , 100044 , China
| | - Fang Fang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital , Beijing , 100044 , China
| | - Sen Li
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Guangdong Province , Guangzhou , 510317 , China
| | - Xi Chen
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital , Beijing , 100044 , China
| | - Xiaohong Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital , Beijing , 100044 , China
| | - Qun Lu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital , Beijing , 100044 , China
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11
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Kashir J, Ganesh D, Jones C, Coward K. OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod Open 2022; 2022:hoac003. [PMID: 35261925 PMCID: PMC8894871 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoac003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oocyte activation deficiency (OAD) is attributed to the majority of cases underlying failure of ICSI cycles, the standard treatment for male factor infertility. Oocyte activation encompasses a series of concerted events, triggered by sperm-specific phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ), which elicits increases in free cytoplasmic calcium (Ca2+) in spatially and temporally specific oscillations. Defects in this specific pattern of Ca2+ release are directly attributable to most cases of OAD. Ca2+ release can be clinically mediated via assisted oocyte activation (AOA), a combination of mechanical, electrical and/or chemical stimuli which artificially promote an increase in the levels of intra-cytoplasmic Ca2+. However, concerns regarding safety and efficacy underlie potential risks that must be addressed before such methods can be safely widely used. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Recent advances in current AOA techniques warrant a review of the safety and efficacy of these practices, to determine the extent to which AOA may be implemented in the clinic. Importantly, the primary challenges to obtaining data on the safety and efficacy of AOA must be determined. Such questions require urgent attention before widespread clinical utilization of such protocols can be advocated. SEARCH METHODS A literature review was performed using databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, etc. using AOA, OAD, calcium ionophores, ICSI, PLCζ, oocyte activation, failed fertilization and fertilization failure as keywords. Relevant articles published until June 2019 were analysed and included in the review, with an emphasis on studies assessing large-scale efficacy and safety. OUTCOMES Contradictory studies on the safety and efficacy of AOA do not yet allow for the establishment of AOA as standard practice in the clinic. Heterogeneity in study methodology, inconsistent sample inclusion criteria, non-standardized outcome assessments, restricted sample size and animal model limitations render AOA strictly experimental. The main scientific concern impeding AOA utilization in the clinic is the non-physiological method of Ca2+ release mediated by most AOA agents, coupled with a lack of holistic understanding regarding the physiological mechanism(s) underlying Ca2+ release at oocyte activation. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The number of studies with clinical relevance using AOA remains significantly low. A much wider range of studies examining outcomes using multiple AOA agents are required. WIDER IMPLICATIONS In addition to addressing the five main challenges of studies assessing AOA safety and efficacy, more standardized, large-scale, multi-centre studies of AOA, as well as long-term follow-up studies of children born from AOA, would provide evidence for establishing AOA as a treatment for infertility. The delivery of an activating agent that can more accurately recapitulate physiological fertilization, such as recombinant PLCζ, is a promising prospect for the future of AOA. Further to PLCζ, many other avenues of physiological oocyte activation also require urgent investigation to assess other potential physiological avenues of AOA. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS D.G. was supported by Stanford University’s Bing Overseas Study Program. J.K. was supported by a Healthcare Research Fellowship Award (HF-14-16) made by Health and Care Research Wales (HCRW), alongside a National Science, Technology, and Innovation plan (NSTIP) project grant (15-MED4186-20) awarded by the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST). The authors have no competing interests to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Celine Jones
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Kevin Coward
- Correspondence address. Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OS3 9DU, UK. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3577-4041
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12
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Xue Y, Cheng X, Xiong Y, Li K. Gene mutations associated with fertilization failure after in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1086883. [PMID: 36589837 PMCID: PMC9800785 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1086883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertilization failure during assisted reproductive technologies (ART) is often unpredictable, as this failure is encountered only after in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) have been performed. The etiology of fertilization failure remains elusive. More and more mutations of genes are found to be involved in human fertilization failure in infertile patients as high throughput sequencing techniques are becoming widely applied. In this review, the mutations of nine important genes expressed in sperm or oocytes, PLCZ1, ACTL7A, ACTL9, DNAH17, WEE2, TUBB8, NLRP5, ZP2, and TLE6, were summarized and discussed. These abnormalities mainly have shown Mendelian patterns of inheritance, including dominant and recessive inheritance, although de novo mutations were present in some cases. The review revealed the crucial roles of each reported gene in the fertilization process and summarized all known mutations and their corresponding phenotypes. The review suggested the mutations might become promising targets for precision treatments in reproductive medicine. Moreover, our work will provide some helpful clues for genetic counseling, risk prediction, and optimizing clinical treatments for human infertility by supplying the useful and timely information on the genetic causes leading to fertilization failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamei Xue
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohong Cheng
- Institute for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuping Xiong
- Institute for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kun Li
- Institute for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal’s & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Kun Li,
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13
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Uh K, Hay A, Chen P, Reese E, Lee K. Design of novel oocyte activation methods: The role of zinc. Biol Reprod 2021; 106:264-273. [PMID: 34935887 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte activation occurs at the time of fertilization and is a series of cellular events initiated by intracellular Ca2+ increases. Consequently, oocytes are alleviated from their arrested state in meiotic metaphase II (MII), allowing for the completion of meiosis. Oocyte activation is also an essential step for somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) and an important tool to overcome clinical infertility. Traditional artificial activation methods aim to mimic the intracellular Ca2+ changes which occur during fertilization. Recent studies emphasize the importance of cytoplasmic Zn2+ on oocyte maturation and the completion of meiosis, thus suggesting artificial oocyte activation approaches that are centered around the concentration of available Zn2+in oocytes. Depletion of intracellular Zn2+ in oocytes with heavy metal chelators leads to successful oocyte activation in the absence of cellular Ca2+ changes, indicating that successful oocyte activation does not always depends on intracellular Ca2+ increases. Current findings lead to new approaches to artificially activate mammalian oocytes by reducing available Zn2+ contents, and the approaches improve the outcome of oocyte activation when combined with existing Ca2+ based oocyte activation methods. Here, we review the important role of Ca2+ and Zn2+ in mammalian oocyte activation and development of novel oocyte activation approaches based on Zn2+ availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyungjun Uh
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Alayna Hay
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
| | - Paula Chen
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Emily Reese
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Kiho Lee
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
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14
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Wang J, Zhang J, Sun X, Lin Y, Cai L, Cui Y, Liu J, Liu M, Yang X. Novel bi-allelic variants in ACTL7A are associated with male infertility and total fertilization failure. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:3161-3169. [PMID: 34727571 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the genetic causes of total fertilization failure (TFF) in a proband suffering from male infertility? SUMMARY ANSWER Novel compound heterozygous variants (c.[463C>T];[1084G>A], p.[(Arg155Ter)];[(Gly362Arg)]) in actin-like protein 7A (ACTL7A) were identified as a causative genetic factor for human TFF. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY ACTL7A, an actin-related protein, is essential for spermatogenesis. ACTL7A variants have been reported to cause early embryonic arrest in humans but have not been studied in human TFF. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We recruited a non-consanguineous family whose son was affected by infertility characterized by TFF after ICSI. Whole-exome sequencing was used to identify the potential pathogenic variants. Artificial oocyte activation (AOA) after ICSI was performed to overcome TFF and any resulting pregnancy was followed up. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Sanger sequencing was performed to validate the variants. Pathogenicity of the identified variants was predicted by in silico tools. The ultrastructure of spermatozoa was studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Immunofluorescence staining and western blotting were used to investigate the mechanism of the variants on the affected spermatozoa. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Novel compound heterozygous variants in ACTL7A (c.[463C>T];[1084G>A], p.[(Arg155Ter)];[(Gly362Arg)]) were identified in a family with TFF after ICSI. In silico analysis predicted that the variants lead to a disease-causing protein. TEM showed that the ACTL7A variants caused ultrastructural defects in the acrosome and perinuclear theca. Protein expression of ACTL7A and phospholipase C zeta, a key sperm-borne oocyte activation factor, was significantly reduced in the affected sperm compared to healthy controls, suggesting that the ACLT7A variants lead to an oocyte activation deficiency and TFF. AOA by calcium ionophore (A23187) after ICSI successfully rescued the TFF and achieved a live birth for the patient with ACTL7A variants. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Given the rarity of sperm-associated TFF, only one family with an only child carrying the ACTL7A variants was found. In addition, the TFF phenotype was not assessed in two or more ICSI cycles, due to the intervention in ICSI with AOA after one failed ICSI cycle. Further studies should validate the ACTL7A variants and its effect on male infertility in larger independent cohorts. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS : Our findings revealed a critical role of ACTL7A in male fertility and identified bi-allelic variants in ACTL7A associated with human TFF, which expands the genetic spectrum of TFF and supports the genetic diagnosis of TFF patients. We also rescued TFF by AOA and obtained a healthy live birth, which provides a potentially effective intervention for patients with ACTL7A pathogenic variants. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (81971374 and 81401267). No conflicts of interest were declared. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jintao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xueping Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuting Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lingbo Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yugui Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiayin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mingxi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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15
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Wang M, Zhu L, Liu C, He H, Wang C, Xing C, Liu J, Yang L, Xi Q, Li Z, Jin L. A Novel Assisted Oocyte Activation Method Improves Fertilization in Patients With Recurrent Fertilization Failure. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:672081. [PMID: 34368125 PMCID: PMC8334862 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.672081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Total fertilization failure (TFF) occurs in 1–3% of total intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles and can reoccur in subsequent cycles. Despite the high success rate with the application of assisted oocyte activation (AOA), there is still a small number of couples who cannot obtain fertilized eggs after conventional calcium (Ca2+) ionophores-based ICSI-AOA. Six couples experiencing repeated TFF or low fertilization (<10%) after ICSI and conventional ICSI-AOA were enrolled in this study. Compared with the regular ICSI group and the conventional ICSI-AOA group, the new AOA method, a combination of cycloheximide (CHX) and ionomycin, can significantly increase the fertilization rate from less than 10 up to approximately 50% in most cases. The normal distribution of sperm-related oocyte activation factor phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ1) in the sperms of the cases indicated the absence of an aberrant Ca2+ signaling activation. The results of the whole-embryo aneuploidies analysis indicated that oocytes receiving the novel AOA treatment had the potential to develop into blastocysts with normal karyotypes. Our data demonstrated that CHX combined with ionomycin was able to effectively improve the fertilization rate in the majority of patients suffering from TFF. This novel AOA method had a potential therapeutic effect on those couples experiencing TFF, even after conventional AOA, which may surmount the severe fertilization deficiencies in patients with a repeated low fertilization or TFF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lixia Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui He
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chenxi Xing
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinming Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qingsong Xi
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhou Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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16
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Chen P, Saiyin H, Shi R, Liu B, Han X, Gao Y, Ye X, Zhang X, Sun Y. Loss of SPACA1 function causes autosomal recessive globozoospermia by damaging the acrosome-acroplaxome complex. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:2587-2596. [PMID: 34172998 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the sperm acrosome membrane-associated protein 1 (SPACA1) gene critical to human globozoospermia? SUMMARY ANSWER The biallelic loss-of-function (variant of SPACA1) causes globozoospermia as a result of acrosome-acroplaxome complex damage. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY SPACA1 expression decreases in patients with globozoospermia. Spaca1 gene-disrupted mice have abnormally shaped sperm heads that resemble those of human globozoospermia. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We recruited a consanguineous family with two brothers affected by infertility as a consequence of globozoospermia. The semen analysis data and ART outcomes were collected. Exome sequencing (ES) was used to identify potential pathogenic variants. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) technologies and proteomic analysis were utilized to explore the pathogenic mechanism. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Two globozoospermic brothers and their consanguineous parents were recruited to identify the potential pathogenic variant through ES. A homozygous nonsense variant in the SPACA1 gene in both brothers inherited from the heterozygous parents was identified. Twenty normal fertile males were recruited as controls. Sperm ultrastructure was observed with transmission electron microscopy. Western blotting was performed to measure SPACA1 expression level in the sperm from the patients. Mass spectrometry (MS) analyses were used to identify differentially expressed proteins and to investigate proteins that interact with SPACA1. Co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP), yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) and immunofluorescence colocalization assays were used to confirm the PPI. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A nonsense variant (NM_030960.2: c.53G>A; p. Trp18*) in the SPACA1 gene was identified as the pathogenic variant in a family with globozoospermia. Patient IV:1 and Patient IV:2 had a phenotype very similar to that of Spaca1 gene-disrupted mice. The nonsense variant in SPACA1 led to premature transcriptional termination in the signal peptide, which was confirmed by western blotting. MS-based proteomics analysis showed that eight interactors of SPACA1 were differentially expressed in the patients' sperm, including actin-like Protein 7A (ACTL7A), an important component of the acrosome-acroplaxome complex. The PPI of SPACA1 and ACTL7A was confirmed via co-IP and Y2H assays. Immunofluorescence showed that SPACA1 and ACTL7A colocalized in mature sperm, revealing that these proteins were coexpressed spatially. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Given the rarity of globozoospermia, only two patients from one family harbouring the SPACA1 variant were found. Future studies should evaluate SPACA1 variants in larger cohorts to corroborate this finding. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study revealed that the SPACA1 gene was critical for globozoospermia, which expanded the spectrum of causative genes for globozoospermia. This study also provided evidence for ICSI clinical outcomes for patients with SPACA1-deficient globozoospermia, which may guide clinical treatment strategies. Furthermore, this study explored the pathogenesis of globozoospermia caused by SPACA1 deficiency. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was funded by the Precision Medical Research of National Key Research and Development Program (2018YFC1002400), National Natural Science Foundation of China (81873724), and Natural Science Foundation of Shanghai (20ZR1472700). The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingping Chen
- Department of Reproduction, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Department of Paediatric Endocrinology/Genetics, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hexige Saiyin
- The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ruona Shi
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Liu
- Department of Reproduction, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xu Han
- Department of General Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuping Gao
- Department of Reproduction, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiantao Ye
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology/Genetics, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Molecular Genetics Group, Shanghai Institute for Paediatric Research, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaofei Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Regenerative Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Guangzhou Institutes of Biomedicine and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Metabolomics and Proteomics Center, Bioland Laboratory, Guangzhou Regenerative Medicine and Health Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology/Genetics, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,Molecular Genetics Group, Shanghai Institute for Paediatric Research, Shanghai, China
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17
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Kamath MS, Vogiatzi P, Sunkara SK, Woodward B. Oocyte activation for women following intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Hippokratia 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd014040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohan S Kamath
- Department of Reproductive Medicine; Christian Medical College; Vellore India
| | - Paraskevi Vogiatzi
- Fertility Diagnostics Laboratory; Andromed Health and Reproduction; Athens Greece
| | - Sesh Kamal Sunkara
- Division of Women's Health, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine; King's College London; London UK
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18
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Xiong W, Shen C, Wang Z. The molecular mechanisms underlying acrosome biogenesis elucidated by gene-manipulated mice. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:789-807. [PMID: 34131698 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexual reproduction requires the fusion of two gametes in a multistep and multifactorial process termed fertilization. One of the main steps that ensures successful fertilization is acrosome reaction. The acrosome, a special kind of organelle with a cap-like structure that covers the anterior portion of sperm head, plays a key role in the process. Acrosome biogenesis begins with the initial stage of spermatid development, and it is typically divided into four successive phases: the Golgi phase, cap phase, acrosome phase, and maturation phase. The run smoothly of above processes needs an active and specific coordination between the all kinds of organelles (endoplasmic reticulum, trans-golgi network and nucleus) and cytoplasmic structures (acroplaxome and manchette). During the past two decades, an increasingly genes have been discovered to be involved in modulating acrosome formation. Most of these proteins interact with each other and show a complicated molecular regulatory mechanism to facilitate the occurrence of this event. This Review focuses on the progresses of studying acrosome biogenesis using gene-manipulated mice and highlights an emerging molecular basis of mammalian acrosome formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfeng Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunling Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhugang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Genomics, Research Center for Experimental Medicine, Rui-Jin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
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19
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Tsai TC, Chiung HK, Chen LH, Wu HM. The potential role of assisted oocyte activation in the management of a POSEIDON group 3 patient with fertilization failure: A case report and literature review. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2021; 60:567-569. [PMID: 33966751 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2021.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Assisted oocyte activation combined with ICSI (ICSI-AOA) has been reported to improve fertilization outcomes of couples with oocyte activation deficiency (OAD). Although there's no sufficient evidence to support ICSI-AOA as routine use, it might be beneficial for POSEIDON group 3 patients with suspected oocyte-related OAD. CASE REPORT A 29-year-old female presented with a history of primary infertility for two years. She was classified as a POSEIDON group 3 patient and had a total fertilization failure history. With the help of ICSI-AOA, six oocytes were successfully fertilized. Pregnancy was later confirmed after embryo transfer. A living infant was born after 34 weeks of pregnancy. CONCLUSION OAD should be taken into consideration for POSEIDON group 3 patients since low Antimüllerian hormone is associated decreased quality. Further research needs to be done to understand the mechanism underlying oocyte-related OAD and the potential role of ICSI-AOA in young patients with suboptimal ovarian response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Chi Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Huan-Ka Chiung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Liang-Hsuan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Ming Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Yan Z, Fan Y, Wang F, Yan Z, Li M, Ouyang J, Wu L, Yin M, Zhao J, Kuang Y, Li B, Lyu Q. Novel mutations in PLCZ1 cause male infertility due to fertilization failure or poor fertilization. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:472-481. [PMID: 32048714 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do sperm-specific phospholipase C zeta (PLCZ1) mutations account for male infertility due to fertilization failure? SUMMARY ANSWER Six novel mutations and one reported mutation in PLCZ1 were identified in five of 14 independent families characterized by fertilization failure or poor fertilization, suggesting that these mutations may be responsible for fertilization failure in men exhibiting primary infertility. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY PLCZ1 is essential for the induction of intracellular calcium (Ca2+) oscillations and the initiation of oocyte activation during mammalian fertilization. However, genetic evidence linking PLCZ1 mutations with male infertility remains limited. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Fourteen unrelated primary infertility patients were recruited into this study from January 2016 to December 2018; the patients exhibited total fertilization failure or poor fertilization, as evidenced by ICSI and sperm-related oocyte activation deficiencies identified in mouse oocyte activation assays. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Genomic DNA samples were extracted from the peripheral blood of patients. The whole exons of PLCZ1 were sequenced by Sanger sequencing. The PLCZ1 sequences were aligned by CodonCode software to identify rare variants. The ExAC database was used to search for the frequency of corresponding mutations. The pathogenicity of identified variants and their possible effects on the protein were assessed in silico. PLCZ1 protein levels in semen samples were evaluated by western blotting. Oocyte activation ability was assessed by the injection of wild-type and mutant PLCZ1 cRNAs into human mature metaphase II (MII) oocytes in vitro. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We identified six novel mutations and one reported mutation in PLCZ1 among five affected individuals. In addition to four novel missense mutations, two new types of genetic variants were identified, including one in-frame deletion and one splicing mutation. Western blot analysis revealed that PLCZ1 protein expression was not observed in the semen samples from the five affected patients. Microinjection with the PLCZ1 cRNA variants was performed, and a significant decrease in the percentage of pronuclei was observed for four novel missense mutations and one novel in-frame deletion mutation, suggesting that these mutations have a deleterious influence on protein function. By artificial oocyte activation treatment, the fertilization failure phenotypes of four affected patients were successfully rescued and three healthy babies were delivered. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION We screened only the whole exons of PLCZ1. Additional possible mutations in the non-coding region of PLCZ1 should be further studied. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our study not only further confirms the important role of PLCZ1 in human fertilization but also expands the mutational spectrum of PLCZ1 associated with male infertility, which provides a basis for assessing genetic variation in PLCZ1 as a potential diagnostic marker for infertile men suffering from fertilization failure. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was supported by the National Natural Foundation of China (81 571 486 and 81 771 649). All authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Yan
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Fan
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Wang
- College of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiguang Yan
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Menghui Li
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Ouyang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Wu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingru Yin
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Jilang Zhao
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanping Kuang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Qifeng Lyu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
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Meng X, Melo P, Jones C, Ross C, Mounce G, Turner K, Child T, Coward K. Use of phospholipase C zeta analysis to identify candidates for artificial oocyte activation: a case series of clinical pregnancies and a proposed algorithm for patient management. Fertil Steril 2021; 114:163-174. [PMID: 32622408 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.02.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the applicability of phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ) analysis in assisting the clinical decision-making process when considering artificial oocyte activation (AOA) for infertile males in assisted reproductive technology. DESIGN Fifty-six males (43 infertile/13 fertile) were screened using our PLCζ assay. SETTING Fertility unit/university laboratory. PATIENT(S) Infertile males with abnormal sperm morphology or total fertilization failure, low fertilization rate (<50%), or repeated fertilization failure in assisted reproductive technology. INTERVENTION(S) We analyzed PLCζ levels in sperm from fertile and infertile males. Eligible patients subsequently underwent intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)/artificial oocyte activation (AOA) with calcimycin (GM508). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) PLCζ localization and level and the proportion of sperm expressing PLCζ. Thresholds of PLCζ deficiency, fertilization rates, pregnancy rates, and live birth rates of AOA and non-AOA cycles. RESULT(S) Compared with 13 fertile controls, 34 of the 43 infertile males had significantly lower levels of PLCζ and/or a significantly lower proportion of sperm exhibiting PLCζ. Of these 34 patients, 15 showed a significant PLCζ reduction in both parameters, which we termed "PLCζ deficiency." Five PLCζ-deficient patients opted for AOA; all five achieved fertilization, and four achieved clinical pregnancies and live births. The fertilization rate improved significantly from 18.6% (ICSI) to 56.8% (ICSI/AOA). The clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate with AOA were both 40% per initiated cycle. Youden index analysis revealed that the cutoffs below which infertile males were likely to benefit from AOA were 71% for the proportion of sperm expressing PLCζ and 15.57 arbitrary units for mean PLCζ level. CONCLUSION(S) PLCζ analysis is a useful diagnostic tool to determine patient eligibility for subsequent AOA treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Meng
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Pedro Melo
- The Women's Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Celine Jones
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ginny Mounce
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Turner
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Fertility, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Child
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford Fertility, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin Coward
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom.
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22
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Dai J, Zhang T, Guo J, Zhou Q, Gu Y, Zhang J, Hu L, Zong Y, Song J, Zhang S, Dai C, Gong F, Lu G, Zheng W, Lin G. Homozygous pathogenic variants in ACTL9 cause fertilization failure and male infertility in humans and mice. Am J Hum Genet 2021; 108:469-481. [PMID: 33626338 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2021.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Total fertilization failure (TFF) can occur during in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments, even following intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Various male or female factors could contribute to TFF. Increasing evidence suggested that genetic variations in PLCZ1, which encodes 1-phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate phosphodiesterase zeta-1 (PLCζ), is involved in oocyte activation and is a key male factor in TFF. In the present study, we explored the genetic variants in male individuals that led to TFF. A total of 54 couples with TFF or poor fertilization (fertilization rate < 20%) were screened, and 21 couples were determined to have a male infertility factor by the mouse oocyte activation test. Whole-exome sequencing of these 21 male individuals identified three homozygous pathogenic variants in ACTL9 (actin like 9) in three individuals. ACTL9 variations led to abnormal ultrastructure of the perinuclear theca (PT), and PLCζ was absent in the head and present in the neck of the mutant sperm, which contributed to failed normal calcium oscillations in oocytes and subsequent TFF. The key roles of ACTL9 in the PT structure and TFF after ICSI were further confirmed in an Actl9-mutated mouse model. Furthermore, assisted oocyte activation by calcium ionophore exposure successfully overcame TFF and achieved live births in a couple with an ACTL9 variant. These findings identified the role of ACTL9 in the PT structure and the correct localization of PLCζ. The results also provide a genetic marker and a therapeutic option for individuals who have undergone ICSI without successful fertilization.
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23
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Huang L, Yao G, Huang G, Jiang C, Li L, Liao L, Yuan G, Shang L, Xu W. Association of Zinc deficiency, oxidative stress and increased double-stranded DNA breaks in globozoospermic infertile patients and its implication for the assisted reproductive technique. Transl Androl Urol 2021; 10:1088-1101. [PMID: 33850744 PMCID: PMC8039599 DOI: 10.21037/tau-20-1116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sperm DNA fragmentation and its adverse impact on outcomes of assisted reproductive techniques (ART) in globozoospermic infertile patients has been previously reported. However, the association of Zinc element with DNA damage and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcome in globozoospermic infertile patients remains unclear. Methods Using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer and superoxide dismutase (SOD) assay, the levels of Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn and SOD activities in seminal plasma from both globozoospermic infertile patients and fertile volunteers were tested respectively. Using sperm chromatin dispersion (SCD) test and Comet assay, the DNA damages in their semen samples from the two groups was detected. In addition, using Aniline Blue staining, their sperm nucleus maturations were also examined. Results The levels of seminal Zinc and SOD activities were lower in the globozoospermic infertile patients and the double-stranded break DFI (DSB-DFI) were significantly higher than that in the fertile controls. Antioxidative insufficiency of SOD with a low Zn level might be responsible for oxidative stress, which may lead to DNA damage in globozoospermic spermatozoa. Zn deficiency might also have influence on the chromatin stabilization of globozoospermic spermatozoa during spermiogenesis, causing its more vulnerable to oxidative attack. Conclusions Serious DSBs in globozoospermia and antioxidative insufficiency due to Zinc element deficiency in spermatozoa might be responsible for the failure of ICSI in globozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Huang
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, SCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynaecologic and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,College of Life Science and Technology, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guanping Yao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, the Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China
| | - Gelin Huang
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, SCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynaecologic and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chuan Jiang
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, SCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynaecologic and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Li
- Chengdu PUHUA Technology Co., Ltd., Chengdu, China
| | - Lu Liao
- Chengdu PUHUA Technology Co., Ltd., Chengdu, China
| | - Guiping Yuan
- Analytical & Testing Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lijun Shang
- School of Human Sciences, London Metropolitan University, London, UK
| | - Wenming Xu
- Joint Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, SCU-CUHK, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynaecologic and Paediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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24
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Zafar MI, Lu S, Li H. Sperm-oocyte interplay: an overview of spermatozoon's role in oocyte activation and current perspectives in diagnosis and fertility treatment. Cell Biosci 2021; 11:4. [PMID: 33407934 PMCID: PMC7789549 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-020-00520-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The fertilizing spermatozoon is a highly specialized cell that selects from millions along the female tract until the oocyte. The paternal components influence the oocyte activation during fertilization and are fundamental for normal embryo development; however, the sperm-oocyte interplay is in a continuous debate. This review aims to analyze the available scientific information related to the role of the male gamete in the oocyte activation during fertilization, the process of the interaction of sperm factors with oocyte machinery, and the implications of any alterations in this interplay, as well as the advances and limitations of the reproductive techniques and diagnostic tests. At present, both PLCζ and PAWP are the main candidates as oocyte activated factors during fertilization. While PLCζ mechanism is via IP3, how PAWP activates the oocyte still no clear, and these findings are important to study and treat fertilization failure due to oocyte activation, especially when one of the causes is the deficiency of PLCζ in the sperm. However, no diagnostic test has been developed to establish the amount of PLCζ, the protocol to treat this type of pathologies is broad, including treatment with ionophores, sperm selection improvement, and microinjection with PLCζ protein or RNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ishraq Zafar
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hang Kong Road, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China
| | - Shi Lu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jeifang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, People's Republic of China
| | - Honggang Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 13 Hang Kong Road, Wuhan, 430030, People's Republic of China. .,Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, 128 Sanyang Road, Wuhan, 430013, People's Republic of China.
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25
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Long R, Wang M, Yang QY, Hu SQ, Zhu LX, Jin L. Risk of birth defects in children conceived by artificial oocyte activation and intracytoplasmic sperm injection: a meta-analysis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2020; 18:123. [PMID: 33308238 PMCID: PMC7731535 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-020-00680-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether artificial oocyte activation (ICSI-AOA) will increase the risk of birth defects remains controversial. Thus, we performed this study to evaluate the risk of birth defects and further compare the incidence of different birth defects types (chromosomal aberrations and non-chromosomal aberrations) in children conceived by ICSI-AOA and conventional intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in an enlarged sample size. METHOD A comprehensive review of the literatures comparing birth defects in children conceived by ICSI-AOA and conventional ICSI by October 2020 was performed in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Libraries, Web of Science, and Chinese databases including China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Biology Medicine disc and Wan Fang. Risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. RESULTS Five studies were included in the final analysis. Compared with conventional ICSI, ICSI-AOA did not increase the birth defects rate (RR = 1.27, 95%CI 0.70-2.28) of children. Furthermore, in a subgroup analysis, birth defects were classified into two types (chromosomal aberrations and non-chromosomal aberrations) in four studies and no statistical difference were revealed. CONCLUSION Our analysis indicates that ICSI-AOA represents no significant difference in the prevalence of major birth defects or types of birth defects (chromosomal aberrations and non-chromosomal aberrations) comparing with conventional ICSI. This conclusion may provide clinicians evidence-based support in patient counseling and instruction of the application and safety concern about ICSI-AOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Long
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Qi Yu Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Shi Qiao Hu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Li Xia Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Lei Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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26
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Hwang IS, Park MR, Lee HS, Kwak TU, Son HY, Kang JK, Lee JW, Lee K, Park EW, Hwang S. Developmental and Degenerative Characterization of Porcine Parthenogenetic Fetuses during Early Pregnancy. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10040622. [PMID: 32260352 PMCID: PMC7222715 DOI: 10.3390/ani10040622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary To increase the early implantation rate, oocytes and zygotes have been subjected to various artificial stimulations before and/or after in vitro fertilization, nuclear transfer, or sperm (spermatid) injection, etc. However, the stimulation process may induce parthenogenetic development. It is difficult to identify whether the embryo or fetus is normally fertilized or parthenogenetically activated in early pregnancy. In the present study, the porcine parthenotes originated from electric stimulation implanted and developed normally during the first month, in a manner similar to artificially inseminated embryos and fetuses. There were no statistical differences in the formation of the major organs such as the brain, liver, kidney, or heart in both groups. However, the implanted parthenotes radically ceased their development and degenerated after one month. It can be postulated that the parthenotes are one of the reasons for the gap between early pregnancy and delivery rate in assisted reproduction techniques. Abstract The difference between early pregnancy and delivery rate is quite large in assisted reproduction techniques (ARTs), including animal cloning. However, it is not clear why the implanted fetuses aborted after the early pregnancy stage. In the present study, we tried to evaluate the developmental and morphological characteristics of porcine parthenogenetically activated (PA) embryos or fetuses by electric stimulation during the early pregnancy period. The implanted PA and artificially inseminated (AI) embryos and fetuses were collected at day 26 and 35 after embryo transfer, respectively. The developmental and morphological parameters in the PA embryos at day 26 were similar to the AI embryos. The size, weight, formation of major organs, and apoptotic cells were not statistically different in both embryos at day 26. However, the PA fetuses at day 35 showed ceased fetal development and degenerated with abnormal morphologies in their organs. The day 35 PA fetuses showed significantly higher apoptotic cells and lower methylation status in three differentially methylated regions of the H19 gene compared to their comparators. Therefore, the normal development of PA embryos and fetuses during early gestation could lead to these pregnancies being misinterpreted as normal and become one of the main reasons for the gap between early pregnancy and delivery rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- In-Sul Hwang
- Animal Biotechnology Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju, Jeonbuk 55365, Korea; (I.-S.H.); (M.-R.P.); (H.-S.L.); (T.-U.K.); (E.-W.P.)
| | - Mi-Ryung Park
- Animal Biotechnology Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju, Jeonbuk 55365, Korea; (I.-S.H.); (M.-R.P.); (H.-S.L.); (T.-U.K.); (E.-W.P.)
| | - Hae-Sun Lee
- Animal Biotechnology Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju, Jeonbuk 55365, Korea; (I.-S.H.); (M.-R.P.); (H.-S.L.); (T.-U.K.); (E.-W.P.)
| | - Tae-Uk Kwak
- Animal Biotechnology Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju, Jeonbuk 55365, Korea; (I.-S.H.); (M.-R.P.); (H.-S.L.); (T.-U.K.); (E.-W.P.)
| | - Hwa-Young Son
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea;
| | - Jong-Koo Kang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk 28644, Korea;
| | - Jeong-Woong Lee
- Biotherapeutics Translational Research Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon 34141, Korea;
| | - Kichoon Lee
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA;
| | - Eung-Woo Park
- Animal Biotechnology Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju, Jeonbuk 55365, Korea; (I.-S.H.); (M.-R.P.); (H.-S.L.); (T.-U.K.); (E.-W.P.)
| | - Seongsoo Hwang
- Animal Biotechnology Division, National Institute of Animal Science, Rural Development Administration, Wanju, Jeonbuk 55365, Korea; (I.-S.H.); (M.-R.P.); (H.-S.L.); (T.-U.K.); (E.-W.P.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-632-387-253
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27
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A homozygous nonsense mutation of PLCZ1 cause male infertility with oocyte activation deficiency. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:821-828. [PMID: 32146562 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01719-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify the pathogenic PLCZ1 mutation involved in male infertility and fertilization failure. METHODS All coding regions of PLCZ1 were sequenced by Sanger sequencing. The expression and localization of PLCZ1 in sperm was determined by Western blotting and immunofluorescence. To promote the fertilization rate, the infertile man with PLCZ1 mutation was treated with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) accompanied by assisted oocyte activation (AOA) in the following cycle. RESULT We identified a novel homozygous PLCZ1 nonsense mutation, c.588C>A (p.Cys196Ter) in an infertile man from a consanguineous family. No PLCZ1 protein was detected by Western blotting and immunofluorescence in ejaculated sperm from the patient. The treatment of ICSI + AOA avoided fertilization failure but did not result in pregnancy in the following cycle. CONCLUSION Our study confirmed the essential role of PLCZ1 in fertilization and male fertility, which indicated the potential prognostic value of testing for PLCZ1 mutations in primary infertile men with sperm-derived fertilization failure.
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Abbas AM, Hussein RS, Elsenity MA, Samaha II, El Etriby KA, Abd El-Ghany MF, Khalifa MA, Abdelrheem SS, Ahmed AA, Khodry MM. Higher clinical pregnancy rate with in-vitro fertilization versus intracytoplasmic sperm injection in treatment of non-male factor infertility: Systematic review and meta-analysis. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2020; 49:101706. [PMID: 32018045 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2020.101706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the evidence about in-vitro fertilization (IVF) versus intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for the treatment of non-male factor infertility. DATA SOURCES Electronic databases searched using the following MeSH terms (Sperm Injection, Intracytoplasmic) AND (in Vitro Fertilisation) AND (Infertility). METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION All RCTs included infertile patients due to non-male factors underwent IVF or ICSI were considered for this meta-analysis. One-thousand twenty-two studies were identified of which 20 studies deemed eligible for this review. DATA EXTRACTION Three independent authors extracted the relevant data from included studies. The study outcomes were pooled in the form of relative risk (RR) and 95 % confidence interval (CI) using Mantel-Hansel method. The main outcome measures are the fertilization rate, the implantation rate, the clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), the total fertilization failure and the live birth rate. RESULTS Regarding the fertilization rate, the pooled estimate did not favour either IVF or ICSI group (RR = 0.94; 95 %CI [0.82, 1.07]; p = 0.34). However, IVF significantly increased the CPR than ICSI (RR = 1.28, 95 %CI [1.11, 1.49]; p = 0.001). The overall effect estimate did not favor either of two groups regarding the implantation rate (RR = 1.25, 95 % CI [0.92, 1.68], p = 0.15). Similarly, no difference between both groups regarding the live birth rate (RR = 1.08, 95 % CI [0.79, 1.49]; p = 0.62). CONCLUSIONS No difference between ICSI and IVF regarding fertilization rate per oocytes, implantation rate and live birth rate in the treatment of non-male factor infertility, while IVF has significantly higher clinical pregnancy rate and higher risk of total fertilization failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M Abbas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.
| | - Reda S Hussein
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Mohamed A Elsenity
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ihab I Samaha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Karim A El Etriby
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed F Abd El-Ghany
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Mansour A Khalifa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Shaimaa S Abdelrheem
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Aswan University, Aswan, Egypt
| | - Amal Abdrabbo Ahmed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Mostafa M Khodry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
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Niu X, Ruan Q, Witz CA, Wang W. Comparison of Human Oocyte Activation Between Round-Headed Sperm Injection Followed by Calcium Ionophore Treatment and Normal Sperm Injection in a Patient With Globozoospermia. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:183. [PMID: 32318024 PMCID: PMC7154056 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertilization failure is common in patients with round-headed sperm, a form of globozoospermia. Artificial oocyte activation is able to assist oocyte fertilization after sperm injection in these patients. Comparisons between oocyte fertilization with or without calcium ionophore have been reported in patients with round-headed sperm. However, no comparison has been reported between round-headed sperm injection followed by calcium ionophone activation and normal sperm injection. In this case report, half of oocytes from a patient were injected with her partner's round-headed sperm followed by calcium ionophore activation, and the other half of oocytes were injected with a donor sperm without calcium ionophore activation. The injected oocytes were cultured to examine fertilization, embryo development, and embryonic aneuploidies in the resulting blastocysts. The fertilization rate was lower in round-headed sperm injected oocytes (3/6) than that in donor sperm injected oocytes (5/6), but rates of blastocyst and aneuploidies were similar in the resulting embryos between the two groups. A euploid blastocyst resulted from round-headed sperm injection was transferred, and a healthy baby was delivered. These results indicate that calcium ionophore treatment can assist oocyte activation in patients with round-headed sperm, but its efficiency to activate oocytes is lower than that induced by a normal sperm injection. However, embryo development and chromosome integrity may not be affected by calcium ionophore treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangli Niu
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Qiuyan Ruan
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Reproductive Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning, China
| | - Craig A. Witz
- Houston Fertility Institute, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Weihua Wang
- Prelude-Houston Fertility Laboratory, Houston, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Weihua Wang,
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30
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Fesahat F, Henkel R, Agarwal A. Globozoospermia syndrome: An update. Andrologia 2019; 52:e13459. [PMID: 31724759 DOI: 10.1111/and.13459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the factors involved in male infertility, there is a rare morphology disorder called "globozoospermia" that is classified into total globozoospermia and partial globozoospermia (type I and type II, respectively). This syndrome is primarily characterised by the presence of round-headed spermatozoa with cytoskeleton defects around the nucleus and no acrosome. Current data support the negative correlation between globozoospermia and conventional intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcomes, revealing the need for the management of patients undergoing assisted reproduction technology (ART) through more effective treatment techniques. This review highlights the most important characteristics of globozoospermia such as sperm parameters, DNA/chromatin integrity and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), as well as genetic features based on the latest knowledge. Additionally, we looked into current progress on fertilisation potential and possible treatment strategies for patients presenting with globozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Fesahat
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Ralf Henkel
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa.,American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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31
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Khawar MB, Gao H, Li W. Mechanism of Acrosome Biogenesis in Mammals. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:195. [PMID: 31620437 PMCID: PMC6759486 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
During sexual reproduction, two haploid gametes fuse to form the zygote, and the acrosome is essential to this fusion process (fertilization) in animals. The acrosome is a special kind of organelle with a cap-like structure that covers the anterior portion of the head of the spermatozoon. The acrosome is derived from the Golgi apparatus and contains digestive enzymes. With the progress of our understanding of acrosome biogenesis, a number of models have been proposed to address the origin of the acrosome. The acrosome has been regarded as a lysosome-related organelle, and it has been proposed to have originated from the lysosome or the autolysosome. Our review will provide a brief historical overview and highlight recent findings on acrosome biogenesis in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Babar Khawar
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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32
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Li B, Zhou Y, Yan Z, Li M, Xue S, Cai R, Fu Y, Hong Q, Long H, Yin M, Du T, Wang Y, Kuang Y, Yan Z, Lyu Q. Pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of artificial oocyte activation in patients undergoing frozen-thawed embryo transfer: a 6-year population-based retrospective study. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2019; 300:1083-1092. [PMID: 31529366 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-019-05298-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the impact of artificial oocyte activation (AOA) in pregnancy and neonatal outcomes in infertile patients undergoing cryopreserved embryo transfer. METHOD This retrospective study included 5686 patients' transferred embryos from routine intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and 194 patients' transferred embryos from ICSI combined with AOA (ICSI-AOA) from January 2011 to December 2016. Pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of couples undergoing routine ICSI or ICSI-AOA were analyzed before and after propensity score matching. Artificial oocyte activation was performed with ionomycin. RESULTS The pregnancy outcomes showed no significant difference in the rates of biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, implantation, miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, multiple pregnancy, and live births between the routine ICSI and ICSI-AOA groups before and after propensity score matching, respectively. The assessment of neonatal outcomes showed no statistically significant differences in the birth defect rate, birth weight, gestational age, preterm birth rate, early-neonatal death rate, and fetal sex ratio between the two groups, and similar results were also observed in the two matched cohorts. CONCLUSION Artificial oocyte activation with ionomycin does not adversely affect pregnancy and neonatal outcomes in patients undergoing frozen-thawed embryo transfer, which is beneficial to clinicians counseling patients on the risks of artificial oocyte activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Li
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yiwen Zhou
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Zhiguang Yan
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Menghui Li
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Songguo Xue
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Renfei Cai
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yonglun Fu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Qingqing Hong
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Hui Long
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Mingru Yin
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Tong Du
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yanping Kuang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Zheng Yan
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Qifeng Lyu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200011, China.
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Dai J, Dai C, Guo J, Zheng W, Zhang T, Li Y, Lu C, Gong F, Lu G, Lin G. Novel homozygous variations in PLCZ1 lead to poor or failed fertilization characterized by abnormal localization patterns of PLCζ in sperm. Clin Genet 2019; 97:347-351. [PMID: 31463947 DOI: 10.1111/cge.13636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Total fertilization failure (TFF), which is the failure of fertilization in all oocytes, occurs in 1%-3% of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles. However, the sperm-related factors that cause fertilization failure in humans are still largely unknown. Here, we identified three novel homozygous variations in the PLCZ1 gene in a recessive inheritance pattern in three consanguineous families, which all located in a key catalytic domain, and predicted to modify its secondary structure and thus impair its hydrolytic activity. Moreover, immunofluorescent staining revealed that PLCζ in mutant sperm exhibited abnormal localization patterns. ICSI-AOA resulted in an increased rate of normal fertilization compared with previous ICSI cycles (75.0% vs 2.2%, P < .001). In summary, we identified three novel homozygous variations in PLCZ1 that led to poor or failed fertilization that could be overcame by ICSI-AOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Dai
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
| | - Can Dai
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China.,School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China.,School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Zheng
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
| | - Tianlei Zhang
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
| | - Changfu Lu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
| | - Fei Gong
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
| | - Guangxiu Lu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
| | - Ge Lin
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China.,School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
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Dai J, Zheng W, Dai C, Guo J, Lu C, Gong F, Li Y, Zhou Q, Lu G, Lin G. New biallelic mutations in WEE2: expanding the spectrum of mutations that cause fertilization failure or poor fertilization. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:510-518. [PMID: 30827523 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the genetic cause of fertilization failure or poor fertilization. DESIGN Genetic analysis. SETTING University-affiliated center. PATIENT(S) Twenty-four Chinese women who underwent assisted reproductive technology (ART) and had repeated fertilization failure or poor fertilization. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Twenty-four affected patients were subjected to whole-exome sequencing and candidate mutations were validated by Sanger sequencing. Single-cell reverse transcription was used to analyze the functional characterization of the splice-site mutation in vivo. Evolutionary conservation and molecular modeling analyses were used to predict the impact of missense mutations on secondary protein structure. Immunofluorescence was used to analyze the protein levels of WEE2 and phosphorylated CDC2. RESULT(S) Biallelic mutations in WEE2 were identified in 5 of 24 (20.8%) Chinese patients with fertilization failure or poor fertilization. Among these individuals we found a novel splice-site mutation, two novel missense mutations, and a previously reported frame-shift mutation. Splicing mutation c.1136-2A>G of WEE2 caused an alteration of the reading frame and introduced a premature stop codon (p.Gly379Glufs*6/p.Asp380Leufs*39). The missense mutations c.585G>C (p.Lys195Asn) and c.1228C>T (p.Arg410Trp) produced obvious changes in secondary protein structures. Immunostaining indicated that mutated WEE2 resulted in the loss of phosphorylated CDC2. The phenotypes of women carrying WEE2 mutations exhibited slight variability, from total fertilization failure to poor fertilization. CONCLUSION(S) Novel mutations in the known causative gene WEE2 were identified in 5 of 24 women with fertilization failure or poor fertilization, indicating a high prevalence of WEE2 mutations in Chinese women experiencing fertilization failure or poor fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Dai
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, ChangSha, People's Republic of China; Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, ChangSha, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, ChangSha, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Zheng
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, ChangSha, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, ChangSha, People's Republic of China
| | - Can Dai
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, ChangSha, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, ChangSha, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Guo
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, ChangSha, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, ChangSha, People's Republic of China
| | - Changfu Lu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, ChangSha, People's Republic of China; Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, ChangSha, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, ChangSha, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Gong
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, ChangSha, People's Republic of China; Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, ChangSha, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, ChangSha, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Li
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, ChangSha, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, ChangSha, People's Republic of China
| | - Qinwei Zhou
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, ChangSha, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, ChangSha, People's Republic of China
| | - Guangxiu Lu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, ChangSha, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, ChangSha, People's Republic of China
| | - Ge Lin
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, ChangSha, People's Republic of China; Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, ChangSha, People's Republic of China; Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, ChangSha, People's Republic of China.
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Khakpour S, Sadeghi E, Tavalaee M, Bahadorani M, Nasr‐Esfahani MH. Zeta method: A noninvasive method based on membrane charge for selecting spermatozoa expressing high level of phospholipaseCζ. Andrologia 2019; 51:e13249. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Revised: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shima Khakpour
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology ACECR Isfahan Iran
| | - Elham Sadeghi
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology ACECR Isfahan Iran
| | - Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology ACECR Isfahan Iran
| | | | - Mohammad H. Nasr‐Esfahani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology ACECR Isfahan Iran
- Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center Isfahan Iran
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36
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Homozygous missense mutation Arg207Cys in the WEE2 gene causes female infertility and fertilization failure. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:965-971. [PMID: 30826994 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01418-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate a novel mutation in the WEE2 gene in a female patient with primary infertility and fertilization failure. METHODS Sanger sequencing was used to detect mutations in WEE2. The pathogenicity of the identified variant and its possible effects on the WEE2 protein were evaluated with in silico tools and molecular modeling. We used the calcium ionophore A23187 as a chemical activator of oocytes after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). RESULTS We identified a consanguineous family with a novel homozygous missense mutation in WEE2 (c.619C>T [p.R207C]). Based on preliminary bioinformatics analysis, we speculate that the novel homozygous missense mutation is pathogenic. ICSI combined with assisted oocyte activation (ICSI-AOA) did not overcome fertilization failure in this patient with WEE2 mutation. CONCLUSIONS We identified a novel mutation in WEE2 (c.619C>T [p.R207C]) in a female patient with fertilization failure after ICSI, and we provide evidence that this novel homozygous missense mutation can cause fertilization failure.
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Canepa P, Casciano I, De Leo C, Massarotti C, Anserini P, Remorgida V, Scaruffi P. A successful healthy childbirth and an ongoing evolutive pregnancy in a case of partial globozoospermia by hyaluronic acid sperm selection. Andrologia 2018; 51:e13178. [PMID: 30324675 DOI: 10.1111/and.13178] [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: 07/16/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
We here report a successful healthy childbirth and an ongoing evolutive pregnancy in a case of partial globozoospermia after selection of mature spermatozoa bound to hyaluronic acid (HA). The couple underwent two in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycles. In the first attempt, 14 MII oocytes were retrieved. Randomly, seven oocytes were injected by conventional PVP-ICSI and seven by HA-ICSI. Fertilised oocytes were 2/7 and 4/7 after PVP-ICSI and HA-ICSI respectively. Transfer of two grade A embryos from HA-ICSI lead to birth of a healthy baby. The surplus embryo of the HA-ICSI group was vitrified at blastocyst stage. The two embryos from PVP-ICSI arrested their development. Two years after the childbirth, the vitrified blastocyst was transferred into the uterus, but implant failed. In the second cycle, 14 MII oocytes were retrieved and they were injected by HA-ICSI. Fertilised oocytes were 10 out of 14 injected oocytes. On day 5, two blastocysts were transferred into uterus and a single evolutive pregnancy is ongoing. On day 6, one blastocyst was vitrified. The remaining surplus embryos arrested their development. A healthy childbirth and an ongoing evolutive pregnancy in two consecutive ICSI attempts of the same couple suggest that HA sperm selection might assist in cases with partial globozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierandrea Canepa
- U.O.S. Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Ida Casciano
- U.O.S. Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | | | | | - Paola Anserini
- U.O.S. Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Paola Scaruffi
- U.O.S. Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
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38
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Modarres P, Tavalaee M, Ghaedi K, Nasr-Esfahani MH. An Overview of The Globozoospermia as A Multigenic Identified Syndrome. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2018; 12:273-277. [PMID: 30291685 PMCID: PMC6186287 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2019.5561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Acrosome plays an integral role during fertilization and its absence in individuals with globozoospermia leads to
failure of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and oocyte activation post-intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). A variety
of processes, organelles and structures are involved in acrosome biogenesis including, trans-golgi network (TGN),
acroplaxome and cellular trafficking. This review aims to explain roles of related signals and molecules involved in
this process and also describe how their absence in form of mutation, deletion and knockout model may lead to phe-
nomenon referred to globozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parastoo Modarres
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.,Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Kamran Ghaedi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran.,Department of Cellular Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.Electronic Address:
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.,Department of Cellular Biotechnology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.Electronic Address:.,Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center, Isfahan, Iran
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Anifandis G, Michopoulos A, Daponte A, Chatzimeletiou K, Simopoulou M, Messini CI, Polyzos NP, Vassiou K, Dafopoulos K, Goulis DG. Artificial oocyte activation: physiological, pathophysiological and ethical aspects. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2018; 65:3-11. [DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1516000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larisa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Michopoulos
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larisa, Greece
| | - Katerina Chatzimeletiou
- Unit of Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University Medical School, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Christina I. Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larisa, Greece
| | - Nikolas P. Polyzos
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Katerina Vassiou
- Department of Anatomy, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larisa, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, ART Unit, University of Thessaly, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Larisa, Greece
| | - Dimitrios G. Goulis
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Karabulut S, Aksünger Ö, Ata C, Sağıroglu Y, Keskin İ. Artificial oocyte activation with calcium ionophore for frozen sperm cycles. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2018; 64:381-388. [PMID: 29620419 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1452311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Fertilization problems are the major problems that may be faced in 30-55% of the patients during an intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycle. A successful oocyte activation depends on factors related to both sperm and oocyte, and one of the important factors that mediates the process is Ca2+ concentration within the oocyte. Artificial oocyte activation (AOA) is a method used for fertilization problems that commonly involve the usage of Ca2+ ionophores and is usually used in problems such as total fertilization failure (TFF) and globozoospermia. The aim of the present study was to investigate possible effects of AOA for different groups of patients with fertilization failure. Four groups of patients (previous TFF, low oocyte number, severe sperm quality, and frozen sperm (FS) group) that underwent ICSI with AOA were included in the study. All groups had similar control groups with same indications except TFF, where AOA was not performed. Fertilization rates were significantly higher in the TFF group than those observed in other AOA groups. Fertilization rates and quality of embryos observed in the remaining AOA groups were higher than those of the controls, which were statistically insignificant. Prgenancy rates were higher in all AOA groups compared to the controls, although the differences were significant in FS group only. Quality of embryos and pregnancy rates were lower in the TFF group compared to the remaining AOA groups indicating possible concomitant problems. Fertilization rates, quality of embryos and pregnancy rates seemed to be increased in all indication groups suggesting that not only TFF patients but also a wide variety of patients with different indications may benefit from AOA. ABBREVIATIONS ICSI: Intracytoplasmic sperm injection; ARTs: Assisted reproductive techniques; Ca: Calcium; AOA: Artificial oocyte activation; TFF: Total fertilization failures; OAT: Oligoasthenoteratozoospemia; IVF: In vitro fertilization; SOAT: Severe OAT; LON: Low ooctye number; FS: Frozen sperm; hCG: human chorionic gonadotrophin; PVP: polyvinylpyrrolidone; HSA: human serum albumin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seda Karabulut
- a School of Medicine , İstanbul Medipol University , İstanbul.,b REMER (Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center) , İstanbul Medipol University , İstanbul , Turkey
| | - Özlem Aksünger
- c Memorial Antalya Hastanesi/Tüp Bebek Merkezi , Antalya , Turkey
| | - Can Ata
- c Memorial Antalya Hastanesi/Tüp Bebek Merkezi , Antalya , Turkey
| | - Yusuf Sağıroglu
- d IVF Unit , Florence Nightingale Hospital Kadıkoy , İstanbul , Turkey
| | - İlknur Keskin
- a School of Medicine , İstanbul Medipol University , İstanbul.,b REMER (Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center) , İstanbul Medipol University , İstanbul , Turkey
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41
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Craven L, Tang MX, Gorman GS, De Sutter P, Heindryckx B. Novel reproductive technologies to prevent mitochondrial disease. Hum Reprod Update 2018. [PMID: 28651360 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmx018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of nuclear transfer (NT) has been proposed as a novel reproductive treatment to overcome the transmission of maternally-inherited mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations. Pathogenic mutations in mtDNA can cause a wide-spectrum of life-limiting disorders, collectively known as mtDNA disease, for which there are currently few effective treatments and no known cures. The many unique features of mtDNA make genetic counselling challenging for women harbouring pathogenic mtDNA mutations but reproductive options that involve medical intervention are available that will minimize the risk of mtDNA disease in their offspring. This includes PGD, which is currently offered as a clinical treatment but will not be suitable for all. The potential for NT to reduce transmission of mtDNA mutations has been demonstrated in both animal and human models, and has recently been clinically applied not only to prevent mtDNA disease but also for some infertility cases. In this review, we will interrogate the different NT techniques, including a discussion on the available safety and efficacy data of these technologies for mtDNA disease prevention. In addition, we appraise the evidence for the translational use of NT technologies in infertility. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE We propose to review the current scientific evidence regarding the clinical use of NT to prevent mitochondrial disease. SEARCH METHODS The scientific literature was investigated by searching PubMed database until Jan 2017. Relevant documents from Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority as well as reports from both the scientific and popular media were also implemented. The above searches were based on the following key words: 'mitochondria', 'mitochondrial DNA'; 'mitochondrial DNA disease', 'fertility'; 'preimplantation genetic diagnosis', 'nuclear transfer', 'mitochondrial replacement' and 'mitochondrial donation'. OUTCOMES While NT techniques have been shown to effectively reduce the transmission of heteroplasmic mtDNA variants in animal models, and increasing evidence supports their use to prevent the transmission of human mtDNA disease, the need for robust, long-term evaluation is still warranted. Moreover, prenatal screening would still be strongly advocated in combination with the use of these IVF-based technologies. Scientific evidence to support the use of NT and other novel reproductive techniques for infertility is currently lacking. WIDER IMPLICATIONS It is mandatory that any new ART treatments are first adequately assessed in both animal and human models before the cautious implementation of these new therapeutic approaches is clinically undertaken. There is growing evidence to suggest that the translation of these innovative technologies into clinical practice should be cautiously adopted only in highly selected patients. Indeed, given the limited safety and efficacy data, close monitoring of any offspring remains paramount.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyndsey Craven
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Institute of Neuroscience, The Medical School, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Mao-Xing Tang
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gráinne S Gorman
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Institute of Neuroscience, The Medical School, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Petra De Sutter
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Björn Heindryckx
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Roychoudhury S, Maldonado-Rosas I, Agarwal A, Esteves SC, Henkel R, Sharma R. Human sperm handling in intracytoplasmic sperm injection processes: In vitro studies on mouse oocyte activation, embryo development competence and sperm oxidation-reduction potential. Andrologia 2018; 50:e12943. [PMID: 29315724 DOI: 10.1111/and.12943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and hyaluronic acid (HA) are routinely used in handling spermatozoa for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). As there are still concerns about possible adverse effects on the embryo, this study investigated sperm handling in a mouse ICSI model to (i) evaluate oocyte activation after injection of spermatozoa selected for rotational or linear motion in PVP; (ii) assess the effect of sperm selection in PVP, HA and medium on oocyte activation; (iii) examine the effects of PVP and HA on parthenogenetic oocyte activation and embryo development; and (iv) assess the oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) of spermatozoa exposed to PVP, HA or medium. Oocyte activation was higher when spermatozoa exhibited rotational motion rather than linear motion (79% vs. 52%; p = .05). There was no difference in oocyte activation and embryo development after parthenogenetic oocyte activation after sperm injection using PVP, HA or medium-incubated spermatozoa. PVP-selected spermatozoa exhibited lower (p < .0001) ORP levels than using HA. Thus, results indicate that the sperm handling method and the type of medium used impact ICSI outcomes. Overall, sperm incubation in PVP, HA and medium yields similar outcomes with regard to oocyte activation and embryo development. However, PVP provides more antioxidative protection than HA and should therefore be preferred for sperm manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Roychoudhury
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Life Science and Bioinformatics, Assam University, Silchar, India
| | | | - A Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - S C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Center for Male Reproduction, Campinas, Brazil
| | - R Henkel
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - R Sharma
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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43
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Lu Y, Bonte D, Ferrer-Buitrago M, Popovic M, Neupane J, Van der Jeught M, Leybaert L, De Sutter P, Heindryckx B. Culture conditions affect Ca2+ release in artificially activated mouse and human oocytes. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 30:991-1001. [DOI: 10.1071/rd17145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Inconsistent fertilisation and pregnancy rates have been reported by different laboratories after application of ionomycin as a clinical method of assisted oocyte activation (AOA) to overcome fertilisation failure. Using both mouse and human oocytes, in the present study we investigated the effects of ionomycin and Ca2+ concentrations on the pattern of Ca2+ release and embryonic developmental potential. In the mouse, application of 5 μM ionomycin in potassium simplex optimisation medium (KSOM) or 10 µM ionomycin in Ca2+-free KSOM significantly reduced the Ca2+ flux and resulted in failure of blastocyst formation compared with 10 μM ionomycin in KSOM. Increasing the Ca2+ concentration up to three- or sixfold did not benefit mouse embryonic developmental potential. Similarly, 10 μM ionomycin-induced rise in Ca2+ in human oocytes increased with increasing total calcium concentrations in the commercial medium. Remarkably, we observed significantly reduced mouse embryo development when performing AOA over a period of 10 min in Quinn’s AdvantageTM Fertilisation medium (Cooper Surgical) and IVFTM medium (Vitrolife) compared with Sydney IVF COOK cleavage medium (Cook Ireland), using the same sequential culture system from the post-activation stage to blastocyst formation stage in different AOA groups. In conclusion, concentrations of both ionomycin and Ca2+ in culture media used during AOA can have significant effects on Ca2+ release and further embryonic developmental potential.
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Kashir J, Nomikos M, Lai FA. Phospholipase C zeta and calcium oscillations at fertilisation: The evidence, applications, and further questions. Adv Biol Regul 2017; 67:148-162. [PMID: 29108881 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbior.2017.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Oocyte activation is a fundamental event at mammalian fertilisation, initiated by a series of characteristic calcium (Ca2+) oscillations in mammals. This characteristic pattern of Ca2+ release is induced in a species-specific manner by a sperm-specific enzyme termed phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ). Reduction or absence of functional PLCζ within sperm underlies male factor infertility in humans, due to mutational inactivation or abrogation of PLCζ protein expression. Underlying such clinical implications, a significant body of evidence has now been accumulated that has characterised the unique biochemical and biophysical properties of this enzyme, further aiding the unique clinical opportunities presented. Herein, we present and discuss evidence accrued over the past decade and a half that serves to support the identity of PLCζ as the mammalian sperm factor. Furthermore, we also discuss the potential novel avenues that have yet to be examined regarding PLCζ mechanism of action in both the oocyte, and the sperm. Finally, we discuss the advances that have been made regarding the clinical therapeutic and diagnostic applications of PLCζ in potentially treating male infertility as a result of oocyte activation deficiency (OAD), and also possibly more general cases of male subfertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junaid Kashir
- College of Biomedical & Life Sciences, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK; Alfaisal University, College of Medicine, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Center, Department of Comparative Medicine, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Michail Nomikos
- College of Medicine, Member of QU Health, Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - F Anthony Lai
- College of Biomedical & Life Sciences, School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK; College of Medicine, Member of QU Health, Qatar University, PO Box 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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45
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Jeve YB, Potdar N, Blower JA, Gelbaya T. Strategies to improve fertilisation rates with assisted conception: a systematic review. HUM FERTIL 2017; 21:229-247. [PMID: 28545312 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2017.1324182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Successful fertilisation is one of the key steps determining success of assisted conception. Various factors including sperm or oocyte pathology and environmental factors have a significant impact on fertilisation rates. This systematic review is aimed to evaluate the existing evidence about factors affecting fertilisation and strategies to improve fertilisation rates. A literature search was performed using Ovid MEDLINE ® (Jan 1950-April 2016), EMBASE (Jan 1950-April 2016), Ovid OLDMEDLINE ®, Pre-MEDLINE (Jan 1950-April 2016) and the Cochrane Library. Relevant key words were used to combine sets of results and a total 243 papers were screened. Only qualitative analysis was performed, as there was major heterogeneity in study design and methodology for quantitative synthesis. Factors affecting fertilisation were divided into sperm- and oocyte-related factors. The methods to improve fertilisation rates were grouped together based on the approach used to improve fertilisation rates. Optimising laboratory condition and procedural effects in techniques is associated with improved fertilisation rates. Various techniques are described to improve fertilisation rates including assisted oocyte activation, physiological intracytoplasmic sperm injection (PICSI) and intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperm injection (IMSI). This review highlights the promising strategies under research to enhance fertilisation rates. Adequately powered multicentre randomised trials are required to evaluate these techniques before considering clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yadava Bapurao Jeve
- a Leicester Fertility Centre , University Hospitals of Leicester , Leicester , UK
| | - Neelam Potdar
- a Leicester Fertility Centre , University Hospitals of Leicester , Leicester , UK.,b Reproductive Sciences Section , University of Leicester , Leicester , UK
| | - Jane A Blower
- a Leicester Fertility Centre , University Hospitals of Leicester , Leicester , UK
| | - Tarek Gelbaya
- a Leicester Fertility Centre , University Hospitals of Leicester , Leicester , UK
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46
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Tavalaee M, Kiani-Esfahani A, Nasr-Esfahani MH. Relationship between phospholipase C-zeta, semen parameters, and chromatin status. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2017; 63:259-268. [PMID: 28345968 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2017.1298006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The need for additional tests to complement basic sperm analysis in clinics is well appreciated. In this regard, a number of tests such as sperm DNA integrity test as a tool in diagnosis and treatment of infertility are suggested. But recent studies have focused on main sperm factors involved in oocyte activation such as phospholipase C-zeta (PLCζ) that initiate intracellular Ca2+ signaling and embryogenesis. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between PLCζ, basic semen parameters, sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), and protamine deficiency in men with normal (n=32) and abnormal (n=23) semen parameters. Unlike SDF and protamine deficiency, as negative factors related to fertility, the mean value of PLCζ as positive factor related to infertility was significantly lower in men with abnormal semen parameters compared to men with normal semen parameters. Significant correlations were also observed between sperm concentration, motility, and abnormal morphology with the percentage of PLCζ positive spermatozoa. In addition, logistic regression analysis revealed that sperm morphology is more predictive than sperm motility and concentration for PLCζ presence. In addition, a statistically significant negative relationship was observed between the percentage of PLCζ positive spermatozoa and SDF. These findings suggested during ICSI, selection of sperm based on morphology has a profound effect on its ability to induce oocyte activation based on the likelihood of PLCζ expression. Therefore, assessment of PLCζ as an index for fertilization potential of a semen sample in men with severe teratozoospermia may define individuals who are candidates for artificial oocyte activation (AOA) and may avoid failed fertilization post ICSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marziyeh Tavalaee
- a Department of Reproductive Biotechnology , Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology , ACECR , Isfahan , Iran
| | - Abbas Kiani-Esfahani
- a Department of Reproductive Biotechnology , Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology , ACECR , Isfahan , Iran
| | - Mohammad H Nasr-Esfahani
- a Department of Reproductive Biotechnology , Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology , ACECR , Isfahan , Iran.,b Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center , Isfahan , Iran
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47
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Yamaguchi T, Ito M, Kuroda K, Takeda S, Tanaka A. The establishment of appropriate methods for egg-activation by human PLCZ1 RNA injection into human oocyte. Cell Calcium 2017; 65:22-30. [PMID: 28320563 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceca.2017.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Revised: 03/03/2017] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Phospholipase C-zeta (PLCZ1), a strong candidate of egg-activating sperm factor, can induce Ca2+ oscillations and cause egg activation. For the application of PLCZ1 to clinical use, we examined the pattern of Ca2+ responses and developmental rate by comparing PLCZ1 RNA injection methods with the other current methods, such as cytosolic aspiration, electrical stimulation and ionomycin treatment in human oocytes. We found that the pattern of Ca2+ oscillations after PLCZ1 RNA injection exhibited similar characteristics to that after ICSI treatment. We also determined the optimal concentration of human PLCZ1 RNA to activate the human oocytes. Our findings suggest that human PLCZ1 RNA is a better therapeutic agent to rescue human oocytes from failed activation, leading to normal and efficient development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Yamaguchi
- Saint Mother Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic, Institute for ART, Fukuoka 807-0825, Japan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Masahiko Ito
- Department of Virology and Parasitology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu 431-3192, Japan.
| | - Keiji Kuroda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Satoru Takeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
| | - Atsushi Tanaka
- Saint Mother Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic, Institute for ART, Fukuoka 807-0825, Japan
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48
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Yeste M, Jones C, Amdani SN, Coward K. Oocyte Activation and Fertilisation: Crucial Contributors from the Sperm and Oocyte. Results Probl Cell Differ 2017; 59:213-239. [PMID: 28247051 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-44820-6_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
This chapter intends to summarise the importance of sperm- and oocyte-derived factors in the processes of sperm-oocyte binding and oocyte activation. First, we describe the initial interaction between sperm and the zona pellucida, with particular regard to acrosome exocytosis. We then describe how sperm and oocyte membranes fuse, with special reference to the discovery of the sperm protein IZUMO1 and its interaction with the oocyte membrane receptor JUNO. We then focus specifically upon oocyte activation, the fundamental process by which the oocyte is alleviated from metaphase II arrest by a sperm-soluble factor. The identity of this sperm factor has been the source of much debate recently, although mounting evidence, from several different laboratories, provides strong support for phospholipase C ζ (PLCζ), a sperm-specific phospholipase. Herein, we discuss the evidence in support of PLCζ and evaluate the potential role of other candidate proteins, such as post-acrosomal WW-binding domain protein (PAWP/WBP2NL). Since the cascade of downstream events triggered by the sperm-borne oocyte activation factor heavily relies upon specialised cellular machinery within the oocyte, we also discuss the critical role of oocyte-borne factors, such as the inositol trisphosphate receptor (IP3R), protein kinase C (PKC), store-operated calcium entry (SOCE) and calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII), during the process of oocyte activation. In order to place the implications of these various factors and processes into a clinical context, we proceed to describe their potential association with oocyte activation failure and discuss how clinical techniques such as the in vitro maturation of oocytes may affect oocyte activation ability. Finally, we contemplate the role of artificial oocyte activating agents in the clinical rescue of oocyte activation deficiency and discuss options for more endogenous alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Yeste
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, C/ Maria Aurèlia Campany, 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17071, Girona, Spain. .,Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK.
| | - Celine Jones
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK
| | - Siti Nornadhirah Amdani
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK
| | - Kevin Coward
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, UK
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Zhang Z, Wang T, Hao Y, Panhwar F, Chen Z, Zou W, Ji D, Chen B, Zhou P, Zhao G, Cao Y. Effects of trehalose vitrification and artificial oocyte activation on the development competence of human immature oocytes. Cryobiology 2016; 74:43-49. [PMID: 27956222 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2016.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Revised: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Sucrose and trehalose are conventional cryoprotectant additives for oocytes and embryos. Ethanol can artificially enhance activation of inseminated mature oocytes. This study aims to investigate whether artificial oocyte activation (AOA) with ethanol can promote the development competence of in vitro matured oocytes. A total of 810 human immature oocytes, obtained from 325 patients undergoing normal stimulated oocyte retrieval cycles, were in vitro maturated (IVM) either immediately after collection (Fresh group n = 291)) or after being vitrified as immature oocytes (Vitrified group n = 519). These groups were arbitrarily assigned. All fresh and vitrified oocytes which matured after a period of IVM then underwent intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Half an hour following ICSI, they were either activated by 7% ethanol (AOA group) or left untreated (Non-AOA group). Fertilization, cleavage rate, blastocyst quality and aneuploidy rate were then evaluated. High-quality blastocysts were only obtained in both the fresh and vitrified groups which had undergone AOA after ICSI. Trehalose vitrification slightly, but not significantly, increased the formation rates of high-quality embryos (21.7% VS 15.4%, P > 0.05) and blastocysts (15.7% VS 7.69%, P > 0.05)) when compared with sucrose vitrification. Aneuploidy was observed in 12 of 24 (50%) of the AOA derived high quality blastocysts. High-quality blastocysts only developed from fresh or vitrified immature oocytes if the ICSI was followed by AOA. This information may be important for human immature oocytes commonly retrieved in normal stimulation cycles and may be particularly important for certain patient groups, such as cancer patients. AOA with an appropriate concentration of ethanol can enhance the developmental competence of embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiguo Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Insititute of Reproduction and Genetics of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China; Biopreservation and Artifical Organs, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Tianjuan Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Yan Hao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Fazil Panhwar
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, Department of Electronic Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, Anhui, China
| | - Zhongrong Chen
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, Department of Electronic Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, Anhui, China
| | - Weiwei Zou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Dongmei Ji
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Beili Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Gang Zhao
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, Department of Electronic Science and Technology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230027, Anhui, China.
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, China.
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50
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Aydinuraz B, Dirican EK, Olgan S, Aksunger O, Erturk OK. Artificial oocyte activation after intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperm injection: A prospective randomized sibling oocyte study. HUM FERTIL 2016; 19:282-288. [DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2016.1240374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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