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Becerro-Rey L, Martín-Cano FE, Ferrusola CO, Rodríguez-Martínez H, Gaitskell-Phillips G, da Silva-Álvarez E, Silva-Rodríguez A, Gil MC, Peña FJ. Aging of stallion spermatozoa stored in vitro is delayed at 22°C using a 67 mm glucose-10 mm pyruvate-based media. Andrology 2024; 12:1170-1185. [PMID: 38041502 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most commerce of equine seminal doses is carried out using commercial extenders under refrigeration at 5°C. OBJECTIVES To determine if 10 mm pyruvate in a 67 mm glucose extender and storage at 22°C could be the basis of an alternative storage method to cooling to 5°C. MATERIAL AND METHODS Stallion ejaculates were extendedin: INRA96 (67 mm glucose, non-pyruvate control), modified Tyrode's (67 mm glucose-10 mm pyruvate), supplemented with 0, 10, 50, and 100 μM itaconate. As itaconate was vehiculated in DMSO, a control vehicle was also included. Sperm motility, viability, mitochondrial membrane potential, and production of reactive oxygen species were measured after collection and again after 48 and 96 h of storage at 22°C. To disclose molecular metabolic changes, spermatozoa were incubated up to 3 h in modified Tyrode's 67 mm glucose-10 mm pyruvate and modified Tyrode's 67 mm glucose, and metabolic analysis conducted. RESULTS After 96 h of storage aliquots stored in the control, INRA96 had a very poor total motility of 5.6% ± 2.3%, while in the 67 mm glucose-10 mm pyruvate/10 μm itaconate extender, total motility was 34.7% ± 3.8% (p = 0.0066). After 96 h, viability was better in most pyruvate-based media, and the mitochondrial membrane potential in spermatozoa extended in INRA96 was relatively lower (p < 0.0001). Metabolomics revealed that in the spermatozoa incubated in the high pyruvate media, there was an increase in the relative amounts of NAD+, pyruvate, lactate, and ATP. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Aliquots stored in a 67 mm glucose-10 mm pyruvate-based medium supplemented with 10 μM itaconate, maintained a 35% total motility after 96 h of storage at 22°C, which is considered the minimum acceptable motility for commercialization. Improvements may be related to the conversion of pyruvate to lactate and regeneration of NAD+.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Becerro-Rey
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Francisco Eduardo Martín-Cano
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Cristina Ortega Ferrusola
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Heriberto Rodríguez-Martínez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), Obstetrics & Gynaecology (BKH), University of Linköping, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Gemma Gaitskell-Phillips
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Eva da Silva-Álvarez
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Antonio Silva-Rodríguez
- Facility of Innovation and Analysis in Animal Source Foodstuffs, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - María Cruz Gil
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Fernando J Peña
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
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Li Y, Hu Y, Wang Z, Lu T, Yang Y, Diao H, Zheng X, Xie C, Zhang P, Zhang X, Zhou Y. IKBA phosphorylation governs human sperm motility through ACC-mediated fatty acid beta-oxidation. Commun Biol 2023; 6:323. [PMID: 36966253 PMCID: PMC10039860 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04693-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathway regulates specific immunological responses and controls a wide range of physiological processes. NF-κB inhibitor alpha (IKBA) is an NF-κB inhibitory mediator in the cytoplasm that modulates the nuclear translocation and DNA binding activities of NF-κB proteins. However, whether the upstream cascade of the canonical NF-κB signaling pathway has physiological roles independent of IKBA-mediated transcriptional activation remains unclear. Herein we investigated the function of IKBA in mature sperm in which transcriptional and translational events do not occur. IKBA was highly expressed in human sperm. The repression of IKBA phosphorylation by its inhibitor Bay117082 markedly enhanced sperm motility. On the contrary, lipopolysaccharide-stimulated IKBA phosphorylation significantly decreased sperm motility. Nevertheless, Bay117082 treatment did not affect the motility of IKBA-knockout sperm. Further, untargeted metabolomic analysis and pharmacological blocking assays revealed that the Bay117082-induced increase in sperm motility was attributable to fatty acid β-oxidation (FAO) enhancement. In addition, we found that IKBA phosphorylation inhibition resulted in a significant reduction of acetyl-CoA carboxylase levels in the FAO metabolic pathway. Our findings indicate that IKBA-mediated signaling orchestrates sperm motility program and improves our understanding of transcription-independent NF-κB signaling pathway in cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanquan Li
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Youwei Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhengquan Wang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tingting Lu
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiting Yang
- NPFPC Key Laboratory of Contraceptives and Devices, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Hua Diao
- NPFPC Key Laboratory of Contraceptives and Devices, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, 200032, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoguo Zheng
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Chong Xie
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Xuelian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Yuchuan Zhou
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China.
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3
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Mirshahvaladi S, Topraggaleh TR, Bucak MN, Rahimizadeh P, Shahverdi A. Quantitative proteomics of sperm tail in asthenozoospermic patients: exploring the molecular pathways affecting sperm motility. Cell Tissue Res 2023:10.1007/s00441-023-03744-y. [PMID: 36847810 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-023-03744-y] [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: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
Asthenozoospermia, characterized by low sperm motility, is one of the most common causes of male infertility. While many intrinsic and extrinsic factors are involved in the etiology of asthenozoospermia, the molecular basis of this condition remains unclear. Since sperm motility results from a complex flagellar structure, an in-depth proteomic analysis of the sperm tail can uncover mechanisms underlying asthenozoospermia. This study quantified the proteomic profile of 40 asthenozoospermic sperm tails and 40 controls using TMT-LC-MS/MS. Overall, 2140 proteins were identified and quantified where 156 proteins have not been described earlier in sperm tail. There were 409 differentially expressed proteins (250 upregulated and 159 downregulated) in asthenozoospermia which by far is the highest number reported earlier. Further, bioinformatics analysis revealed several biological processes, including mitochondrial-related energy production, oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), citric acid cycle (CAC), cytoskeleton, stress response, and protein metabolism altered in asthenozoospermic sperm tail samples. Collectively, our findings reveal the importance of mitochondrial energy production and induced stress response as potential mechanisms involved in the loss of sperm motility in asthenozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahab Mirshahvaladi
- Department of Molecular Systems Biology at Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Macquarie Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Tohid Rezaei Topraggaleh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
| | - Mustafa Numan Bucak
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey
| | - Pegah Rahimizadeh
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Division of Experimental Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Cancer Research Program, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Abdolhossein Shahverdi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
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4
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Escada-Rebelo S, Ramalho-Santos J. Oxidative and Nitrosative Stress Detection in Human Sperm Using Fluorescent Probes. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2566:45-52. [PMID: 36152241 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2675-7_4] [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] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
As a natural by-product of mitochondrial respiration, reactive oxygen species (ROS) in sperm play a role in promoting fertilization, by intervening in a series of events. Nevertheless, an abnormal and uncounteracted increase in ROS production leads to oxidative stress (OS) which can, ultimately, culminate in cell death. An established relationship between OS and male infertility highlights the importance of an accurate detection method for ROS content that can be easily implemented and reproduced in any andrology lab. More recently, reactive nitrogen species (RNS) production and subsequent nitrosative stress have also been described. Here we describe the use of fluorescent probes, including some that targeted to the mitochondria due to the coupling of a cation (TPP+), in order to assess the levels of different ROS and RNS in human sperm using flow cytometry and/or fluorescent microscopy. This methodology is user friendly and accurate and can be safely applied in research- and/or clinical-based contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Escada-Rebelo
- PhD Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (BEB), IIIUC- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.
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5
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Extend the Survival of Human Sperm In Vitro in Non-Freezing Conditions: Damage Mechanisms, Preservation Technologies, and Clinical Applications. Cells 2022; 11:cells11182845. [PMID: 36139420 PMCID: PMC9496714 DOI: 10.3390/cells11182845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Preservation of human spermatozoa in vitro at normothermia or hypothermia maintaining their functions and fertility for several days plays a significant role in reproductive biology and medicine. However, it is well known that human spermatozoa left in vitro deteriorate over time irreversibly as the consequence of various stresses such as the change of osmolarity, energy deficiency, and oxidative damage, leading to substantial limitations including the need for semen examinations, fertility preservation, and assisted reproductive technology. These problems may be addressed with the aid of non-freezing storage techniques. The main and most effective preservation strategies are the partial or total replacement of seminal plasma with culture medium, named as extenders, and temperature-induced metabolic restriction. Semen extenders consist of buffers, osmolytes, and antioxidants, etc. to protect spermatozoa against the above-mentioned adverse factors. Extended preservation of human spermatozoa in vitro has a negative effect on sperm parameters, whereas its effect on ART outcomes remains inconsistent. The storage duration, temperature, and pre-treatment of semen should be determined according to the aims of preservation. Advanced techniques such as nanotechnology and omics have been introduced and show great potential in the lifespan extension of human sperm. It is certain that more patients will benefit from it in the near future. This review provided an overview of the current knowledge and prospects of prolonged non-freezing storage of human sperm in vitro.
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6
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Amaral A. Energy metabolism in mammalian sperm motility. WIREs Mech Dis 2022; 14:e1569. [DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Amaral
- Department of Developmental Genetics Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics Berlin Germany
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7
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Marín-Briggiler CI, Luque GM, Gervasi MG, Oscoz-Susino N, Sierra JM, Mondillo C, Salicioni AM, Krapf D, Visconti PE, Buffone MG. Human Sperm Remain Motile After a Temporary Energy Restriction but do Not Undergo Capacitation-Related Events. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:777086. [PMID: 34869380 PMCID: PMC8633110 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.777086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
To acquire fertilization competence, mammalian sperm must undergo several biochemical and physiological modifications known as capacitation. Despite its relevance, the metabolic pathways that regulate the capacitation-related events, including the development of hyperactivated motility, are still poorly described. Previous studies from our group have shown that temporary energy restriction in mouse sperm enhanced hyperactivation, in vitro fertilization, early embryo development and pregnancy rates after embryo transfer, and it improved intracytoplasmic sperm injection results in the bovine model. However, the effects of starvation and energy recovery protocols on human sperm function have not yet been established. In the present work, human sperm were incubated for different periods of time in medium containing glucose, pyruvate and lactate (NUTR) or devoid of nutrients for the starving condition (STRV). Sperm maintained in STRV displayed reduced percentages of motility and kinematic parameters compared to cells incubated in NUTR medium. Moreover, they did not undergo hyperactivation and showed reduced levels of ATP, cAMP and protein tyrosine phosphorylation. Similar to our results with mouse sperm, starvation induced increased intracellular Ca2+ concentrations. Starved human sperm were capable to continue moving for more than 27 h, but the incubation with a mitochondrial uncoupler or inhibitors of oxidative phosphorylation led to a complete motility loss. When exogenous nutrients were added back (sperm energy recovery (SER) treatment), hyperactivated motility was rescued and there was a rise in sperm ATP and cAMP levels in 1 min, with a decrease in intracellular Ca2+ concentration and no changes in sperm protein tyrosine phosphorylation. The finding that human sperm can remain motile for several hours under starvation due to mitochondrial use of endogenous metabolites implies that other metabolic pathways may play a role in sperm energy production. In addition, full recovery of motility and other capacitation parameters of human sperm after SER suggests that this treatment might be used to modulate human sperm fertilizing ability in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Guillermina M. Luque
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María G. Gervasi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Natalia Oscoz-Susino
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jessica M. Sierra
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Mondillo
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana M. Salicioni
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Darío Krapf
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (CONICET-UNR), Rosario, Argentina
| | - Pablo E. Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Mariano G. Buffone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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8
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Escada-Rebelo S, Mora FG, Sousa AP, Almeida-Santos T, Paiva A, Ramalho-Santos J. Fluorescent probes for the detection of reactive oxygen species in human spermatozoa. Asian J Androl 2021; 22:465-471. [PMID: 31939350 PMCID: PMC7523605 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_132_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production is a by-product of mitochondrial activity and is necessary for the acquisition of the capacitated state, a requirement for functional spermatozoa. However, an increase in oxidative stress, due to an abnormal production of ROS, has been shown to be related to loss of sperm function, highlighting the importance of an accurate detection of sperm ROS, given the specific nature of this cell. In this work, we tested a variety of commercially available fluorescent probes to detect ROS and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) in human sperm, to define their specificity. Using both flow cytometry (FC) and fluorescence microscopy (FM), we confirmed that MitoSOX™ Red and dihydroethidium (DHE) detect superoxide anion (as determined using antimycin A as a positive control), while DAF-2A detects reactive nitrogen species (namely, nitric oxide). For the first time, we also report that RedoxSensor™ Red CC-1, CellROX® Orange Reagent, and MitoPY1 seem to be mostly sensitive to hydrogen peroxide, but not superoxide. Furthermore, mean fluorescence intensity (and not percentage of labeled cells) is the main parameter that can be reproducibly monitored using this type of methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Escada-Rebelo
- PhD Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal.,Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal.,IIIUC - Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, Casa Costa Alemão, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3030-789, Portugal
| | - Francisca G Mora
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal
| | - Ana P Sousa
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal.,Reproductive Medicine Unit, University Hospitals of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-561, Portugal
| | - Teresa Almeida-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal.,Reproductive Medicine Unit, University Hospitals of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-561, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-370, Portugal
| | - Artur Paiva
- Clinical Pathology Unit, University Hospitals of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-561, Portugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3004-504, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-456, Portugal
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9
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Carrageta DF, Guerra-Carvalho B, Sousa M, Barros A, Oliveira PF, Monteiro MP, Alves MG. Mitochondrial Activation and Reactive Oxygen-Species Overproduction during Sperm Capacitation are Independent of Glucose Stimuli. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9080750. [PMID: 32823893 PMCID: PMC7464989 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9080750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa capacitation is a complex process that requires specific ionic and energetic conditions to support biochemical alterations leading to motility hyperactivation. However, human sperm capacitation is still poorly understood. Herein, we studied the effects of glucose on human sperm capacitation. Healthy men seminal samples (n = 55) were submitted to a density gradient centrifugation and incubated in capacitating conditions in the absence or presence of increasing glucose concentrations (0, 5.5, 11, and 22 mM). Viability and total motility were accessed. Phosphotyrosine levels were measured. Mitochondrial activity and endogenous ROS production were evaluated. Oxidative stress-induced damage was analyzed. Culture media was collected and analyzed by 1H-NMR. Our results show that glucose is essential for human sperm capacitation and motility. Notably, we observed that mitochondrial activity increased even in the absence of glucose. This increased mitochondrial activity was followed by a ROS overproduction, although no oxidative stress-induced damage was detected. Our results show that glucose is essential for capacitation but mitochondrial activation is independent from its stimuli. ROS overproduction may take part on a finely regulated signaling pathway that modulates or even activates capacitation. Taken together, our results constitute a paradigm shift on human sperm capacitation physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- David F. Carrageta
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (D.F.C.); (B.G.-C.); (M.S.)
| | - Bárbara Guerra-Carvalho
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (D.F.C.); (B.G.-C.); (M.S.)
| | - Mário Sousa
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (D.F.C.); (B.G.-C.); (M.S.)
| | - Alberto Barros
- Centre for Reproductive Genetics Alberto Barros, 4100-012 Porto, Portugal;
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- i3S—Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro F. Oliveira
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Mariana P. Monteiro
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Marco G. Alves
- Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (D.F.C.); (B.G.-C.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-220-428-000
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10
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Nagashima JB, Ferraz MDAMM, Kamen SH, Songsasen N. Investigating media that support red wolf ( Canis rufus) sperm viability and capacitation in vitro. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2020; 1:83-92. [PMID: 35128425 PMCID: PMC8812450 DOI: 10.1530/raf-20-0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The red wolf is a critically endangered canid, with ~250 and ~20 individuals in the ex situ and reintroduced wild populations, respectively. Assisted reproductive technologies such as sperm cryopreservation and in vitro fertilization therefore represent critically-needed tools to manage these populations. However, the motility of post-thaw red wolf sperm rapidly declines during in vitro incubation, hindering the ability to develop these technologies. In this study, we evaluated the influence of several culture media (a modified canine capacitation medium (mCCM), a modified North Carolina State University-23 medium (mNCSU-23), a synthetic oviductal fluid (SOF), a fertilization Tyrode's medium base or Fert-TALP (FERT), and a TRIS-based buffer (TRIS)) on the survival and capacitation of red wolf sperm during extended (18 h) incubation at 38.5°C and 5% CO2. Red wolf sperm motility averaged (±s.e.m.) 73.8 ± 7.1% at the time of collection, and was better maintained over 4 h incubation in mCCM (55.0 ± 9.8%) and mNCSU-23 (54.7 ± 10.4), compared to mSOF (43.8 ± 8.3%), FERT (30 ± 10.5), and TRIS (16.4 ± 4.1%) solutions. Patterns of tyrosine phosphorylation signal, as assessed via immunocytochemistry, indicated induction of capacitation between 2 and 4 h in vitro culture. Tyrosine phosphorylation signal was particularly robust in mCCM and mNCSU-23 incubated sperm, although significant acrosome exocytosis was not observed in response to progesterone supplementation after 3 h incubation in any of the media. In sum, results indicate mCCM and mNCSU-23 are promising base media for the in vitro incubation and capacitation of red wolf sperm, for assisted reproduction applications. LAY SUMMARY Development of assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization and artificial insemination is of high importance to the genetic management of critically endangered species such as the red wolf (Canis rufus). However, these technologies require the ability to maintain sperm viability and function during extended incubation, which has not been successful for the red wolf thus far. In this study, various culture media developed for sperm/egg/embryo culture in large mammalian species were evaluated for their ability to maintain red wolf sperm motility under physiological incubation conditions. Media and conditions previously utilized for domestic dog sperm were found to best support sperm incubation and capacitation (process of becoming competent to fertilize an egg) in the red wolf, representing a key step for future development of assisted reproductive technologies for the species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer B Nagashima
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, USA
| | - Marcia de Almeida Monteiro Melo Ferraz
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, USA
- Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Munich, Bayern, Germany
| | - Sarah H Kamen
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, USA
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Longwood University, Farmville, Virginia, USA
| | - Nucharin Songsasen
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Front Royal, Virginia, USA
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11
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Wen C, Mai C, Wang B, Li J, Sun C, Yang N. Detrimental effects of excessive fatty acid secretion on female sperm storage in chickens. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2020; 11:26. [PMID: 32266065 PMCID: PMC7114795 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-020-0432-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Female sperm storage (FSS), the maintenance of sperm inside the female reproductive tract for an extended period of time, is pervasive among organisms with internal fertilization. Because FSS enables asynchronous mating and fertilization, it could be extremely important to reproduction. However, the physiological mechanisms underlying prolonged preservation and maintenance are poorly understood. Here, we used chicken, a typical oviparous animal, to determine the mechanisms ensuring sperm functionality in sperm storage tubules (SSTs). Results We performed an insemination experiment on over two thousand hens at two periods, and found that the FSS capabilities varied widely among individuals. Except for the differences in the SST density between the two groups with distinct FSS abilities, we quantitatively profiled small-molecule metabolites derived from SST cells, and identified 28 metabolites with differential expression. In particular, high levels of lipids, fatty acids and lipid peroxidation product were observed in hens with low FSS capability. Pathway analysis showed that these differential metabolites were significantly enriched in the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids. Moreover, we detected the total antioxidant capacity and lipid peroxidation level of SSTs, and found that chickens with a lower FSS ability had a significantly higher content of lipid peroxidation end-product, which was 2.4-fold greater than chickens with a higher FSS capability, and no significant difference was found in the total antioxidant capacity between these two groups. Conclusions Our findings reveal that the long-term storage of sperm and the maintenance of their function in the female reproductive tract require an adequate microenvironment. The superabundance of fatty acids secreted by SST cells had detrimental effects on sperm storage in the female reproductive tract. Lipid peroxidation produces toxic biological substances that may cause irreversible damage to resident spermatozoa, resulting in short-term sperm retention and decreased fertility. Our findings provide new avenues for studying sperm storage and sustaining fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaoliang Wen
- 1Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China.,2National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Chunning Mai
- 1Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China.,2National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Bin Wang
- 1Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China.,2National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Junying Li
- 1Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China.,2National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Congjiao Sun
- 1Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China.,2National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
| | - Ning Yang
- 1Department of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China.,2National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding and Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193 China
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Exogenous Oleic Acid and Palmitic Acid Improve Boar Sperm Motility via Enhancing Mitochondrial Β-Oxidation for ATP Generation. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10040591. [PMID: 32244409 PMCID: PMC7222800 DOI: 10.3390/ani10040591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Sperm requires ATP production for maintaining motility. In boar sperm, it is not clear whether the mitochondrial β-oxidation pathway for ATP generation is active or not. We found that boar sperm could utilize oleic acid and palmitic acid during the liquid storage. Addition of oleic acid and palmitic acid to extender improved the sperm quality. Using the incubation model, we found that boar sperm utilized oleic acid and palmitic acid as the energy substrates for ATP generation via mitochondrial β-oxidation pathway. We suggest that addition of fatty acids to the extender would be beneficial to improve boar sperm quality. Abstract It takes several hours for mammalian sperm to migrate from the ejaculation or insemination site to the fertilization site in the female reproductive tract in which glucose, amino acids, and fatty acids are regarded as the primary substrates for ATP generation. The present study was designed to investigate whether oleic acid and palmitic acid were beneficial to boar sperm in vitro; and if yes, to elucidate the mechanism that regulates sperm motility. Therefore, the levels of oleic acid and palmitic acid, motility, membrane integrity, acrosome integrity, and apoptosis of sperm were evaluated. Moreover, the enzymes involved in mitochondrial β-oxidation (CPT1: carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1; ACADVL: long-chain acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase) were detected with immunofluorescence and Western blotting. Consequently, the ATP content and the activities of CPT1, ACADVL, malate dehydrogenase (MDH), and succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) were also measured. We observed that CPT1 and ACADVL were expressed in boar sperm and localized in the midpiece. The levels of oleic acid and palmitic acid were decreased during storage at 17 °C. The addition of oleic acid and palmitic acid significantly increased sperm motility, progressive motility, straight-line velocity (VSL), membrane integrity, and acrosome integrity with a simultaneous decrease in sperm apoptosis after seven days during storage. When sperm were incubated with oleic acid and palmitic acid at 37 °C for 3 h, the activities of CPT1 and ACADVL, the ATP level, the mitochondrial membrane potential, the activities of MDH and SDH, as well as sperm motility patterns were significantly increased compared to the control (p < 0.05). Moreover, the addition of etomoxir to the diluted medium in the presence of either oleic acid or palmitic acid and the positive effects of oleic acid and palmitic acid were counteracted. Together, these data suggest that boar sperm might utilize oleic acid and palmitic acid as energy substrates for ATP production via β-oxidation. The addition of these acids could improve sperm quality.
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Reynolds S, Calvert SJ, Paley MN, Pacey AA. 1H Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy of live human sperm. Mol Hum Reprod 2018; 23:441-451. [PMID: 28431025 PMCID: PMC5909857 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can 1H Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) be used to obtain information about the molecules and metabolites in live human spermatozoa? SUMMARY ANSWER Percoll-based density gradient centrifugation (DGC) followed by a further two washing steps, yielded enough sperm with minimal contamination (<0.01%) from seminal fluid to permit effective MRS which detected significant differences (P < 0.05) in the choline/glycerophosphocholine (GPC), lipid and lactate regions of the 1H MRS spectrum between sperm in the pellet and those from the 40%/80% interface. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Current methods to examine sperm are either limited in their value (e.g. semen analysis) or are destructive (e.g. immunohistochemistry, sperm DNA testing). A few studies have previously used MRS to examine sperm, but these have either looked at seminal plasma from men with different ejaculate qualities or at the molecules present in pooled samples of lyophilized sperm. STUDY DESIGN, SAMPLES/MATERIALS, METHODS Sperm suspended in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) at 37°C were examined by 1H MRS scanning using a 1H excitation-sculpting solvent suppression sequence after recovery from fresh ejaculates by one of three different methods: (i) simple centrifugation; (ii) DGC with one wash; or (iii) DGC with two washes. In the case of DGC, sperm were collected both from the pellet (‘80%’ sperm) and the 40/80 interface (‘40%’ sperm). Spectrum processing was carried out using custom Matlab scripts to determine; the degree of seminal plasma/Percoll contamination, the minimum sperm concentration for 1H MRS detection and differences between the 1H MRS spectra of ‘40%’ and ‘80%’ sperm. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE DGC with two washes minimized the 1H MRS peak intensity for both seminal plasma and Percoll/PBS solution contamination while retaining sperm specific peaks. For the MRS scanner used in this study, the minimum sperm concentration required to produce a choline/GPC 1H MRS peak greater than 3:1 signal to noise ratio (SNR) was estimated at ~3 × 106/ml. The choline/GPC and lactate/lipid regions of the 1H spectrum were significantly different by two-way ANOVA analysis (P < 0.0001; n = 20). ROC curve analysis of these region showed significant ability to distinguish between the two sperm populations: choline/GPC ROC AUC = 0.65–0.67, lactate/lipid ROC AUC = 0.86–0.87. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Only 3–4 semen samples were used to assess the efficacy of each sperm washing protocol that were examined. The estimated minimum sperm concentration required for MRS is specific to the hardware used in our study and may be different in other spectrometers. Spectrum binning is a low resolution analysis method that sums MRS peaks within a chemical shift range. This can obscure the identity of which metabolite(s) are responsible for differences between sperm populations. Further work is required to determine the relative contribution of somatic cells to the MRS spectrum from the ‘40%’ and ‘80%’ sperm. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS 1H MRS can provide information about the molecules present in live human sperm and may therefore permit the study of the underlying functional biology or metabolomics of live sperm. Given the relatively low concentration of sperm required to obtain a suitable MRS signal (~3 × 106/ml), this could be carried out on sperm from men with oligo-, astheno- or teratozoospermia. This may lead to the development of new diagnostic tests or ultimately novel treatments for male factor infertility. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the Medical Research Council Grant MR/M010473/1. The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Reynolds
- Academic Unit of Radiology, Department of Immunity, Infection and Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S10 2JF, UK
| | - S J Calvert
- Academic Unit of Reproductive & Developmental Medicine, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield, S10 2SF, UK
| | - M N Paley
- Academic Unit of Radiology, Department of Immunity, Infection and Cardiovascular Disease, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S10 2JF, UK
| | - A A Pacey
- Academic Unit of Reproductive & Developmental Medicine, Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield, S10 2SF, UK
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Effects of glucose metabolism pathways on sperm motility and oxidative status during long-term liquid storage of goat semen. Theriogenology 2016; 86:839-49. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2015] [Revised: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Chen YC, Pan LC, Lai CW, Chien YS, Wu TH. Silymarin and protein kinase A inhibitor modulate glucose-mediated mouse sperm motility: An in vitro study. Reprod Biol 2015; 15:172-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2015.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2014] [Revised: 05/07/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Portela JMD, Tavares RS, Mota PC, Ramalho-Santos J, Amaral S. High glucose concentrations per se do not adversely affect human sperm function in vitro. Reproduction 2015; 150:77-84. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2015] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) represents one of the greatest concerns to global health and it is associated with diverse clinical complications, including reproductive dysfunction. Given the multifactorial nature of DM, the mechanisms that underlie reproductive dysfunction remain unclear. Considering that hyperglycemia has been described as a major effector of the disease pathophysiology, we used anin vitroapproach to address the isolated effect of high glucose conditions on human sperm function, thus avoiding otherin vivoconfounding players. We performed a complete and integrated analysis by measuring a variety of important indicators of spermatozoa functionality (such as motility, viability, capacitation status, acrosomal integrity, mitochondrial superoxide production and membrane potential) in human sperm samples after incubation withd- andl-glucose (5, 25, or 50 mM) for 24 and 48 h. No direct effects promoted by 25 or 50 mMd-glucose were found for any of the parameters assessed (P>0.05), except for the acrosome reaction, which was potentiated after 48 h of exposure to 50 mMd-glucose (P<0.05). Interestingly, non-metabolizablel-glucose drastically increased superoxide production (P<0.05) and suppressed sperm motility (P<0.05) and capacitation (P<0.05) after 24 h of treatment, whereas mitochondrial membrane potential (P<0.05), acrosomal integrity (P<0.01) and viability (P<0.05) were later decreased. The overall results suggest that high glucose levelsper sedo not influence human sperm functionin vitro, which stresses the importance of other factors involved in DM pathology. Nevertheless, the absence of metabolizable glucose contributes to a severe impairment of sperm function and thus compromises male fertility.Free Portuguese abstract: A Portuguese translation of this abstract is freely available athttp://www.reproduction-online.org/content/150/1/77/suppl/DC1.
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Fatihah S, Safiah J, Abol-Munaf A, Ikhwanuddi M. Biochemical Changes of Total Protein, Glucose, Lactate Dehydrogenase and
Total Lipid in the Cryopreserved Sperm of Mud Spiny Lobster, Panulirus polyphagus. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.3923/jfas.2015.35.44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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18
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Sati L, Bennett D, Janes M, Huszar G. Next day determination of ejaculatory sperm motility after overnight shipment of semen to remote locations. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 32:117-25. [PMID: 25381621 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0365-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Accepted: 10/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop a method for delayed assessment of sperm motility, after shipment of semen to a remote laboratory. Sperm in semen were labeled with the MitoTracker(®) Red CM-H(2)XRos reagent, and fixed with 3.7 % formaldehyde by the laboratory technicians at the origin of the semen. This treatment reflected well sperm mitochondrial activity, and the MitoTracker(®) signal was related to sperm motility and velocity for 2-3 days following ejaculation. METHODS Sperm motility and velocity were evaluated manually and by computer assisted semen analysis (CASA), respectively. Fluorescence assessment of individual sperm was carried out with the computer assisted Metamorph v4.6.9 program. Emission levels of MitoTracker(®) spermatozoa were studied in room temperature and cooled semen, or in the respective room temperature swim-up sperm fractions following ejaculation, and on the second day (N = 103 samples, 89 men) and third day (N = 10 samples, 8 men). RESULTS Sperm with optical density (O.D.) ≥0.7 showed close correlations with ejaculatory sperm motility and velocity even after second day (r = 0.92, p < 0.001, N = 103 samples). Further, the multiple of sperm motility and velocity was also related to the proportion of high MitoTracker(®) reagent emission sperm (r = 0.83, p < 0.001, N = 103 samples). MitoTracker(®) dye fluorescence on the second day accurately reflected the ejaculatory sperm motility (r = 0.90, p < 0.001). Thus, a shipping delay would not adversely affect the results. CONCLUSIONS The delayed assessment of sperm motility in samples treated with MitoTracker(®) Red CM-H(2)XRos reagent and shipped to remote laboratory truly reflects the level of sperm motility at the time of the ejaculation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leyla Sati
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Campus, 07070, Antalya, Turkey,
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Amaral A, Paiva C, Attardo Parrinello C, Estanyol JM, Ballescà JL, Ramalho-Santos J, Oliva R. Identification of proteins involved in human sperm motility using high-throughput differential proteomics. J Proteome Res 2014; 13:5670-84. [PMID: 25250979 DOI: 10.1021/pr500652y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian sperm motility is a prerequisite for in vivo fertilization, and alterations in this parameter are commonly observed in infertile males. However, we still do not have a complete understanding of the molecular mechanisms controlling it. The aim of this study was to identify proteins involved in human sperm motility deficiency by using TMT protein labeling and LC-MS/MS. Two complementary approaches were used: comparison between sperm samples differing in motility (asthenozoospermic versus normozoospermic) and comparison between sperm subpopulations of fractionated normozoospermic samples differing in motility (non-migrated versus migrated). LC-MS/MS resulted in the identification of 1157 and 887 proteins in the first and second approaches, respectively. Remarkably, similar proteomic alterations were detected in the two experiments, with 80 proteins differentially expressed in the two groups of samples and 93 differentially expressed in the two groups of subpopulations. The differential proteins were analyzed by GO, cellular pathways, and clustering analyses and resulted in the identification of core deregulated proteins and pathways associated with sperm motility dysfunction. These included proteins associated with energetic metabolism, protein folding/degradation, vesicle trafficking, and the cytoskeleton. Contrary to what is usually accepted, the outcomes support the hypothesis that several metabolic pathways (notably, mitochondrial-related ones) contribute toward regulating sperm motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Amaral
- Human Genetics Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona , Casanova 143, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
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Marques M, Sousa AP, Paiva A, Almeida-Santos T, Ramalho-Santos J. Low amounts of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species define human sperm quality. Reproduction 2014; 147:817-24. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
We have applied the mitochondria-specific superoxide fluorescent probe MitoSOX Red (MitoSOX) to detect mitochondria-specific reactive oxygen species (mROS) production in human sperm samples using flow cytometry. We show that human ejaculates are heterogeneous in terms of mROS production, with three subpopulations clearly detectable, comprising sperm that produce increasing amounts of mROS (MitoSOX−, MitoSOX+, and MitoSOX++). The sperm subpopulation producing the lowest amount of mROS represented the most functional subset of male gametes within the ejaculate, as it was correlated with the highest amount of live and non-apoptotic sperm and increased both in samples with better semen parameters and in samples processed by both density-gradient centrifugation and swim-up, both known to select for higher quality sperm. Importantly, the MitoSOX− subpopulation was clearly more prevalent in samples that gave rise to pregnancies following assisted reproduction. Our work, therefore, not only describe discreet human sperm heterogeneity at the mROS level but also suggests that mROS may represent a strategy to both evaluate sperm samples and isolate the most functional gametes for assisted reproduction.Free Portuguese abstractA Portuguese translation of this abstract is freely available athttp://www.reproduction-online.org/content/147/6/817/suppl/DC1
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Sousa MI, Amaral S, Tavares RS, Paiva C, Ramalho-Santos J. Concentration-dependent Sildenafil citrate (Viagra) effects on ROS production, energy status, and human sperm function. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2013; 60:72-9. [DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2013.867380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Inês Sousa
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra
| | - Sandra Amaral
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra
| | - Renata Santos Tavares
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra
| | - Carla Paiva
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra
- PhD Programme in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), University of Coimbra
CoimbraPortugal
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra
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Ahammad MU, Nishino C, Tatemoto H, Okura N, Okamoto S, Kawamoto Y, Nakada T. Plumping fluid added to storage medium increases twofold the functional life span of fowl spermatozoa in vitro at 4°C. Br Poult Sci 2013; 54:270-80. [PMID: 23647193 DOI: 10.1080/00071668.2013.778956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
1. The objective of this study was to examine whether addition of plumping fluid (PF) to Lake's solution (LS) for storage of fowl spermatozoa in vitro at 4°C can prolong survival and improve the quality of spermatozoa. 2. In experiment 1, aliquots of spermatozoa were stored in vitro in LS alone and LS containing 10%, 25%, 50% and 75% (v:v) PF for 0.5, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 h at 4°C. After the end of each storage period, spermatozoa were evaluated for their viability, mobility and penetrability. Viability was determined using SYBR-14 and propidium iodide (PI) staining. Mobility was assessed using an Accudenz assay. Penetrability was assessed using spermatozoa-inner perivitelline layer (IPL) interaction assay. 3. In experiment 2, aliquots of spermatozoa were stored in vitro in LS alone and LS containing 25% and 50% (v:v) PF for 0.5, 24, 48 and 72 h at 4°C, and then fertility of the spermatozoa was evaluated using intravaginal artificial insemination (AI) in hens. 4. Storage of spermatozoa in LS alone resulted in loss of viability, mobility, penetrability and fertility within 48 h. In contrast, no loss of viability and penetrability was observed for the spermatozoa stored for 48, 96, 72 and 48 h in LS containing 10%, 25%, 50% and 75% (v:v) PF, respectively. In particular, fertilising capacity was not lost for the spermatozoa stored in the presence of 25% or 50% PF in LS for 48 and 24 h, respectively. 5. In conclusion, these findings demonstrated that in vitro exposure of fowl spermatozoa to PF during hypothermic storage in LS prolonged spermatozoa survival. A 25% (v:v) level of inclusion of PF in LS may be effective for the improvement of viability, penetrability and fertilising ability of the stored spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- M U Ahammad
- Science of Bioresource Production, The United Graduate School of Agricultural Sciences, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima 890-0065, Japan.
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Ramalho-Santos J, Amaral S. Mitochondria and mammalian reproduction. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2013; 379:74-84. [PMID: 23769709 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2012] [Revised: 04/22/2013] [Accepted: 06/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria are cellular organelles with crucial roles in ATP synthesis, metabolic integration, reactive oxygen species (ROS) synthesis and management, the regulation of apoptosis (namely via the intrinsic pathway), among many others. Additionally, mitochondria in different organs or cell types may have distinct properties that can decisively influence functional analysis. In terms of the importance of mitochondria in mammalian reproduction, and although there are species-specific differences, these aspects involve both energetic considerations for gametogenesis and fertilization, control of apoptosis to ensure the proper production of viable gametes, and ROS signaling, as well as other emerging aspects. Crucially, mitochondria are the starting point for steroid hormone biosynthesis, given that the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone (a common precursor for all steroid hormones) takes place via the activity of the cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc) on the inner mitochondrial membrane. Furthermore, mitochondrial activity in reproduction has to be considered in accordance with the very distinct strategies for gamete production in the male and female. These include distinct gonad morpho-physiologies, different types of steroids that are more prevalent (testosterone, estrogens, progesterone), and, importantly, the very particular timings of gametogenesis. While spermatogenesis is complete and continuous since puberty, producing a seemingly inexhaustible pool of gametes in a fixed environment; oogenesis involves the episodic production of very few gametes in an environment that changes cyclically. These aspects have always to be taken into account when considering the roles of any common element in mammalian reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Ramalho-Santos
- CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Portugal.
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Amaral A, Lourenço B, Marques M, Ramalho-Santos J. Mitochondria functionality and sperm quality. Reproduction 2013; 146:R163-74. [PMID: 23901129 DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 327] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Although mitochondria are best known for being the eukaryotic cell powerhouses, these organelles participate in various cellular functions besides ATP production, such as calcium homoeostasis, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the intrinsic apoptotic pathway and steroid hormone biosynthesis. The aim of this review was to discuss the putative roles of mitochondria in mammalian sperm function and how they may relate to sperm quality and fertilisation ability, particularly in humans. Although paternal mitochondria are degraded inside the zygote, sperm mitochondrial functionality seems to be critical for fertilisation. Indeed, changes in mitochondrial integrity/functionality, namely defects in mitochondrial ultrastructure or in the mitochondrial genome, transcriptome or proteome, as well as low mitochondrial membrane potential or altered oxygen consumption, have been correlated with loss of sperm function (particularly with decreased motility). Results from genetically engineered mouse models also confirmed this trend. On the other hand, increasing evidence suggests that mitochondria derived ATP is not crucial for sperm motility and that glycolysis may be the main ATP supplier for this particular aspect of sperm function. However, there are contradictory data in the literature regarding sperm bioenergetics. The relevance of sperm mitochondria may thus be associated with their role in other physiological features, particularly with the production of ROS, which in controlled levels are needed for proper sperm function. Sperm mitochondria may also serve as intracellular Ca²⁺ stores, although their role in signalling is still unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Amaral
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC - Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Amaral A, Castillo J, Ramalho-Santos J, Oliva R. The combined human sperm proteome: cellular pathways and implications for basic and clinical science. Hum Reprod Update 2013; 20:40-62. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
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Tavares RS, Mansell S, Barratt CLR, Wilson SM, Publicover SJ, Ramalho-Santos J. p,p'-DDE activates CatSper and compromises human sperm function at environmentally relevant concentrations. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:3167-77. [PMID: 24067601 PMCID: PMC3829580 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the environmental endocrine disruptor p,p′-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (p,p′-DDE) able to induce non-genomic changes in human sperm and consequently affect functional sperm parameters? SUMMARY ANSWER p,p′-DDE promoted Ca2+ flux into human sperm by activating CatSper channels even at doses found in human reproductive fluids, ultimately compromising sperm parameters important for fertilization. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY p,p′-DDE may promote non-genomic actions and interact directly with pre-existing signaling pathways, as already observed in other cell types. However, although often found in both male and female reproductive fluids, its effects on human spermatozoa function are not known. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Normozoospermic sperm samples from healthy individuals were included in this study. Samples were exposed to several p,p′-DDE concentrations for 3 days at 37°C and 5% CO2in vitro to mimic the putative continuous exposure to this toxicant in the female reproductive tract in vivo. Shorter p,p′-DDE incubation periods were also performed in order to monitor sperm rapid Ca2+ responses. All experiments were repeated on a minimum of five sperm samples from different individuals. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS All healthy individuals were recruited at the Biosciences School, University of Birmingham, the Medical Research Institute, University of Dundee and in the Human Reproduction Service at University Hospitals of Coimbra. Intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) was monitored by imaging single spermatozoa loaded with Oregon Green BAPTA-1AM and further whole-cell patch-clamp recordings were performed to validate our results. Sperm viability and acrosomal integrity were assessed using the LIVE/DEAD sperm vitality kit and the acrosomal content marker PSA-FITC, respectively. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE p,p′-DDE rapidly increased [Ca2+]i (P < 0.05) even at extremely low doses (1 pM and 1 nM), with magnitudes of response up to 200%, without affecting sperm viability, except after 3 days of continuous exposure to the highest concentration tested (P < 0.05). Furthermore, experiments performed in a low Ca2+ medium demonstrated that extracellular Ca2+ influx was responsible for this Ca2+ increase (P < 0.01). Mibefradil and NNC 55-0396, both inhibitors of the sperm-specific CatSper channel, reversed the p,p′-DDE-induced [Ca2+]i rise, suggesting the participation of CatSper in this process (P < 0.05). In fact, whole-cell patch-clamp recordings confirmed CatSper as a target of p,p′-DDE action by monitoring an increase in CatSper currents of >100% (P < 0.01). Finally, acrosomal integrity was adversely affected after 2 days of exposure to p,p′-DDE concentrations, suggesting that [Ca2+]i rise may cause premature acrosome reaction (P < 0.05). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is an in vitro study, and caution must be taken when extrapolating the results. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS A novel non-genomic p,p′-DDE mechanism specific to sperm is shown in this study. p,p′-DDE was able to induce [Ca2+]i rise in human sperm through the opening of CatSper consequently compromising male fertility. The promiscuous nature of CatSper activation may predispose human sperm to the action of some persistent endocrine disruptors. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was supported by both the Portuguese National Science Foundation (FCT; PEst-C/SAU/LA0001/2011) and the UK Wellcome Trust (Grant #86470). SM was supported by the Infertility Research Trust. RST is a recipient of a PhD fellowship from FCT (SFRH/BD/46002/2008). None of the authors has any conflict of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata S Tavares
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3001-401, Portugal
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Amaral A, Ramalho-Santos J. The male gamete is not a somatic cell--the possible meaning of varying sperm RNA levels. Antioxid Redox Signal 2013; 18:179-80. [PMID: 22703389 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2012.4715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Amaral
- Biology of Reproduction and Human Fertility Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Largo Marquês de Pombal, Coimbra, Portugal
- Human Genetics Research Group, IDIBAPS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Clinic Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - João Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Human Fertility Research Group, Centre for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Largo Marquês de Pombal, Coimbra, Portugal
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
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Acute effects of TCDD administration: special emphasis on testicular and sperm mitochondrial function. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTION 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/s2305-0500(13)60091-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Amaral A, Castillo J, Estanyol JM, Ballescà JL, Ramalho-Santos J, Oliva R. Human sperm tail proteome suggests new endogenous metabolic pathways. Mol Cell Proteomics 2012; 12:330-42. [PMID: 23161514 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m112.020552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Proteomic studies are contributing greatly to our understanding of the sperm cell, and more detailed descriptions are expected to clarify additional cellular and molecular sperm attributes. The aim of this study was to characterize the subcellular proteome of the human sperm tail and, hopefully, identify less concentrated proteins (not found in whole cell proteome studies). Specifically, we were interested in characterizing the sperm metabolic proteome and gaining new insights into the sperm metabolism issue. Sperm were isolated from normozoospermic semen samples and depleted of any contaminating leukocytes. Tail fractions were obtained by means of sonication followed by sucrose-gradient ultracentrifugation, and their purity was confirmed via various techniques. Liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry of isolated sperm tail peptides resulted in the identification of 1049 proteins, more than half of which had not been previously described in human sperm. The categorization of proteins according to their function revealed two main groups: proteins related to metabolism and energy production (26%), and proteins related to sperm tail structure and motility (11%). Interestingly, a great proportion of the metabolic proteome (24%) comprised enzymes involved in lipid metabolism, including enzymes for mitochondrial beta-oxidation. Unexpectedly, we also identified various peroxisomal proteins, some of which are known to be involved in the oxidation of very long chain fatty acids. Analysis of our data using Reactome suggests that both mitochondrial and peroxisomal pathways might indeed be active in sperm, and that the use of fatty acids as fuel might be more preponderant than previously thought. In addition, incubation of sperm with the fatty acid oxidation inhibitor etomoxir resulted in a significant decrease in sperm motility. Contradicting a common concept in the literature, we suggest that the male gamete might have the capacity to obtain energy from endogenous pools, and thus to adapt to putative exogenous fluctuations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Amaral
- Human Genetics Research Group, IDIBAPS, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Casanova 143, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
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