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Li X, Zhang B, Yang H, Zhang L, Lou H, Zheng S. The emergence of natural products as potential therapeutics for male infertility. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 38191265 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Infertility is a major reproductive health problem. Approximately 50% of all documented cases of infertility are attributable to male factors, such as poor testicular function and semen quality. The recent significant global decline in sperm counts has serious implications for male fertility, but the armamentarium for improving testicular function and semen quality is limited. Natural products have a wide range of activities and are a major source of drugs for disease prevention and treatment. To provide ideas and a theoretical basis for the research and development of therapeutic drugs for male infertility, this review summarizes natural products (mostly monomers) that have been shown to improve testicular function and semen quality and their possible mechanisms of action. These natural products primarily improve testicular function and semen quality via antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects, in addition to increasing serum testosterone and reducing DNA damage in spermatozoa and testicular cells. Prospects for the application of natural products in the treatment of male infertility are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuyun Li
- Maternal and Child Health Development Research Center, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, China
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Bin Zhang
- Maternal and Child Health Development Research Center, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, China
| | - Huijun Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, China
| | - Liuping Zhang
- Pharmaceutical Department, Shanxian Central Hospital, Heze, China
| | - Hongxiang Lou
- Department of Natural Product Chemistry, Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology (Ministry of Education), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shicun Zheng
- Maternal and Child Health Development Research Center, Shandong Provincial Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Jinan, China
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Mumcu A. A different approach to the quantification of human seminal plasma metabolites using high-resolution NMR spectroscopy. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2023; 229:115356. [PMID: 37011551 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2023.115356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
In this study, a reliable method was established for the absolute quantification of metabolite concentrations in human seminal plasma using ERETIC2, a quantification tool developed by Bruker based on the PULCON principle. The performance of the ERETIC2 was examined using an AVANCE III HD NMR spectrometer (600 MHz) equipped with a triple inverse 1.7 mm TXI probe in terms of some experimental parameters that may affect the accuracy and precision of the quantitative results. Then, the accuracy, precision, and repeatibility of ERETIC2 were determined using L-asparagine solutions at different concentrations. And it was evaluated by comparing it with the classical internal standard (IS) quantification method. The relative standard deviation (RSD) values for ERETIC2 were calculated in the range of 0.55-1.90% and the minimum recovery value was 99.9%, while the RSD values for the IS method were calculated in the range of 0.88-5.83% and recovery value was minimum 91.0%. Besides, the RSD values of the inter-day precisions for the ERETIC2 and IS methods were obtained to be in the range of 1.25 - 3.03% and 0.97 - 3.46%, respectively. Finally, the concentration values of seminal plasma metabolites were determined using different pulse programs with both methods for samples obtained from normozoospermic control and azoospermic patient groups. The results proved that this quantification method developed using NMR spectroscopy is easy to use in complex sample systems such as biological fluids and is a good alternative to the classical internal standard method in terms of accuracy and sensitivity. In addition, the improvement of the spectral resolution and sensitivity with the microcoil probe technology and the possibility of analyzing with minimum sample quantities has contributed positively to the results of this method.
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Intharuksa A, Denduangboripant J, Chansakaow S, Thongkhao K, Sukrong S. HPLC and DNA barcoding profiles for identification of the selected twelve Mucuna species and its application for detecting prohibited aphrodisiac Mucuna products. Heliyon 2023; 9:e14130. [PMID: 36915514 PMCID: PMC10006835 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e14130] [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: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Aphrodisiac herbal products originated from various plants including Mucuna species. In Thai folklore, Mucuna macrocarpa Wall. and M. pruriens (L.) DC. have long been consumed and utilized for their aphrodisiac properties. Consumption of these plants can lead to serious adverse effects caused by l-dopa. The plants have been legally banned for use as foods, dietary supplements, or nutraceuticals by the FDA of several countries. To protect consumers, methods for the identification of illicit plants or herbal products are needed. This study aimed to identify the selected twelve Mucuna species and examine the aphrodisiac herbal products containing M. macrocarpa and M. pruriens by using HPLC analysis of l-dopa coupled with DNA barcoding profiles of ITS, matK, rbcL, and trnH-psbA. The results showed that l-dopa could be found not only in the seeds of M. macrocarpa and M. pruriens but also in associated allied Mucuna species. Then, a DNA barcode was introduced to support in HPLC profiling to identify the plants. DNA barcodes of twelve Mucuna species found in Thailand were established and used to reconstruct a phylogenetic tree. In this study, ITS2 sequences showed the highest interspecific variability and could be used to differentiate all Mucuna species. The results of ITS2 sequence coupled with HPLC analysis revealed that all the purchased aphrodisiac products originated from M. pruriens only. Therefore, the integration of HPLC analysis and DNA barcoding profile was an efficient method for the identification of prohibited Mucuna species for safety monitoring of herbal supplements and protecting customer safety. Regulatory agencies should raise awareness and restrain the use of these commercial products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aekkhaluck Intharuksa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University Suthep Road, Suthep, Mueang, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | | | - Sunee Chansakaow
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University Suthep Road, Suthep, Mueang, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Kannika Thongkhao
- School of Languages and General Education, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand.,Center of Excellent in Marijuana, Hemp and Kratom, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
| | - Suchada Sukrong
- Center of Excellence in DNA Barcoding of Thai Medicinal Plants, Department of Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10300, Thailand
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Zhao G, Zhao X, Bai J, Dilixiati A, Song Y, Haire A, Zhao S, Aihemaiti A, Fu X, Wusiman A. Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Changes Underlying the Effects of L-Citrulline Supplementation on Ram Semen Quality. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:217. [DOI: doi.org/10.3390/ani13020217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
This study examined the effects of L-Cit supplementation on ram semen quality through metabolomics and transcriptomics. A total of 16 rams were randomly categorized into two groups. The control group was fed a basic diet, whereas the experimental group received feed supplemented with 12 g/d of L-Cit. Semen and blood were collected from the rams on days 0 and 72 to measure sugar, pyruvate, amino acid, and nontargeted metabolite contents. Additionally, hypothalamic and testicular tissues were collected for a transcriptomic analysis. We found 27 differential metabolites between the control and experimental groups, of which 21 were downregulated (p < 0.05) and 6 were upregulated (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, xylose and pyruvate contents in seminal plasma increased by 43.86% and 162.71%, respectively (p < 0.01). Additionally, the levels of 11 amino acids showed a significant increase in seminal plasma (p < 0.01). Furthermore, 961 and 715 differentially expressed genes were detected in the hypothalamic and testicular tissues, respectively. The pathways of significant enrichment in the hypothalamus and testes were protein digestion, absorption, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, and amino as well as nucleotide sugar metabolisms. In the present study, L-Cit improved protein synthesis and blood metabolism, consequently increasing the contents of most amino acids in ram seminal plasma. Specifically, the hypothalamus controlled the expression of glycolysis/gluconeogenesis-related genes in the testes through its metabolites released into the serum, thereby providing energy for sperm production, which led to a decrease in the sugar content of seminal plasma.
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Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Changes Underlying the Effects of L-Citrulline Supplementation on Ram Semen Quality. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13020217. [PMID: 36670757 PMCID: PMC9855076 DOI: 10.3390/ani13020217] [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: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
This study examined the effects of L-Cit supplementation on ram semen quality through metabolomics and transcriptomics. A total of 16 rams were randomly categorized into two groups. The control group was fed a basic diet, whereas the experimental group received feed supplemented with 12 g/d of L-Cit. Semen and blood were collected from the rams on days 0 and 72 to measure sugar, pyruvate, amino acid, and nontargeted metabolite contents. Additionally, hypothalamic and testicular tissues were collected for a transcriptomic analysis. We found 27 differential metabolites between the control and experimental groups, of which 21 were downregulated (p < 0.05) and 6 were upregulated (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, xylose and pyruvate contents in seminal plasma increased by 43.86% and 162.71%, respectively (p < 0.01). Additionally, the levels of 11 amino acids showed a significant increase in seminal plasma (p < 0.01). Furthermore, 961 and 715 differentially expressed genes were detected in the hypothalamic and testicular tissues, respectively. The pathways of significant enrichment in the hypothalamus and testes were protein digestion, absorption, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, and amino as well as nucleotide sugar metabolisms. In the present study, L-Cit improved protein synthesis and blood metabolism, consequently increasing the contents of most amino acids in ram seminal plasma. Specifically, the hypothalamus controlled the expression of glycolysis/gluconeogenesis-related genes in the testes through its metabolites released into the serum, thereby providing energy for sperm production, which led to a decrease in the sugar content of seminal plasma.
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Active microbial metabolites study on antitussive and expectorant effects and metabolic mechanisms of platycosides fraction of Platycodonis Radix. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2022; 1195:123171. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2022.123171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Asampille G, Cheredath A, Joseph D, Adiga SK, Atreya HS. The utility of nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy in assisted reproduction. Open Biol 2020; 10:200092. [PMID: 33142083 PMCID: PMC7729034 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects approximately 15-20% of individuals of reproductive age worldwide. Over the last 40 years, assisted reproductive technology (ART) has helped millions of childless couples. However, ART is limited by a low success rate and risk of multiple gestations. Devising methods for selecting the best gamete or embryo that increases the ART success rate and prevention of multiple gestation has become one of the key goals in ART today. Special emphasis has been placed on the development of non-invasive approaches, which do not require perturbing the embryonic cells, as the current morphology-based embryo selection approach has shortcomings in predicting the implantation potential of embryos. An observed association between embryo metabolism and viability has prompted researchers to develop metabolomics-based biomarkers. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy provides a non-invasive approach for the metabolic profiling of tissues, gametes and embryos, with the key advantage of having a minimal sample preparation procedure. Using NMR spectroscopy, biologically important molecules can be identified and quantified in intact cells, extracts or secretomes. This, in turn, helps to map out the active metabolic pathways in a system. The present review covers the contribution of NMR spectroscopy in assisted reproduction at various stages of the process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gitanjali Asampille
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, India
| | - Aswathi Cheredath
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, India
| | - David Joseph
- NMR Research Centre, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
- Solid State and Structural Chemistry Unit, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Satish K. Adiga
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576104, India
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Ashidi JS, Owagboriaye FO, Yaya FB, Payne DE, Lawal OI, Owa SO. Assessment of reproductive function in male albino rat fed dietary meal supplemented with Mucuna pruriens seed powder. Heliyon 2019; 5:e02716. [PMID: 31720466 PMCID: PMC6838900 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e02716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The occurrence of conflicting reports on the improvement of male reproductive function among humans fed diet containing the seed of Mucuna pruriens (MP) have raised a major concern in Nigeria. We assessed the effect of MP seed powder on the reproductive function in 32 adult male albino rats randomized to 4 groups of 8 rats each for 8 weeks. Group 1 (control) was given standard rat chow while groups 2, 3 and 4 were fed diets containing MP seed powder at 0.75 g, 1.5 g and 2.25 g respectively. Serum level of follicle stimulating hormone, testosterone, luteinizing hormone, oxidative stress markers in the testis, epididymal sperm quality and cytoarchitectural structure of the testis were monitored using standard methods. Significant improvements (p < 0.05) in the serum levels of all the hormones, testicular antioxidant defence, epididymal sperm quality without testicular degenerative changes were observed in group 2 compared to other groups. Oxidative stress, severe degenerative architectural lesions in the testis as well as significant reductions (p < 0.05) in epididymal sperm count, percentage motility and significant (p < 0.05) increased in abnormal sperm cells were observed in group 4. MP seed enhances reproductive function in male rats only at a dose level of 0.75g. A dose value higher than 0.75 g may be toxic to the male reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Senu Ashidi
- Department of Plant Science, Olabisi Onabanjo University, PMB 2002, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Folarin Ojo Owagboriaye
- Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, Olabisi Onabanjo University, PMB 2002, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Funmilola Balikis Yaya
- Department of Plant Science, Olabisi Onabanjo University, PMB 2002, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | | | - Olubukola Ireti Lawal
- Department of Plant Science, Olabisi Onabanjo University, PMB 2002, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Nigeria
| | - Stephen Olugbemiga Owa
- Applied Biology Programme, Department of Microbiology, Landmark University, Omu-Aran, Kwara State, Nigeria
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Wu Q, Xu Y, Ji H, Wang Y, Zhang Z, Lu H. Enhancing coverage in LC–MS-based untargeted metabolomics by a new sample preparation procedure using mixed-mode solid-phase extraction and two derivatizations. Anal Bioanal Chem 2019; 411:6189-6202. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-019-02010-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Revised: 06/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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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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Tahvilzadeh M, Hajimahmoodi M, Toliyat T, Karimi M, Rahimi R. An evidence-based approach to medicinal plants for the treatment of sperm abnormalities in traditional Persian medicine. Andrologia 2016; 48:860-79. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/11/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M. Tahvilzadeh
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy; School of Traditional Medicine; Tehran University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - M. Hajimahmoodi
- Department of Drug and Food Control; Faculty of Pharmacy; Tehran University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - T. Toliyat
- Department of Pharmaceutics; Faculty of Pharmacy; Tehran University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - M. Karimi
- Department of Traditional Medicine; School of Traditional Medicine; Tehran University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - R. Rahimi
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy; School of Traditional Medicine; Tehran University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
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12
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Sakkas D, Ramalingam M, Garrido N, Barratt CLR. Sperm selection in natural conception: what can we learn from Mother Nature to improve assisted reproduction outcomes? Hum Reprod Update 2015; 21:711-26. [PMID: 26386468 PMCID: PMC4594619 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In natural conception only a few sperm cells reach the ampulla or the site of fertilization. This population is a selected group of cells since only motile cells can pass through cervical mucus and gain initial entry into the female reproductive tract. In animals, some studies indicate that the sperm selected by the reproductive tract and recovered from the uterus and the oviducts have higher fertilization rates but this is not a universal finding. Some species show less discrimination in sperm selection and abnormal sperm do arrive at the oviduct. In contrast, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) utilize a more random sperm population. In this review we contrast the journey of the spermatozoon in vivo and in vitro and discuss this in the context of developing new sperm preparation and selection techniques for ART. METHODS A review of the literature examining characteristics of the spermatozoa selected in vivo is compared with recent developments in in vitro selection and preparation methods. Contrasts and similarities are presented. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS New technologies are being developed to aid in the diagnosis, preparation and selection of spermatozoa in ART. To date progress has been frustrating and these methods have provided variable benefits in improving outcomes after ART. It is more likely that examining the mechanisms enforced by nature will provide valuable information in regard to sperm selection and preparation techniques in vitro. Identifying the properties of those spermatozoa which do reach the oviduct will also be important for the development of more effective tests of semen quality. In this review we examine the value of sperm selection to see how much guidance for ART can be gleaned from the natural selection processes in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denny Sakkas
- Boston IVF, 130 Second Ave, Waltham, MA 02451, USA
| | - Mythili Ramalingam
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | | | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
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Bonechi C, Collodel G, Donati A, Martini S, Moretti E, Rossi C. Discrimination of human semen specimens by NMR data, sperm parameters, and statistical analysis. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2015; 61:353-9. [PMID: 26236922 DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2015.1054003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Human seminal fluid is a complex mixture of secretions originated from epididymis and the male accessory sex glands. It contains a variety of both inorganic and organic components, among which proteins are a major part of the high molecular-mass substances. In this study, 83 human seminal plasma samples were analyzed using a combined Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) approach to discriminate patients in relation to semen characteristics and/or conditions affecting the fertility status. Results showed a discrimination between patients with leukocytospermia and with the concomitant presence of varicocele/ex varicocele and leukocytospermia. Patients with testicular cancer, necrozoospermia, and azoospermia were separated from the other patient clusters. In addition, a differentiation of semen quality was also possible. This study represents to first use of sperm parameters together with NMR data as variables in the PCA analysis. Furthermore, this methodology allows the identification of the metabolites which play the most important role in identifying differences among human seminal plasma samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Bonechi
- a Department of Biotechnology , Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena , Via Aldo Moro , Siena , Italy .,b Centre for Colloid and Surface Science (CSGI), University of Florence , Florence , Italy , and
| | - Giulia Collodel
- c Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine , Policlinico Universitario Santa Maria alle Scotte , Siena , Italy
| | - Alessandro Donati
- a Department of Biotechnology , Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena , Via Aldo Moro , Siena , Italy .,b Centre for Colloid and Surface Science (CSGI), University of Florence , Florence , Italy , and
| | - Silvia Martini
- a Department of Biotechnology , Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena , Via Aldo Moro , Siena , Italy .,b Centre for Colloid and Surface Science (CSGI), University of Florence , Florence , Italy , and
| | - Elena Moretti
- c Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine , Policlinico Universitario Santa Maria alle Scotte , Siena , Italy
| | - Claudio Rossi
- a Department of Biotechnology , Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena , Via Aldo Moro , Siena , Italy .,b Centre for Colloid and Surface Science (CSGI), University of Florence , Florence , Italy , and
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14
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Paiva C, Amaral A, Rodriguez M, Canyellas N, Correig X, Ballescà JL, Ramalho-Santos J, Oliva R. Identification of endogenous metabolites in human sperm cells using proton nuclear magnetic resonance ((1) H-NMR) spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Andrology 2015; 3:496-505. [PMID: 25854681 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Revised: 01/26/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to contribute to the first comprehensive metabolomic characterization of the human sperm cell through the application of two untargeted platforms based on proton nuclear magnetic resonance ((1) H-NMR) spectroscopy and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Using these two complementary strategies, we were able to identify a total of 69 metabolites, of which 42 were identified using NMR, 27 using GC-MS and 4 by both techniques. The identity of some of these metabolites was further confirmed by two-dimensional (1) H-(1) H homonuclear correlation spectroscopy (COSY) and (1) H-(13) C heteronuclear single-quantum correlation (HSQC) spectroscopy. Most of the metabolites identified are reported here for the first time in mature human spermatozoa. The relationship between the metabolites identified and the previously reported sperm proteome was also explored. Interestingly, overrepresented pathways included not only the metabolism of carbohydrates, but also of lipids and lipoproteins. Of note, a large number of the metabolites identified belonged to the amino acids, peptides and analogues super class. The identification of this initial set of metabolites represents an important first step to further study their function in male gamete physiology and to explore potential reasons for dysfunction in future studies. We also demonstrate that the application of NMR and MS provides complementary results, thus constituting a promising strategy towards the completion of the human sperm cell metabolome.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Paiva
- Faculty of Medicine, Human Genetics Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain.,Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,PhD Program in Experimental Biology and Biomedicine (PDBEB), Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research (IIIUC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - A Amaral
- Faculty of Medicine, Human Genetics Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain.,Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - M Rodriguez
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV) and Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Tarragona, Spain
| | - N Canyellas
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV) and Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Tarragona, Spain
| | - X Correig
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Institut d'Investigació Sanitària Pere Virgili (IISPV) and Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Tarragona, Spain
| | - J L Ballescà
- Clinic Institute of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Ramalho-Santos
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, CNC-Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - R Oliva
- Faculty of Medicine, Human Genetics Research Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
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15
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Obogwu MB, Akindele AJ, Adeyemi OO. Hepatoprotective and in vivo antioxidant activities of the hydroethanolic leaf extract of Mucuna pruriens (Fabaceae) in antitubercular drugs and alcohol models. Chin J Nat Med 2015; 12:273-83. [PMID: 24863352 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(14)60054-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIM Hepatotoxicity is a significantly increasing health problem worldwide, and the extent of the problem has stimulated interest in the search for hepatotherapeutic agents from plants. This study investigated the hepatoprotective and in vivo antioxidant activities of the hydroethanolic extract of Mucuna pruriens leaves in antitubercular and alcohol-induced hepatotoxicity assays in rats. METHOD In each of the models used, seven groups were allotted. The different groups received normal saline (10 mL·kg(-1), p.o.); hepatotoxicant (isoniazid-rifampicin, INH-RIF, 100 mg·kg(-1), i.p. or 20% ethanol 5 g·kg(-1), p.o.) and normal saline (10 mL·kg(-1), p.o.); hepatotoxicant and extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg·kg(-1) p.o.; hepatotoxicant and silymarin 50 mg·kg(-1) p.o.; and extract at 400 mg·kg(-1) p.o. On the 21(st) day of treatment, blood was collected for assessment of serum biochemical parameters and harvested liver samples were assessed for antioxidants. RESULTS The hepatotoxicants significantly (P < 0.05-0.001) increased the levels of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bilirubin, and malondialdehyde (MDA); and reduced the levels of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and reduced glutathione GSH compared to control. M. pruriens significantly reversed (P < 0.05-0.001) the elevation in the level of ALT, AST, ALP, and bilirubin caused by the hepatotoxicants. The extract (200 and 400 mg·kg(-1)) significantly reversed (P < 0.05) the diminution in the level of in vivo antioxidants and increased the level of MDA produced by INH-RIF. M. pruriens (100-400 mg·kg(-1)) elicited significant reduction (P < 0.001) in the level of MDA compared to the alcohol group. Silymarin also reversed the deleterious effects of the hepatotoxicants. CONCLUSION The hydroethanolic extract of Mucuna pruriens leaves possesses hepatoprotective activity with enhancement of in vivo antioxidants as a possible mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercy B Obogwu
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, P.M.B. 12003 Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Abidemi J Akindele
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, P.M.B. 12003 Lagos, Nigeria.
| | - Olufunmilayo O Adeyemi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, P.M.B. 12003 Lagos, Nigeria
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16
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Lee LK, Foo KY. Recent insights on the significance of transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis of male factor infertility. Clin Biochem 2014; 47:973-82. [PMID: 24875852 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2014.05.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Revised: 05/10/2014] [Accepted: 05/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is a worldwide reproductive health problem which affects approximately 15% of couples, with male factor infertility dominating nearly 50% of the affected population. The nature of the phenomenon is underscored by a complex array of transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolic differences which interact in unknown ways. Many causes of male factor infertility are still defined as idiopathic, and most diagnosis tends to be more descriptive rather than specific. As such, the emergence of novel transcriptomic and metabolomic studies may hold the key to more accurately diagnose and treat male factor infertility. This paper provides the most recent evidence underlying the role of transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis in the management of male infertility. A summary of the current knowledge and new discovery of noninvasive, highly sensitive and specific biomarkers which allow the expansion of this area is outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- L K Lee
- Nutrition Program, School of Health Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia.
| | - K Y Foo
- Environment and Occupational Health Programme, School of Health Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia; River Engineering and Urban Drainage Research Centre, Engineering Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 14300 Nibong Tebal, Penang, Malaysia
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17
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Gupta A, Mahdi AA, Shukla KK, Ahmad MK, Bansal N, Sankhwar P, Sankhwar SN. Efficacy of Withania somnifera on seminal plasma metabolites of infertile males: a proton NMR study at 800 MHz. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2013; 149:208-14. [PMID: 23796876 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2013.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2012] [Revised: 05/29/2013] [Accepted: 06/14/2013] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Traditional Indian systems of medicine use roots of Withania somnifera for impotence, infertility treatment, stress, and the aging process. Although Withania somnifera improves semen quality by regulating reproductive hormone levels and oxidative stress, the molecular mechanism is not clear. AIM OF THE STUDY Our study uses high-resolution Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to explore the scientific basis to reveal the pre- and post-treatment efficacy of Withania somnifera on seminal plasma of infertile men-which remains unexplored to date. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 180 infertile male patients were administered Withania somnifera root powder at the rate of 5 g/d for a 3-month period. The study included age-matched, healthy men as a control (n=50) group. Proton NMR spectroscopy was used to measure lactate, alanine, glutamate, glutamine, citrate, lysine, choline, glycerophosphocholine (GPC), glycine, tyrosine, histidine, phenylalanine, and uridine in all seminal plasma samples. To appraise infertility levels, we also measured sperm concentration, motility, lipid peroxide, and hormonal perturbation. RESULTS Withania somnifera therapy repairs the disturbed concentrations of lactate, alanine, citrate, GPC, histidine, and phenylalanine in seminal plasma and recovers the quality of semen of post-treated compared to pre-treated infertile men. Serum biochemistry was also improved over post-therapy in infertile men. Our findings reveal that Withania somnifera not only reboots enzymatic activity of metabolic pathways and energy metabolism but also invigorates the harmonic balance of seminal plasma metabolites and reproductive hormones in infertile men. CONCLUSION The results suggest that Withania somnifera may be used as an empirical therapy for clinical management and treatment of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Gupta
- Centre of Biomedical Magnetic Resonance, SGPGIMS Campus, Lucknow, India.
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18
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Gupta A, Bansal N, Houston B. Metabolomics of urinary tract infection: a new uroscope in town. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2012; 12:361-9. [PMID: 22616701 DOI: 10.1586/erm.12.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a potentially life-threatening infectious disease. For rapid directed therapy of UTIs, it is essential to determine the causative microorganism. To date, there is no single test that has been proven to reliably, rapidly and accurately identify the etiologic organism in UTI. The molecular methods for diagnosing the cause of UTI and prognostic development of clinically important metabolomic evaluations and their limitations for use in the diagnosis and monitoring of infections are discussed in this review article. The application of the emerging investigative device NMR spectroscopy as a surrogate method for the diagnosis of UTI is also addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Gupta
- Department of Radiology, Division of Magnetic Resonance Research, The Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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19
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Rahmatullah M, Khatun Z, Hasan A, Parvin W, Moniruzzaman M, Khatun A, Mahal MJ, Bhuiyan MSA, Mou SM, Jahan R. Survey and scientific evaluation of medicinal plants used by the Pahan and Teli tribal communities of Natore district, Bangladesh. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL, COMPLEMENTARY, AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINES 2012; 9:366-73. [PMID: 23983368 DOI: 10.4314/ajtcam.v9i3.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The Pahans and the Telis are two of the smallest indigenous communities in Bangladesh. The Pahans, numbering about 14,000 people are widely scattered in several northern districts of the country, while the Telis are such a small community that nothing has been reported on their numbers and lifestyle. Both tribes are on the verge of disappearance. One each of the Pahan and the Teli community was located after much search in two adjoining villages of Natore district, Bangladesh. Since the tribes were found to still depend on their traditional medicinal practitioners for treatment of ailments, it was the objective of the present study to document their traditional usage of medicinal plants and to evaluate such plants against modern research-based pharmacological activity studies on these plants. Interviews were conducted of the practitioners of the Pahan and Teli community of Natore district with the help of a semi-structured questionnaire and using the guided field-walk method. Plant specimens as pointed out by the practitioners were collected and pressed on the field and identification completed at the Bangladesh National Herbarium. The Pahan tribal practitioners used 13 plants distributed into 9 families for treatment of 14 different ailments. The Teli tribal practitioner used 15 plants divided into 14 families for treatment of 17 different ailments. Eight out of the thirteen plants used by the Pahan tribal practitioner (61.5%) had reported relevant pharmacological activities in the scientific literature, while six out of the fifteen plants used by the Teli tribal practitioners (40%) had such relevant pharmacological activities in accordance with their usage. The medicinal plants used by the Pahans and Telis warrant further scientific studies toward discovery of lead compounds and efficacious drugs and the documentation and protection of the traditional medical knowledge held by these tribes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Rahmatullah
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Development Alternative, Dhanmondi, Dhaka-1205, Bangladesh.
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