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Chemek M, Kadi A, Al-Mahdawi FKI, Potoroko I. Zinc as a Possible Critical Element to Prevent Harmful Effects of COVID-19 on Testicular Function: a Narrative Review. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01638-0. [PMID: 38987405 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01638-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024]
Abstract
Research into innovative non-pharmacological therapeutic routes via the utilization of natural elements like zinc (Zn) has been motivated by the discovery of new severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV2) variants and the ineffectiveness of certain vaccination treatments during COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, research on SARS-COV-2's viral cellular entry and infection mechanism has shown that it may seriously harm reproductive system cells and impair testicular function in young men and adolescents, which may lead to male infertility over time. In this context, we conducted a narrative review to give an overview of the data pertaining to Zn's critical role in testicular tissue, the therapeutic use of such micronutrients to enhance male fertility, as well as in the potential mitigation of COVID-19, with the ultimate goal of elucidating the hypothesis of the potential use of Zn supplements to prevent the possible harmful effects of SARS-COV2 infection on testis physiological function, and subsequently, on male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marouane Chemek
- Department of food and biotechnology, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk, 454080, Russia.
| | - Ammar Kadi
- Department of food and biotechnology, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk, 454080, Russia
| | | | - Irina Potoroko
- Department of food and biotechnology, South Ural State University, Chelyabinsk, 454080, Russia
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Morabbi A, Karimian M. Trace and essential elements as vital components to improve the performance of the male reproductive system: Implications in cell signaling pathways. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2024; 83:127403. [PMID: 38340548 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2024.127403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Successful male fertilization requires the main processes such as normal spermatogenesis, sperm capacitation, hyperactivation, and acrosome reaction. The progress of these processes depends on some endogenous and exogenous factors. So, the optimal level of ions and essential and rare elements such as selenium, zinc, copper, iron, manganese, calcium, and so on in various types of cells of the reproductive system could affect conception and male fertility rates. The function of trace elements in the male reproductive system could be exerted through some cellular and molecular processes, such as the management of active oxygen species, involvement in the action of membrane channels, regulation of enzyme activity, regulation of gene expression and hormone levels, and modulation of signaling cascades. In this review, we aim to summarize the available evidence on the role of trace elements in improving male reproductive performance. Also, special attention is paid to the cellular aspects and the involved molecular signaling cascades.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Morabbi
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karimian
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran.
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Wieczorek J, Pawlicki P, Zarzycka M, Pardyak L, Niedbala P, Duliban M, Yurdakok-Dikmen B, Kotula-Balak M. Elevated luteinizing hormone receptor signaling or selenium treatment leads to comparable changes in adrenal cortex histology and androgen-AR/ZIP9 signaling. PROTOPLASMA 2024; 261:487-496. [PMID: 38052957 PMCID: PMC11021298 DOI: 10.1007/s00709-023-01910-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
The importance and regulation of adrenal androgen production and signaling are not completely understood and are scarcely studied. In addition, there is still a search for appropriate animal models and experimental systems for the investigation of adrenal physiology and disease. Therefore, the main objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of luteinizing hormone (LH) signaling and selenium (Se2+) exposure on androgen adrenal signaling via canonical androgen receptor (AR), and membrane androgen receptor acting as zinc transporter (zinc- and iron-like protein 9; ZIP9). For herein evaluations, adrenals isolated from transgenic mice with elevated LH receptor signaling (KiLHRD582G) and adrenals obtained from rabbits used for ex vivo adenal cortex culture and exposure to Se2+ were utilized. Tissues were assessed for morphological, morphometric, and Western blot analyses and testosterone and zinc level measurements.Comparison of adrenal cortex histology and morphometric analysis in KiLHRD582G mice and Se2+-treated rabbits revealed cell hypertrophy. No changes in the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) were found. In addition, AR expression was decreased (p < 0.001) in both KiLHRD582G mouse and Se2+-treated rabbit adrenal cortex while expression of ZIP9 showed diverse changes. Its expression was increased (P < 0.001) in KiLHRD582G mice and decreased (P < 0.001) in Se2+-treated rabbits but only at the dose 10 ug/100 mg/ tissue. Moreover, increased testosterone levels (P < 0.05) and zinc levels were detected in the adrenal cortex of KiLHRD582G mice whereas in rabbit adrenal cortex treated with Se2+, the effect was the opposite (P < 0.001).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaroslaw Wieczorek
- University Centre of Veterinary Medicine JU-UA, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059, Krakow, Poland
| | - Piotr Pawlicki
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Marta Zarzycka
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Laura Pardyak
- Center of Experimental and Innovative Medicine, University of Agriculture in Kraków, 30-248, Krakow, Poland
| | - Piotr Niedbala
- Department of Genetics, Animal Breeding and Ethology, Faculty of Animal Science, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059, Krakow, Poland
| | - Michal Duliban
- Department of Endocrinology, Institute of Zoology, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Gronostajowa 9, 30-387, Krakow, Poland
| | - Begum Yurdakok-Dikmen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ankara University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Dışkapı, 06110, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Malgorzata Kotula-Balak
- University Centre of Veterinary Medicine JU-UA, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Mickiewicza 24/28, 30-059, Krakow, Poland.
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Ito A, Yamamoto S, Inoue Y, Fukunaga A, Nanri A, Konishi M, Yamamoto S, Nakagawa T, Mizoue T. Association between Fish Intake and Serum Testosterone Levels in Older Males: The Hitachi Health Study II. Curr Dev Nutr 2024; 8:102133. [PMID: 38584675 PMCID: PMC10997911 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.102133] [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: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Fish are rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and vitamin D, which can promote testosterone synthesis and secretion. However, some contaminants present in fish may disrupt testosterone production. Objective This study aimed to investigate the association between fish intake (total, fatty, and lean fish) and serum testosterone levels in older males. Methods This cross-sectional study included 1545 Japanese males aged 60-69 y who participated in the baseline survey of the Hitachi Health Study II. Fish intake was estimated using a validated brief-type self-administered diet history questionnaire. Total testosterone levels were measured by chemiluminescence immunoassay. Multivariable linear regression analysis was used to analyze the association between fish intake and serum testosterone levels. Results Higher total fish intake was associated with higher levels of serum testosterone, with an adjusted mean [95% confidence interval (CI) of 5.63 (5.43, 5.83) and 5.99 (5.78, 6.20)] ng/mL for the 1st and 4th quartiles of total fish intake, respectively (P for trend = 0.06). When analyzing fatty and lean fish separately, higher intake of lean fish, but not fatty fish, was associated with higher levels of serum testosterone: adjusted mean (95% CI): 5.63 (5.43, 5.82) and 6.00 (5.79, 6.20) ng/mL for the 1st and 4th quartiles of lean fish intake, respectively (P for trend = 0.01). Conclusions Among older males, higher intake of total fish, particularly lean fish, was associated with higher serum testosterone levels. Curr Dev Nutr 20xx;x:xx.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aoi Ito
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Center for Clinical Sciences, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Laboratory of Public Health, Graduate School of Integrated Pharmaceutical and Nutritional Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Shohei Yamamoto
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Center for Clinical Sciences, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yosuke Inoue
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Center for Clinical Sciences, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ami Fukunaga
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Center for Clinical Sciences, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Public Health and Health Policy, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Akiko Nanri
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Center for Clinical Sciences, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Food and Health Sciences, International College of Arts and Sciences, Fukuoka Women’s University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Maki Konishi
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Center for Clinical Sciences, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Tohru Nakagawa
- Hitachi Health Care Center, Hitachi, Ltd., Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Mizoue
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Center for Clinical Sciences, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Kapper C, Oppelt P, Ganhör C, Gyunesh AA, Arbeithuber B, Stelzl P, Rezk-Füreder M. Minerals and the Menstrual Cycle: Impacts on Ovulation and Endometrial Health. Nutrients 2024; 16:1008. [PMID: 38613041 PMCID: PMC11013220 DOI: 10.3390/nu16071008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The role of minerals in female fertility, particularly in relation to the menstrual cycle, presents a complex area of study that underscores the interplay between nutrition and reproductive health. This narrative review aims to elucidate the impacts of minerals on key aspects of the reproductive system: hormonal regulation, ovarian function and ovulation, endometrial health, and oxidative stress. Despite the attention given to specific micronutrients in relation to reproductive disorders, there is a noticeable absence of a comprehensive review focusing on the impact of minerals throughout the menstrual cycle on female fertility. This narrative review aims to address this gap by examining the influence of minerals on reproductive health. Each mineral's contribution is explored in detail to provide a clearer picture of its importance in supporting female fertility. This comprehensive analysis not only enhances our knowledge of reproductive health but also offers clinicians valuable insights into potential therapeutic strategies and the recommended intake of minerals to promote female reproductive well-being, considering the menstrual cycle. This review stands as the first to offer such a detailed examination of minerals in the context of the menstrual cycle, aiming to elevate the understanding of their critical role in female fertility and reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celine Kapper
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
| | - Peter Oppelt
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
- Department for Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Kepler University Hospital, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - Clara Ganhör
- Division of Pathophysiology, Institute of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Medical Faculty, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
- Clinical Research Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases, Medical Faculty, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - Ayberk Alp Gyunesh
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
| | - Barbara Arbeithuber
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
| | - Patrick Stelzl
- Department for Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Kepler University Hospital, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - Marlene Rezk-Füreder
- Experimental Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Gynaecological Endocrinology, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Altenberger Strasse 69, 4040 Linz, Austria; (C.K.); (P.O.); (B.A.)
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Ciftel S, Ozkaya AL. Heavy Metal Levels in Males With Idiopathic Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism. Cureus 2024; 16:e53128. [PMID: 38420092 PMCID: PMC10899717 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.53128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The toxic effects of heavy metals on biological systems are being investigated with increasing interest day by day. Our purpose was to investigate heavy metals such as aluminum (Al), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), and nickel (Ni) in males with idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) and to determine whether there is a relationship between heavy metals and testosterone levels. METHODS Twenty-six male patients with IHH aged 18-50 and 22 healthy males aged 21-50 admitted to the Outpatient Department of Endocrinology for follow-up were enrolled. BMIs were calculated by measuring the height and weight of all participants. Al, Cd, As, Pb, and Ni levels were measured and compared between groups. Testosterone levels were measured to investigate whether there was a correlation with heavy metal levels. RESULTS Al, Cd, As, Pb, and Ni levels were statistically higher in the patient group compared to the control group (p<0.001). A moderately strong significant negative correlation was detected between the patients' testosterone and As levels (p=0.001, r=-0.609, R2=0.371). Decreased As and Cd levels were observed as the patients' ages increased (p=0.013, r=-0.471). CONCLUSION Heavy metals might play potential roles in IHH. We hope that investigating heavy metal levels in IHH and adding toxicity-preventive treatments to hormonal therapies will be beneficial in the multifaceted management of the disease in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serpil Ciftel
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Erzurum Health Science University, Erzurum, TUR
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de Vargas LDS, Jantsch J, Fontoura JR, Dorneles GP, Peres A, Guedes RP. Effects of Zinc Supplementation on Inflammatory and Cognitive Parameters in Middle-Aged Women with Overweight or Obesity. Nutrients 2023; 15:4396. [PMID: 37892471 PMCID: PMC10609714 DOI: 10.3390/nu15204396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Obesity has been linked to cognitive decline and adverse effects on brain health. Zinc (Zn) is a mineral with important metabolic functions that can modulate obesity-related neurological impairment. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of 12 weeks of Zn supplementation on the inflammatory profile, cognitive function, and mood of overweight or obese women through a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. The study included 42 women aged between 40 and 60, randomly divided into two groups: Zn supplementation (30 mg/day) or placebo for 12 weeks. Data regarding sociodemographic, anthropometric, dietary, and physical activity were collected. Mini-mental state examination (MMSE), verbal fluency test, clock drawing test, and Stroop test were performed. Anxiety and depression symptoms were assessed using the Beck anxiety inventory and the BDI-II, respectively. Saliva samples were collected to evaluate IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, insulin, nitrite, and Zn levels. Of the 42 participants (mean age 49.58 ± 6.46 years), 32 were included in the study analyses. Changes in body weight and macronutrient consumption were not different between placebo and Zn supplementation groups. Cognitive scores on the MMSE and Stroop tests were higher in the Zn supplementation group than in the placebo group. Salivary levels of IL-1b and Zn increased in the Zn group compared to placebo. There was no significant change in the adjusted means of the BDI-II and BECK scores between the zinc vs. placebo groups. Twelve weeks of Zn supplementation was able to partially improve the cognitive scores assessed in overweight or obese women, regardless of weight loss. These findings suggest that Zn supplementation can be considered an adjunct strategy to enhance cognitive health in overweight or obese women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liziane da Silva de Vargas
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite, 245, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil; (L.d.S.d.V.); (J.J.); (A.P.)
| | - Jeferson Jantsch
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite, 245, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil; (L.d.S.d.V.); (J.J.); (A.P.)
| | - Juliana Ribeiro Fontoura
- Graduação em Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite, 245, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Gilson Pires Dorneles
- Hospital Moinhos de Vento, Rua Ramiro Barcelos, 910, Porto Alegre 90035-000, Brazil;
| | - Alessandra Peres
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite, 245, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil; (L.d.S.d.V.); (J.J.); (A.P.)
- Graduação em Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite, 245, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite, 245, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Renata Padilha Guedes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biociências, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite, 245, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil; (L.d.S.d.V.); (J.J.); (A.P.)
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), Rua Sarmento Leite, 245, Porto Alegre 90050-170, Brazil
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