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Li J, Liu J, Zhang Y, Qiu H, Zheng J, Xue J, Jin J, Ni F, Zhang C, Chen C, Sun X, Wang H, Zhang D. Effects of paternal ionizing radiation exposure on fertility and offspring's health. Reprod Med Biol 2024; 23:e12567. [PMID: 38528990 PMCID: PMC10961711 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The intergenerational effects of ionizing radiation remain controversial. Extensive insights have been revealed for DNA mutations and cancer incidence in progeny, yet many of these results were obtained by immediate post-radiation mating. However, conception at short times after radiation exposure is likely to be avoided. After a long period of fertility recovery, whether unexposed sperm derived from exposed spermatogonia would challenge the health of the offspring is not yet clearly demonstrated. Methods Ten-week-old C57BL/6J males underwent whole-body acute γ irradiation at 0 and 6.4 Gy. Testes and sperm were collected at different times after radiation to examine reproductive changes. The reproductive, metabolic, and neurodevelopmental parameters were measured in the offspring of controls and the offspring derived from irradiated undifferentiated spermatogonia. Results Paternal fertility was lost after acute 6.4 Gy γ radiation and recovered at 10-11 weeks post irradiation in mice. The reproductive, metabolic, and neurodevelopmental health of offspring born to irradiated undifferentiated spermatogonia were comparable to those of controls. Conclusion The male mice could have healthy offspring after recovery from the damage caused by ionizing radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaqun Li
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiangChina
| | - Juan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiangChina
| | - Yanye Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiangChina
| | - Hong Qiu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell BiologyLife Sciences Institute, Zhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Junyan Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiangChina
| | - Jinglei Xue
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiangChina
| | - Jiani Jin
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiangChina
| | - Feida Ni
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiangChina
| | - Chunxi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiangChina
| | - Chuan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiangChina
| | - Xiao Sun
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiangChina
| | - Huiquan Wang
- The School of Aeronautics and AstronauticsZhejiang UniversityHangzhouChina
| | - Dan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education) and Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineZhejiangChina
- Clinical Research Center on Birth Defect Prevention and Intervention of Zhejiang ProvinceHangzhouChina
- Zhejiang Provincial Clinical Research Center for Child HealthHangzhouChina
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Wang Y, Su M, Chen Y, Huang X, Ruan L, Lv Q, Li L. Research progress on the role and mechanism of DNA damage repair in germ cell development. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1234280. [PMID: 37529603 PMCID: PMC10390305 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1234280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In the complex and dynamic processes of replication, transcription, and translation of DNA molecules, a large number of replication errors or damage can occur which lead to obstacles in the development process of germ cells and result in a decreased reproductive rate. DNA damage repair has attracted widespread attention due to its important role in the maintenance and regulation of germ cells. This study reports on a systematic review of the role and mechanism of DNA damage repair in germline development. First, the causes, detection methods, and repair methods of DNA damage, and the mechanism of DNA damage repair are summarized. Second, a summary of the causes of abnormal DNA damage repair in germ cells is introduced along with common examples, and the relevant effects of germ cell damage. Third, we introduce the application of drugs related to DNA damage repair in the treatment of reproductive diseases and related surgical treatment of abnormal DNA damage, and summarize various applications of DNA damage repair in germ cells. Finally, a summary and discussion is given of the current deficiencies in DNA damage repair during germ cell development and future research development. The purpose of this paper is to provide researchers engaged in relevant fields with a further systematic understanding of the relevant applications of DNA damage repair in germ cells and to gain inspiration from it to provide new research ideas for related fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
- College of Biology & Pharmacy, Yulin Normal University, Yulin, China
| | - Mengrong Su
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
- College of Biology & Pharmacy, Yulin Normal University, Yulin, China
| | - Yujie Chen
- College of Biology & Pharmacy, Yulin Normal University, Yulin, China
| | - Xinyu Huang
- College of Biology & Pharmacy, Yulin Normal University, Yulin, China
| | - Lian Ruan
- College of Biology & Pharmacy, Yulin Normal University, Yulin, China
| | - Qizhuang Lv
- College of Basic Medical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
- College of Biology & Pharmacy, Yulin Normal University, Yulin, China
| | - Li Li
- College of Biology & Pharmacy, Yulin Normal University, Yulin, China
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Huang CS, Qiu LZ, Yue L, Wang NN, Liu H, Deng HF, Ni YH, Ma ZC, Zhou W, Gao Y. Low-dose radiation-induced demethylation of 3β-HSD participated in the regulation of testosterone content. J Appl Toxicol 2021; 42:529-539. [PMID: 34550611 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The effects of low-dose radiation (LDR, ≤0.1 Gy) on living organisms have been the hot areas of radiation biology but do not reach a definitive conclusion yet. So far, few studies have adequately accounted for the male reproductive system responses to LDR, particularly the regulation of testosterone content. Hence, this study was designed to evaluate the effects of LDR on Leydig cells and testicular tissue, especially the ability to synthesize testosterone. We found that less than 0.2-Gy 60 Co gamma rays did not cause significant changes in the hemogram index and the body weight; also, pathological examination did not find obvious structural alterations in testis, epididymis, and other radiation-sensitive organs. Consistently, the results from in vitro showed that only more than 0.5-Gy gamma rays could induce remarkable DNA damage, cycle arrest, and apoptosis. Notably, LDR disturbed the contents of testosterone in mice serums and culture supernatants of TM3 cells and dose dependently increased the expression of 3β-HSD. After cotreatment with trilostane (Tril), the inhibitor of 3β-HSD, increased testosterone could be partially reversed. Besides, DNA damage repair-related enzymes, including DNMT1, DNMT3B, and Sirt1, were increased in irradiated TM3 cells, accompanying by evident demethylation in the gene body of 3β-HSD. In conclusion, our results strongly suggest that LDR could induce obvious perturbation in the synthesis of testosterone without causing organic damage, during which DNA demethylation modification of 3β-HSD might play a crucial role and would be a potential target to prevent LDR-induced male reproductive damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong-Shu Huang
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China.,School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li-Zhen Qiu
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lanxin Yue
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ning-Ning Wang
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China.,School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui-Fang Deng
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Hao Ni
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Zeng-Chun Ma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Gao
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Beijing Institute of Radiation Medicine, Beijing, China.,School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
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4
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Walker VR, Boyles AL, Pelch KE, Holmgren SD, Shapiro AJ, Blystone CR, Devito MJ, Newbold RR, Blain R, Hartman P, Thayer KA, Rooney AA. Human and animal evidence of potential transgenerational inheritance of health effects: An evidence map and state-of-the-science evaluation. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2018; 115:48-69. [PMID: 29549716 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2017.12.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Revised: 12/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An increasing number of reports suggest early life exposures result in adverse effects in offspring who were never directly exposed; this phenomenon is termed "transgenerational inheritance." Given concern for public health implications for potential effects of exposures transmitted to subsequent generations, it is critical to determine how widespread and robust this phenomenon is and to identify the range of exposures and possible outcomes. OBJECTIVES This scoping report examines the evidence for transgenerational inheritance associated with exposure to a wide range of stressors in humans and animals to identify areas of consistency, uncertainty, data gaps, and to evaluate general risk of bias issues for the transgenerational study design. METHODS A protocol was developed to collect and categorize the literature into a systematic evidence map for transgenerational inheritance by health effects, exposures, and evidence streams following the Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT) approach for conducting literature-based health assessments. RESULTS A PubMed search yielded 63,758 unique records from which 257 relevant studies were identified and categorized into a systematic evidence map by evidence streams (46 human and 211 animal), broad health effect categories, and exposures. Data extracted from the individual studies are available in the Health Assessment Workspace Collaborative (HAWC) program. There are relatively few bodies of evidence where multiple studies evaluated the same exposure and the same or similar outcomes. Studies evaluated for risk of bias generally had multiple issues in design or conduct. CONCLUSIONS The evidence mapping illustrated that risk of bias, few studies, and heterogeneity in exposures and endpoints examined present serious limitations to available bodies of evidence for assessing transgenerational effects. Targeted research is suggested to addressed inconsistencies and risk of bias issues identified, and thereby establish more robust bodies of evidence to critically assess transgenerational effects - particularly by adding data on exposure-outcome pairs where there is some evidence (i.e., reproductive, metabolic, and neurological effects).
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Affiliation(s)
- Vickie R Walker
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT), Division of National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA.
| | - Abee L Boyles
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT), Division of National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Katherine E Pelch
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT), Division of National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | - Andrew J Shapiro
- Program Operations Branch, DNTP, NIEHS, NIH, DHHS, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Chad R Blystone
- Toxicology Branch, DNTP, NIEHS, NIH, DHHS, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Michael J Devito
- NTP Laboratory, DNTP, NIEHS, NIH, DHHS, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Retha R Newbold
- Researcher Emeritus, DNTP, NIEHS, NIH, DHHS, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | | | - Kristina A Thayer
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT), Division of National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Andrew A Rooney
- Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT), Division of National Toxicology Program (NTP), National Institute of Environmental Sciences (NIEHS), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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5
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Kong EY, Cheng SH, Yu KN. Zebrafish as an In Vivo Model to Assess Epigenetic Effects of Ionizing Radiation. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:ijms17122108. [PMID: 27983682 PMCID: PMC5187908 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17122108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Revised: 12/01/2016] [Accepted: 12/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to ionizing radiations (IRs) is ubiquitous in our environment and can be categorized into “targeted” effects and “non-targeted” effects. In addition to inducing deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage, IR exposure leads to epigenetic alterations that do not alter DNA sequence. Using an appropriate model to study the biological effects of radiation is crucial to better understand IR responses as well as to develop new strategies to alleviate exposure to IR. Zebrafish, Danio rerio, is a scientific model organism that has yielded scientific advances in several fields and recent studies show the usefulness of this vertebrate model in radiation biology. This review briefly describes both “targeted” and “non-targeted” effects, describes the findings in radiation biology using zebrafish as a model and highlights the potential of zebrafish to assess the epigenetic effects of IR, including DNA methylation, histone modifications and miRNA expression. Other in vivo models are included to compare observations made with zebrafish, or to illustrate the feasibility of in vivo models when the use of zebrafish was unavailable. Finally, tools to study epigenetic modifications in zebrafish, including changes in genome-wide DNA methylation, histone modifications and miRNA expression, are also described in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Yi Kong
- Department of Physics and Materials Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Shuk Han Cheng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
- State Key Laboratory in Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Kwan Ngok Yu
- Department of Physics and Materials Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
- State Key Laboratory in Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
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6
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Dere E, Anderson LM, Hwang K, Boekelheide K. Biomarkers of chemotherapy-induced testicular damage. Fertil Steril 2013; 100:1192-202. [PMID: 24182554 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Revised: 08/27/2013] [Accepted: 09/12/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Increasing numbers of men are having or wanting children after chemotherapy treatment. This can be attributed to improvements in cancer therapies that increase survival. However, a side effect of most chemotherapy drugs is disruption of spermatogenesis and a drastic reduction in sperm count and quality. Although many men eventually recover reproductive function, as indicated by normal semen analyses, there is no clinical test that can assess sperm quality at a high level of sensitivity. Sperm fluorescent in situ hybridization (i.e., FISH) and several different tests for deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) fragmentation have been used infrequently in clinical assessment. Animal models of chemotherapy-induced testicular damage are currently being used to identify potential molecular biomarkers that may be translatable to humans-these include sperm messenger RNAs, microRNAs, histone modifications, and DNA methylation patterns. Changes in these molecular measurements are quantitative and sensitive, potentially making them important clinical biomarkers of testicular function after chemotherapy treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward Dere
- Division of Urology, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
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Little MP, Goodhead DT, Bridges BA, Bouffler SD. Evidence relevant to untargeted and transgenerational effects in the offspring of irradiated parents. Mutat Res 2013; 753:50-67. [PMID: 23648355 PMCID: PMC3737396 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2013.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2012] [Revised: 04/20/2013] [Accepted: 04/22/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
In this article we review health effects in offspring of human populations exposed as a result of radiotherapy and some groups exposed to chemotherapy. We also assess risks in offspring of other radiation-exposed groups, in particular those of the Japanese atomic bomb survivors and occupationally and environmentally exposed groups. Experimental findings are also briefly surveyed. Animal and cellular studies tend to suggest that the irradiation of males, at least at high doses (mostly 1Gy and above), can lead to observable effects (including both genetic and epigenetic) in the somatic cells of their offspring over several generations that are not attributable to the inheritance of a simple mutation through the parental germline. However, studies of disease in the offspring of irradiated humans have not identified any effects on health. The available evidence therefore suggests that human health has not been significantly affected by transgenerational effects of radiation. It is possible that transgenerational effects are restricted to relatively short times post-exposure and in humans conception at short times after exposure is likely to be rare. Further research that may help resolve the apparent discrepancies between cellular/animal studies and studies of human health are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark P Little
- Radiation Epidemiology Branch, National Cancer Institute, 9609 Medical Center Drive, MSC 9778, Bethesda, MD 20892-9778, USA.
| | | | - Bryn A Bridges
- Genome Damage and Stability Centre, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK.
| | - Simon D Bouffler
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental hazards, Public Health England, Chilton, Didcot OX11 0RQ, UK.
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Cordelli E, Eleuteri P, Grollino MG, Benassi B, Blandino G, Bartoleschi C, Pardini MC, Di Caprio EV, Spanò M, Pacchierotti F, Villani P. Direct and delayed X-ray-induced DNA damage in male mouse germ cells. ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2012; 53:429-439. [PMID: 22730201 DOI: 10.1002/em.21703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2011] [Revised: 04/18/2012] [Accepted: 04/19/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Sperm DNA integrity is essential for the accurate transmission of paternal genetic information. Various stages of spermatogenesis are characterized by large differences in radiosensitivity. Differentiating spermatogonia are susceptible to radiation-induced cell killing, but some of them can repair DNA damage and progress through differentiation. In this study, we applied the neutral comet assay, immunodetection of phosphorylated H2AX (γ-H2AX) and the Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay (SCSA) to detect DNA strand breaks in testicular cells and spermatozoa at different times following in vivo X-ray irradiation. Radiation produced DNA strand breaks in testicular cells that were repaired within the first few hours after exposure. Spermatozoa were resistant to the induction of DNA damage, but non-targeted DNA lesions were detected in spermatozoa derived from surviving irradiated spermatogonia. These lesions formed while round spermatids started to elongate within the testicular seminiferous tubules. The transcription of pro-apoptotic genes at this time was also enhanced, suggesting that an apoptotic-like process was involved in DNA break production. Our results suggest that proliferating spermatogonia retain a memory of the radiation insult that is recognized at a later developmental stage and activates a process leading to DNA fragmentation.
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Abstract
Since Mendel, studies of phenotypic variation and disease risk have emphasized associations between genotype and phenotype among affected individuals in families and populations. Although this paradigm has led to important insights into the molecular basis for many traits and diseases, most of the genetic variants that control the inheritance of these conditions continue to elude detection. Recent studies suggest an alternative mode of inheritance where genetic variants that are present in one generation affect phenotypes in subsequent generations, thereby decoupling the conventional relations between genotype and phenotype, and perhaps, contributing to 'missing heritability'. Under some conditions, these transgenerational genetic effects can be as frequent and strong as conventional inheritance, and can persist for multiple generations. Growing evidence suggests that RNA mediates these heritable epigenetic changes. The primary challenge now is to identify the molecular basis for these effects, characterize mechanisms and determine whether transgenerational genetic effects occur in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicki R Nelson
- Department of Genetics, BRB731, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
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10
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Dziegielewski J, Goetz W, Baulch JE. Heavy ions, radioprotectors and genomic instability: implications for human space exploration. RADIATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL BIOPHYSICS 2010; 49:303-316. [PMID: 20035342 DOI: 10.1007/s00411-009-0261-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2009] [Accepted: 12/09/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The risk associated with space radiation exposure is unique from terrestrial radiation exposures due to differences in radiation quality, including linear energy transfer (LET). Both high- and low-LET radiations are capable of inducing genomic instability in mammalian cells, and this instability is thought to be a driving force underlying radiation carcinogenesis. Unfortunately, during space exploration, flight crews cannot entirely avoid radiation exposure. As a result, chemical and biological countermeasures will be an important component of successful extended missions such as the exploration of Mars. There are currently several radioprotective agents (radioprotectors) in use; however, scientists continue to search for ideal radioprotective compounds-safe to use and effective in preventing and/or reducing acute and delayed effects of irradiation. This review discusses the agents that are currently available or being evaluated for their potential as radioprotectors. Further, this review discusses some implications of radioprotection for the induction and/or propagation of genomic instability in the progeny of irradiated cells.
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11
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Hourcade JD, Pérez-Crespo M, Fernández-González R, Pintado B, Gutiérrez-Adán A. Selection against spermatozoa with fragmented DNA after postovulatory mating depends on the type of damage. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2010; 8:9. [PMID: 20113521 PMCID: PMC2825232 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-8-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2009] [Accepted: 01/31/2010] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Before ovulation, sperm-oviduct interaction mechanisms may act as checkpoint for the selection of fertilizing spermatozoa in mammals. Postovulatory mating does not allow the sperm to attach to the oviduct, and spermatozoa may only undergo some selection processes during the transport through the female reproductive tract and/or during the zona pellucida (ZP) binding/penetration. METHODS We have induced DNA damage in spermatozoa by two treatments, (a) a scrotal heat treatment (42 degrees C, 30 min) and (b) irradiation with 137Cs gamma-rays (4 Gy, 1.25 Gy/min). The effects of the treatments were analyzed 21-25 days post heat stress or gamma-radiation. Postovulatory females mated either with treated or control males were sacrificed at Day 14 of pregnancy, and numbers of fetuses and resorptions were recorded. RESULTS Both treatments decreased significantly implantation rates however, the proportion of fetuses/resorptions was only reduced in those females mated to males exposed to radiation, indicating a selection favoring fertilization of sperm with unfragmented DNA on the heat treatment group. To determine if DNA integrity is one of the keys of spermatozoa selection after postovulatory mating, we analyzed sperm DNA fragmentation by COMET assay in: a) sperm recovered from mouse epididymides; b) sperm recovered from three different regions of female uterine horns after mating; and c) sperm attached to the ZP after in vitro fertilization (IVF). Similar results were found for control and both treatments, COMET values decreased significantly during the transit from the uterine section close to the uterotubal junction to the oviduct, and in the spermatozoa attached to ZP. However, fertilization by IVF and intracytoplasmatic sperm injection (ICSI) showed that during sperm ZP-penetration, a stringent selection against fragmented-DNA sperm is carried out when the damage was induced by heat stress, but not when DNA fragmentation was induced by radiation. CONCLUSION Our results indicate that in postovulatory mating there is a preliminary general selection mechanism against spermatozoa with low motility and fragmented-DNA during the transport through the female reproductive tract and in the ZP binding, but the ability of the ZP to prevent fertilization by fragmented-DNA spermatozoa is achieved during sperm-ZP penetration, and depends on the source of damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan D Hourcade
- Dpto. de Reproducción Animal y Conservación de Recursos Zoogenéticos, INIA, Ctra de la Coruña Km 5.9, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Miriam Pérez-Crespo
- Dpto. de Reproducción Animal y Conservación de Recursos Zoogenéticos, INIA, Ctra de la Coruña Km 5.9, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Raúl Fernández-González
- Dpto. de Reproducción Animal y Conservación de Recursos Zoogenéticos, INIA, Ctra de la Coruña Km 5.9, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Belén Pintado
- Centro Nacional de Biotecnología, CSIC. C/Darwin 3 Madrid 28049, Spain
| | - Alfonso Gutiérrez-Adán
- Dpto. de Reproducción Animal y Conservación de Recursos Zoogenéticos, INIA, Ctra de la Coruña Km 5.9, Madrid 28040, Spain
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12
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de Boer P, Ramos L, de Vries M, Gochhait S. Memoirs of an insult: sperm as a possible source of transgenerational epimutations and genetic instability. Mol Hum Reprod 2009; 16:48-56. [PMID: 19897543 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gap098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Male transgenerational epigenetic effects have been discovered in the discipline of mouse radiation genetics, using genetic and non-genetic readouts. The mechanism to explain the origin of the transmission of epigenetic and genetic instability is still unknown. In a search for a hypothesis that could satisfy the data, we propose that regulation of chromosome structure in the germline, by the occupancy of matrix/scaffold associated regions, contains molecular memory function. The male germline is strikingly dynamic as to chromatin organization. This could explain why experience of irradiation stress leaves a persistent mark in the male germline only. To be installed, such memory requires both S-phase and chromatin reorganization during spermatogenesis and in the zygote, that likely also involves reorganization of loop domains. By this reorganization, another layer of information is added, needed to accommodate early embryonic development. Observations point at the involvement of DNA repair as inducer of transgenerational epigenetic modulation. Nuclear structure, chromatin composition and loop domain organization are aspects of human sperm variability that in many cases of assisted reproduction is increased due to inclusion of more incompletely differentiated/maturated sperm nuclei. Adjustment of loop domains in early embryo development can be anticipated and zygotic and cleavage stage S-phase repair activity will have to deal with potential paternal DNA lesions. Therefore, by changing male nucleus structure due to reproduction from impaired spermatogenesis, the transgenerational information content could be changed as well. We discuss aspects of male reproductive performance in the context of this hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- P de Boer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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Kovalchuk O, Baulch JE. Epigenetic changes and nontargeted radiation effects--is there a link? ENVIRONMENTAL AND MOLECULAR MUTAGENESIS 2008; 49:16-25. [PMID: 18172877 DOI: 10.1002/em.20361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
It is now well accepted that the effects of ionizing radiation (IR) exposure can be noticed far beyond the borders of the directly irradiated tissue. IR can affect neighboring cells in the proximity, giving rise to a bystander effect. IR effects can also span several generations and influence the progeny of exposed parents, leading to transgeneration effects. Bystander and transgeneration IR effects are linked to the phenomenon of the IR-induced genome instability that manifests itself as chromosome aberrations, gene mutations, late cell death, and aneuploidy. While the occurrence of the above-mentioned phenomena is well documented, the exact mechanisms that lead to their development have still to be delineated. Evidence suggests that the IR-induced genome instability, bystander, and transgeneration effects may be epigenetically mediated. The epigenetic changes encompass DNA methylation, histone modification, and RNA-associated silencing. Recent studies demonstrated that IR exposure alters epigenetic parameters in the directly exposed tissues and in the distant bystander tissues. Transgeneration radiation effects were also proposed to be of an epigenetic nature. We will discuss the role of the epigenetic mechanisms in radiation responses, bystander effects, and transgeneration effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Kovalchuk
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada.
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Baumgartner A, Cemeli E, Anderson D. The comet assay in male reproductive toxicology. Cell Biol Toxicol 2007; 25:81-98. [PMID: 17972149 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-007-9041-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2007] [Accepted: 10/03/2007] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Due to our lifestyle and the environment we live in, we are constantly confronted with genotoxic or potentially genotoxic compounds. These toxins can cause DNA damage to our cells, leading to an increase in mutations. Sometimes such mutations could give rise to cancer in somatic cells. However, when germ cells are affected, then the damage could also have an effect on the next and successive generations. A rapid, sensitive and reliable method to detect DNA damage and assess the integrity of the genome within single cells is that of the comet or single-cell gel electrophoresis assay. The present communication gives an overview of the use of the comet assay utilising sperm or testicular cells in reproductive toxicology. This includes consideration of damage assessed by protocol modification, cryopreservation vs the use of fresh sperm, viability and statistics. It further focuses on in vivo and in vitro comet assay studies with sperm and a comparison of this assay with other assays measuring germ cell genotoxicity. As most of the de novo structural aberrations occur in sperm and spermatogenesis is functional from puberty to old age, whereas female germ cells are more complicated to obtain, the examination of male germ cells seems to be an easier and logical choice for research and testing in reproductive toxicology. In addition, the importance of such an assay for the paternal impact of genetic damage in offspring is undisputed. As there is a growing interest in the evaluation of genotoxins in male germ cells, the comet assay allows in vitro and in vivo assessments of various environmental and lifestyle genotoxins to be reliably determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Baumgartner
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of Bradford, Richmond Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire BD7 1DP, UK
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