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Zhou Y, Wei Z, Gao Y, Zhang H, Schroyen M. The role of alginate oligosaccharide on boar semen quality: A research review. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 277:134492. [PMID: 39106929 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134492] [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: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024]
Abstract
Alginate is the general term of a polysaccharide which is widely used in the area of pharmaceutics and the food industry and is known for its unique biological activities. However, due to the low water solubility and large viscosity of alginate, its development and utilization in the agricultural field are limited. Alginate oligosaccharide (AOS) is a degradable product derived from alginate and has attracted much attention in recent years because of its specific characteristics such as a low molecular weight, high water solubility, and non-toxicity. Boar semen quality, which is affected by various factors, is an important indicator for measuring reproductive performance of boars. With the development of artificial insemination technology, high quality semen has been more and more important. Therefore, increasing semen quality is an important means to improve the reproductive performance in swine industry. In this research review, we used the PubMed database and Google Scholar and web of science to search for relevant literature on the topic of AOS in relation to boar semen quality. Key words used were alginate oligosaccharide, boars, semen quality, microbiota and metabolites. The purpose of this review article was to describe the current knowledge on the relationship between AOS and boar semen quality, and provide an overview of solutions for the decline in the boar semen quality in specific conditions. Based on the existing literature, it is evident that AOS can be used as a new type of food additive. This review paper provides a theoretical basis for the production of high-quality boar sperm and, suggests that, in the future, AOS can even aid in treating human infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yexun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, PR China; Precision Livestock and Nutrition Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Zeou Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, PR China; School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfeld, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Yang Gao
- College of Life Science, Baicheng Normal University, Baicheng, Jilin 137000, China.
| | - Hongfu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition, Institute of Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, PR China.
| | - Martine Schroyen
- Precision Livestock and Nutrition Unit, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
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2
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Hwang JY. Sperm hyperactivation and the CatSper channel: current understanding and future contribution of domestic animals. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2024; 66:443-456. [PMID: 38975583 PMCID: PMC11222122 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2023.e133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
In female tract, mammalian sperm develop hyperactivated motility which is a key physiological event for sperm to fertilize eggs. This motility change is triggered by Ca2+ influx via the sperm-specific Ca2+ channel, CatSper. Although previous studies in human and mice largely contributed to understanding CatSper and Ca2+ signaling for sperm hyperactivation, the differences on their activation mechanisms are not well understood yet. There are several studies to examine expression and significance of the CatSper channel in non-human and non-mouse models, such as domestic animals. In this review, I summarize key knowledge for the CatSper channel from previous studies and propose future aspects for CatSper study using sperm from domestic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Yeon Hwang
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
- Institute of Systems Biology, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
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3
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Martín-Hidalgo D, Solar-Málaga S, González-Fernández L, Zamorano J, García-Marín LJ, Bragado MJ. The compound YK 3-237 promotes pig sperm capacitation-related events. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:773-786. [PMID: 37906355 PMCID: PMC10998788 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10243-6] [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: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Before fertilization of the oocyte, the spermatozoa must undergo through a series of biochemical changes in the female reproductive tract named sperm capacitation. Spermatozoa regulates its functions by post-translational modifications, being historically the most studied protein phosphorylation. In addition to phosphorylation, recently, protein acetylation has been described as an important molecular mechanism with regulatory roles in several reproductive processes. However, its role on the mammal's sperm capacitation process remains unraveled. Sirtuins are a deacetylase protein family with 7 members that regulate protein acetylation. Here, we investigated the possible role of SIRT1 on pig sperm capacitation-related events by using YK 3-237, a commercial SIRT1 activator drug. SIRT1 is localized in the midpiece of pig spermatozoa. Protein tyrosine phosphorylation (focused at p32) is an event associated to pig sperm capacitation that increases when spermatozoa are in vitro capacitated in presence of YK 3-237. Eventually, YK 3-237 induces acrosome reaction in capacitated spermatozoa: YK 3-237 treatment tripled (3.40 ± 0.40 fold increase) the percentage of acrosome-reacted spermatozoa compared to the control. In addition, YK 3-237 induces sperm intracellular pH alkalinization and raises the intracellular calcium levels through a CatSper independent mechanism. YK 3-237 was not able to bypass sAC inhibition by LRE1. In summary, YK 3-237 promotes pig sperm capacitation by a mechanism upstream of sAC activation and independent of CatSper calcium channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Martín-Hidalgo
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de Elvas s/n, Badajoz, 06006, España.
- Grupo de Investigación Señalización Intracelular y Tecnología de la Reproducción (SINTREP), Instituto de Investigación INBIO G+C. Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, España.
- Unidad de Investigación, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Cáceres, Avenida Pablo Naranjo s/n, Cáceres, 10003, Spain.
| | - Soraya Solar-Málaga
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de Elvas s/n, Badajoz, 06006, España
- Grupo de Investigación Señalización Intracelular y Tecnología de la Reproducción (SINTREP), Instituto de Investigación INBIO G+C. Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, España
| | - Lauro González-Fernández
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de Elvas s/n, Badajoz, 06006, España
- Grupo de Investigación Señalización Intracelular y Tecnología de la Reproducción (SINTREP), Instituto de Investigación INBIO G+C. Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, España
| | - José Zamorano
- Unidad de Investigación, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Cáceres, Avenida Pablo Naranjo s/n, Cáceres, 10003, Spain
| | - Luis Jesús García-Marín
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de Elvas s/n, Badajoz, 06006, España
- Grupo de Investigación Señalización Intracelular y Tecnología de la Reproducción (SINTREP), Instituto de Investigación INBIO G+C. Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, España
| | - María Julia Bragado
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de Elvas s/n, Badajoz, 06006, España
- Grupo de Investigación Señalización Intracelular y Tecnología de la Reproducción (SINTREP), Instituto de Investigación INBIO G+C. Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres, España
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4
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Vicente-Carrillo A, Álvarez-Rodríguez M, Rodriguez-Martinez H. The Cation/Calcium Channel of Sperm (CatSper): A Common Role Played Despite Inter-Species Variation? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13750. [PMID: 37762052 PMCID: PMC10531172 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The main cation/calcium channel of spermatozoa (CatSper), first identified in 2001, has been thoroughly studied to elucidate its composition and function, while its distribution among species and sperm sources is yet incomplete. CatSper is composed of several subunits that build a pore-forming calcium channel, mainly activated in vivo in ejaculated sperm cells by intracellular alkalinization and progesterone, as suggested by the in vitro examinations. The CatSper channel relevance is dual: to maintain sperm homeostasis (alongside the plethora of membrane channels present) as well as being involved in pre-fertilization events, such as sperm capacitation, hyperactivation of sperm motility and the acrosome reaction, with remarkable species differences. Interestingly, the observed variations in CatSper localization in the plasma membrane seem to depend on the source of the sperm cells explored (i.e., epididymal or ejaculated, immature or mature, processed or not), the method used for examination and, particularly, on the specificity of the antibodies employed. In addition, despite multiple findings showing the relevance of CatSper in fertilization, few studies have studied CatSper as a biomarker to fine-tune diagnosis of sub-fertility in livestock or even consider its potential to control fertilization in plague animals, a more ethically defensible strategy than implicating CatSper to pharmacologically modify male-related fertility control in humans, pets or wild animals. This review describes inter- and intra-species differences in the localization, structure and function of the CatSper channel, calling for caution when considering its potential manipulation for fertility control or improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Vicente-Carrillo
- Department of Animal Production, Veterinary Faculty, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Álvarez-Rodríguez
- Department Animal Reproduction, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria-Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (INIA-CSIC), 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Hwang JY, Chung JJ. CatSper Calcium Channels: 20 Years On. Physiology (Bethesda) 2023; 38:0. [PMID: 36512352 PMCID: PMC10085559 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00028.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The flagellar-specific Ca2+ channel CatSper is the predominant Ca2+ entry site in mammalian sperm. CatSper-mediated Ca2+ signaling affects nearly every event that regulates sperm to acquire fertilizing capability. In this review, we summarize some of the main findings from 20 years of CatSper research and highlight recent progress and prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Yeon Hwang
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Jean-Ju Chung
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Cooray A, Kim J, Nirujan BR, Jayathilake NJ, Lee KP. Pharmacological Evidence Suggests That Slo3 Channel Is the Principal K + Channel in Boar Spermatozoa. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24097806. [PMID: 37175513 PMCID: PMC10178124 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24097806] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm ion channels are associated with the quality and type of flagellar movement, and their differential regulation is crucial for sperm function during specific phases. The principal potassium ion channel is responsible for the majority of K+ ion flux, resulting in membrane hyperpolarization, and is essential for sperm capacitation-related signaling pathways. The molecular identity of the principal K+ channel varies greatly between different species, and there is a lack of information about boar K+ channels. We aimed to determine the channel identity of boar sperm contributing to the primary K+ current using pharmacological dissection. A series of Slo1 and Slo3 channel modulators were used for treatment. Sperm motility and related kinematic parameters were monitored using a computer-assisted sperm analysis system under non-capacitated conditions. Time-lapse flow cytometry with fluorochromes was used to measure changes in different intracellular ionic concentrations, and conventional flow cytometry was used to determine the acrosome reaction. Membrane depolarization, reduction in acrosome reaction, and motility parameters were observed upon the inhibition of the Slo3 channel, suggesting that the Slo3 gene encodes the main K+ channel in boar spermatozoa. The Slo3 channel was localized on the sperm flagellum, and the inhibition of Slo3 did not reduce sperm viability. These results may aid potential animal-model-based extrapolations and help to ameliorate motility and related parameters, leading to improved assisted reproductive methods in industrial livestock production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akila Cooray
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeongsook Kim
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Beno Ramesh Nirujan
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Nishani Jayanika Jayathilake
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu Pil Lee
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Republic of Korea
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7
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Cooray A, Chae MR, Wijerathne TD, Kim DG, Kim J, Kim CY, Lee SW, Lee KP. Hexane fraction of Prunus japonica thunb. Seed extract enhances boar sperm motility via CatSper ion channel. Heliyon 2023; 9:e13616. [PMID: 36846677 PMCID: PMC9950932 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Mammalian sperm motility is facilitated by flagellar beating, which depends on active ion movement through ion channels and their regulation. Prunus japonica Thunb., also known as oriental bush cherry, is a widely used traditional medicinal plant. However, its significance in improving fertility and sperm quality has not been fully elucidated yet. One of our previous reports revealed that P. japonica seed extract (PJE) can improve human sperm motility through intracellular pH modulation. Aim of the study The present study was designed to investigate the effects of PJE on boar spermatozoa and potential underlying mechanisms. Materials and methods Sperm motility changes were examined using a computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) system under both capacitated and non-capacitated conditions. Intracellular calcium concentration was measured using either confocal microscopy or a fluorescent microplate reader with Fluo-4AM calcium fluorescent dye. Sperm capacitation-related proteins were analyzed using western blotting. Results A significant increase in rapid motility, velocity, and linear displacement of sperm was observed in PJE-treated capacitated boar sperm, whereas the effect was insignificant in the non-capacitated counterparts. Intracellular calcium levels were significantly elevated upon PJE treatment (20-100 μg/L) in a concentration-dependent manner. The increase in intracellular calcium levels was inhibited when the sperm were treated with a CatSper (cation channel of sperm) channel inhibitor, 10 μM Mibefradil, indicating the involvement of the ion channel in the PJE modulatory mechanism. In addition, western blotting revealed an increased level of protein phosphorylation (p-tyrosine and p-PKA), which is a hallmark of sperm capacitation. Conclusions PJE treatment resulted in a combination of increased motility, intracellular calcium concentration, and capacitation, thereby indicating its potential to ameliorate sperm motility parameters and induce capacitation of boar spermatozoa as a result of intracellular calcium elevation via the CatSper channel. Our observations further elaborate ion channel-related underlying mechanisms and show putative implications of the seed extract of traditionally used P. japonica Thunb. in ameliorating sperm quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akila Cooray
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, South Korea
| | - Mee Ree Chae
- Department of Urology, Samsung Medical Center, Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, South Korea
| | - Tharaka Darshana Wijerathne
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, South Korea
| | - Dae Geun Kim
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, South Korea
| | - Jeongsook Kim
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, South Korea
| | - Chul Young Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Hanyang University, Ansan 15588, South Korea,Corresponding author. College of Pharmacy, Hanyang University 55, Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangnok-gu, Ansan-si, Gyeonggi-do 15588, South Korea.
| | - Sung Won Lee
- Department of Urology, Samsung Medical Center, Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, South Korea,Corresponding author. Department of Urology, Samsung Medical Center, Samsung Biomedical Research Institute, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, 81 Irwon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06351, South Korea
| | - Kyu Pil Lee
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, South Korea,Corresponding author. Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, 99 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34134, South Korea
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8
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Roca J, Rodriguez-Martinez H, Padilla L, Lucas X, Barranco I. Extracellular vesicles in seminal fluid and effects on male reproduction. An overview in farm animals and pets. Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 246:106853. [PMID: 34556398 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid bilayer nanovesicles released by most functional cells to body fluids, containing bioactive molecules, mainly proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids having actions at target cells. The EVs have essential functions in cell-to-cell communication by regulating different biological processes in target cells. Fluids from the male reproductive tract, including seminal plasma, contain many extracellular vesicles (sEVs), which have been evaluated to a lesser extent than those of other body fluids, particularly in farm animals and pets. Results from the few studies that have been conducted indicated epithelial cells of the testis, epididymis, ampulla of ductus deferens and many accessory sex glands release sEVs mainly via apocrine mechanisms. The sEVs are morphologically heterogeneous and bind to functional cells of the male reproductive tract, spermatozoa, and cells of the functional tissues of the female reproductive tract after mating or insemination. The sEVs encapsulate proteins and miRNAs that modulate sperm functions and male fertility. The sEVs, therefore, could be important as reproductive biomarkers in breeding sires. Many of the current findings regarding sEV functions, however, need experimental confirmation. Further studies are particularly needed to characterize both membranes and contents of sEVs, as well as the interaction between sEVs and target cells (spermatozoa and functional cells of the internal female reproductive tract). A priority for conducting these studies is development of methods that can be standardized and that are scalable, cost-effective and time-saving for isolation of different subtypes of EVs present in the entire population of sEVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain.
| | - Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Lorena Padilla
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Xiomara Lucas
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Isabel Barranco
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, IT-40064 Bologna, Italy
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Reyes-San-Martin C, Hamoh T, Zhang Y, Berendse L, Klijn C, Li R, Llumbet AE, Sigaeva A, Kawałko J, Mzyk A, Schirhagl R. Nanoscale MRI for Selective Labeling and Localized Free Radical Measurements in the Acrosomes of Single Sperm Cells. ACS NANO 2022; 16:10701-10710. [PMID: 35771989 PMCID: PMC9331174 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.2c02511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Free radicals play a major role in sperm development, including maturation and fertilization, but they are also linked to infertility. Since they are short-lived and reactive, they are challenging to detect with state of the art methodologies. Thus, many details surrounding their role remain unknown. One unknown factor is the source of radicals that plays a role in the sperm maturation process. Two alternative sources have been postulated: First, the NADPH-oxidase system embedded in the plasma membrane (NOX5) and second, the NADH-dependent oxidoreductase of mitochondria. Due to a lack of localized measurements, the relative contribution of each source for capacitation remains unknown. To answer this question, we use a technique called diamond magnetometry, which allows nanoscale MRI to perform localized free radical detection. With this tool, we were able to quantify radical formation in the acrosome of sperm heads. This allowed us to quantify radical formation locally in real time during capacitation. We further investigated how different inhibitors or triggers alter the radical generation. We were able to identify NOX5 as the prominent source of radical generation in capacitation while the NADH-dependent oxidoreductase of mitochondria seems to play a smaller role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Reyes-San-Martin
- Groningen
University, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AW Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Thamir Hamoh
- Groningen
University, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AW Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Yue Zhang
- Groningen
University, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AW Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Lotte Berendse
- Groningen
University, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AW Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Carline Klijn
- Groningen
University, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AW Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Runrun Li
- Groningen
University, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AW Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Arturo E. Llumbet
- Groningen
University, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AW Groningen, The Netherlands
- Laboratory
of Genomics of Germ Cells, Biomedical Sciences Institute, Faculty
of Medicine, University of Chile, Independencia, 1027, Independencia, Santiago 8380000, Chile
| | - Alina Sigaeva
- Groningen
University, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AW Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jakub Kawałko
- AGH
University of Science and Technology, Academic Centre for Materials and Nanotechnology, Al. A. Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Krakow, Poland
| | - Aldona Mzyk
- Groningen
University, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AW Groningen, The Netherlands
- Institute
of Metallurgy and Materials Science, Polish
Academy of Sciences, Reymonta 25, 30-059 Krakow, Poland
| | - Romana Schirhagl
- Groningen
University, University Medical Center Groningen, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, 9713 AW Groningen, The Netherlands
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Fernández-Alegre E, Lacalle E, Soriano-Úbeda C, González-Montaña JR, Domínguez JC, Casao A, Martínez-Pastor F. Bos taurus and Cervus elaphus as Non-Seasonal/Seasonal Models for the Role of Melatonin Receptors in the Spermatozoon. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116284. [PMID: 35682961 PMCID: PMC9181011 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is crucial in reproduction due its antioxidant, hormonal, and paracrine action. Melatonin membrane receptors (MT1/MT2) have been confirmed on spermatozoa from several species, but functionality studies are scarce. To clarify their role in ruminants as reproductive models, bull (Bos taurus, non-seasonal) and red deer (Cervus elaphus, highly seasonal) spermatozoa were analyzed after 4 h of incubation (38 °C, capacitating media) in 10 nM melatonin, MT1/MT2 agonists (phenylmelatonin and 8M-PDOT), and antagonists (luzindole and 4P-PDOT). Motility and functionality (flow cytometry: viability, intracellular calcium, capacitation status, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and acrosomal and mitochondrial status) were assessed. In bull, MT1 was related to sperm viability preservation, whereas MT2 could modulate cell functionality to prevent excess ROS produced by the mitochondria; this action could have a role in modulating sperm capacitation. Deer spermatozoa showed resistance to melatonin and receptor activation, possibly because the samples were of epididymal origin and collected at the breeding season's peak, with high circulating melatonin. However, receptors could be involved in mitochondrial protection. Therefore, melatonin receptors are functional in the spermatozoa from bull and deer, with different activities. These species offer models differing from traditional laboratory experimental animals on the role of melatonin in sperm biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estela Fernández-Alegre
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (E.L.); (C.S.-Ú.); (J.R.G.-M.); (J.C.D.)
- Bianor Biotech SL, 24071 Leon, Spain
| | - Estíbaliz Lacalle
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (E.L.); (C.S.-Ú.); (J.R.G.-M.); (J.C.D.)
- Bianor Biotech SL, 24071 Leon, Spain
| | - Cristina Soriano-Úbeda
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (E.L.); (C.S.-Ú.); (J.R.G.-M.); (J.C.D.)
- Department of Molecular Biology (Cell Biology), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain
| | - José Ramiro González-Montaña
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (E.L.); (C.S.-Ú.); (J.R.G.-M.); (J.C.D.)
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy (Animal Medicine and Surgery), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain
| | - Juan Carlos Domínguez
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (E.L.); (C.S.-Ú.); (J.R.G.-M.); (J.C.D.)
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Veterinary Anatomy (Animal Medicine and Surgery), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain
| | - Adriana Casao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology, Institute of Environmental Sciences of Aragón, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain;
| | - Felipe Martínez-Pastor
- Institute of Animal Health and Cattle Development (INDEGSAL), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain; (E.F.-A.); (E.L.); (C.S.-Ú.); (J.R.G.-M.); (J.C.D.)
- Department of Molecular Biology (Cell Biology), University of León, 24071 Leon, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-987-291-491
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11
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Bicarbonate-Triggered In Vitro Capacitation of Boar Spermatozoa Conveys an Increased Relative Abundance of the Canonical Transient Receptor Potential Cation (TRPC) Channels 3, 4, 6 and 7 and of CatSper-γ Subunit mRNA Transcripts. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12081012. [PMID: 35454259 PMCID: PMC9031844 DOI: 10.3390/ani12081012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The detection of sub-fertile boars has been a difficult task, and despite their prevalence being low, its impact is very significant because it implies economic drawbacks for artificial insemination (AI) centers and farms. Unfortunately, some crucial reproductive processes fall beyond the routine analysis performed in the porcine model, such as sperm capacitation, which is a necessary event for fertilization. A synergistic action of bicarbonate (HCO3−) with calcium (Ca2+) is needed to achieve capacitation. The transport of Ca2+ is mediated by CatSper channels and Canonical Transient Potential Channels (TRPC). We quantified mRNA transcripts of different subunits of CatSper (β, γ and δ) and TRPC (1, 3, 4, 6 and 7) before and after in vitro capacitation by HCO3− ions. Our results showed that in vitro capacitation using HCO3− increases the relative abundance of mRNA transcripts of almost all subunits of Ca2+ channels, except CatSper-δ and TRPC1, which were significantly reduced. More studies are needed to elucidate the specific roles of the TRPC channels at a physiological and functional level. Abstract Sperm capacitation is a stepwise complex biochemical process towards fertilization. It includes a crucial early calcium (Ca2+) transport mediated by CatSper channels and Canonical Transient Potential Channels (TRPC). We studied the relative abundance of mRNA transcripts changes of the CatSper β, γ and δ subunits and TRPC-channels 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 in pig spermatozoa, after triggering in vitro capacitation by bicarbonate ions at levels present in vivo at the fertilization site. For this purpose, we analyzedfive5 ejaculate pools (from three fertile adult boars) before (control-fresh samples) and after in vitro exposure to capacitation conditions (37 mM NaHCO3, 2.25 mM CaCl2, 2 mM caffeine, 0.5% bovine serum albumin and 310 mM lactose) at 38 °C, 5% CO2 for 30 min. In vitro capacitation using bicarbonate elicits an increase in the relative abundance of mRNA transcripts of almost all studied Ca2+ channels, except CatSper-δ and TRPC1 (significantly reduced). These findings open new avenues of research to identify the specific role of each channel in boar sperm capacitation and elucidate the physiological meaning of the changes on sperm mRNA cargo.
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12
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Lazcano-Pérez F, Bermeo K, Castro H, Salazar Campos Z, Arenas I, Zavala-Moreno A, Chávez-Villela SN, Jiménez I, Arreguín-Espinosa R, Fierro R, González-Márquez H, Garcia DE, Sánchez-Rodríguez J. A Sea Anemone Lebrunia neglecta Venom Fraction Decreases Boar Sperm Cells Capacitation: Possible Involvement of HVA Calcium Channels. Toxins (Basel) 2022; 14:toxins14040261. [PMID: 35448870 PMCID: PMC9030620 DOI: 10.3390/toxins14040261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Sea anemones produce venoms characterized by a complex mixture of low molecular weight compounds, proteins and peptides acting on voltage-gated ion channels. Mammal sperm cells, like neurons, are characterized by their ion channels. Calcium channels seem to be implicated in pivotal roles such as motility and capacitation. In this study, we evaluated the effect of a low molecular weight fraction from the venom of the sea anemone Lebrunia neglecta on boar sperm cells and in HVA calcium channels from rat chromaffin cells. Spermatozoa viability seemed unaffected by the fraction whereas motility and sperm capacitation were notoriously impaired. The sea anemone fraction inhibited the HVA calcium current with partial recovery and no changes in chromaffin cells’ current kinetics and current–voltage relationship. These findings might be relevant to the pharmacological characterization of cnidarian venoms and toxins on voltage-gated calcium channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Lazcano-Pérez
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo 77580, Mexico; (F.L.-P.); (S.N.C.-V.)
| | - Karina Bermeo
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de Mexico 04510, Mexico; (K.B.); (H.C.); (I.A.); (D.E.G.)
| | - Héctor Castro
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de Mexico 04510, Mexico; (K.B.); (H.C.); (I.A.); (D.E.G.)
| | - Zayil Salazar Campos
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de Mexico 04510, Mexico;
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Div. C.B.S., Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Ciudad de Mexico 09310, Mexico; (I.J.); (R.F.); (H.G.-M.)
| | - Isabel Arenas
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de Mexico 04510, Mexico; (K.B.); (H.C.); (I.A.); (D.E.G.)
| | - Ariana Zavala-Moreno
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de Mexico 04510, Mexico;
| | - Sheila Narayán Chávez-Villela
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo 77580, Mexico; (F.L.-P.); (S.N.C.-V.)
| | - Irma Jiménez
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Div. C.B.S., Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Ciudad de Mexico 09310, Mexico; (I.J.); (R.F.); (H.G.-M.)
| | - Roberto Arreguín-Espinosa
- Departamento de Química de Biomacromoléculas, Instituto de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de Mexico 04510, Mexico;
| | - Reyna Fierro
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Div. C.B.S., Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Ciudad de Mexico 09310, Mexico; (I.J.); (R.F.); (H.G.-M.)
| | - Humberto González-Márquez
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, Div. C.B.S., Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Ciudad de Mexico 09310, Mexico; (I.J.); (R.F.); (H.G.-M.)
| | - David E. Garcia
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de Mexico 04510, Mexico; (K.B.); (H.C.); (I.A.); (D.E.G.)
| | - Judith Sánchez-Rodríguez
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo 77580, Mexico; (F.L.-P.); (S.N.C.-V.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +52(998)8710009
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13
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Kölle S. Sperm-oviduct interactions: Key factors for sperm survival and maintenance of sperm fertilizing capacity. Andrology 2022; 10:837-843. [PMID: 35340118 PMCID: PMC9321146 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Although millions or even billions of sperm are deposited in the female genital tract, only very few sperm reach the oocyte, and only one single spermatozoon will successfully fertilize. During the journey of the sperm within the female genital tract, the interactions between spermatozoa and fallopian tube are critical for sperm selection, sperm survival, and maintenance of sperm fertilizing capacity. Results This review will provide a comprehensive overview of the latest findings regarding sperm transport and behavior of sperm within the oviduct, sperm selection in the oviduct, the formation of the sperm reservoir, and the release of sperm in the presence of the oocyte. It will primarily focus on recent novel insights on sperm‐oviduct interactions, which have been obtained by cutting‐edge technologies under in vivo or near in vivo conditions. Conclusions The comprehensive analysis of the findings to date will elucidate the complex molecular changes in the tubal epithelium, which are induced by the presence of the sperm and will highlight how the epithelial cells of this organ affect transport, behavior, and function of sperm. This knowledge is essential for scientists and clinicians involved in assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Kölle
- School of Medicine, Health Sciences Centre, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
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14
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Gloria A, Contri A, Mele E, Fasano S, Pierantoni R, Meccariello R. Kisspeptin Receptor on the Sperm Surface Reflects Epididymal Maturation in the Dog. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221810120. [PMID: 34576283 PMCID: PMC8466692 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221810120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alongside the well-known central modulatory role, the Kisspeptin system, comprising Kiss1, its cleavage products (Kisspeptins), and Kisspeptin receptor (Kiss1R), was found to regulate gonadal functions in vertebrates; however, its functional role in the male gamete and its localization during maturation have been poorly understood. The present study analyzed Kisspeptin system in dog testis and spermatozoa recovered from different segments of the epididymis, with focus on Kiss1R on sperm surface alongside the maturation during epididymal transit, demonstrated by modification in sperm kinetic, morphology, and protamination. The proteins Kiss1 and Kiss1R were detected in dog testis. The receptor Kiss1R only was detected in total protein extracts from epididymis spermatozoa, whereas dot blot revealed Kiss1 immunoreactivity in the epidydimal fluid. An increase of the Kiss1R protein on sperm surface along the length of the epididymis, with spermatozoa in the tail showing plasma membrane integrity and Kiss1R protein (p < 0.05 vs. epididymis head and body) was observed by flow cytometry and further confirmed by epifluorescence microscopy and Western blot carried on sperm membrane preparations. In parallel, during the transit in the epididymis spermatozoa significantly modified their ability to move and the pattern of motility; a progressive increase in protaminization also occurred. In conclusion, Kisspeptin system was detected in dog testis and spermatozoa. Kiss1R trafficking toward plasma membrane along the length of the epididymis and Kiss1 in epididymal fluid suggested a new functional role of the Kisspeptin system in sperm maturation and storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Gloria
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy;
| | - Alberto Contri
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technologies for Agriculture Food and Environment, University of Teramo, Via Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (R.M.)
| | - Elena Mele
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, Parthenope University of Naples, 80133 Naples, Italy;
| | - Silvia Fasano
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (S.F.); (R.P.)
| | - Riccardo Pierantoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy; (S.F.); (R.P.)
| | - Rosaria Meccariello
- Department of Movement Sciences and Wellbeing, Parthenope University of Naples, 80133 Naples, Italy;
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (R.M.)
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15
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Jiang F, Zhu Y, Chen Y, Tang X, Liu L, Chen G, Liu Y, Sun X. Progesterone activates the cyclic AMP-protein kinase A signalling pathway by upregulating ABHD2 in fertile men. J Int Med Res 2021; 49:300060521999527. [PMID: 33752482 PMCID: PMC7995462 DOI: 10.1177/0300060521999527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This was a prospective study to investigate whether progesterone affects sperm activity by regulating the cyclic AMP-protein kinase A (cAMP-PKA) signalling pathway via α/β hydrolase domain-containing protein 2 (ABHD2). Methods Spermatozoa were collected from healthy and infertile men (with oligoasthenospermia or abnormal acrosome; n = 30/group). The expression of and mutations in ABHD2 were detected by quantitative PCR, western blot, and gene sequencing. The expression of ABHD2 in the presence of progesterone was detected in all groups, and cAMP and PKA levels were detected by ELISA in fertile men after treatment with ABHD2 antibody and PKA inhibitor H-89, respectively. Results Expression of ABHD2 mRNA and protein were reduced in spermatozoa from infertile compared with fertile men. Four gene mutation sites were detected in spermatozoa from the infertile groups. Progesterone increased mRNA and protein levels of ABHD2 in healthy spermatozoa but not in spermatozoa from infertile men. The levels of cAMP and PKA were increased by progesterone in healthy spermatozoa, and the progesterone-increased cAMP and PKA were decreased by ABHD2 antibody and H-89, respectively. Conclusion Progesterone regulates the ABHD2-mediated cAMP-PKA signalling pathway in healthy spermatozoa, which provides a new target for clinical diagnosis and treatment of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Jiang
- Shanghai JIAI Genetics & IVF Institute-China USA Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Zhu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Shanghai JIAI Genetics & IVF Institute-China USA Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaofeng Tang
- Shanghai JIAI Genetics & IVF Institute-China USA Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Liu Liu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guowu Chen
- Shanghai JIAI Genetics & IVF Institute-China USA Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yulin Liu
- Shanghai JIAI Genetics & IVF Institute-China USA Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoxi Sun
- Shanghai JIAI Genetics & IVF Institute-China USA Center, Shanghai, China.,Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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16
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Wada A, Harayama H. Calmodulin is involved in the occurrence of extracellular Ca 2+ -dependent full-type hyperactivation in boar ejaculated spermatozoa incubated with cyclic AMP analogs. Anim Sci J 2021; 92:e13552. [PMID: 33890345 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, hyperactivation is essential for sperm fertilization with oocytes in vivo. Two types of hyperactivation "full-type and nonfull-type patterns" can be observed in the spermatozoa from boars, bulls, and mice. We have a hypothesis that the full-type hyperactivation is a physiological (in vivo) pattern and are elucidating its molecular bases. The aims of this study were to detect calmodulin in boar sperm flagella by Western blotting and indirect immunofluorescence and to investigate effects of extracellular Ca2+ and calmodulin antagonists "W-7 and W-5 (W-5; a less potent antagonist)" on the occurrence of full-type hyperactivation in boar spermatozoa. Calmodulin was specifically detected as the 17-kDa antigen in the flagella and postacrosomal region of the heads. Full-type hyperactivation could be induced effectively in the samples incubated with 3.42 mM CaCl2 for 120-180 min, and it was significantly reduced in the concentration-dependent manners of W-7 and W-5. Suppressing effects of W-7 on the full-type hyperactivation were stronger than those of W-5. These observations indicate that flagellar calmodulin is involved in the occurrence of extracellular Ca2+ -dependent full-type hyperactivation in boar spermatozoa. This is the first indication of the intracellular Ca2+ -sensing molecule which can function in the full-type hyperactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsushi Wada
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Division of Animal Science, Department of Bioresource Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Harayama
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Division of Animal Science, Department of Bioresource Science, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Kobe University, Kobe, Japan
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17
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Sharif M, Kerns K, Sutovsky P, Bovin N, Miller DJ. Progesterone induces porcine sperm release from oviduct glycans in a proteasome-dependent manner. Reproduction 2021; 161:449-457. [PMID: 33589564 DOI: 10.1530/rep-20-0474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
In mammals, the oviduct retains sperm, forming a reservoir from which they are released in synchrony with ovulation. However, the mechanisms underlying sperm release are unclear. Herein, we first examined in greater detail the release of sperm from the oviduct reservoir by sex steroids, and secondly, if the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) mediates this release in vitro. Sperm were allowed to bind to oviductal cells or immobilized oviduct glycans, either bi-SiaLN or a suLeX, and channeled with steroids in the presence or absence of proteasome inhibitors. Previously, we have demonstrated progesterone-induced sperm release from oviduct cells and immobilized glycans in a steroid-specific manner. Herein, we found that the release of sperm from an immobilized oviduct glycan, a six-sialylated branched structure, and from immobilized fibronectin was inhibited by the CatSper blocker NNC 055-0396, akin to the previously reported ability of NNC 055-0396 to inhibit sperm release from another oviduct glycan, sulfated Lewis-X trisaccharide. Thus, CatSper may be required for release of sperm from a variety of adhesion systems. One possible mechanism for sperm release is that glycan receptors on sperm are degraded by proteasomes or shed from the sperm surface by proteasomal degradation. Accordingly, the inhibition of proteasomal degradation blocked sperm release from oviduct cell aggregates both immobilized oviduct glycans as well as fibronectin. In summary, progesterone-induced sperm release requires both active CatSper channels and proteasomal degradation, suggesting that hyperactivation and proteolysis are vital parts of the mechanism by which sperm move from the oviduct reservoir to the site of fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Momal Sharif
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
| | - Karl Kerns
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, USA
| | - Nicolai Bovin
- Shemyakin Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow, Russia
| | - David J Miller
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, USA
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18
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Nowicka-Bauer K, Szymczak-Cendlak M. Structure and Function of Ion Channels Regulating Sperm Motility-An Overview. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22063259. [PMID: 33806823 PMCID: PMC8004680 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm motility is linked to the activation of signaling pathways that trigger movement. These pathways are mainly dependent on Ca2+, which acts as a secondary messenger. The maintenance of adequate Ca2+ concentrations is possible thanks to proper concentrations of other ions, such as K+ and Na+, among others, that modulate plasma membrane potential and the intracellular pH. Like in every cell, ion homeostasis in spermatozoa is ensured by a vast spectrum of ion channels supported by the work of ion pumps and transporters. To achieve success in fertilization, sperm ion channels have to be sensitive to various external and internal factors. This sensitivity is provided by specific channel structures. In addition, novel sperm-specific channels or isoforms have been found with compositions that increase the chance of fertilization. Notably, the most significant sperm ion channel is the cation channel of sperm (CatSper), which is a sperm-specific Ca2+ channel required for the hyperactivation of sperm motility. The role of other ion channels in the spermatozoa, such as voltage-gated Ca2+ channels (VGCCs), Ca2+-activated Cl-channels (CaCCs), SLO K+ channels or voltage-gated H+ channels (VGHCs), is to ensure the activation and modulation of CatSper. As the activation of sperm motility differs among metazoa, different ion channels may participate; however, knowledge regarding these channels is still scarce. In the present review, the roles and structures of the most important known ion channels are described in regard to regulation of sperm motility in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Nowicka-Bauer
- Department of Chemical Physics, Faculty of Chemistry, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, 61-614 Poznan, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Monika Szymczak-Cendlak
- Department of Animal Physiology and Development, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, 61-614 Poznan, Poland;
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19
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Noto F, Recuero S, Valencia J, Saporito B, Robbe D, Bonet S, Carluccio A, Yeste M. Inhibition of Potassium Channels Affects the Ability of Pig Spermatozoa to Elicit Capacitation and Trigger the Acrosome Exocytosis Induced by Progesterone. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22041992. [PMID: 33671466 PMCID: PMC7922121 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22041992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
During capacitation, sperm undergo a myriad of changes, including remodeling of plasma membrane, modification of sperm motility and kinematic parameters, membrane hyperpolarization, increase in intracellular calcium levels, and tyrosine phosphorylation of certain sperm proteins. While potassium channels have been reported to be crucial for capacitation of mouse and human sperm, their role in pigs has not been investigated. With this purpose, sperm samples from 15 boars were incubated in capacitation medium for 300 min with quinine, a general blocker of potassium channels (including voltage-gated potassium channels, calcium-activated potassium channels, and tandem pore domain potassium channels), and paxilline (PAX), a specific inhibitor of calcium-activated potassium channels. In all samples, acrosome exocytosis was induced after 240 min of incubation with progesterone. Plasma membrane and acrosome integrity, membrane lipid disorder, intracellular calcium levels, mitochondrial membrane potential, and total and progressive sperm motility were evaluated after 0, 120, and 240 min of incubation, and after 5, 30, and 60 min of progesterone addition. Although blocking potassium channels with quinine and PAX prevented sperm to elicit in vitro capacitation by impairing motility and mitochondrial function, as well as reducing intracellular calcium levels, the extent of that inhibition was larger with quinine than with PAX. Therefore, while our data support that calcium-activated potassium channels are essential for sperm capacitation in pigs, they also suggest that other potassium channels, such as the voltage-gated, tandem pore domain, and mitochondrial ATP-regulated ones, are involved in that process. Thus, further research is needed to elucidate the specific functions of these channels and the mechanisms underlying its regulation during sperm capacitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Noto
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain; (F.N.); (S.R.); (S.B.)
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain;
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio, IT-64100 Teramo, Italy; (B.S.); (D.R.); (A.C.)
| | - Sandra Recuero
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain; (F.N.); (S.R.); (S.B.)
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain;
| | - Julián Valencia
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain;
- University Antonio Nariño, Calle 53 #9-35, Popayán CO-190002, Colombia
| | - Beatrice Saporito
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio, IT-64100 Teramo, Italy; (B.S.); (D.R.); (A.C.)
| | - Domenico Robbe
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio, IT-64100 Teramo, Italy; (B.S.); (D.R.); (A.C.)
| | - Sergi Bonet
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain; (F.N.); (S.R.); (S.B.)
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain;
| | - Augusto Carluccio
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Località Piano D’Accio, IT-64100 Teramo, Italy; (B.S.); (D.R.); (A.C.)
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain; (F.N.); (S.R.); (S.B.)
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain;
- Correspondence:
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20
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Preclinical prediction of phytochemicals identified from cannabis as novel inhibitors of TEX 11, DHCR24, and CatSper 1 in fertility drug design. INFORMATICS IN MEDICINE UNLOCKED 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2021.100747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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21
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Tamburrino L, Marchiani S, Muratori M, Luconi M, Baldi E. Progesterone, spermatozoa and reproduction: An updated review. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 516:110952. [PMID: 32712385 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The rapid effects of steroids on spermatozoa have been demonstrated for the first time more than three decades ago. Progesterone (P), which is present throughout the female genital tract with peaks of levels in the cumulus matrix surrounding the oocyte, has been shown to stimulate several sperm functions in vitro, including capacitation, hyperactivation, chemotaxis and acrosome reaction (AR). Besides an increase of intracellular calcium, P has been shown to activate other sperm signalling pathways including tyrosine phosphorylation of several sperm proteins. All these effects are mediated by extra-nuclear pathways likely involving interaction with molecules present on the sperm surface. In particular, the increase in intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) in spermatozoa from human and several other mammalian species is mediated by the sperm specific calcium channel CatSper, whose expression and function are required for sperm hyperactive motility. P-mediated CatSper activation is indeed involved in promoting sperm hyperactivation, but the involvement of this channel in other P-stimulated sperm functions, such as AR and chemotaxis, is less clear and further studies are required to disclose all the involved pathways. In human spermatozoa, responsiveness to P in terms of [Ca2+]i increase and AR is highly related to sperm fertilizing ability in vitro, suggesting that the steroid is a physiological inducer of AR during in vitro fertilization. In view of their physiological relevance, P-stimulated sperm functions are currently investigated to develop new tools to select highly performant spermatozoa for assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Tamburrino
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Marchiani
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Monica Muratori
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Science, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Michaela Luconi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Science, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Baldi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Viale Pieraccini 6, 50139, Florence, Italy.
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22
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Rehfeld A, Mendoza N, Ausejo R, Skakkebæk NE. Bisphenol A Diglycidyl Ether (BADGE) and Progesterone Do Not Induce Ca 2+ Signals in Boar Sperm Cells. Front Physiol 2020; 11:785. [PMID: 32774306 PMCID: PMC7381341 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim Exposure of boar sperm cells to Bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE) has been shown to lead to reproductive failure in sows, however, the mode of action is unknown. As we have recently shown that BADGE can interfere with Ca2 + signaling in human sperm cells through an action on CatSper, and as CatSper has been shown to be expressed in boar sperm cells, we hypothesized that a similar mechanism in the boar sperm cells could be responsible for the reproductive failure. Methods Direct effects of BADGE and the endogenous ligand of human CatSper, progesterone, on Ca2+ signaling in human and boar sperm cells were evaluated side-by-side using a Ca2+ fluorimetric assay measuring changes in intracellular Ca2+. Effects of BADGE on Ca2+ signaling in boar sperm were furthermore assessed by flow cytometry by an independent laboratory. Results The exact same solutions of BADGE and progesterone induced transient biphasic Ca2+ signals in human sperm cells, but failed to do so in both non-capacitated and capacitated boar sperm cells. BADGE also failed to induce transient biphasic Ca2+ signals in boar sperm cells in the flow cytometric assay. Conclusion BADGE and progesterone failed to induce Ca2+ signals in boar sperm cells. This indicates that the signaling mechanisms leading to activation of CatSper differs between human and boar sperm cells, and suggests that the mode of action by which exposure of boar sperm cells to BADGE can lead to reproductive failure in sows does not involve effects on Ca2+ signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anders Rehfeld
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Noelia Mendoza
- Department of Research and Development, Magapor SL, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Raquel Ausejo
- Department of Research and Development, Magapor SL, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Niels Erik Skakkebæk
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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23
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van Son M, Tremoen NH, Gaustad AH, Våge DI, Zeremichael TT, Myromslien FD, Grindflek E. Transcriptome profiling of porcine testis tissue reveals genes related to sperm hyperactive motility. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:161. [PMID: 32456687 PMCID: PMC7249385 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02373-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sperm hyperactive motility has previously been shown to influence litter size in pigs, but little is known about the underlying biological mechanisms. The aim of this study was to use RNA sequencing to investigate gene expression differences in testis tissue from Landrace and Duroc boars with high and low levels of sperm hyperactive motility. Boars with divergent phenotypes were selected based on their sperm hyperactivity values at the day of ejaculation (day 0) (contrasts (i) and (ii) for Landrace and Duroc, respectively) and on their change in hyperactivity between day 0 and after 96 h liquid storage at 18 °C (contrast (iii)). RESULTS RNA sequencing was used to measure gene expression in testis. In Landrace boars, 3219 genes were differentially expressed for contrast (i), whereas 102 genes were differentially expressed for contrast (iii). Forty-one differentially expressed genes were identified in both contrasts, suggesting a functional role of these genes in hyperactivity regardless of storage. Zinc finger DNLZ was the most up-regulated gene in contrasts (i) and (iii), whereas the most significant differentially expressed gene for the two contrasts were ADP ribosylation factor ARFGAP1 and solute carrier SLC40A1, respectively. For Duroc (contrast (ii)), the clustering of boars based on their gene expression data did not reflect their difference in sperm hyperactivity phenotypes. No results were therefore obtained for this breed. A case-control analysis of variants identified in the Landrace RNA sequencing data showed that SNPs in NEU3, CHRDL2 and HMCN1 might be important for sperm hyperactivity. CONCLUSIONS Differentially expressed genes were identified in Landrace boars with high and low levels of sperm hyperactivity at the day of ejaculate collection and high and low change in hyperactivity after 96 h of sperm storage. The results point towards important candidate genes, biochemical pathways and sequence variants underlying sperm hyperactivity in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nina Hårdnes Tremoen
- Department of Biotechnology, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2318 Hamar, Norway
- Centre for Integrative Genetics (CIGENE), Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Faculty of Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Ann Helen Gaustad
- Norsvin SA, 2317 Hamar, Norway
- Department of Biotechnology, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2318 Hamar, Norway
| | - Dag Inge Våge
- Centre for Integrative Genetics (CIGENE), Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Faculty of Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1432 Ås, Norway
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24
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The role of semen and seminal plasma in inducing large-scale genomic changes in the female porcine peri-ovulatory tract. Sci Rep 2020; 10:5061. [PMID: 32193402 PMCID: PMC7081221 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-60810-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Semen modifies the expression of genes related to immune function along the porcine female internal genital tract. Whether other pathways are induced by the deposition of spermatozoa and/or seminal plasma (SP), is yet undocumented. Here, to determine their relative impact on the uterine and tubal transcriptomes, microarray analyses were performed on the endocervix, endometrium and endosalpinx collected from pre-ovulatory sows 24 h after either mating or artificial insemination (AI) with specific ejaculate fractions containing spermatozoa or sperm-free SP. After enrichment analysis, we found an overrepresentation of genes and pathways associated with sperm transport and binding, oxidative stress and cell-to-cell recognition, such as PI3K-Akt, FoxO signaling, glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis and cAMP-related transcripts, among others. Although semen (either after mating or AI) seemed to have the highest impact along the entire genital tract, our results demonstrate that the SP itself also modifies the transcriptome. The detected modifications of the molecular profiles of the pre/peri-ovulatory endometrium and endosalpinx suggest an interplay for the survival, transport and binding of spermatozoa through, for instance the up-regulation of the Estrogen signaling pathway associated with attachment and release from the oviductal reservoir.
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25
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Martinez CA, Alvarez-Rodriguez M, Wright D, Rodriguez-Martinez H. Does the Pre-Ovulatory Pig Oviduct Rule Sperm Capacitation In Vivo Mediating Transcriptomics of Catsper Channels? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051840. [PMID: 32155986 PMCID: PMC7084628 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa need to conduct a series of biochemical changes termed capacitation in order to fertilize. In vivo, capacitation is sequentially achieved during sperm transport and interaction with the female genital tract, by mechanisms yet undisclosed in detail. However, when boar spermatozoa are stored in the tubal reservoir pre-ovulation, most appear to be in a non-capacitated state. This study aimed at deciphering the transcriptomics of capacitation-related genes in the pig pre-ovulatory oviduct, following the entry of semen or of sperm-free seminal plasma (SP). Ex-vivo samples of the utero-tubal junction (UTJ) and isthmus were examined with a microarray chip (GeneChip® Porcine Gene 1.0 ST Array, Thermo Fisher Scientific) followed by bioinformatics for enriched analysis of functional categories (GO terms) and restrictive statistics. The results confirmed that entry of semen or of relative amounts of sperm-free SP modifies gene expression of these segments, pre-ovulation. It further shows that enriched genes are differentially associated with pathways relating to sperm motility, acrosome reaction, single fertilization, and the regulation of signal transduction GO terms. In particular, the pre-ovulation oviduct stimulates the Catsper channels for sperm Ca2+ influx, with AKAPs, CATSPERs, and CABYR genes being positive regulators while PKIs and CRISP1 genes appear to be inhibitors of the process. We postulate that the stimulation of PKIs and CRISP1 genes in the pre-ovulation sperm reservoir/adjacent isthmus, mediated by SP, act to prevent premature massive capacitation prior to ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina A. Martinez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.A.-R.); (H.R.-M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-678077708
| | - Manuel Alvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.A.-R.); (H.R.-M.)
| | - Dominic Wright
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Faculty of Science and Engineering; Linköping University, SE-58183 Linköping, Sweden;
| | - Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.A.-R.); (H.R.-M.)
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26
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Alvarez-Rodriguez M, Martinez C, Wright D, Barranco I, Roca J, Rodriguez-Martinez H. The Transcriptome of Pig Spermatozoa, and Its Role in Fertility. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051572. [PMID: 32106598 PMCID: PMC7084236 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In the study presented here we identified transcriptomic markers for fertility in the cargo of pig ejaculated spermatozoa using porcine-specific micro-arrays (GeneChip® miRNA 4.0 and GeneChip® Porcine Gene 1.0 ST). We report (i) the relative abundance of the ssc-miR-1285, miR-16, miR-4332, miR-92a, miR-671-5p, miR-4334-5p, miR-425-5p, miR-191, miR-92b-5p and miR-15b miRNAs, and (ii) the presence of 347 up-regulated and 174 down-regulated RNA transcripts in high-fertility breeding boars, based on differences of farrowing rate (FS) and litter size (LS), relative to low-fertility boars in the (Artificial Insemination) AI program. An overrepresentation analysis of the protein class (PANTHER) identified significant fold-increases for C-C chemokine binding (GO:0019957): CCR7, which activates B- and T-lymphocytes, 8-fold increase), XCR1 and CXCR4 (with ubiquitin as a natural ligand, 1.24-fold increase), cytokine receptor activity (GO:0005126): IL23R receptor of the IL23 protein, associated to JAK2 and STAT3, 3.4-fold increase), the TGF-receptor (PC00035) genes ACVR1C and ACVR2B (12-fold increase). Moreover, two micro-RNAs (miR-221 and mir-621) were down- and up-regulated, respectively, in high-fertility males. In conclusion, boars with different fertility performance possess a wide variety of differentially expressed RNA present in spermatozoa that would be attractive targets as non-invasive molecular markers for predicting fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Alvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden; (C.M.); (H.R.-M.)
- Correspondence: e-mail: ; Phone: +46-(0)729427883
| | - Cristina Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden; (C.M.); (H.R.-M.)
| | - Dominic Wright
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Linköping University, SE-58183 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Isabel Barranco
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain;
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain;
| | - Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden; (C.M.); (H.R.-M.)
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27
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Machado SA, Sharif M, Wang H, Bovin N, Miller DJ. Release of Porcine Sperm from Oviduct Cells is Stimulated by Progesterone and Requires CatSper. Sci Rep 2019; 9:19546. [PMID: 31862909 PMCID: PMC6925244 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55834-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm storage in the female reproductive tract after mating and before ovulation is a reproductive strategy used by many species. When insemination and ovulation are poorly synchronized, the formation and maintenance of a functional sperm reservoir improves the possibility of fertilization. In mammals, the oviduct regulates sperm functions, such as Ca2+ influx and processes associated with sperm maturation, collectively known as capacitation. A fraction of the stored sperm is released by unknown mechanisms and moves to the site of fertilization. There is an empirical association between the hormonal milieu in the oviduct and sperm detachment; therefore, we tested directly the ability of progesterone to induce sperm release from oviduct cell aggregates. Sperm were allowed to bind to oviduct cells or an immobilized oviduct glycan and then challenged with progesterone, which stimulated the release of 48% of sperm from oviduct cells or 68% of sperm from an immobilized oviduct glycan. The effect of progesterone on sperm release was specific; pregnenolone and 17α-OH-progesterone did not affect sperm release. Ca2+ influx into sperm is associated with capacitation and development of hyperactivated motility. Progesterone increased sperm intracellular Ca2+, which was abrogated by blocking the sperm–specific Ca2+ channel CatSper with NNC 055-0396. NNC 055-0396 also blocked the progesterone-induced sperm release from oviduct cells or immobilized glycan. An inhibitor of the non-genomic progesterone receptor that activates CatSper similarly blocked sperm release. This is the first report indicating that release of sperm from the sperm reservoir is induced by progesterone action through CatSper channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A Machado
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, Western Santa Catarina University, Xanxere, Brazil
| | - Momal Sharif
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Huijing Wang
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.,Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Nicolai Bovin
- Shemyakin Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Moscow, Russia
| | - David J Miller
- Department of Animal Sciences and Institute of Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1207 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, IL, 61801, USA.
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28
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Yeste M, Llavanera M, Pérez G, Scornik F, Puig-Parri J, Brugada R, Bonet S, Pinart E. Elucidating the Role of K + Channels during In Vitro Capacitation of Boar Spermatozoa: Do SLO1 Channels Play a Crucial Role? Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E6330. [PMID: 31847486 PMCID: PMC6940911 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20246330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
This study sought to identify and localize SLO1 channels in boar spermatozoa by immunoblotting and immunofluorescence, and to determine their physiological role during in vitro sperm capacitation. Sperm samples from 14 boars were incubated in a capacitation medium for 300 min in the presence of paxilline (PAX), a specific SLO1-channel blocker, added either at 0 min or after 240 min of incubation. Negative controls were incubated in capacitation medium, and positive controls in capacitation medium plus tetraethyl ammonium (TEA), a general K+-channel blocker, also added at 0 min or after 240 min of incubation. In all samples, acrosome exocytosis was triggered with progesterone after 240 min of incubation. Sperm motility and kinematics, integrity of plasma and acrosome membranes, membrane lipid disorder, intracellular calcium levels and acrosin activity were evaluated after 0, 60, 120, 180, 240, 250, 270 and 300 min of incubation. In boar spermatozoa, SLO1 channels were found to have 80 kDa and be localized in the anterior postacrosomal region and the mid and principal piece of the tail; their specific blockage through PAX resulted in altered calcium levels and acrosome exocytosis. As expected, TEA blocker impaired in vitro sperm capacitation, by altering sperm motility and kinematics and calcium levels. In conclusion, SLO1 channels are crucial for the acrosome exocytosis induced by progesterone in in vitro capacitated boar spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Yeste
- Unit of Cell Biology, Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain; (M.Y.); (M.L.); (J.P.-P.); (S.B.)
| | - Marc Llavanera
- Unit of Cell Biology, Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain; (M.Y.); (M.L.); (J.P.-P.); (S.B.)
| | - Guillermo Pérez
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain; (G.P.); (F.S.); (R.B.)
- Cardiovascular Genetics Group, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), E-17190 Girona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center on Cardiovascular Diseases (CIBERCV), E-28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Fabiana Scornik
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain; (G.P.); (F.S.); (R.B.)
- Cardiovascular Genetics Group, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), E-17190 Girona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center on Cardiovascular Diseases (CIBERCV), E-28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Josep Puig-Parri
- Unit of Cell Biology, Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain; (M.Y.); (M.L.); (J.P.-P.); (S.B.)
| | - Ramon Brugada
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain; (G.P.); (F.S.); (R.B.)
- Cardiovascular Genetics Group, Girona Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBGI), E-17190 Girona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Networking Center on Cardiovascular Diseases (CIBERCV), E-28029 Madrid, Spain
- Cardiology Service, Hospital Josep Trueta, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Sergi Bonet
- Unit of Cell Biology, Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain; (M.Y.); (M.L.); (J.P.-P.); (S.B.)
| | - Elisabeth Pinart
- Unit of Cell Biology, Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain; (M.Y.); (M.L.); (J.P.-P.); (S.B.)
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Abstract
In the quest for predicting fertility of an individual, enhancing semen handling, dilution and storage protocols, and understanding the impact of environment and, andrologists have changed their approaches to semen analysis. The technologies used today are fast developing and readily implemented in research. Semen is one of a few naturally occurring monocellular suspensions, so sperm function analysis by flow cytometry (FC) and utilization of fluorochromes is an ideal technique for high throughput, objective and accurate analysis. The complementary use of microscopical assessments by Computer-Assisted Semen Analysis (CASA), where sperm cell parameters can be objectively assessed is equally important. The objectivity and repeatability of these techniques have driven research on the function, identification of heterogeneity and fertility of the ejaculate. The wealth of knowledge obtained from the application of these powerful methods has changed our view of the spermatozoon. Although there is some application of these methods in the industry producing boar semen for artificial insemination (AI) and to eliminate sires of sub-standard semen quality, uptake of advanced methods is still slow. Instruments are becoming cheaper and technically more user friendly. Standardization of methodology and optimization of instrument settings is important for full implementation of these systems, including comparison between labs. This review provides an update on two technologies: flow cytometry and CASA for objective analysis of boar semen quality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nana Satake
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia
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30
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Romero-Aguirregomezcorta J, Cronin S, Donnellan E, Fair S. Progesterone induces the release of bull spermatozoa from oviductal epithelial cells. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:1463-1472. [DOI: 10.1071/rd18316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2018] [Accepted: 03/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanism that causes the detachment of spermatozoa from the oviductal reservoir around the time of ovulation remains to be elucidated. Because the cumulus cells of the bovine oocyte are known to secrete progesterone (P4), and P4 has been shown to act upon cation channels of spermatozoa (CatSper) in human spermatozoa, it was hypothesised that P4 could induce hyperactivation due to an influx of extracellular calcium, and this would facilitate detachment of spermatozoa from oviductal epithelial cells. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the role and mechanism of action of P4 in the release of spermatozoa from bovine oviduct epithelial cells (BOEC). Initial dose–response assessments on sperm hyperactivation determined the optimum concentration of P4 (10 nM), mibefradil (a non-specific Ca2+ channel antagonist; 5µM), NNC 55-0396 dihydrochloride (NNC; a CatSper antagonist; 2µM), mifepristone (a classical and membrane P4 receptor antagonist; 400nM) and AG205 (a membrane P4 receptor antagonist; 10μM). BOEC explants were incubated with frozen–thawed bovine spermatozoa for 30min, following which loosely bound spermatozoa were removed. Two experiments were completed. In Experiment 1, BOECs were treated for 30min with either no treatment, P4, NNC, mibefradil, P4+mibefradil, P4+NNC, P4+mibefradil+NNC or P4+EGTA. In Experiment 2, BOECs were treated for 30min with either no treatment, P4, mifepristone, AG205, mifepristone+AG205, P4+mifepristone, P4+AG205 or P4+mifepristone+AG205. The number of spermatozoa remaining bound per millimetre squared of BOEC explant was determined. Progesterone stimulated the release of bound spermatozoa from BOEC explants, whereas NNC, mibefradil and EGTA inhibited this release. The release of spermatozoa by P4 was inhibited in the presence of both mifepristone and AG205, whereas the combination of both had the greatest inhibitory action on P4 release of spermatozoa. These findings suggest the presence of a P4 membrane receptor on bovine spermatozoa and that P4-induced release of spermatozoa from BOECs is likely mediated by extracellular Ca2+.
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31
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Harayama H. Flagellar hyperactivation of bull and boar spermatozoa. Reprod Med Biol 2018; 17:442-448. [PMID: 30377397 PMCID: PMC6194283 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In mammals, flagellar hyperactivation is indispensable to sperm fertilization with oocytes in vivo, although there are species differences in regulatory mechanisms for this event. In this study, I reviewed researches regarding hyperactivation of bull and boar spermatozoa, in comparison with those of spermatozoa from other species. METHODS Recent publications regarding sperm hyperactivation were collected and summarized. RESULTS MAIN FINDINGS In bull and boar spermatozoa, there are two types of hyperactivation "full-type hyperactivation and nonfull-type hyperactivation" which are equivalent to anti-hock hyperactivation and pro-hock hyperactivation of mouse spermatozoa, respectively, on the basis of the flagellar parts exhibiting asymmetrical beating. Full-type hyperactivation is initiated in response to a rapid increase of cytoplasmic Ca2+ in the connecting/middle and principal pieces by the mobilization of this divalent ion from extracellular space and internal store through cation channels. Regulatory molecules for the increase of cytoplasmic Ca2+ in the connecting/middle pieces are probably different from those in the principal pieces. CONCLUSION I have proposed a hypothesis on the regulation of full-type hyperactivation by the distinct signaling cascades leading to the increase in cytoplasmic Ca2+ between the connecting/middle and principal pieces of bull and boar spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Harayama
- Division of Animal Science, Department of Bioresource Science, Graduate School of Agricultural ScienceKobe UniversityKobeJapan
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Betarelli RP, Rocco M, Yeste M, Fernández-Novell JM, Placci A, Azevedo Pereira B, Castillo-Martín M, Estrada E, Peña A, Zangeronimo MG, Rodríguez-Gil JE. The achievement of boar spermin vitrocapacitation is related to an increase of disrupted disulphide bonds and intracellular reactive oxygen species levels. Andrology 2018; 6:781-797. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2018] [Revised: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- R. P. Betarelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine; Federal University of Lavras; Lavras Brazil
| | - M. Rocco
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Autonomous University of Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Spain
- Department of Agriculture, Environment and Food Science; University of Molise; Campobasso Italy
| | - M. Yeste
- Department of Biology; Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; University of Girona; Girona Spain
| | - J. M. Fernández-Novell
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; University of Barcelona; Barcelona Spain
| | - A. Placci
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Autonomous University of Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Spain
| | - B. Azevedo Pereira
- Department of Veterinary Medicine; Federal University of Lavras; Lavras Brazil
| | - M. Castillo-Martín
- Department of Biology; Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; University of Girona; Girona Spain
| | - E. Estrada
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Autonomous University of Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Spain
| | - A. Peña
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Autonomous University of Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Spain
| | - M. G. Zangeronimo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine; Federal University of Lavras; Lavras Brazil
| | - J. E. Rodríguez-Gil
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Autonomous University of Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Spain
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Álvarez-Rodriguez M, Vicente-Carrillo A, Rodriguez-Martinez H. Hyaluronan improves neither the long-term storage nor the cryosurvival of liquid-stored CD44-bearing AI boar spermatozoa. J Reprod Dev 2018; 64:351-360. [PMID: 29887535 PMCID: PMC6105739 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2017-141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyaluronan (hyaluronic acid, HA) apparently improves sperm survival in vitro and in vivo (oviduct), maintaining sperm motility and inducing capacitation,
but not acrosome exocytosis, either by direct action as a macromolecule or via CD44 membrane receptors. This study explored ejaculated, liquid-extended pig spermatozoa to ascertain (i) the
presence (Western blotting) and specific location (immunocytochemistry) of the CD44 receptor, using a specific monoclonal commercial antibody; (ii) whether the CD44 receptor changed location
when exposed to bicarbonate, a capacitating trigger, in vitro; and (iii) whether the addition of HA, of molecular size comparable to that produced in the oviduct sperm
reservoir (0.0625 to 2.0 mg/ml; 0 HA: control), to semen extenders would improve sperm liquid storage in vitro or cryosurvival post-freezing. Variables tested were sperm
velocity and progressive motility (QualispermTM), sperm viability and acrosome status, membrane integrity and early destabilization, mitochondrial activation, and superoxide
production (flow cytometry). The CD44 receptor presence in ejaculated, liquid-stored AI boar spermatozoa, as confirmed by a porcine-specific monoclonal antibody, maintained its membrane
location under in vitro capacitation-inducing conditions. HA exposure to 24-, 48-, or 72-h liquid-stored (17–20ºC) spermatozoa lowered sperm velocity in membrane-intact
spermatozoa, but increased mitochondrial superoxide production. Finally, HA addition during cooling did not improve cryosurvival but did increase mitochondrial activation and membrane
destabilization in surviving cells. These results confirm the existence of a CD44 receptor in pig spermatozoa, but the usefulness of adding HA for long-term storage or cryopreservation of
liquid-stored, extended boar semen remains in question, thereby warranting further non-empirical analyses of HA-sperm membrane interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Álvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKE), BKH, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58115 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Alejandro Vicente-Carrillo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKE), BKH, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58115 Linköping, Sweden.,Present: Evidensia Valla Djursjukhus Linköping, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKE), BKH, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58115 Linköping, Sweden
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Vicente-Carrillo A. The Usefulness of Sperm Kinematics in Drug-Induced Toxicity Assessment. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2018; 123:3-7. [DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.12994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Yeste M, Bonet S, Rodríguez-Gil JE, Rivera Del Álamo MM. Evaluation of sperm motility with CASA-Mot: which factors may influence our measurements? Reprod Fertil Dev 2018. [DOI: 10.1071/rd17475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA) is now routinely used in IVF clinics, animal breeding centres and research laboratories. Although CASA provides a more objective way to evaluate sperm parameters, a significant number of factors can affect these measurements. This paper classifies these factors into four categories: (1) sample and slide (e.g. preincubation time, type of specimen and type of chamber slide); (2) microscope (e.g. light source and microscope stage); (3) hardware and software, including the settings of each system; and (4) user-related factors. We review the effects of the different factors in each category on the measurements made and emphasise the need to take measures to standardise evaluations. The take-home message of the present article is that there are several commercial and useful CASA systems, and all are appropriate for routine analysis. Non-commercial systems may also be good choices when the user needs to adapt the device to specific experimental conditions. In both cases (commercial and non-commercial), it is important that standard protocols are put in place for evaluation, as well as methods to validate the system.
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