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Balder P, Jones C, Coward K, Yeste M. Sperm chromatin: Evaluation, epigenetic signatures and relevance for embryo development and assisted reproductive technology outcomes. Eur J Cell Biol 2024; 103:151429. [PMID: 38905808 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2024.151429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Sperm chromatin is distinct from somatic cell chromatin, as a result of extensive remodeling during the final stages of spermatogenesis. In this process, the majority of histones is replaced with protamines. The chromatin is consequently highly condensed and inert, which facilitates protection of the DNA. The sperm epigenomic landscape is shaped by histone retention, histone and protamine modification, DNA methylation, and RNAs. In recent years, sperm chromatin integrity and its epigenetic marks have been increasingly studied, and the constitution of sperm chromatin is steadily being uncovered. This growing body of research prompts assessment of the frequently overlooked involvement of sperm in fertility and embryonic development. Moreover, numerous endogenous and exogenous factors are known to affect sperm chromatin, which may in turn impact the reproductive success. Concerns have been raised about the effects of assisted reproductive technology (ART) on the sperm epigenome, embryonic development and offspring health. This review examines the structure and epigenetic signatures of sperm chromatin in the context of fertility and early embryonic development. Additionally, sperm chromatin evaluation and causes of aberrant integrity are outlined. Building on the knowledge discussed in the current review, future research should aim to elucidate the intricate relationship between all aspects of sperm chromatin and embryo development. This could lead to the uncovering of new targets for treating infertility, as well as the acquisition of much needed insights into the possible reciprocal association between ART and sperm chromatin integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Balder
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK; The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Celine Jones
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Kevin Coward
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive Health, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain; Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona ES-17003, Spain; Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona ES-08010, Spain.
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2
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Yi M, Asgenbaatar N, Wang X, Ulaangerel T, Shen Y, Wen X, Du M, Dong X, Dugarjav M, Bou G. Different expression patterns of DNA methyltransferases during horse testis development. Gene 2024; 920:148531. [PMID: 38705424 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2024.148531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) are important epigenetic modification during spermatogenesis. To further evaluate the pattern of DNMTs in horse testes during development, we investigated the expression and localization of DNMT1, DNMT3a and DNMT3b at different time points. The qRT-PCR results showed that DNMT1 expression was maintained in testes tissue from 6-month-old (0.5y) to 2-year-old (2y) of age and decreased after 3-year-old (3y) (P < 0.01). The expression levels of DNMT3a and DNMT3b peaked in testes tissue at 3y (P < 0.01). At 4-year-old (4y), the expression of DNMT3a and DNMT3b was decreased and became similar to that at 0.5y. Immunofluorescence of DNMT1, DNMT3a and DNMT3b on testis samples confirmed the differential expression and localization of these three DNA methylation transferases during horse development. Further molecular biological studies are needed to understand the implications of the expression patterns of these DNMTs in horse testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minna Yi
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Nairag Asgenbaatar
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China; Da Bei Nong group rumination technology rumination acadamy Haidian District, Beijing, China
| | - Xisheng Wang
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Birth Defect Research and Transformation of Shandong Province, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Tseweendolmaa Ulaangerel
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Yingchao Shen
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xin Wen
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Ming Du
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xiaoling Dong
- Da Bei Nong group rumination technology rumination acadamy Haidian District, Beijing, China; China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Manglai Dugarjav
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China.
| | - Gerelchimeg Bou
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China.
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3
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Kameni SL, Dlamini NH, Feugang JM. Exploring the full potential of sperm function with nanotechnology tools. Anim Reprod 2024; 21:e20240033. [PMID: 39176004 PMCID: PMC11340799 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2024-0033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Sperm quality is essential to guarantee the success of assisted reproduction. However, selecting high-quality sperm and maintaining it during (cryo)preservation for high efficiency remains challenging in livestock reproduction. A comprehensive understanding of sperm biology allows for better assessment of sperm quality, which could replace conventional sperm analyses used today to predict fertility with low accuracy. Omics approaches have revealed numerous biomarkers associated with various sperm phenotypic traits such as quality, survival during storage, freezability, and fertility. At the same time, nanotechnology is emerging as a new biotechnology with high potential for use in preparing sperm intended to improve reproduction in livestock. The unique physicochemical properties of nanoparticles make them exciting tools for targeting (e.g., sperm damage and sexing) and non-targeting bioapplications. Recent advances in sperm biology have led to the discovery of numerous biomarkers, making it possible to target specific subpopulations of spermatozoa within the ejaculate. In this review, we explore potential biomarkers associated with sperm phenotypes and highlight the benefits of combining these biomarkers with nanoparticles to further improve sperm preparation and technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge Leugoué Kameni
- Mississippi State University, Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - Notsile Hleliwe Dlamini
- Mississippi State University, Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - Jean Magloire Feugang
- Mississippi State University, Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State, MS, USA
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Kaya U, Olğaç KT. Evaluation of the relationships between oxidative stress, inflammation, hormonal status and sperm parameters in rats: Canonical correlation analysis. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 164:104276. [PMID: 38896933 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104276] [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: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Many endocrine or non-endocrine factors are involved in sperm production. Although reproductive hormones are very important for the initiation and maintenance of spermatogenesis, other factors, such as inflammation and oxidative stress, affect spermatogenesis. The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationships between sperm parameters and hormones, oxidative stress, and inflammation status. We conducted this study on 40 rats. Sperm parameters (motility, abnormal sperm rate, and dead sperm rate), oxidative stress (malondialdehyde, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase), inflammation (NF-κβ, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10), and hormone parameters (follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, testosterone, melatonin, and corticosterone) were determined. Relationships between mentioned parameters were investigated by canonical correlation analysis. Canonical correlation coefficients for these data sets (sperm-oxidative stress, sperm-inflammation, and sperm-hormone parameters) were found to be strongly significant (rc= 0.875, p<0.001; rc= 0.868, p<0.001; rc= 0.886, p<0.001, respectively). The rate of explanation of oxidative stress, inflammation parameters and hormones by sperm parameters was 61.80 %, 56.10 % and 63.90 %, respectively. Canonical correlation analysis results have revealed that dead sperm rate is mostly related to nuclear factor-kappa beta (NF-κβ), catalase, and corticosterone. CCA, which has taken into account the multiple relationships, has revealed that multidimensional evaluation of data sets can provide important and innovative information to researchers for the assessment of relationships between sperm, oxidative stress, inflammation, and hormone parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ufuk Kaya
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hatay Mustafa Kemal University, Hatay 31060, Turkey.
| | - Kemal Tuna Olğaç
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara 06070, Turkey.
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Mahmoud AAN, Ahmed EA, Omar AR. Thiacloprid impairs reproductive functions of male Wistar rats. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:6197-6211. [PMID: 38441570 PMCID: PMC11329541 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03025-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/18/2024]
Abstract
Global male infertility correlated to the rise of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, including insecticides, has grown into a pressing problem. Thiacloprid is one of the most commonly used neonicotinoids that accounts for more than 25% of the global pesticide industry. However, its impact on the reproductive system and male fertility has not been fully elucidated. The object of this study was to explore the adverse effects of thiacloprid on male Wistar rats' reproductive system. Thirty healthy male rats were separated into one of three groups: control group, and two groups that were orally administered with low (22.5 mg/kg) and high dose (62.1 mg/kg) of thiacloprid for 56 days. Thiacloprid significantly (p<0.05) reduced body weight and relative testicular weight, as well as sperm quality (count, motility, viability, and morphology), in a dose-dependent manner. THIA-treated groups revealed a large effect (d > 0.8) on semen quality with Cohen's d of (6.57, 8.82), (20.14, 23.54), and (2.81, 9.10) for count, motility, and viability respectively. Meanwhile, the serum testosterone level dropped while the levels of luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones increased. 17ꞵ-hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase and 3ꞵ-hydroxy steroid dehydrogenase levels were significantly decreased in a dose-dependent manner. The activity of the tested antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT), glutathione reduced (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) exhibited a considerable decrease compared to the control group with a significant elevation in the lipid peroxidation activity as indicated by malondialdehyde (MDA) level. The testicular histology revealed degenerative changes in spermatogenic cells and interstitial tissue. Comet assay revealed DNA fragmentation in treated groups' testicular tissue. Thiacloprid exposure interferes with reproductive function and impairs male Wistar rat fertility. Such harmful consequences may also develop in humans frequently exposed to thiacloprid.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Amel Ramadan Omar
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
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Zhang WY, Xue MQ, Tang Y, Wang T, Wang XZ, Zhang JJ. AMPK regulates immature boar Sertoli cell proliferation through affecting CDK4/Cyclin D3 pathway and mitochondrial function. Theriogenology 2024; 224:9-18. [PMID: 38714024 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.05.004] [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: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
Sertoli cell (SC) proliferation plays an important role in sperm production and quality; however, the regulatory mechanism of SC proliferation is not well understood. This study investigated the role of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in the regulation of immature boar SC activity. Cell counting kit-8, Seahorse XFe96, mitochondrial respiratory enzyme-related assay kits, and transmission electron microscopy were used to detect SC proliferative viability, oxygen consumption rate (OCR), mitochondrial respiratory enzyme activity, and the ultrastructure of primary cultured SCs in vitro from the testes of 21-day-old boars. A dual luciferase reporter assay was performed to determine the miRNA-mRNA target interaction. Western blotting was used to analyze cell proliferation-related protein expression of p38, p21, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), Cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CDK4), Cyclin D3, and phosphorylated retinoblastoma protein (Rb). Each experiment had a completely randomized design, with three replicates in each experiment. The results showed that the AMPK inhibitor (Compound C, 20 μM-24 h) increased cell proliferation viability, ATP production, and maximal respiration of SCs by 0.64-, 0.12-, and 0.08-fold (p < 0.05), respectively; increased the SC protein expression of PCNA, CDK4, Cyclin D3, and p-Rb by 0.13-, 0.09-, 0.88-, and 0.12-fold (p < 0.05), respectively; and decreased the SC protein expression of p38 and p21 by 0.36- and 0.27-fold (p < 0.05), respectively. The AMPK agonist AICAR (2 mM-6 h) significantly inhibited SC ultrastructure, OCR, mitochondrial respiratory enzyme activity, and cell proliferation-related protein levels. AMPK was validated to be a target gene of miR-1285 based on the result in which the miR-1285 mimic inhibited the luciferase activity of wild-type AMPK by 0.54-fold (p < 0.001). MiR-1285 mimic promoted the OCR of SCs, with 0.45-, 0.15-, 0.21-, and 0.30-fold (p < 0.01) increases in ATP production, basal and maximal respiration, and spare capacity, respectively. MiR-1285 mimic increased the mitochondrial respiratory enzyme activity of SCs, with 0.63-, 0.70-, and 0.97-fold (p < 0.01) increases in NADH-Q oxidoreductase, cytochrome c oxidase, and ATP synthase, respectively. Moreover, the miR-1285 mimic increased the protein expression of PCNA, CDK4, Cyclin D3, and p-Rb by 0.24-, 0.30-, 0.22-, and 0.13-fold (p < 0.05), respectively, and reduced the protein expression of p38 and p21 by 0.58- and 0.66-fold (p < 0.001). MiR-1285 inhibitor showed opposite effects on the above indicators and induced numerous autophagosomes and large lipid droplets in SCs. A high dose of estradiol (10 μM-6 h, showed a promotion of AMPK activation in a previous study) significantly inhibited SC ultrastructure, mitochondrial function, and proliferation-related pathways, while these adverse effects were weakened by Compound C treatment or miR-1285 mimic transfection. Our findings suggest that the activation and inhibition of AMPK induced by specific drugs or synthesized targeted miRNA fragments could regulate immature boar SC proliferative activity by influencing the CDK4/Cyclin D3 pathway and mitochondrial function; this helps to provide a basis for the prevention and treatment of male sterility in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Yu Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Meng Qing Xue
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Yao Tang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Tao Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Xian Zhong Wang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China
| | - Jiao Jiao Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, College of Veterinary Medicine, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, PR China.
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Wu L, Qu J, Mou L, Liu C. Apigenin improves testosterone synthesis by regulating endoplasmic reticulum stress. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 177:117075. [PMID: 38964181 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.117075] [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: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a growing epidemic among reproductive-age men, which can cause and exacerbate male infertility by means of associated comorbidities, endocrine abnormalities, and direct effects on the fidelity and throughput of spermatogenesis. A prominent consequence of male obesity is a reduction in testosterone levels. Natural products have shown tremendous potential anti-obesity effects in metabolic diseases. This study aimed to investigate the potential of apigenin (AP) to alleviate testicular dysfunction induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) and to investigate the underlying mechanisms, focusing on endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) and testosterone synthesis. A murine model of obesity was established using HFD-fed mice. The effects of AP on obesity, lipid metabolism, testicular dysfunction, and ERS were assessed through various physiological, histological, and molecular techniques. Administration of AP (10 mg/kg) ameliorated HFD-induced obesity and testicular dysfunction in a mouse model, as evidenced by decreased body weight, improved lipid profiles and testicular pathology, and restored protein levels related to testosterone. Furthermore, in vitro studies demonstrated that AP relieved ERS and recovered testosterone synthesis in murine Leydig cells (TM3) treated with free fatty acids (FFAs). It was also observed that AP rescued testosterone synthesis enzymes in TM3 cells, similar to that observed with the inhibitor of the PERK pathway (GSK2606414). In addition, ChIP, qPCR, and gene silencing showed that the C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) bound directly to the promoter region of steroidogenic STAR and negatively modulated its expression. Collectively, AP has remarkable potential to alleviate HFD-induced obesity and testicular dysfunction. Its protective effects are attributable partly to mitigating ERS and restoring testosterone synthesis in Leydig cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liling Wu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Reproductive Health, Chongqing Population and Family Planning Science and Technology Research Institute, Chongqing 401120, China; Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing 400021, China; Department of Pharmacy, Nanchong Central Hospital, The Second Clinical School of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan 637000, China; Nanchong Key Laboratory of Individualized Drug Therapy, Nanchong, Sichuan 637000, China
| | - Jiayuan Qu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Reproductive Health, Chongqing Population and Family Planning Science and Technology Research Institute, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Li Mou
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Reproductive Health, Chongqing Population and Family Planning Science and Technology Research Institute, Chongqing 401120, China
| | - Changjiang Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Reproductive Health, Chongqing Population and Family Planning Science and Technology Research Institute, Chongqing 401120, China.
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8
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Lu Y, Ma W, Tang H, Wu X, Yang X, Sun F. 4-methylimidazole exposure impairs sperm mobility by reducing the expression of blood-testis barrier junction protein in mouse testes. Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100928. [PMID: 39083984 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2024.100928] [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: 05/08/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
4-methylimidazole (4-MI), a derivative of imidazole, is a widely used component in caramel-colored food products such as soy sauce, beer and other soft drinks. The present study is aimed to investigate the effects of 4-MI on the male reproduction. The results revealed that 8 weeks of 4-MI exposure did not significantly alter the body weight and testicular weight of male mice. However, testicular morphology and computer-assisted sperm analysis showed that exposed to 4-MI caused irregular arrangement of spermatogenic cells in the testes and weakened sperm motility. Consistently, we observed the decreased fertilization ability in vivo of 4-MI-treated male mice. We further demonstrated that 4-MI disrupted the blood-testis barrier (BTB) integrity by decreasing the protein expression of BTB-related junction with permeability assay and western blot. In addition, the apoptosis of Sertoli cells (TM4) occurred in 4-MI treated mice, which might be caused by the generation of oxidative stress. Collectively, our findings document that 4-MI exposure damages the sperm mobility via disruption of BTB integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yajuan Lu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Wei Ma
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Hanyu Tang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Xue Wu
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Xiwen Yang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China; School of Basic Medical Science, Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan 750004, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China.
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Wang Z, Wang MD, Wang XC, Chen L, Li LF, Jiang LN, Xu JH, Kai Dang. High levels of mitochondrial dynamics, autophagy, and apoptosis contribute to stable testicular status in hibernating Daurian ground squirrels. Comp Biochem Physiol A Mol Integr Physiol 2024; 297:111705. [PMID: 39032767 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2024.111705] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Daurian ground squirrels (Spermophilus dauricus) experience various stress states during winter hibernation, but the impact on testicular function remains unclear. This study focused on the effects of changes in testicular autophagy, apoptosis, and mitochondrial homeostasis signaling pathways at various stages on the testes of Daurian ground squirrels. Results indicated that: (1) During winter hibernation, there was a significant increase in seminiferous tubule diameter and seminiferous epithelium thickness compared to summer. Spermatogonia number and testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were higher during inter-bout arousal, suggesting that the testes remained stable during hibernation. (2) An increased number of mitochondria with intact morphology were observed during hibernation, indicating that mitochondrial homeostasis may contribute to testicular stability. (3) DNA fragmentation was evident in the testes during the hibernation and inter-bout arousal stages, with the highest level of caspase3 enzyme activity detected during inter-bout arousal, together with elevated levels of Bax/Bcl-2 and Lc3 II/Lc3 I, indicating an up-regulation of apoptosis and autophagy signaling pathways during hibernation. (4) The abundance of DRP1, MFF, OPA1, and MFN2 proteins was increased, suggesting an up-regulation of mitochondrial dynamics-related pathways. Overall, testicular autophagy, apoptosis, and mitochondrial homeostasis-related signaling pathways were notably active in the extreme winter environment. The well-maintained mitochondrial morphology may favor the production of reproductive hormones and support stable testicular morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China.
| | - Ming-Di Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China
| | - Xing-Chen Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China
| | - Le Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China
| | - Lu-Fan Li
- School of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China
| | - Li-Na Jiang
- School of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China
| | - Jin-Hui Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Qufu Normal University, 273165 Qufu, Shandong, China
| | - Kai Dang
- School of Life Sciences, Northwestern Polytechnical University, 710072 Xi'an, China
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Li Y, Zhang C, Cheng H, Lv L, Zhu X, Ma M, Xu Z, He J, Xie Y, Yang X, Liang X, Deng C, Liu G. FOXO4-DRI improves spermatogenesis in aged mice through reducing senescence-associated secretory phenotype secretion from Leydig cells. Exp Gerontol 2024; 195:112522. [PMID: 39025385 DOI: 10.1016/j.exger.2024.112522] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Male ageing is always accompanied by decreased fertility. The forkhead O (FOXO) transcription factor FOXO4 is reported to be highly expressed in senescent cells. Upon activation, it binds p53 in the nucleus, preventing senescent cell apoptosis and maintaining senescent cells in situ. Leydig cells play key roles in assisting spermatogenesis. Leydig cell senescence leads to deterioration of the microenvironment of the testes and impairs spermatogenesis. In this study, we observed that FOXO4-DRI, a specific FOXO4- p53 binding blocker, induced apoptosis in senescent Leydig cells, reduced the secretion of certain Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype and improved the proliferation of cocultured GC-1 SPG cells. In naturally aged mice, FOXO4-DRI-treated aged mice exhibited increased sperm quality and improved spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanqing Li
- Sun Yat-Sen University, Reproductive Centre, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital Guangzhou, 510655, Guangdong, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Sun Yat-sen University, Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital, 510630, Guangdong, China
| | - Haicheng Cheng
- Sun Yat-Sen University, Reproductive Centre, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital Guangzhou, 510655, Guangdong, China
| | - LinYan Lv
- Sun Yat-Sen University, Reproductive Centre, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital Guangzhou, 510655, Guangdong, China
| | - Xinning Zhu
- Sun Yat-Sen University, Reproductive Centre, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital Guangzhou, 510655, Guangdong, China
| | - Menghui Ma
- Sun Yat-Sen University, Reproductive Centre, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital Guangzhou, 510655, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhenhan Xu
- Sun Yat-Sen University, Reproductive Centre, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital Guangzhou, 510655, Guangdong, China
| | - Junxian He
- Sun Yat-Sen University, Reproductive Centre, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital Guangzhou, 510655, Guangdong, China
| | - Yun Xie
- Sun Yat-Sen University, Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou 510062, Guangdong, China
| | - Xing Yang
- Sun Yat-Sen University, Reproductive Centre, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital Guangzhou, 510655, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liang
- Sun Yat-Sen University, Reproductive Centre, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital Guangzhou, 510655, Guangdong, China
| | - Chunhua Deng
- Sun Yat-Sen University, Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou 510062, Guangdong, China
| | - Guihua Liu
- Sun Yat-Sen University, Reproductive Centre, The Sixth Affiliated Hospital Guangzhou, 510655, Guangdong, China.
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Tirumalasetty MB, Bhattacharya I, Mohiuddin MS, Baki VB, Choubey M. Understanding testicular single cell transcriptional atlas: from developmental complications to male infertility. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1394812. [PMID: 39055054 PMCID: PMC11269108 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1394812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a multi-step biological process where mitotically active diploid (2n) spermatogonia differentiate into haploid (n) spermatozoa via regulated meiotic programming. The alarming rise in male infertility has become a global concern during the past decade thereby demanding an extensive profiling of testicular gene expression. Advancements in Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technologies have revolutionized our empathy towards complex biological events including spermatogenesis. However, despite multiple attempts made in the past to reveal the testicular transcriptional signature(s) either with bulk tissues or at the single-cell, level, comprehensive reviews on testicular transcriptomics and associated disorders are limited. Notably, technologies explicating the genome-wide gene expression patterns during various stages of spermatogenic progression provide the dynamic molecular landscape of testicular transcription. Our review discusses the advantages of single-cell RNA-sequencing (Sc-RNA-seq) over bulk RNA-seq concerning testicular tissues. Additionally, we highlight the cellular heterogeneity, spatial transcriptomics, dynamic gene expression and cell-to-cell interactions with distinct cell populations within the testes including germ cells (Gc), Sertoli cells (Sc), Peritubular cells (PTc), Leydig cells (Lc), etc. Furthermore, we provide a summary of key finding of single-cell transcriptomic studies that have shed light on developmental mechanisms implicated in testicular disorders and male infertility. These insights emphasize the pivotal roles of Sc-RNA-seq in advancing our knowledge regarding testicular transcriptional landscape and may serve as a potential resource to formulate future clinical interventions for male reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Kerala, Kasargod, Kerala, India
| | - Mohammad Sarif Mohiuddin
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, United States
| | - Vijaya Bhaskar Baki
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States
| | - Mayank Choubey
- Department of Foundations of Medicine, NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, United States
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12
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Feng Y, Zhao S, Ju R, Li J, Pan C, Tang Q, Zou Z, Jing J, Xu Y, Ding H, Ma J, Li Z, Tang T, Shao Y, Chen L, Huang X, Wang X, Yao B. The therapeutic effect and metabolic mechanism analysis of Guilingji on idiopathic oligo-asthenoteratozoospermia. J Tradit Complement Med 2024; 14:403-413. [PMID: 39035689 PMCID: PMC11259704 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcme.2024.01.001] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Guilingji, a famous traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, has been used to combat aging and male sexual dysfunction in China for centuries. To date, there has been little evidence-based clinical research on the use of Guilingji to treat idiopathic oligo-asthenoteratozoospermia (OAT), and the therapeutic mechanism from a metabolic perspective needs to be investigated further. Methods This was a multicenter, double-blind, randomized controlled clinical study of 240 patients with idiopathic OAT recruited from four hospitals between January 2020 and January 2022. Patients were randomly assigned in a 1꞉1 ratio to receive oral Guilingji capsules or placebo for 12 weeks. The total progressive motile sperm count (TPMSC) was considered the primary outcome, and the other sperm parameters, seminal plasma parameters and serum hormones were considered the secondary outcome. A nontargeted metabolomics analysis of serum from OAT patients before and after Guilingji administration was performed by HPLC-MS to identify key metabolites. Furthermore, we used a rat model to show spermatogenesis phenotypes to validate the effect of the key metabolites screened from the patients. Results At weeks 4, 8 and 12, TPMSC and other sperm parameters were significantly improved in the Guilingji group compared with the placebo group (P < 0.05 for all comparisons). At week 4, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and acrosomal enzyme activity of seminal plasma were significantly elevated in the Guilingji group compared with the placebo group, while reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were significantly reduced (P < 0.05). Lactate dehydrogenase-X (LDHX) levels appeared to be significantly increased after 12 weeks continuous medication compared with Placebo group (P = 0.032). The metabolomics analysis of serum from OAT patients before and after Guilingji administration showed that the glucose-6-phosphate (G6P) concentration in patients' serum was significantly elevated after Guilingji treatment. Compared to the control, when Kidney-Yang deficiency model rats were treated with Guilingji or its key intermediate metabolite G6P, their sperm concentration and spermatozoic activity were improved similarly, and their structural damage of rat's testicular and epididymal tissues were recovered. Conclusion This study provided valuable clinical evidence for the utility of Guilingji as a treatment for OAT. These findings thus demonstrate that G6P is involved in the therapeutic mechanism of Guilingji in OAT treatment based on clinical and rat intervention studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuming Feng
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Shanmeizi Zhao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, Jiangsu, China
| | - Rong Ju
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211100, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jianbo Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chengshuang Pan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qinglai Tang
- Department of Urology, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211100, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhichuan Zou
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jun Jing
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yao Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 211116, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hualong Ding
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jinzhao Ma
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhou Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212000, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ting Tang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yong Shao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xuefeng Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaohong Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, 710032, Shaanxi, China
| | - Bing Yao
- The First School of Clinical Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, Guangdong, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, Jiangsu, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing, 210023, Jiangsu, China
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13
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Safrai M, Orwig KE. Utilizing artificial intelligence in academic writing: an in-depth evaluation of a scientific review on fertility preservation written by ChatGPT-4. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:1871-1880. [PMID: 38619763 PMCID: PMC11263262 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03089-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the ability of ChatGPT-4 to generate a biomedical review article on fertility preservation. METHODS ChatGPT-4 was prompted to create an outline for a review on fertility preservation in men and prepubertal boys. The outline provided by ChatGPT-4 was subsequently used to prompt ChatGPT-4 to write the different parts of the review and provide five references for each section. The different parts of the article and the references provided were combined to create a single scientific review that was evaluated by the authors, who are experts in fertility preservation. The experts assessed the article and the references for accuracy and checked for plagiarism using online tools. In addition, both experts independently scored the relevance, depth, and currentness of the ChatGPT-4's article using a scoring matrix ranging from 0 to 5 where higher scores indicate higher quality. RESULTS ChatGPT-4 successfully generated a relevant scientific article with references. Among 27 statements needing citations, four were inaccurate. Of 25 references, 36% were accurate, 48% had correct titles but other errors, and 16% were completely fabricated. Plagiarism was minimal (mean = 3%). Experts rated the article's relevance highly (5/5) but gave lower scores for depth (2-3/5) and currentness (3/5). CONCLUSION ChatGPT-4 can produce a scientific review on fertility preservation with minimal plagiarism. While precise in content, it showed factual and contextual inaccuracies and inconsistent reference reliability. These issues limit ChatGPT-4 as a sole tool for scientific writing but suggest its potential as an aid in the writing process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Safrai
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center (Tel Hashomer), Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, 52621, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Kyle E Orwig
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
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14
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McEwen I, Huybrechts KF, Straub L, Hernández-Díaz S. Patterns of paternal medication dispensation around the time of conception. Paediatr Perinat Epidemiol 2024. [PMID: 38949455 DOI: 10.1111/ppe.13098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Past research on the safety of prenatal exposure to medications has focused on maternal use during gestation, with limited research into the potential effects of paternal use during the spermatogenic period preceding conception. Knowing the most common medications used by fathers around the time of conception can inform research priorities in this field. OBJECTIVES To identify the most common medications dispensed to fathers in the preconception period. METHODS Within the MarketScan research database of commercially insured individuals in the United States from 2011 to 2020, we identified pregnancies, estimated the date of conception, linked each pregnancy to the father using family enrolment information and required minimum enrolment period and prescription benefits. Then, we described the use of prescription medications by the father during the 90 days before conception based on pharmacy dispensation claims. RESULTS Of 4,437,550 pregnancies, 51.6% were linked with a father. Among the 1,413,762 pregnancies connected with a father that also met the inclusion criteria, the most common classes of medications dispensed were psychotropics (8.66%), antibiotics (7.21%), and analgesics (6.82%). The most frequently dispensed medications were amoxicillin (3.75%), azithromycin (3.15%), fluticasone (2.70%) and acetaminophen/hydrocodone (2.70%). Some fathers filled prescriptions for medications associated with foetal embryopathy when used by the mother, including mycophenolate (0.04%), methotrexate (0.03%) and isotretinoin (0.02%). CONCLUSIONS More than a third of fathers filled at least one prescription medication in the preconception period, and several of them are known to be embryotoxic, emphasizing the necessity for further investigation into the potential teratogenicity of paternal exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isobel McEwen
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Krista F Huybrechts
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacoeconomics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Loreen Straub
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacoeconomics, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sonia Hernández-Díaz
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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15
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Kwaspen L, Kanbar M, Wyns C. Mapping the Development of Human Spermatogenesis Using Transcriptomics-Based Data: A Scoping Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6925. [PMID: 39000031 PMCID: PMC11241379 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25136925] [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: 05/19/2024] [Revised: 06/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM) is a promising fertility restoration strategy for patients with nonobstructive azoospermia or for prepubertal boys to obtain fertilizing-competent spermatozoa. However, in vitro spermatogenesis is still not achieved with human immature testicular tissue. Knowledge of various human testicular transcriptional profiles from different developmental periods helps us to better understand the testis development. This scoping review aims to describe the testis development and maturation from the fetal period towards adulthood and to find information to optimize IVM. Research papers related to native and in vitro cultured human testicular cells and single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) were identified and critically reviewed. Special focus was given to gene ontology terms to facilitate the interpretation of the biological function of related genes. The different consecutive maturation states of both the germ and somatic cell lineages were described. ScRNA-seq regularly showed major modifications around 11 years of age to eventually reach the adult state. Different spermatogonial stem cell (SSC) substates were described and scRNA-seq analyses are in favor of a paradigm shift, as the Adark and Apale spermatogonia populations could not distinctly be identified among the different SSC states. Data on the somatic cell lineage are limited, especially for Sertoli cells due technical issues related to cell size. During cell culture, scRNA-seq data showed that undifferentiated SSCs were favored in the presence of an AKT-signaling pathway inhibitor. The involvement of the oxidative phosphorylation pathway depended on the maturational state of the cells. Commonly identified cell signaling pathways during the testis development and maturation highlight factors that can be essential during specific maturation stages in IVM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Kwaspen
- Laboratoire d’Andrologie, Pôle de Recherche en Physiologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (L.K.); (M.K.)
| | - Marc Kanbar
- Laboratoire d’Andrologie, Pôle de Recherche en Physiologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (L.K.); (M.K.)
- Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christine Wyns
- Laboratoire d’Andrologie, Pôle de Recherche en Physiologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC), Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium; (L.K.); (M.K.)
- Department of Gynecology-Andrology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
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16
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Zhao Y, Deng S, Li C, Cao J, Wu A, Chen M, Ma X, Wu S, Lian Z. The Role of Retinoic Acid in Spermatogenesis and Its Application in Male Reproduction. Cells 2024; 13:1092. [PMID: 38994945 PMCID: PMC11240464 DOI: 10.3390/cells13131092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis in mammalian testes is essential for male fertility, ensuring a continuous supply of mature sperm. The testicular microenvironment finely tunes this process, with retinoic acid, an active metabolite of vitamin A, serving a pivotal role. Retinoic acid is critical for various stages, including the differentiation of spermatogonia, meiosis in spermatogenic cells, and the production of mature spermatozoa. Vitamin A deficiency halts spermatogenesis, leading to the degeneration of numerous germ cells, a condition reversible with retinoic acid supplementation. Although retinoic acid can restore fertility in some males with reproductive disorders, it does not work universally. Furthermore, high doses may adversely affect reproduction. The inconsistent outcomes of retinoid treatments in addressing infertility are linked to the incomplete understanding of the molecular mechanisms through which retinoid signaling governs spermatogenesis. In addition to the treatment of male reproductive disorders, the role of retinoic acid in spermatogenesis also provides new ideas for the development of male non-hormone contraceptives. This paper will explore three facets: the synthesis and breakdown of retinoic acid in the testes, its role in spermatogenesis, and its application in male reproduction. Our discussion aims to provide a comprehensive reference for studying the regulatory effects of retinoic acid signaling on spermatogenesis and offer insights into its use in treating male reproductive issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Shoulong Deng
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Animal Model, National Health Commission of China (NHC) Key Laboratory of Comparative Medicine, Institute of Laboratory Animal Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Comparative Medicine Center, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100021, China
| | - Chongyang Li
- Institute of Animal Sciences (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), No. 2 Yuanmingyuan Western Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jingchao Cao
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Aowu Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Mingming Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xuehai Ma
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Mental Development and Learning Science, College of Psychology, Xinjiang Normal University, Urumqi 830017, China
| | - Sen Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Zhengxing Lian
- Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Biological Sciences, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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17
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Zhou D, Wu H, Wang L, Wang X, Tang S, Zhou Y, Wang J, Wu B, Tang J, Zhou X, Tian S, Liu S, Lv M, He X, Jin L, Shi H, Zhang F, Cao Y, Liu C. Deficiency of MFSD6L, an acrosome membrane protein, causes oligoasthenoteratozoospermia in humans and mice. J Genet Genomics 2024:S1673-8527(24)00149-8. [PMID: 38909778 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgg.2024.06.008] [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: 04/18/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia is an important factor affecting male fertility and has been found to be associated with genetic factors. However, there are still a proportion of oligoasthenoteratozoospermia cases that cannot be explained by known pathogenic genetic variants. Here, we perform genetic analyses and identify bi-allelic loss-of-function variants of MFSD6L from an oligoasthenoteratozoospermia-affected family. Mfsd6l knock-out male mice also present male subfertility with reduced sperm concentration, motility, and deformed acrosomes. Further mechanistic analyses reveal that MFSD6L, as an acrosome membrane protein, plays an important role in the formation of acrosome by interacting with the inner acrosomal membrane protein SPACA1. Moreover, poor embryonic development is consistently observed after intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment using spermatozoa from the MFSD6L-deficient man and male mice. Collectively, our findings reveal that MFSD6L is required for the anchoring of sperm acrosome and head shaping. The deficiency of MFSD6L affects male fertility and causes oligoasthenoteratozoospermia in humans and mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dapeng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Human Phenome Institute, Zhangjiang Fudan International Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; Institute of Medical Genetics and Genomics, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Huan Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Lingbo Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Xuemei Wang
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Shuyan Tang
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Genomics, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Yiling Zhou
- Institute of Medical Genetics and Genomics, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Jiaxiong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215002, China; Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215002, China
| | - Bangguo Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Jianan Tang
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Xuehai Zhou
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Shixiong Tian
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Metabolic Remodeling and Health, Institute of Metabolism and Integrative Biology, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Shuang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Human Phenome Institute, Zhangjiang Fudan International Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; Institute of Medical Genetics and Genomics, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Mingrong Lv
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China
| | - Xiaojin He
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Li Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Human Phenome Institute, Zhangjiang Fudan International Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Huijuan Shi
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Human Phenome Institute, Zhangjiang Fudan International Innovation Center, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China; Institute of Medical Genetics and Genomics, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China; Soong Ching Ling Institute of Maternity and Child Health, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, China.
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230022, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China; Key Laboratory of Population Health Across Life Cycle, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, Hefei, Anhui 230032, China.
| | - Chunyu Liu
- Soong Ching Ling Institute of Maternity and Child Health, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200030, China.
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18
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Zhang X, Ji D, Zhang Y, Ge L, Xu S, Peng Y, Chen X, Ni J, Wang G, Ma Y, Pan F. Effects of environmental temperature extremes exposure on sperm quality - evidence from a prospective cohort study in Anhui Province, China. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 258:119462. [PMID: 38908664 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.119462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
Extreme weather is becoming more frequent due to drastic changes in the climate. Despite this, the body of research focused on the association between temperature extreme events and sperm quality remains sparse. In this study, we elucidate the impact of exposure to environmental temperature extremes on sperm quality. Data for this investigation were derived from the Anhui Prospective Assisted Reproduction Cohort, encompassing the period from 2015 to 2020. Parameters such as sperm concentration, total sperm count, total motility, progressive motility, total motile sperm count, and progressive motile sperm count were quantified from semen samples. We assessed the exposure of participants to temperature extremes during the 0-90 days prior to sampling. This investigation encompassed 15,112 participants, yielding 28,267 semen samples. Our research findings indicate that exposure to low temperature extreme for three consecutive days (at the first percentile threshold) has a detrimental correlation with sperm count parameters and concentration. Similar trends were observed with the second percentile threshold, where significant adverse effects typically manifested after a four-day exposure sequence. Analysis of high temperature extreme showed that exposure at the 98th percentile had adverse effects on all six sperm quality parameters, and the sperm count parameter was particularly sensitive to high temperature, showing significant results immediately after three days of exposure. When considering even more temperature extreme (99th percentile), the negative consequences were more pronounced on the sperm count parameter. Additionally, progressive motility showed a stronger negative response. In summary, parameters associated with sperm count are particularly vulnerable to temperature extremes exposure. Exposure to high temperature extremes environments may also be associated with a decrease in sperm concentration and vitality. The findings of this study suggest that male population should pay attention to avoid exposure to temperature extreme environment, which has important significance for improving the quality of human fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China;; The Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230032, China
| | - Dongmei Ji
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei 230022, Anhui, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei 230022, Anhui, China
| | - Liru Ge
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China;; The Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230032, China
| | - Siwen Xu
- School of Medicine, Tongji University, 500 Zhennan Road, Shanghai, 200333, China
| | - Yongzhen Peng
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China;; The Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230032, China
| | - Xuyang Chen
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China;; The Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230032, China
| | - Jianping Ni
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China;; The Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230032, China
| | - Guosheng Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China;; The Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230032, China
| | - Yubo Ma
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China;; The Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230032, China;.
| | - Faming Pan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China;; The Inflammation and Immune Mediated Diseases Laboratory of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, Anhui, 230032, China;.
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19
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Al-Madhagi H, Tarabishi AA. Nutritional aphrodisiacs: Biochemistry and Pharmacology. Curr Res Food Sci 2024; 9:100783. [PMID: 38974844 PMCID: PMC11225857 DOI: 10.1016/j.crfs.2024.100783] [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: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
In 2022, the global prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) was estimated to be at least 150 million cases. This number is greatly suspected to be underestimate as most men withhold information about ED. Also, about 15% of world population have infertility troubles, and male factors are responsible for almost half of these cases. Studies have shown that the quality of semen has decreased in the past several decades owing to various health factors and environmental toxicants. The current medical interventions involve the inhibition of phosphodiesterase 5 which suffer from serious side effects and costly. One of the popular and most sought interventions are the natural and nutritional remedies as they are foods in essence and potentially with no harm to the body. Therefore, the goal of this paper is to provide a review of the most common nutritional aphrodisiacs with increasing libido and fertility highlighting the potential active constituents as well as the underlying mechanisms.
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20
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Liu Y, Du M, Zhang L, Wang N, He Q, Cao J, Zhao B, Li X, Li B, Bou G, Zhao Y, Dugarjaviin M. Comparative Analysis of mRNA and lncRNA Expression Profiles in Testicular Tissue of Sexually Immature and Sexually Mature Mongolian Horses. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1717. [PMID: 38929336 PMCID: PMC11200857 DOI: 10.3390/ani14121717] [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: 05/11/2024] [Revised: 06/01/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Testicular development and spermatogenesis are tightly regulated by both coding and non-coding genes, with mRNA and lncRNA playing crucial roles in post-transcriptional gene expression regulation. However, there are significant differences in regulatory mechanisms before and after sexual maturity. Nevertheless, the mRNAs and lncRNAs in the testes of Mongolian horses have not been systematically identified. In this study, we first identified the testicular tissues of sexually immature and sexually mature Mongolian horses at the tissue and protein levels, and comprehensively analyzed the expression profiles of mRNA and lncRNA in the testes of 1-year-old (12 months, n = 3) and 10-year-old (n = 3) Mongolian horses using RNA sequencing technology. Through gene expression analysis, we identified 16,582 mRNAs and 2128 unknown lncRNAs that are commonly expressed in both sexually immature and sexually mature Mongolian horses. Meanwhile, 9217 mRNAs (p < 0.05) and 2191 unknown lncRNAs (p < 0.05) were identified as differentially expressed between the two stages, which were further validated by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR and analyzed using Gene Ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). The analysis results showed that genes in the sexually immature stage were mainly enriched in terms related to cellular infrastructure, while genes in the sexually mature stage were enriched in terms associated with hormones, metabolism, and spermatogenesis. In summary, the findings of this study provide valuable resources for a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying testicular development and spermatogenesis in Mongolian horses and offer new perspectives for future related research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (L.Z.); (N.W.); (Q.H.); (J.C.); (B.Z.); (X.L.); (B.L.); (G.B.); (Y.Z.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Ming Du
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (L.Z.); (N.W.); (Q.H.); (J.C.); (B.Z.); (X.L.); (B.L.); (G.B.); (Y.Z.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (L.Z.); (N.W.); (Q.H.); (J.C.); (B.Z.); (X.L.); (B.L.); (G.B.); (Y.Z.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Na Wang
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (L.Z.); (N.W.); (Q.H.); (J.C.); (B.Z.); (X.L.); (B.L.); (G.B.); (Y.Z.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Qianqian He
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (L.Z.); (N.W.); (Q.H.); (J.C.); (B.Z.); (X.L.); (B.L.); (G.B.); (Y.Z.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Jialong Cao
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (L.Z.); (N.W.); (Q.H.); (J.C.); (B.Z.); (X.L.); (B.L.); (G.B.); (Y.Z.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Bilig Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (L.Z.); (N.W.); (Q.H.); (J.C.); (B.Z.); (X.L.); (B.L.); (G.B.); (Y.Z.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (L.Z.); (N.W.); (Q.H.); (J.C.); (B.Z.); (X.L.); (B.L.); (G.B.); (Y.Z.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Bei Li
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (L.Z.); (N.W.); (Q.H.); (J.C.); (B.Z.); (X.L.); (B.L.); (G.B.); (Y.Z.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Gerelchimeg Bou
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (L.Z.); (N.W.); (Q.H.); (J.C.); (B.Z.); (X.L.); (B.L.); (G.B.); (Y.Z.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Yiping Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (L.Z.); (N.W.); (Q.H.); (J.C.); (B.Z.); (X.L.); (B.L.); (G.B.); (Y.Z.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Manglai Dugarjaviin
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (L.Z.); (N.W.); (Q.H.); (J.C.); (B.Z.); (X.L.); (B.L.); (G.B.); (Y.Z.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
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Jiang X, Sun S, Shi C, Liu K, Yang Y, Cao J, Gu J, Liu J. Rsad2 mediates Bisphenol A-induced actin cytoskeletal disruption in mouse spermatocytes. J Appl Toxicol 2024. [PMID: 38828519 DOI: 10.1002/jat.4649] [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: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Bisphenol A (BPA) is widely exposed in populations worldwide and has negative effects on spermatogenesis both in animals and humans. The homeostasis of the actin cytoskeleton in the spermatogenic epithelium is crucial for spermatogenesis. Actin cytoskeleton destruction in the seminiferous epithelium is one of the important reasons for BPA-induced spermatogenesis disorder. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unexplored. Herein, we explored the role and mechanism of Rsad2, an interferon-stimulated gene in BPA-induced actin cytoskeleton disorder in mouse GC-2 spermatocyte cell lines. After BPA exposure, the actin cytoskeleton was dramatically disrupted and the cell morphology was markedly altered accompanied by a significant increase in Rsad2 expression both in mRNA and protein levels in GC-2 cells. Furthermore, the phalloidin intensities and cell morphology were restored obviously when interfering with the expression of Rsad2 in BPA-treated GC-2 cells. In addition, we observed a significant decrease in intracellular ATP levels after BPA treatment, while the ATP level was obviously upregulated when knocking down the expression of Rsad2 in BPA-treated cells compared to cells treated with BPA alone. Moreover, Rsad2 relocated to mitochondria after BPA exposure in GC-2 cells. BPA promoted Rsad2 expression by activating type I IFN-signaling in GC-2 cells. In summary, Rsad2 mediated BPA-induced actin cytoskeletal disruption in GC-2 cells, which provided data to reveal the mechanism of BPA-induced male reproductive toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Jiang
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Shengqi Sun
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, Ningxia, China
| | - Chaofeng Shi
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Kangle Liu
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Yurui Yang
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jia Cao
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Gu
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jinyi Liu
- State Key Lab of Trauma and Chemical Poisoning, Key Lab of Medical Protection for Electromagnetic Radiation, Ministry of Education of China, Institute of Toxicology, College of Preventive Medicine, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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22
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Mohammadi A, Shabani R, Bashiri Z, Rafiei S, Asgari H, Koruji M. Therapeutic potential of exosomes in spermatogenesis regulation and male infertility. Biol Cell 2024; 116:e2300127. [PMID: 38593304 DOI: 10.1111/boc.202300127] [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: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenesis is a fundamental process crucial for male reproductive health and fertility. Exosomes, small membranous vesicles released by various cell types, have recently garnered attention for their role in intercellular communication. OBJECTIVE This review aims to comprehensively explore the role of exosomes in regulating spermatogenesis, focusing on their involvement in testicular development and cell-to-cell communication. METHODS A systematic examination of literature was conducted to gather relevant studies elucidating the biogenesis, composition, and functions of exosomes in the context of spermatogenesis. RESULTS Exosomes play a pivotal role in orchestrating the complex signaling networks required for proper spermatogenesis. They facilitate the transfer of key regulatory molecules between different cell populations within the testes, including Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and germ cells. CONCLUSION The emerging understanding of exosome-mediated communication sheds light on novel mechanisms underlying spermatogenesis regulation. Further research in this area holds promise for insights into male reproductive health and potential therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Mohammadi
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ronak Shabani
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Bashiri
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Endometrium and Endometriosis Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Omid Fertility & Infertility Clinic, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Sara Rafiei
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Asgari
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Koruji
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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23
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Zhang Q, Fan X, Fu F, Zhu Y, Luo G, Chen H. Adar Regulates Drosophila melanogaster Spermatogenesis via Modulation of BMP Signaling. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5643. [PMID: 38891830 PMCID: PMC11171878 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The dynamic process of Drosophila spermatogenesis involves asymmetric division, mitosis, and meiosis, which ultimately results in the production of mature spermatozoa. Disorders of spermatogenesis can lead to infertility in males. ADAR (adenosine deaminase acting on RNA) mutations in Drosophila cause male infertility, yet the causative factors remain unclear. In this study, immunofluorescence staining was employed to visualize endogenous ADAR proteins and assess protein levels via fluorescence-intensity analysis. In addition, the early differentiation disorders and homeostatic alterations during early spermatogenesis in the testes were examined through quantification of transit-amplifying region length, counting the number of GSCs (germline stem cells), and fertility experiments. Our findings suggest that deletion of ADAR causes testicular tip transit-amplifying cells to accumulate and become infertile in older male Drosophila. By overexpressing ADAR in early germline cells, male infertility can be partially rescued. Transcriptome analysis showed that ADAR maintained early spermatogenesis homeostasis through the bone-morphogenetic-protein (BMP) signaling pathway. Taken together, these findings have the potential to help explore the role of ADAR in early spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Aging Research, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Xinxin Fan
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Aging Research, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Fang Fu
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Aging Research, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yuedan Zhu
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Aging Research, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Guanzheng Luo
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Functional Genes, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China
| | - Haiyang Chen
- Laboratory of Stem Cell and Aging Research, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-Related Molecular Network, State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Health and Multimorbidity and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
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24
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Zhang G, Sun Y, Guan M, Liu M, Sun S. Single-cell and spatial transcriptomic investigation reveals the spatiotemporal specificity of the beta-defensin gene family during mouse sperm maturation. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:267. [PMID: 38745232 PMCID: PMC11092205 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01637-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Low sperm motility is a significant contributor to male infertility. beta-defensins have been implicated in host defence and the acquisition of sperm motility; however, the regulatory mechanisms governing their gene expression patterns and functions remain poorly understood. In this study, we performed single-cell RNA and spatial transcriptome sequencing to investigate the cellular composition of testicular and epididymal tissues and examined their gene expression characteristics. In the epididymis, we found that epididymal epithelial cells display a region specificity of gene expression in different epididymal segments, including the beta-defensin family genes. In particular, Defb15, Defb18, Defb20, Defb25 and Defb48 are specific to the caput; Defb22, Defb23 and Defb26 to the corpus; Defb2 and Defb9 to the cauda of the epididymis. To confirm this, we performed mRNA fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) targeting certain exon region of beta-defensin genes, and found some of their expression matched the sequencing results and displayed a close connection with epididimosome marker gene Cd63. In addition, we paid attention to the Sertoli cells and Leydig cells in the testis, along with fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells in the epididymis, by demonstrating their gene expression profile and spatial information. Our study provides a single-cell and spatial landscape for analysing the gene expression characteristics of testicular and epididymal environments and has important implications for the study of spermatogenesis and sperm maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuanchao Sun
- Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
- Qingdao University, Qingdao, China
| | - Minkai Guan
- Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, China
| | | | - Shiduo Sun
- Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
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Gao J, Xu Z, Song W, Huang J, Liu W, He Z, He L. USP11 regulates proliferation and apoptosis of human spermatogonial stem cells via HOXC5-mediated canonical WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. Cell Mol Life Sci 2024; 81:211. [PMID: 38722330 PMCID: PMC11082041 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-024-05248-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are capable of transmitting genetic information to the next generations and they are the initial cells for spermatogenesis. Nevertheless, it remains largely unknown about key genes and signaling pathways that regulate fate determinations of human SSCs and male infertility. In this study, we explored the expression, function, and mechanism of USP11 in controlling the proliferation and apoptosis of human SSCs as well as the association between its abnormality and azoospermia. We found that USP11 was predominantly expressed in human SSCs as shown by database analysis and immunohistochemistry. USP11 silencing led to decreases in proliferation and DNA synthesis and an enhancement in apoptosis of human SSCs. RNA-sequencing identified HOXC5 as a target of USP11 in human SSCs. Double immunofluorescence, Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), and molecular docking demonstrated an interaction between USP11 and HOXC5 in human SSCs. HOXC5 knockdown suppressed the growth of human SSCs and increased apoptosis via the classical WNT/β-catenin pathway. In contrast, HOXC5 overexpression reversed the effect of proliferation and apoptosis induced by USP11 silencing. Significantly, lower levels of USP11 expression were observed in the testicular tissues of patients with spermatogenic disorders. Collectively, these results implicate that USP11 regulates the fate decisions of human SSCs through the HOXC5/WNT/β-catenin pathway. This study thus provides novel insights into understanding molecular mechanisms underlying human spermatogenesis and the etiology of azoospermia and it offers new targets for gene therapy of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Gao
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Zhipeng Xu
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Weijie Song
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jiwei Huang
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China
- Department of Pharmacy, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410011, China
| | - Zuping He
- Key Laboratory of Model Animals and Stem Cell Biology in Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Engineering Research Center of Reproduction and Translational Medicine of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, Hunan, 410013, China.
| | - Leye He
- Department of Urology, The Third Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.
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26
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Lv S, Huang J, Luo Y, Wen Y, Chen B, Qiu H, Chen H, Yue T, He L, Feng B, Yu Z, Zhao M, Yang Q, He M, Xiao W, Zou X, Gu C, Lu R. Gut microbiota is involved in male reproductive function: a review. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1371667. [PMID: 38765683 PMCID: PMC11099273 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1371667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Globally, ~8%-12% of couples confront infertility issues, male-related issues being accountable for 50%. This review focuses on the influence of gut microbiota and their metabolites on the male reproductive system from five perspectives: sperm quality, testicular structure, sex hormones, sexual behavior, and probiotic supplementation. To improve sperm quality, gut microbiota can secrete metabolites by themselves or regulate host metabolites. Endotoxemia is a key factor in testicular structure damage that causes orchitis and disrupts the blood-testis barrier (BTB). In addition, the gut microbiota can regulate sex hormone levels by participating in the synthesis of sex hormone-related enzymes directly and participating in the enterohepatic circulation of sex hormones, and affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-testis (HPT) axis. They can also activate areas of the brain that control sexual arousal and behavior through metabolites. Probiotic supplementation can improve male reproductive function. Therefore, the gut microbiota may affect male reproductive function and behavior; however, further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms underlying microbiota-mediated male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuya Lv
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Jingrong Huang
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yadan Luo
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Yuhang Wen
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Baoting Chen
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Hao Qiu
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Huanxin Chen
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, Suining First People's Hospital, Suining, China
| | - Tianhao Yue
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Lvqin He
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Baochun Feng
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, Suining First People's Hospital, Suining, China
| | - Zehui Yu
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Mingde Zhao
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Qian Yang
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Manli He
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Wudian Xiao
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxia Zou
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, Suining First People's Hospital, Suining, China
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Congwei Gu
- Laboratory Animal Centre, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- Model Animal and Human Disease Research of Luzhou Key Laboratory, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruilin Lu
- Gastrointestinal Surgery, Suining First People's Hospital, Suining, China
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Zhang Q, Jin H, Long S, Tang X, Li J, Liu W, Han W, Liao H, Fu T, Huang G, Chen S, Lin T. Deletion of ACTRT1 is associated with male infertility as sperm acrosomal ultrastructural defects and fertilization failure in human. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:880-891. [PMID: 38414365 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Could actin-related protein T1 (ACTRT1) deficiency be a potential pathogenic factor of human male infertility? SUMMARY ANSWER A 110-kb microdeletion of the X chromosome, only including the ACTRT1 gene, was identified as responsible for infertility in two Chinese males with sperm showing acrosomal ultrastructural defects and fertilization failure. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The actin-related proteins (e.g. ACTRT1, ACTRT2, ACTL7A, and ACTL9) interact with each other to form a multimeric complex in the subacrosomal region of spermatids, which is crucial for the acrosome-nucleus junction. Actrt1-knockout (KO) mice are severely subfertile owing to malformed sperm heads with detached acrosomes and partial fertilization failure. There are currently no reports on the association between ACTRT1 deletion and male infertility in humans. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We recruited a cohort of 120 infertile males with sperm head deformations at a large tertiary hospital from August 2019 to August 2023. Genomic DNA extracted from the affected individuals underwent whole exome sequencing (WES), and in silico analyses were performed to identify genetic variants. Morphological analysis, functional assays, and ART were performed in 2022 and 2023. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The ACTRT1 deficiency was identified by WES and confirmed by whole genome sequencing, PCR, and quantitative PCR. Genomic DNA of all family members was collected to define the hereditary mode. Papanicolaou staining and electronic microscopy were performed to reveal sperm morphological changes. Western blotting and immunostaining were performed to explore the pathological mechanism of ACTRT1 deficiency. ICSI combined with artificial oocyte activation (AOA) was applied for one proband. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We identified a whole-gene deletion variant of ACTRT1 in two infertile males, which was inherited from their mothers, respectively. The probands exhibited sperm head deformations owing to acrosomal detachment, which is consistent with our previous observations on Actrt1-KO mice. Decreased expression and ectopic distribution of ACTL7A and phospholipase C zeta were observed in sperm samples from the probands. ICSI combined with AOA effectively solved the fertilization problem in Actrt1-KO mice and in one of the two probands. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Additional cases are needed to further confirm the genetic contribution of ACTRT1 variants to male infertility. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our results reveal a gene-disease relation between the ACTRT1 deletion described here and human male infertility owing to acrosomal detachment and fertilization failure. This report also describes a good reproductive outcome of ART with ICSI-AOA for a proband. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the Chongqing medical scientific research project (Joint project of Chongqing Health Commission and Science and Technology Bureau, 2023MSXM008 and 2023MSXM054). There are no competing interests to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Huijuan Jin
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Shunhua Long
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiangrong Tang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiaxun Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Weiwei Liu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Han
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Haiyuan Liao
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Tao Fu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Guoning Huang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Suren Chen
- Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Regulation Biology, Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Tingting Lin
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
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28
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Liu R, Yang C, Yang X, Yu J, Tang W. Network toxicology, molecular docking technology, and experimental verification revealed the mechanism of cantharidin-induced testicular injury in mice. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2024; 486:116921. [PMID: 38582374 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2024.116921] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
As a protein kinase inhibitor, cantharidin (CTD) exhibits antitumor activities. However, CTD is highly toxic, thereby limiting clinical applications. Moreover, relatively few studies have investigated CTD-induced reproductive toxicity, thus the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, the toxic effects of CTD on mouse testis were confirmed in vivo and the potential mechanism was predicted by network toxicology (NT) and molecular docking technology. Proteins involved in the signaling pathways and core targets were verified. The results showed that different concentrations of CTD induced weight loss increased the testicular coefficient, and caused obvious pathological damage to testicular cells. The NT results showed that the main targets of CTD-induced testicular injury (TI) included AKT1, Caspase 3, Bcl-2, and Bax. The results of pathway enrichment analysis showed that CTD-induced TI was closely related to apoptosis and the PI3K/AKT and HIF-1 signaling pathways. Molecular docking methods confirmed high affinity between CTD and key targets. Western blot analysis showed that CTD inhibited expression of PI3K, AKT, and the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, while promoting expression of the pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and Caspase 3. These results suggest that CTD-induced TI involves multiple targets and pathways, and the underlying mechanism was associated with inhibition of the apoptosis-related PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruxia Liu
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Changfu Yang
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Jia Yu
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Wenchao Tang
- Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Guiyang 550025, China.
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29
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Chang T, Tang H, Zhou X, He J, Liu N, Li Y, Xiang W, Yao Z. A novel homozygous nonsense variant of AK7 is associated with multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103765. [PMID: 38492416 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103765] [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: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Is the novel homozygous nonsense variant of AK7 associated with multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella (MMAF), a specific type of oligoasthenoteratozoospermia leading to male infertility? DESIGN Whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing were performed to identify potential gene variants. Immunoblotting and immunofluorescence were applied to confirm the relationship between mutated genes and disease phenotypes. The concentration of reactive oxygen species and the rate of apoptosis were measured to evaluate the mitochondrial function of spermatozoa. Transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were employed to observe sperm ultrastructure. RESULTS A novel homozygous nonsense variant of AK7, c.1153A>T (p. Lys385*), was identified in two infertile siblings with asthenoteratozoospermia through whole-exome sequencing. Both immunoblotting and immunofluorescence assays showed practically complete absence of AK7 in the patient's spermatozoa. Additionally, the individual with the novel AK7 variant exhibited a phenotype characterized by severe oxidative stress and apoptosis caused by mitochondrial metabolic dysfunction of spermatozoa. Notably, remarkable flagellar defects with multiple axonemes in uniflagellate spermatozoa, accompanied by mitochondrial vacuolization, were observed; this has not been reported previously in patients with other AK7 variants. CONCLUSIONS This study found that a novel identified homozygous nonsense variant of AK7 may be associated with MMAF-related asthenoteratozoospermia. The observed functional associations between mitochondria and sperm flagellar assembly provide evidence for potential mutual regulation between AK7 and flagella-associated proteins during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianli Chang
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hongying Tang
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xu Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jingliang He
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Nenghui Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yanping Li
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Wenpei Xiang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhongyuan Yao
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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30
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Dai P, Ma C, Chen C, Liang M, Dong S, Chen H, Zhang X. Unlocking Genetic Mysteries during the Epic Sperm Journey toward Fertilization: Further Expanding Cre Mouse Lines. Biomolecules 2024; 14:529. [PMID: 38785936 PMCID: PMC11117649 DOI: 10.3390/biom14050529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The spatiotemporal expression patterns of genes are crucial for maintaining normal physiological functions in animals. Conditional gene knockout using the cyclization recombination enzyme (Cre)/locus of crossover of P1 (Cre/LoxP) strategy has been extensively employed for functional assays at specific tissue or developmental stages. This approach aids in uncovering the associations between phenotypes and gene regulation while minimizing interference among distinct tissues. Various Cre-engineered mouse models have been utilized in the male reproductive system, including Dppa3-MERCre for primordial germ cells, Ddx4-Cre and Stra8-Cre for spermatogonia, Prm1-Cre and Acrv1-iCre for haploid spermatids, Cyp17a1-iCre for the Leydig cell, Sox9-Cre for the Sertoli cell, and Lcn5/8/9-Cre for differentiated segments of the epididymis. Notably, the specificity and functioning stage of Cre recombinases vary, and the efficiency of recombination driven by Cre depends on endogenous promoters with different sequences as well as the constructed Cre vectors, even when controlled by an identical promoter. Cre mouse models generated via traditional recombination or CRISPR/Cas9 also exhibit distinct knockout properties. This review focuses on Cre-engineered mouse models applied to the male reproductive system, including Cre-targeting strategies, mouse model screening, and practical challenges encountered, particularly with novel mouse strains over the past decade. It aims to provide valuable references for studies conducted on the male reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Xiaoning Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Medical School, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (P.D.); (C.M.); (C.C.); (M.L.); (S.D.); (H.C.)
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31
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Liu Y, Du M, Li X, Zhang L, Zhao B, Wang N, Dugarjaviin M. Single-Cell Transcriptome Sequencing Reveals Molecular Expression Differences and Marker Genes in Testes during the Sexual Maturation of Mongolian Horses. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1258. [PMID: 38731262 PMCID: PMC11082968 DOI: 10.3390/ani14091258] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate differences in testicular tissue morphology, gene expression, and marker genes between sexually immature (1-year-old) and sexually mature (10-year-old) Mongolian horses. The purposes of our research were to provide insights into the reproductive physiology of male Mongolian horses and to identify potential markers for sexual maturity. The methods we applied included the transcriptomic profiling of testicular cells using single-cell sequencing techniques. Our results revealed significant differences in tissue morphology and gene expression patterns between the two age groups. Specifically, 25 cell clusters and 10 cell types were identified, including spermatogonial and somatic cells. Differential gene expression analysis highlighted distinct patterns related to cellular infrastructure in sexually immature horses and spermatogenesis in sexually mature horses. Marker genes specific to each stage were also identified, including APOA1, AMH, TAC3, INHA, SPARC, and SOX9 for the sexually immature stage, and PRM1, PRM2, LOC100051500, PRSS37, HMGB4, and H1-9 for the sexually mature stage. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of testicular development and spermatogenesis in Mongolian horses and have potential applications in equine reproductive biology and breeding programs. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying sexual maturity in Mongolian horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Ming Du
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Xinyu Li
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Bilig Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Na Wang
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
| | - Manglai Dugarjaviin
- Key Laboratory of Equus Germplasm Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Hohhot 010018, China; (Y.L.); (M.D.); (X.L.); (L.Z.); (B.Z.); (N.W.)
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Equine Science Research and Technology Innovation, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
- Equus Research Center, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China
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32
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Silvestris E, D’Oronzo S, Petracca EA, D’Addario C, Cormio G, Loizzi V, Canosa S, Corrado G. Fertility Preservation in the Era of Immuno-Oncology: Lights and Shadows. J Pers Med 2024; 14:431. [PMID: 38673058 PMCID: PMC11050999 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14040431] [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: 03/16/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, immuno-oncology has revolutionized the cancer treatment field by harnessing the immune system's power to counteract cancer cells. While this innovative approach holds great promise for improving cancer outcomes, it also raises important considerations related to fertility and reproductive toxicity. In fact, most young females receiving gonadotoxic anti-cancer treatments undergo iatrogenic ovarian exhaustion, resulting in a permanent illness that precludes the vocation of motherhood as a natural female sexual identity. Although commonly used, oocyte cryopreservation for future in vitro fertilization and even ovarian cortex transplantation are considered unsafe procedures in cancer patients due to their oncogenic risks; whereas, ovarian stem cells might support neo-oogenesis, providing a novel stemness model of regenerative medicine for future fertility preservation programs in oncology. Recent scientific evidence has postulated that immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) might in some way reduce fertility by inducing either primary or secondary hypogonadism, whose incidence and mechanisms are not yet known. Therefore, considering the lack of data, it is currently not possible to define the most suitable FP procedure for young patients who are candidates for ICIs. In this report, we will investigate the few available data concerning the molecular regulation of ICI therapy and their resulting gonadal toxicity, to hypothesize the most suitable fertility preservation strategy for patients receiving these drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Silvestris
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
| | - Stella D’Oronzo
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy;
- Division of Medical Oncology, A.O.U. Consorziale Policlinico di Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Easter Anna Petracca
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
| | - Claudia D’Addario
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy;
- Division of Medical Oncology, A.O.U. Consorziale Policlinico di Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Vera Loizzi
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy; (E.A.P.); (G.C.); (V.L.)
- Department of Translational Biomedicine and Neuroscience (DiBraiN), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Stefano Canosa
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Giacomo Corrado
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, Department of Woman, Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, IRCCS, 00136 Roma, Italy;
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33
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Wang Z, Li T, Liu D, Li M, Liu S, Yu X, Li H, Song H, Zhao W, Liu Z, Chen X, Lu G, Chen ZJ, Huang T, Liu H. The deubiquitinase cofactor UAF1 interacts with USP1 and plays an essential role in spermiogenesis. iScience 2024; 27:109456. [PMID: 38591005 PMCID: PMC10999478 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109456] [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: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Spermiogenesis defines the final phase of male germ cell differentiation. While multiple deubiquitinating enzymes have been linked to spermiogenesis, the impacts of deubiquitination on spermiogenesis remain poorly characterized. Here, we investigated the function of UAF1 in mouse spermiogenesis. We selectively deleted Uaf1 in premeiotic germ cells using the Stra8-Cre knock-in mouse strain (Uaf1 sKO), and found that Uaf1 is essential for spermiogenesis and male fertility. Further, UAF1 interacts and colocalizes with USP1 in the testes. Conditional knockout of Uaf1 in testes results in disturbed protein levels and localization of USP1, suggesting that UAF1 regulates spermiogenesis through the function of the deubiquitinating enzyme USP1. Using tandem mass tag-based proteomics, we identified that conditional knockout of Uaf1 in the testes results in reduced levels of proteins that are essential for spermiogenesis. Thus, we conclude that the UAF1/USP1 deubiquitinase complex is essential for normal spermiogenesis by regulating the levels of spermiogenesis-related proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziqi Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Tongtong Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Dongkai Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Mengjing Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Shangming Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Xiaochen Yu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Hanzhen Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Hui Song
- Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of the Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Science, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Department of Immunology, Key Laboratory for Experimental Teratology of the Chinese Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Science, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
| | - Zhaojian Liu
- Advanced Medical Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiangfeng Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
| | - Gang Lu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai 200135, China
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tao Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hongbin Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Medicine Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong 250012, China
- CUHK-SDU Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Córdova-Oriz I, Polonio AM, Cuadrado-Torroglosa I, Chico-Sordo L, Medrano M, García-Velasco JA, Varela E. Chromosome ends and the theory of marginotomy: implications for reproduction. Biogerontology 2024; 25:227-248. [PMID: 37943366 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-023-10071-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Telomeres are the protective structures located at the ends of linear chromosomes. They were first described in the 1930s, but their biology remained unexplored until the early 70s, when Alexey M. Olovnikov, a theoretical biologist, suggested that telomeres cannot be fully copied during DNA replication. He proposed a theory that linked this phenomenon with the limit of cell proliferation capacity and the "duration of life" (theory of marginotomy), and suggested a potential of telomere lenghthening for the prevention of aging (anti-marginotomy). The impact of proliferative telomere shortening on life expectancy was later confirmed. In humans, telomere shortening is counteracted by telomerase, an enzyme that is undetectable in most adult somatic cells, but present in cancer cells and adult and embryonic stem and germ cells. Although telomere length dynamics are different in male and female gametes during gametogenesis, telomere lengths are reset at the blastocyst stage, setting the initial length of the species. The role of the telomere pathway in reproduction has been explored for years, mainly because of increased infertility resulting from delayed childbearing. Short telomere length in ovarian somatic cells is associated to decreased fertility and higher aneuploidy rates in embryos. Consequently, there is a growing interest in telomere lengthening strategies, aimed at improving fertility. It has also been observed that lifestyle factors can affect telomere length and improve fertility outcomes. In this review, we discuss the implications of telomere theory in fertility, especially in oocytes, spermatozoa, and embryos, as well as therapies to enhance reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Córdova-Oriz
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Alba M Polonio
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Isabel Cuadrado-Torroglosa
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Lucía Chico-Sordo
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Marta Medrano
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan A García-Velasco
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, IVIRMA Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Edificio Departamental II, Rey Juan Carlos University, Av. de Atenas, s/n, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa Varela
- IVIRMA Global Research Alliance, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain.
- Department of Medical Specialties and Public Health, Edificio Departamental II, Rey Juan Carlos University, Av. de Atenas, s/n, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain.
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Liu YL, Liu JY, Zhu XX, Wei JH, Mi SL, Liu SY, Li XL, Zhang WW, Zhao LL, Wang H, Xu DX, Gao L. Pubertal exposure to Microcystin-LR arrests spermatogonia proliferation by inducing DSB and inhibiting SIRT6 dependent DNA repair in vivo and in vitro. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 274:116191. [PMID: 38460408 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
The reproduction toxicity of pubertal exposure to Microcystin-LR (MC-LR) and the underlying mechanism needs to be further investigated. In the current study, pubertal male ICR mice were intraperitoneally injected with 2 μg/kg MC-LR for four weeks. Pubertal exposure to MC-LR decreased epididymal sperm concentration and blocked spermatogonia proliferation. In-vitro studies found MC-LR inhibited cell proliferation of GC-1 cells and arrested cell cycle in G2/M phase. Mechanistically, MC-LR exposure evoked excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and induced DNA double-strand break in GC-1 cells. Besides, MC-LR inhibited DNA repair by reducing PolyADP-ribosylation (PARylation) activity of PARP1. Further study found MC-LR caused proteasomal degradation of SIRT6, a monoADP-ribosylation enzyme which is essential for PARP1 PARylation activity, due to destruction of SIRT6-USP10 interaction. Additionally, MG132 pretreatment alleviated MC-LR-induced SIRT6 degradation and promoted DNA repair, leading to the restoration of cell proliferation inhibition. Correspondingly, N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) pre-treatment mitigated the disturbed SIRT6-USP10 interaction and SIRT6 degradation, causing recovered DNA repair and subsequently restoration of cell proliferation inhibition in MC-LR treated GC-1 cells. Together, pubertal exposure to MC-LR induced spermatogonia cell cycle arrest and sperm count reduction by oxidative DNA damage and simultaneous SIRT6-mediated DNA repair failing. This study reports the effect of pubertal exposure to MC-LR on spermatogenesis and complex mechanism how MC-LR induces spermatogonia cell proliferation inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Lin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jia-Yu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xin-Xin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jian-Hua Wei
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Shuang-Ling Mi
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Su-Ya Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Xiu-Liang Li
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Wei-Wei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Ling-Li Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Hua Wang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - De-Xiang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China.
| | - Lan Gao
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology of Anhui Higher Education Institutes & Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China; Research Center for Translational Medicine, the Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui 230601, China.
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Bhattacharya I, Sharma SS, Majumdar SS. Etiology of Male Infertility: an Update. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:942-965. [PMID: 38036863 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01401-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process of germ cell division and differentiation that involves extensive cross-talk between the developing germ cells and the somatic testicular cells. Defective endocrine signaling and/or intrinsic defects within the testes can adversely affect spermatogenic progression, leading to subfertility/infertility. In recent years, male infertility has been recognized as a global public health concern, and research over the last few decades has elucidated the complex etiology of male infertility. Congenital reproductive abnormalities, genetic mutations, and endocrine/metabolic dysfunction have been demonstrated to be involved in infertility/subfertility in males. Furthermore, acquired factors like exposure to environmental toxicants and lifestyle-related disorders such as illicit use of psychoactive drugs have been shown to adversely affect spermatogenesis. Despite the large body of available scientific literature on the etiology of male infertility, a substantial proportion of infertility cases are idiopathic in nature, with no known cause. The inability to treat such idiopathic cases stems from poor knowledge about the complex regulation of spermatogenesis. Emerging scientific evidence indicates that defective functioning of testicular Sertoli cells (Sc) may be an underlying cause of infertility/subfertility in males. Sc plays an indispensable role in regulating spermatogenesis, and impaired functional maturation of Sc has been shown to affect fertility in animal models as well as humans, suggesting abnormal Sc as a potential underlying cause of reproductive insufficiency/failure in such cases of unexplained infertility. This review summarizes the major causes of infertility/subfertility in males, with an emphasis on infertility due to dysregulated Sc function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indrashis Bhattacharya
- Department of Zoology, Central University of Kerala, Periye Campus, Kasaragod, 671320, Kerala, India.
| | - Souvik Sen Sharma
- National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, 500 032, Telangana, India
| | - Subeer S Majumdar
- National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, 500 032, Telangana, India.
- Gujarat Biotechnology University, Gandhinagar, GIFT City, Gandhinagar, 382355, Gujarat, India.
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Cornejo-Guerra C, Salazar-Ardiles C, Morales P, Andrade DC. Consequences of Exposure to Hypobaric Hypoxia Associated with High Altitude on Spermatogenesis and Seminal Parameters: A Literature Review. Cells 2024; 13:592. [PMID: 38607031 PMCID: PMC11011536 DOI: 10.3390/cells13070592] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Preclinical research has provided compelling evidence indicating that exposure to hypobaric hypoxia (HH) results in a deterioration of spermatogenesis. This adverse effect extends to the underlying molecular mechanisms, progressively leading to impairments in the seminiferous epithelium and germ cells and alterations in semen parameters. Indeed, several studies have demonstrated that animals exposed to HH, whether in natural high-altitude environments or under simulated hypoxic conditions, exhibit damage to the self-renewal and differentiation of spermatogenesis, an increase in germline cell apoptosis, and structural alterations in the seminiferous tubules. One of the primary mechanisms associated with the inhibition of differentiation and an increase in apoptosis among germ cells is an elevated level of oxidative stress, which has been closely associated with HH exposure. Human studies have shown that individuals exposed to HH, such as mountaineers and alpinists, exhibit decreased sperm count, reduced motility, diminished viability, and increased sperm with abnormal morphology in their semen. This evidence strongly suggests that exposure to HH may be considered a significant risk factor that could elevate the prevalence of male infertility. This literature review aims to provide a comprehensive description and propose potential mechanisms that could elucidate the infertility processes induced by HH. By doing so, it contributes to expanding our understanding of the challenges posed by extreme environments on human physiology, opening new avenues for research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Cornejo-Guerra
- Exercise Applied Physiology Laboratory, Centro de Investigación en Fisiología y Medicina de Altura (FIMEDALT), Departamento Biomédico, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1271155, Chile; (C.C.-G.); (C.S.-A.)
| | - Camila Salazar-Ardiles
- Exercise Applied Physiology Laboratory, Centro de Investigación en Fisiología y Medicina de Altura (FIMEDALT), Departamento Biomédico, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1271155, Chile; (C.C.-G.); (C.S.-A.)
| | - Patricio Morales
- Laboratorio de Biología de la Reproducción, Departamento Biomédico, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1271155, Chile;
| | - David C. Andrade
- Exercise Applied Physiology Laboratory, Centro de Investigación en Fisiología y Medicina de Altura (FIMEDALT), Departamento Biomédico, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Antofagasta, Antofagasta 1271155, Chile; (C.C.-G.); (C.S.-A.)
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Joseph MD, Koenig MR, Kuriyama AS, Wang TR, Wesselink AK, Eisenberg ML, Sommer GJ, Rothman KJ, Stuver SO, Wise LA, Hatch EE. A preconception cohort study of sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and semen quality. Andrology 2024. [PMID: 38450974 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13615] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dietary factors, including high sugar intake, may have adverse effects on male reproduction. Studies of the association between sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) intake and semen quality have reported inconsistent results. OBJECTIVE We estimated the effects of SSB consumption on semen quality in a North American preconception cohort study. METHODS We analyzed baseline data from 690 males (n = 1,247 samples) participating in Pregnancy Study Online (PRESTO) during 2015-2022. Participants aged ≥21 years completed a baseline questionnaire on which they reported information about intake of SSBs, including sodas, energy drinks, sports drinks, and fruit juices. After enrollment, we invited U.S. participants to a semen testing substudy, in which they collected and analyzed two samples using an at-home semen testing kit. We used linear regression models to estimate adjusted percent differences (%D) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations of SSB intake with semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count (TSC), motility, and total motile sperm count (TMSC). We used modified Poisson regression models to estimate adjusted risk ratios (RRs) and 95% CIs for the association of SSB intake with World Health Organization semen parameter cut points. RESULTS Relative to non-consumers of SSBs, those who consumed ≥7 SSBs/week had lower semen volume (%D = -6, 95% CI: -13, 0), sperm concentration (%D = -22, 95% CI: -38, 0), TSC (%D = -22, 95% CI: -38, -2), motility (%D = -4, 95% CI: -10, 2), and TMSC (%D = -25, 95% CI: -43, -2). High SSB consumers also had greater risks of low sperm concentration (≤16 million/mL; RR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.11, 3.21), low TSC (≤39 million; RR = 1.75, 95% CI: 0.92, 3.33), low motility (≤42%; RR = 1.23, 95% CI: 0.87, 1.75) and low TMSC (≤21 million; RR = 1.95, 95% CI: 1.12, 3.38). Associations were stronger among participants with body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m2 . CONCLUSION Greater SSB consumption was associated with reduced semen quality in a North American preconception cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlon D Joseph
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Martha R Koenig
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Andrea S Kuriyama
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Tanran R Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Amelia K Wesselink
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael L Eisenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
- Department of Urology, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Greg J Sommer
- Laboratory Corporation of America, Pleasanton, California, USA
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sherri O Stuver
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lauren A Wise
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Elizabeth E Hatch
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Wang X, Kang C, Guo W, Yuan L, Zhang H, Zhang Q, Xiao Q, Hao W. Chlormequat chloride induced activation of calmodulin mediated PI3K/AKT signaling pathway led to impaired sperm quality in pubertal mice. Food Chem Toxicol 2024; 185:114475. [PMID: 38286265 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2024.114475] [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: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Chlormequat chloride (CCC), as a widely used plant growth regulator, can cause impaired sperm quality and decreased testosterone synthesis in pubertal rats, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the toxicokinetics and tissue distribution of CCC, as well as the possible mechanism of CCC-induced impairment in sperm quality. The concentration of CCC reached its peak 1 h after a single dose (200 mg/kg·bw) administration in mice plasma, and a bimodal phenomenon appeared in the testes, liver, and epididymis. In vivo, 200 mg/kg CCC caused testicular damage and impaired sperm quality in pubertal mice, and the expression of p-tyrosine and GSK3α decreased in cauda epididymidis, sperm and testes. CCC also caused the down-regulation of AKAP4 and the up-regulation of calmodulin (CaM), and activated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in the testes. In vitro, CCC reduced the levels of p-tyrosine, AKAP4 and GSK3α, increased the level of CaM and activated the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in GC-1 cells. CaM antagonist (W-7 hydrochloride) and PI3K inhibitor (LY294002) can effectively improve the expression of GSK3α and AKAP4 by suppressing the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway in GC-1 cells treated with CCC. It was indicated that CCC induced impairment in sperm quality might be partially related to the activation of PI3K/AKT signaling pathway mediated by CaM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxia Wang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China
| | - Chenping Kang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China
| | - Wanqian Guo
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China
| | - Lilan Yuan
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China
| | - Haoran Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China
| | - Qiong Zhang
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China
| | - Qianqian Xiao
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China.
| | - Weidong Hao
- Department of Toxicology, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Toxicological Research and Risk Assessment for Food Safety, Beijing, 100191, PR China.
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Liu H, Tang Y, Sun L, Li S, Luo L, Chen Z, Li G. Involvement of Histone Acetyltransferase 1 (HAT1) in the Spermatogenesis of Non-Condensed Nuclear Sperm in Chinese Mitten Crab, Eriocheir sinensis. Biochem Genet 2024:10.1007/s10528-024-10700-0. [PMID: 38416273 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-024-10700-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Chinese mitten crab, Eriocheir sinensis, is a decapod crustacean with a special, non-condensated nucleus in the sperm. Studies have shown that the nuclear compact state of male germ cells during the spermatogenesis is closely related to histone modification. To explore the possible role of histone acetyltransferase 1 (HAT1) in the chromatin organization during the E. sinensis spermatogenesis, we took the testis tissues of both adult and juvenile crabs as the materials of study and analyzed the biological functions of HAT1 by whole transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics, then further analyzed the expression and distribution of HAT1 using the methods of RT-qRCR, western blotting, and immunofluorescence location. The results showed that HAT1 is an alkaline-unstable hydrophilic protein. It was predicted to interact with a variety of histones and chromosome assembly proteins, including Asf1b, Chaf1b, and Hist1h3f, and is involved in many biological functions pertaining to chromatin dynamics such as chromatin organization, DNA dependent nucleosome assembly, DNA conformational changes, and so on. HAT1 was up-regulated in the adult testes compared to the juvenile (n = 3, P < 0.05). HAT1 was mainly located in the nuclei of male germ cells of E. sinensis. As spermatogenesis proceeded, the expression of HAT1 decreased and even disappeared in the nuclei (n = 3, P < 0.05). HAT1 is an important player in histone acetylation, which facilitates chromatin alteration in a three-dimensional conformation. The expression of HAT1 in different male germ cells might indicate the chromatin dynamics at the diversity stages of spermatogenesis. The high expression of HAT1 at the early stages of E. sinensis spermatogenesis hints the active involvement in chromatin organization, while its progressively reduced expression accompanied by the progression of spermatogenesis suggests a relatively gradual stabilization and stereotyping of chromatin. As for the disappearance of HAT1 in mature sperm with non-condensed nuclei, the reduction in histones targeted by HAT1 or histone acetylation may be an important initiator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiting Liu
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China
| | - Yulian Tang
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China
| | - Lishuang Sun
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China
| | - Shu Li
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China
| | - Lvjing Luo
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China
| | - Zhengyu Chen
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China
| | - Genliang Li
- Youjiang Medical University for Nationalities, Baise, 533000, Guangxi, China.
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Signorini C, Saso L, Ghareghomi S, Telkoparan-Akillilar P, Collodel G, Moretti E. Redox Homeostasis and Nrf2-Regulated Mechanisms Are Relevant to Male Infertility. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:193. [PMID: 38397791 PMCID: PMC10886271 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13020193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Infertility represents a significant global health challenge, affecting more than 12% of couples worldwide, and most cases of infertility are caused by male factors. Several pathological pathways are implicated in male infertility. The main mechanisms involved are driven by the loss of reduction-oxidation (redox) homeostasis and the resulting oxidative damage as well as the chronic inflammatory process. Increased or severe oxidative stress leads to sperm plasma membrane and DNA oxidative damage, dysregulated RNA processing, and telomere destruction. The signaling pathways of these molecular events are also regulated by Nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). The causes of male infertility, the role of oxidative stress in male infertility and the Keap1-Nrf2 antioxidant pathway are reviewed. This review highlights the regulatory role of Nrf2 in the balance between oxidants and antioxidants as relevant mechanisms to male fertility. Nrf2 is involved in the regulation of spermatogenesis and sperm quality. Establishing a link between Nrf2 signaling pathways and the regulation of male fertility provides the basis for molecular modulation of inflammatory processes, reactive oxygen species generation, and the antioxidant molecular network, including the Nrf2-regulated antioxidant response, to improve male reproductive outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Signorini
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.S.); (G.C.); (E.M.)
| | - Luciano Saso
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology “Vittorio Erspamer”, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Somayyeh Ghareghomi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran 1417466191, Iran;
| | | | - Giulia Collodel
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.S.); (G.C.); (E.M.)
| | - Elena Moretti
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.S.); (G.C.); (E.M.)
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42
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Cao J, Zhao X, Qin Z, Lv S, Du L, Liu Z, Fan L, Bo H. Single Cell Map of Human Azoospermia Testis Caused by Cyclophosphamide Chemotherapy. Sci Data 2024; 11:163. [PMID: 38307907 PMCID: PMC10837125 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-024-02938-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapeutic drugs will affect the process of spermatogenesis. However, most current studies on the effects of chemotherapeutic drugs on spermatogenesis are based on mouse models, with a shortage of human body evidence. In addition, the mechanism of chemotherapeutic drugs causing spermatogenesis disorder is not clear. Therefore, we have collected the testicular tissues of an inguinal-lipoma patient whose testes were resected after chemotherapy and a patient who had normal spermatogenesis disorder and underwent single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-Seq). After quality control, we obtained a total of 27,957 high-quality cells, including 18,612 normal cells and 9,345 drug-treated cells, which were all used in analyzing the mechanism of chemotherapeutic drugs causing spermatogenesis disorder. This study has provided data resources and references for exploring the mechanism of chemotherapeutic drugs causing spermatogenesis disorder with the insight of protecting the spermatogenic abilities of male tumor patients receiving chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Cao
- Department of Urology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xueheng Zhao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zailong Qin
- Laboratory of Genetics and Metabolism, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guangxi Birth Defects Research and Prevention Institute, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Shanshan Lv
- Department of Blood Transfusion, the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lin Du
- Department of Blood Transfusion, the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhizhong Liu
- Department of Urology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Liqing Fan
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hao Bo
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, Hunan, China.
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43
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Zhang D, Raza SHA, Du X, Wang J, Wang M, Ma J, Xie K, Pant SD, He J, Aloufi BH, Mei C, Zan L. Effect of feeding corn silage on semen quality and spermatogenesis of bulls. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:391-401. [PMID: 37733150 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10218-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Bovine reproduction, including male fertility traits like semen quality, are influenced by a variety of different factors like breed, nutrition, environment, and feeding management. Diet in a crucial determinant, and in this regard although corn silage is generally considered to be a favorable roughage for fattening meat type breeds, it tends to have a negative impact on semen quality. In the current study, alfalfa hay was substituted by corn silage as a roughage source in the diet of bulls to investigate its effects on the fertility of breeding bulls. A feeding trail spanning 140 days was conducted, with semen collection occurring twice a week commencing 60 days after the start of trial. Semen quality parameters, serum antioxidant indexes, sex hormone content in semen, rumen microflora, and sperm transcriptome were characterized. Feeding corn silage enhanced host antioxidant capacity, significantly decreased spermatozoal motility and increased sperm deformity rate in bulls. Furthermore, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) content in semen were significantly decreased (P < 0.05), and the inhibin B (INHB) content was significantly increased (P < 0.01). Feeding corn silage led to significant changes in the diversity of rumen microbiota of cattle at the phylum and genus levels, some of which were significantly correlated with semen quality. Subsequent RNA sequencing indicated that DHH and PITHD1, two genes related to sperm and reproductive development, were differentially expressed, and enrichment analysis also identified several pathways and biological functions relevant to sperm development and reproduction. These results indicate that feeding corn silage modulates semen quality via different pathways. Firstly, corn silage metabolites likely affect the secretion of INHB through the testicular capillaries, which affects semen quality by regulating genes involved in spermatogenesis. Secondly, low lignin content in silage corn appears to reduce abundance of rumen flora that are positively correlated with semen quality. Overall, results indicate that feeding bulls corn silage as the primary source of forage could negatively impact semen quality and may not be appropriate as the primary roughage of forage for breeding bulls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dianqi Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Sayed Haidar Abbas Raza
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food Quality and Safety/Nation-Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Machining and Safety of Livestock and Poultry Products, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Utilization and Conservation of Food and Medicinal Resources in Northern Region, Shaoguan University, Shaoguan, 512005, China
| | - Xinze Du
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Juze Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Meng Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Jing Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Kuncheng Xie
- Xi'an Dairy Cow Breeding Center, Xi'an Agriculture and Rural Bureau, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710000, P.R. China
| | - Sameer D Pant
- Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
| | - Jie He
- Xi'an Dairy Cow Breeding Center, Xi'an Agriculture and Rural Bureau, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710000, P.R. China
| | - Bander Hamad Aloufi
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, University of Ha'il, Ha'il, Saudi Arabia
| | - Chugang Mei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
- National Beef Cattle Improvement Center, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China
| | - Linsen Zan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, No.22 Xinong Road, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China.
- National Beef Cattle Improvement Center, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, P.R. China.
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44
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Lira Neto FT, Roque M, Esteves SC. Effect of varicocele and varicocelectomy on sperm deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation rates in infertile men with clinical varicocele. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2024; 76:49-69. [PMID: 36222786 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.22.05169-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Varicocele is the leading cause of male infertility. It can affect sperm quantity and quality through various non-mutually exclusive pathophysiological mechanisms, mainly oxidative stress. Excessive production of reactive oxygen species may overwhelm the sperm's defenses against oxidative stress and harm the sperm's DNA. Excessive sperm DNA breaks, so-called sperm DNA fragmentation, result from the oxidative stress cascade and are commonly found in the ejaculates of men with varicocele and fertility-related issues. Measuring sperm DNA fragmentation can provide valuable information on the extent of harm and might help select candidates for surgical treatment. Varicocelectomy is beneficial for alleviating oxidative stress-associated infertility and improving sperm DNA integrity. However, reproductive outcomes of infertile men with elevated sperm DNA fragmentation rates and surgically treated varicoceles remain poorly studied, and there is a need for well-designed trials to determine the impact of sperm DNA fragmentation reduction on natural and medically assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe T Lira Neto
- AndrosRecife, Andrology Clinic, Recife, Brazil
- Department of Urology, Prof. Fernando Figueira Institute of Integrative Medicine, Recife, Brazil
| | - Matheus Roque
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Mater Prime, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Referral Center for Male Reproduction, Campinas, Brazil -
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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45
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Piechka A, Sparanese S, Witherspoon L, Hach F, Flannigan R. Molecular mechanisms of cellular dysfunction in testes from men with non-obstructive azoospermia. Nat Rev Urol 2024; 21:67-90. [PMID: 38110528 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00837-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
Male factor infertility affects 50% of infertile couples worldwide; the most severe form, non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), affects 10-15% of infertile males. Treatment for individuals with NOA is limited to microsurgical sperm extraction paired with in vitro fertilization intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Unfortunately, spermatozoa are only retrieved in ~50% of patients, resulting in live birth rates of 21-46%. Regenerative therapies could provide a solution; however, understanding the cell-type-specific mechanisms of cellular dysfunction is a fundamental necessity to develop precision medicine strategies that could overcome these abnormalities and promote regeneration of spermatogenesis. A number of mechanisms of cellular dysfunction have been elucidated in NOA testicular cells. These mechanisms include abnormalities in both somatic cells and germ cells in NOA testes, such as somatic cell immaturity, aberrant growth factor signalling, increased inflammation, increased apoptosis and abnormal extracellular matrix regulation. Future cell-type-specific investigations in identifying modulators of cellular transcription and translation will be key to understanding upstream dysregulation, and these studies will require development of in vitro models to functionally interrogate spermatogenic niche dysfunction in both somatic and germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arina Piechka
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sydney Sparanese
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Luke Witherspoon
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Faraz Hach
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ryan Flannigan
- Department of Urologic Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
- Vancouver Prostate Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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46
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Qu W, Yu X, Shi H, Chen Z, Luo M. Editorial: Mammalian spermatogenesis: genetic and environmental factors. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1372799. [PMID: 38357001 PMCID: PMC10864451 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1372799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Mengcheng Luo
- Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, TaiKang Center for Life and Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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47
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Gui Y, Ma X, Xiong M, Wen Y, Cao C, Zhang L, Wang X, Liu C, Zhang H, Huang X, Xiong C, Pan F, Yuan S. Transcriptome analysis of meiotic and post-meiotic spermatogenic cells reveals the potential hub genes of aging on the decline of male fertility. Gene 2024; 893:147883. [PMID: 37839768 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2023.147883] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Genetic and epigenetic changes in sperm caused by male aging may be essential factors affecting semen parameters, but the effects and specific molecular mechanisms of aging on male reproduction have not been fully clarified. In this study, to explore the effect of aging on male fertility and seek the potential molecular etiology, we performed high-throughput RNA-sequencing in isolated spermatogenic cells, including pachytene spermatocytes (marked by the completion of chromosome synapsis) and round spermatids (produced by the separation of sister chromatids) from the elderly and the young men. Functional enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in round spermatids between the elderly and young showed that they were significantly enriched in gamete generation, spindle assembly, and cilium movement involved in cell motility. In addition, the expression levels of DEGs in round spermatids (post-meiotic cells) were found to be more susceptible to age. Furthermore, ten genes (AURKA, CCNB1, CDC20, CCNB2, KIF2C, KIAA0101, NR5A1, PLK1, PTTG1, RAD51AP1) were identified to be the hub genes involved in the regulation of sperm quality in the elderly through Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) network construction and measuring semantic among GO terms and gene products. Our data provide aging-related molecular alterations in meiotic and post-meiotic spermatogenic cells, and the information gained from this study may explain the abnormal aging-related male fertility decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqian Gui
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Xixiang Ma
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Laboratory Animal Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Mengneng Xiong
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Yujiao Wen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Congcong Cao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Medical Genetics, China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110122, China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Chunyan Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Huiping Zhang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China
| | - Xunbin Huang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Hospital, Wuhan, Hubei 430013, China
| | | | - Feng Pan
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430022, China
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China; Laboratory Animal Center, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030, China.
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48
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Randell Z, Dehghanbanadaki H, Fendereski K, Jimbo M, Aston K, Hotaling J. Sperm telomere length in male-factor infertility and reproduction. Fertil Steril 2024; 121:12-25. [PMID: 37949346 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.11.001] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
The underlying reasons for male-factor infertility are often unknown. 30% of all men have unexplained semen analysis abnormalities. Moreover, 15%-40% of infertile men have normal semen analyses. There have been increasing efforts to identify causes and associations that may explain idiopathic male-factor infertility. Telomeres have become an area of considerable interest in the field because of the essential roles they have in cellular division and genome integrity. Research to date most consistently supports that men with infertility have shorter sperm telomere length (STL); however, associations between shorter STL and meaningful reproductive health outcomes are less consistent. There is a major need for additional studies to better identify the role of STL in male reproductive health and use the information to improve the counseling and treatment of couples with idiopathic male-factor infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zane Randell
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.
| | - Hojat Dehghanbanadaki
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Kiarad Fendereski
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Masaya Jimbo
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Kenneth Aston
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - James Hotaling
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
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49
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Liu SW, Luo JQ, Zhao LY, Ou NJ, Chao-Yang, Zhang YX, Bai HW, Sun HF, Zhang JX, Yao CC, Li P, Tian RH, Li Z, Zhu ZJ. scRNA-seq reveals that origin recognition complex subunit 6 regulates mouse spermatogonial cell proliferation and apoptosis via activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Asian J Androl 2024; 26:46-56. [PMID: 37788012 PMCID: PMC10846824 DOI: 10.4103/aja202330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The regulation of spermatogonial proliferation and apoptosis is of great significance for maintaining spermatogenesis. The single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis of the testis was performed to identify genes upregulated in spermatogonia. Using scRNA-seq analysis, we identified the spermatogonia upregulated gene origin recognition complex subunit 6 ( Orc6 ), which is involved in DNA replication and cell cycle regulation; its protein expression in the human and mouse testis was detected by western blot and immunofluorescence. To explore the potential function of Orc6 in spermatogonia, the C18-4 cell line was transfected with control or Orc6 siRNA. Subsequently, 5-ethynyl-2-deoxyuridine (EdU) and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assays, flow cytometry, and western blot were used to evaluate its effects on proliferation and apoptosis. It was revealed that ORC6 could promote proliferation and inhibit apoptosis of C18-4 cells. Bulk RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis indicated that Orc6 was involved in the activation of wingless/integrated (Wnt)/β-catenin signaling. Western blot revealed that the expression of β-catenin protein and its phosphorylation (Ser675) were significantly decreased when silencing the expression of ORC6. Our findings indicated that Orc6 was upregulated in spermatogonia, whereby it regulated proliferation and apoptosis by activating Wnt/β-catenin signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi-Wei Liu
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- State Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Jia-Qiang Luo
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Liang-Yu Zhao
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biomedical Imaging, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai 519000, China
| | - Ning-Jing Ou
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- State Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Chao-Yang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, China
| | - Yu-Xiang Zhang
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Hao-Wei Bai
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Hong-Fang Sun
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Jian-Xiong Zhang
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Chen-Cheng Yao
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Peng Li
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Ru-Hui Tian
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- State Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211166, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zi-Jue Zhu
- Department of Andrology, Center for Men’s Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
- Shanghai Key Lab of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200080, China
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50
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Zhao YD, Yang CX, Du ZQ. Integrated single cell transcriptome sequencing analysis reveals species-specific genes and molecular pathways for pig spermiogenesis. Reprod Domest Anim 2023; 58:1745-1755. [PMID: 37874861 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14493] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Mammalian spermatogenesis is a highly complicated and intricately organized process involving spermatogonia propagation (mitosis) and meiotic differentiation into mature sperm cells (spermiogenesis). In pigs, spermatogonia development and the role of somatic cells in spermatogenesis were previously investigated in detail. However, the characterization of key molecules fundamental to pig spermiogenesis remains less explored. Here we compared spermatogenesis between humans and pigs, focusing on spermiogenesis, by integrative testicular single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis. Human and pig testicular cells were clustered into 26 different groups, with cell-type-specific markers and signalling pathways. For spermiogenesis, pseudo-time analysis classified the lineage differentiation routes for round, elongated spermatids and spermatozoa. Moreover, markers and molecular pathways specific to each type of spermatids were examined for humans and pigs, respectively. Furthermore, high-dimensional weighted gene co-expression network analysis (hdWGCNA) identified gene modules specific for each type of human and pig spermatids. Hub genes (pig: SNRPD2.1 related to alternative splicing; human: CATSPERZ, Ca[2+] ion channel) potentially involved in spermiogenesis were also revealed. Taken together, our integrative analysis found that human and pig spermiogeneses involve specific genes and molecular pathways and provided resources and insights for further functional investigation on spermatid maturation and male reproductive ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Dan Zhao
- College of Animal Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Cai-Xia Yang
- College of Animal Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Qiang Du
- College of Animal Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
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