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Barranco I, Alvarez-Barrientos A, Parra A, Martínez-Díaz P, Lucas X, Roca J. Immunophenotype profile by flow cytometry reveals different subtypes of extracellular vesicles in porcine seminal plasma. Cell Commun Signal 2024; 22:63. [PMID: 38263049 PMCID: PMC10807091 DOI: 10.1186/s12964-024-01485-1] [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: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Porcine seminal plasma (SP) is endowed with a heterogeneous population of extracellular vesicles (sEVs). This study evaluated the immunophenotypic profile by high-sensitivity flow cytometry of eight sEV subpopulations isolated according to their size (small [S-sEVs] and large [L-sEVs]) from four different SP sources, namely three ejaculate fractions (the first 10 mL of the sperm rich fraction [SRF-P1], the remaining SRF [SRF-P2], and the post-SRF [PSRF]) and entire ejaculate (EE). METHODS Seminal EVs were isolated using a size exclusion chromatography-based protocol from six SP pools (five ejaculates/pool) of each SP source and characterized using complementary approaches including total protein (BCA™assay), particle size distribution (dynamic light scattering), morphology (transmission electron microscopy), and purity (albumin by Western blot). Expression of CD9, CD63, CD81, CD44 and HSP90β was analyzed in all sEV subpopulations by high-sensitivity flow cytometry according to MIFlowCyt-EV guidelines, including an accurate calibration, controls, and discrimination by CFSE-labelling. RESULTS Each sEV subpopulation exhibited a specific immunophenotypic profile. The percentage of sEVs positive for CD9, CD63, CD81 and HSP90β differed between S- and L-sEVs (P < 0.0001). Specifically, the percentage of sEVs positive for CD9 and CD63 was higher and that for CD81 was lower in S- than L-sEVs in the four SP sources. However, the percentage of HSP90β-positive sEVs was lower in S-sEVs than L-sEVs in the SRF-P1 and EE samples. The percentage of sEVs positive for CD9, CD63, and CD44 also differed among the four SP sources (P < 0.0001), being highest in PSRF samples. Notably, virtually all sEV subpopulations expressed CD44 (range: 88.04-98.50%). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrated the utility of high-sensitivity flow cytometry for sEV immunophenotyping, allowing the identification of distinct sEV subpopulations that may have different cellular origin, cargo, functions, and target cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Barranco
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.
| | | | - Ana Parra
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Pablo Martínez-Díaz
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Xiomara Lucas
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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Zhang C, Chen J, Wei X, Zhao L, Zhao P, Li X, Cui J, Ma S, Sun Z, Wang Z. Transcriptomics and proteomics analysis to explore the mechanism of Yishen Tongluo formula repairing sperm DNA damage in rats. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14582. [PMID: 36068021 DOI: 10.1111/and.14582] [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: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) is an objective indicator of male fertility. Currently, effective treatments for high sperm DFI are limited and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has certain advantages in this aspect. Yishen Tongluo formula (YSTL), a TCM formula, has been found to reduce DFI in patients. To better understand the mechanisms underlying its activity, we used transcriptomics and proteomics to analyse the potential target gene YSTL repairing tripterygium glycosides (TGs)-mediated sperm DNA damage in rats, followed by validation analyses using RT-qPCR and western blotting, which showed that relative to the control group, DFI was markedly elevated in the TGs group, but markedly lower in the YSTL group relative to the TGs group. KEGG pathway analysis of 119 differentially expressed genes and 158 DEPs identified using trend analysis revealed that they were enriched for apoptosis and base excision repair at the transcriptomic level and for microRNAs in cancer and complement and coagulation cascades at the proteomic level. Ttr and Pnpla2 were identified as potential target genes for YSTL. Our data show that YSTL can protect rat sperm DNA from TGs-induced damage, which may be related to apoptosis, DNA repair and other pathways, and the possible target genes are Ttr and Pnpla2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenming Zhang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China.,The Second Clinical Medical School, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianshe Chen
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Henan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine), Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Wei
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Henan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine), Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Lina Zhao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Henan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine), Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Peipei Zhao
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xun Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Henan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine), Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaxin Cui
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Henan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine), Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Sicheng Ma
- The Second Clinical Medical School, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zixue Sun
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Henan Province Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (The Second Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine), Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zulong Wang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, People's Republic of China
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3
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Rodriguez-Martinez H, Roca J. Extracellular vesicles in seminal plasma: A safe and relevant tool to improve fertility in livestock? Anim Reprod Sci 2022; 244:107051. [PMID: 35933831 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2022.107051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Seminal plasma (SP) is not a pre-requisite for pregnancy. Yet, this heterogeneous, composite SP has proven relevant for fertility, as mediator for cell-to-cell communication between producing cells, spermatozoa and the female internal genital tract, regulating complex reproductive processes. Bearing hormones, proteins, cytokines as well as nuclei acids in nano-sized lipid bilayer seminal extracellular vesicles (sEVs), the SP concerts signaling to the female. Signals influence timing of ovulation, sperm transport and, particularly, enable the female immune system to balance her cryptic choice to engage into pregnancy or reject an eventual fertilization. This essay, focusing on livestock in general and pigs in particular, discusses the intrinsic roles of sEVs with regards to reproductive homeostasis, while binding and internalizing their cargo in spermatozoa and female tract epithelia to regulate their functional activity. Since prior studies had inconclusive results using bulk SP or single SP-contained free molecules, argumentation is hereby provided to increase the current incipient research on livestock sEVs, where fragile molecules relevant for fertility are shielded from degradation during handling. Seminal EVs isolated from SP can be used for andrological diagnosis and perhaps to select breeders with optimal fertility. Moreover, sEVs can be laboratory-uploaded with specific molecules or even engineered as lipid nanodroplets used as additives for extenders to improve fertility after artificial insemination (AI) or reproductive biotechnologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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4
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Abstract
Sperm selection in the female reproductive tract (FRT) is sophisticated. Only about 1,000 sperm out of millions in an ejaculate reach the fallopian tube and thus have a chance of fertilizing an oocyte. In assisted reproduction techniques, sperm are usually selected using their density or motility, characteristics that do not reflect their fertilization competence and, therefore, might result in failure to fertilize the oocyte. Although sperm processing in in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) bypasses many of the selection processes in the FRT, selection by the cumulus mass and the zona pellucida remain intact. By contrast, the direct injection of a sperm into an oocyte in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) bypasses all natural selection barriers and, therefore, increases the risk of transferring paternal defects such as fragmented DNA and genomic abnormalities in sperm to the resulting child. Research into surrogate markers of fertilization potential and into simulating the natural sperm selection processes has progressed. However, methods of sperm isolation - such as hyaluronic acid-based selection and microfluidic isolation based on sperm tactic responses - use only one or two parameters and are not comparable with the multistep sperm selection processes naturally occurring within the FRT. Fertilization-competent sperm require a panel of molecules, including zona pellucida-binding proteins and ion channel proteins, that enable them to progress through the FRT to achieve fertilization. The optimal artificial sperm selection method will, therefore, probably need to use a multiparameter tool that incorporates the molecular signature of sperm with high fertilization potential, and their responses to external cues, within a microfluidic system that can replicate the physiological processes of the FRT in vitro.
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Assessment of Sperm Binding Capacity in the Tubal Reservoir Using a Bovine Ex Vivo Oviduct Culture and Fluorescence Microscopy. Methods Protoc 2021; 4:mps4040067. [PMID: 34698216 PMCID: PMC8544518 DOI: 10.3390/mps4040067] [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: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm binding within the oviductal sperm reservoir plays an important role for reproductive success by enabling sperm survival and maintaining fertilizing capacity. To date, numerous in vitro technologies have been established to measure sperm binding capacity to cultured oviductal cells or oviductal explants. However, these methods do not accurately represent the microenvironment and complex multi-molecular nature of the oviduct. In this paper, we describe a novel protocol for assessing sperm binding capacity in the tubal sperm reservoir using an ex vivo oviduct culture in the bovine model. This protocol includes the staining of frozen-thawed bovine spermatozoa with the DNA-binding dye Hoechst 33342, the co-incubation of stained sperm in closed segments of the oviduct and the visualization and quantification of bound spermatozoa by fluorescence microscopy. By generating overlays of multiple Z-stacks of randomly selected regions of interest (ROIs), spermatozoa bound in the sperm reservoir can be visualized and quantified within the 3D arrangement of the oviductal folds. This method, which is applicable to multiple species, can be used to assess individual sperm binding capacity in males for prognostic purposes as well as to assess the impact of diseases and medications on the formation of the sperm reservoir in the oviduct in humans and animals.
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Fernández-Hernández P, Marinaro F, Sánchez-Calabuig MJ, García-Marín LJ, Bragado MJ, González-Fernández L, Macías-García B. The Proteome of Equine Oviductal Fluid Varies Before and After Ovulation: A Comparative Study. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:694247. [PMID: 34422946 PMCID: PMC8375304 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.694247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Equine fertilization cannot be performed in the laboratory as equine spermatozoa do not cross the oocyte's zona pellucida in vitro. Hence, a more profound study of equine oviductal fluid (OF) composition at the pre-ovulatory and post-ovulatory stages could help in understanding what components are required to achieve fertilization in horses. Our work aimed to elucidate the proteomic composition of equine OF at both stages. To do this, OF was obtained postmortem from oviducts of slaughtered mares ipsilateral to a pre-ovulatory follicle (n = 4) or a recent ovulation (n = 4); the samples were kept at −80°C until analysis. After protein extraction and isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) labeling, the samples were analyzed by nano-liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The analysis of the spectra resulted in the identification of a total of 1,173 proteins present in pre-ovulatory and post-ovulatory samples; among these, 691 were unique for Equus caballus. Proteins from post-ovulatory oviductal fluid were compared with the proteins from pre-ovulatory oviductal fluid and were categorized as upregulated (positive log fold change) or downregulated (negative log fold change). Fifteen proteins were found to be downregulated in the post-ovulatory fluid and 156 were upregulated in the post-ovulatory OF compared to the pre-ovulatory fluid; among the upregulated proteins, 87 were included in the metabolism of proteins pathway. The identified proteins were related to sperm–oviduct interaction, fertilization, and metabolism, among others. Our data reveal consistent differences in the proteome of equine OF prior to and after ovulation, helping to increase our understanding in the factors that promote fertilization and early embryo development in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Fernández-Hernández
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (Research Institute INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Federica Marinaro
- Stem Cell Therapy Unit, Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre, Cáceres, Spain
| | - María Jesús Sánchez-Calabuig
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University Complutense of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Jesús García-Marín
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (Research Institute INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - María Julia Bragado
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (Research Institute INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Lauro González-Fernández
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (Research Institute INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Beatriz Macías-García
- Research Group of Intracellular Signaling and Technology of Reproduction (Research Institute INBIO G+C), University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain.,Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
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7
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Sperm phenotypic characteristics and oviduct binding ability are altered in breeding bulls with high sperm DNA fragmentation index. Theriogenology 2021; 172:80-87. [PMID: 34146972 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we standardized an in vitro oviduct explants model for cattle and assessed the oviduct explants binding ability and phenotypic characteristics of spermatozoa obtained from breeding bulls with high- and low-sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI%). Cryopreserved spermatozoa from Holstein Friesian crossbred breeding bulls (n = 45) with known field fertility were assessed for DFI% and were classified into either high DFI% or low DFI% category. Flow cytometry was used to assess sperm membrane integrity, acrosome reaction status, mitochondrial membrane potential and intracellular calcium concentrations. It was found that spermatozoa from bulls with low DFI% had significantly higher (P < 0.05) membrane integrity, acrosome intactness, and mitochondrial membrane potential. To assess the sperm oviduct binding ability, oviduct explants were prepared by incubating the oviduct cells overnight in TCM-199 medium at 38.5 °C under 5% CO2. Different sperm concentrations and times of incubation were evaluated and found that 2 million spermatozoa and 1-h incubation yielded high binding index (BI). The BI was also significantly (P < 0.01) higher (>2 times) in the bulls with low-DFI% as compared to high DFI% bulls. The correlation between binding index and DFI% was negative and significant (r = -0.528; P < 0.05). Further, the binding index was positively correlated with conception rate (r = 0.703), intact sperm membrane (r = 0.631) and mitochondrial membrane potential (r = 0.609). It is inferred that sperm phenotypic characteristics and oviduct binding ability are impaired in breeding bulls with high sperm DFI%, which might be associated with low conception rates in these bulls.
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8
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Rodriguez-Martinez H, Martinez EA, Calvete JJ, Peña Vega FJ, Roca J. Seminal Plasma: Relevant for Fertility? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094368. [PMID: 33922047 PMCID: PMC8122421 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Seminal plasma (SP), the non-cellular component of semen, is a heterogeneous composite fluid built by secretions of the testis, the epididymis and the accessory sexual glands. Its composition, despite species-specific anatomical peculiarities, consistently contains inorganic ions, specific hormones, proteins and peptides, including cytokines and enzymes, cholesterol, DNA and RNA-the latter often protected within epididymis- or prostate-derived extracellular vesicles. It is beyond question that the SP participates in diverse aspects of sperm function pre-fertilization events. The SP also interacts with the various compartments of the tubular genital tract, triggering changes in gene function that prepares for an eventual successful pregnancy; thus, it ultimately modulates fertility. Despite these concepts, it is imperative to remember that SP-free spermatozoa (epididymal or washed ejaculated) are still fertile, so this review shall focus on the differences between the in vivo roles of the SP following semen deposition in the female and those regarding additions of SP on spermatozoa handled for artificial reproduction, including cryopreservation, from artificial insemination to in vitro fertilization. This review attempts, including our own results on model animal species, to critically summarize the current knowledge of the reproductive roles played by SP components, particularly in our own species, which is increasingly affected by infertility. The ultimate goal is to reconcile the delicate balance between the SP molecular concentration and their concerted effects after temporal exposure in vivo. We aim to appraise the functions of the SP components, their relevance as diagnostic biomarkers and their value as eventual additives to refine reproductive strategies, including biotechnologies, in livestock models and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical & Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +46-132-869-25
| | - Emilio A. Martinez
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (E.A.M.); (J.R.)
| | - Juan J. Calvete
- Laboratorio de Venómica Estructural y Funcional, Instituto de Biomedicina de Valencia, C.S.I.C., 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Fernando J. Peña Vega
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, 10003 Caceres, Spain;
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research “Campus Mare Nostrum”, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (E.A.M.); (J.R.)
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9
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Ramal-Sanchez M, Bernabò N, Valbonetti L, Cimini C, Taraschi A, Capacchietti G, Machado-Simoes J, Barboni B. Role and Modulation of TRPV1 in Mammalian Spermatozoa: An Updated Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:4306. [PMID: 33919147 PMCID: PMC8122410 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Based on the abundance of scientific publications, the polymodal sensor TRPV1 is known as one of the most studied proteins within the TRP channel family. This receptor has been found in numerous cell types from different species as well as in spermatozoa. The present review is focused on analyzing the role played by this important channel in the post-ejaculatory life of spermatozoa, where it has been described to be involved in events such as capacitation, acrosome reaction, calcium trafficking, sperm migration, and fertilization. By performing an exhaustive bibliographic search, this review gathers, for the first time, all the modulators of the TRPV1 function that, to our knowledge, were described to date in different species and cell types. Moreover, all those modulators with a relationship with the reproductive process, either found in the female tract, seminal plasma, or spermatozoa, are presented here. Since the sperm migration through the female reproductive tract is one of the most intriguing and less understood events of the fertilization process, in the present work, chemotaxis, thermotaxis, and rheotaxis guiding mechanisms and their relationship with TRPV1 receptor are deeply analyzed, hypothesizing its (in)direct participation during the sperm migration. Last, TRPV1 is presented as a pharmacological target, with a special focus on humans and some pathologies in mammals strictly related to the male reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Ramal-Sanchez
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (N.B.); (L.V.); (C.C.); (A.T.); (G.C.); (J.M.-S.); (B.B.)
| | - Nicola Bernabò
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (N.B.); (L.V.); (C.C.); (A.T.); (G.C.); (J.M.-S.); (B.B.)
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (CNR-IBBC/EMMA/Infrafrontier/IMPC), National Research Council, Monterotondo Scalo, 00015 Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Valbonetti
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (N.B.); (L.V.); (C.C.); (A.T.); (G.C.); (J.M.-S.); (B.B.)
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (CNR-IBBC/EMMA/Infrafrontier/IMPC), National Research Council, Monterotondo Scalo, 00015 Rome, Italy
| | - Costanza Cimini
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (N.B.); (L.V.); (C.C.); (A.T.); (G.C.); (J.M.-S.); (B.B.)
| | - Angela Taraschi
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (N.B.); (L.V.); (C.C.); (A.T.); (G.C.); (J.M.-S.); (B.B.)
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Abruzzo e del Molise “G. Caporale”, Via Campo Boario 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Giulia Capacchietti
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (N.B.); (L.V.); (C.C.); (A.T.); (G.C.); (J.M.-S.); (B.B.)
| | - Juliana Machado-Simoes
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (N.B.); (L.V.); (C.C.); (A.T.); (G.C.); (J.M.-S.); (B.B.)
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy; (N.B.); (L.V.); (C.C.); (A.T.); (G.C.); (J.M.-S.); (B.B.)
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Awan MA, Arshad J, Rakha BA, Ansari MS, Waseem M, Fouladi-Nashta A, Miller D, Akhter S. Sperm binding to hyaluronan is an excellent predictor of Nili-Ravi buffalo bull fertility. Andrologia 2021; 53:e13991. [PMID: 33528065 DOI: 10.1111/and.13991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
This study reports the first evaluation of sperm hyaluronan binding assay (HBA) for predicting the fertility of Nili-Ravi buffalo bulls in relation to standard parameters of sperm quality. Cryopreserved semen doses of low (n = 6), medium (n = 3) and high fertility (n = 8) bulls based on their respective return rates were used. Significantly, more spermatozoa bound to hyaluronan from the most fertile bulls (57.15% ± 1.44) compared with medium (42.46% ± 1.08) and low fertility bulls (29.70% ± 0.78). A strongly positive correlation (r = .824, p < .01) was found between HBA and fertility that predicts a 67.9% variability (r2 = .679, p < .01) in fertility. HBA was also strongly positively correlated with sperm viability (r = .679, p < .01) followed by their live/dead ratio (r = .637, p < .01), uncapacitated spermatozoa (r = .631, p < .01), normal apical ridge (r = .459, p < .01), motility (r = .434, p < .01), mature spermatozoa with low residual histones (r = .364, p < .01), high plasma membrane integrity (r = .316, p < .01) and nonfragmented DNA levels (r = .236, p < .05). It was negatively correlated with spermatozoa having reacted acrosome (r = -.654, p < .01). A fertility model built using a combination of sperm HBA and either sperm livability or viability predicts, respectively, 86.1% (r2 = .861, p < .01) and 85.9% (r2 = .859, p < .01) variability in buffalo bull fertility. In conclusion, sperm HBA may prove to be a single robust predictor of Nili-Ravi buffalo bull fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Amjad Awan
- Department of Zoology, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Javeria Arshad
- Department of Zoology, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Bushra Allah Rakha
- Department of Wildlife Management, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | | | | | - Ali Fouladi-Nashta
- Reproduction Research Group, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, United Kingdom
| | - David Miller
- LIGHT Laboratories, Leeds Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Shamim Akhter
- Department of Zoology, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
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11
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Semen Modulates the Expression of NGF, ABHD2, VCAN, and CTEN in the Reproductive Tract of Female Rabbits. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11070758. [PMID: 32645906 PMCID: PMC7397043 DOI: 10.3390/genes11070758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Semen changes the gene expression in endometrial and oviductal tissues modulating important processes for reproduction. We tested the hypothesis that mating and/or sperm-free seminal plasma deposition in the reproductive tract affect the expression of genes associated with sperm-lining epithelium interactions, ovulation, and pre-implantation effects (nerve growth factor, NGF; α/β hydrolase domain-containing protein 2, ABHD2; C-terminal tensin-like protein, CTEN or TNS4; and versican, VCAN) in the period 10–72 h post-mating. In Experiment 1, does (n = 9) were treated with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) (control), GnRH-stimulated, and vaginally infused with sperm-free seminal plasma (SP-AI), or GnRH-stimulated and naturally mated (NM). In Experiment 2, does (n = 15) were GnRH-stimulated and naturally mated. Samples were retrieved from the internal reproductive tracts (cervix-to-infundibulum) 20 h post-treatment (Experiment 1) or sequentially collected at 10, 24, 36, 68, or 72 h post-mating (Experiment 2, 3 does/period). All samples were processed for gene expression analysis by quantitative PCR. Data showed an upregulation of endometrial CTEN and NGF by NM, but not by SP-AI. The findings suggest that the NGF gene affects the reproductive tract of the doe during ovulation and beyond, influencing the maternal environment during early embryonic development.
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The role of semen and seminal plasma in inducing large-scale genomic changes in the female porcine peri-ovulatory tract. Sci Rep 2020; 10:5061. [PMID: 32193402 PMCID: PMC7081221 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-60810-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Semen modifies the expression of genes related to immune function along the porcine female internal genital tract. Whether other pathways are induced by the deposition of spermatozoa and/or seminal plasma (SP), is yet undocumented. Here, to determine their relative impact on the uterine and tubal transcriptomes, microarray analyses were performed on the endocervix, endometrium and endosalpinx collected from pre-ovulatory sows 24 h after either mating or artificial insemination (AI) with specific ejaculate fractions containing spermatozoa or sperm-free SP. After enrichment analysis, we found an overrepresentation of genes and pathways associated with sperm transport and binding, oxidative stress and cell-to-cell recognition, such as PI3K-Akt, FoxO signaling, glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis and cAMP-related transcripts, among others. Although semen (either after mating or AI) seemed to have the highest impact along the entire genital tract, our results demonstrate that the SP itself also modifies the transcriptome. The detected modifications of the molecular profiles of the pre/peri-ovulatory endometrium and endosalpinx suggest an interplay for the survival, transport and binding of spermatozoa through, for instance the up-regulation of the Estrogen signaling pathway associated with attachment and release from the oviductal reservoir.
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Martinez CA, Alvarez-Rodriguez M, Wright D, Rodriguez-Martinez H. Does the Pre-Ovulatory Pig Oviduct Rule Sperm Capacitation In Vivo Mediating Transcriptomics of Catsper Channels? Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051840. [PMID: 32155986 PMCID: PMC7084628 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa need to conduct a series of biochemical changes termed capacitation in order to fertilize. In vivo, capacitation is sequentially achieved during sperm transport and interaction with the female genital tract, by mechanisms yet undisclosed in detail. However, when boar spermatozoa are stored in the tubal reservoir pre-ovulation, most appear to be in a non-capacitated state. This study aimed at deciphering the transcriptomics of capacitation-related genes in the pig pre-ovulatory oviduct, following the entry of semen or of sperm-free seminal plasma (SP). Ex-vivo samples of the utero-tubal junction (UTJ) and isthmus were examined with a microarray chip (GeneChip® Porcine Gene 1.0 ST Array, Thermo Fisher Scientific) followed by bioinformatics for enriched analysis of functional categories (GO terms) and restrictive statistics. The results confirmed that entry of semen or of relative amounts of sperm-free SP modifies gene expression of these segments, pre-ovulation. It further shows that enriched genes are differentially associated with pathways relating to sperm motility, acrosome reaction, single fertilization, and the regulation of signal transduction GO terms. In particular, the pre-ovulation oviduct stimulates the Catsper channels for sperm Ca2+ influx, with AKAPs, CATSPERs, and CABYR genes being positive regulators while PKIs and CRISP1 genes appear to be inhibitors of the process. We postulate that the stimulation of PKIs and CRISP1 genes in the pre-ovulation sperm reservoir/adjacent isthmus, mediated by SP, act to prevent premature massive capacitation prior to ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina A. Martinez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.A.-R.); (H.R.-M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-678077708
| | - Manuel Alvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.A.-R.); (H.R.-M.)
| | - Dominic Wright
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Faculty of Science and Engineering; Linköping University, SE-58183 Linköping, Sweden;
| | - Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), BKH/Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58185 Linköping, Sweden; (M.A.-R.); (H.R.-M.)
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Alvarez-Rodriguez M, Ntzouni M, Wright D, Khan KI, López-Béjar M, Martinez CA, Rodriguez-Martinez H. Chicken seminal fluid lacks CD9- and CD44-bearing extracellular vesicles. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:293-300. [PMID: 31894881 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The avian seminal fluid (SF) is a protein-rich fluid, derived from the testis, the rudimentary epididymis and, finally, from the cloacal gland. The SF interacts with spermatozoa and the inner cell lining of the female genital tract, to modulate sperm functions and female immune responsiveness. Its complex proteome might either be free or linked to extracellular vesicles (EVs) as it is the case in mammals, where EVs depict the tetraspanin CD9; and where those EVs derived from the epididymis (epididymosomes) also present the receptor CD44. In the present study, sperm-free SF from Red Jungle Fowl, White Leghorn and an advanced intercross (AIL, 12th generation) were studied using flow cytometry of the membrane marker tetraspanin CD9, Western blotting of the membrane receptor CD44 and electron microscopy in non-enriched (whole SF) or enriched fractions obtained by precipitation using a commercial kit (Total Exosome Precipitation Solution). Neither CD9- nor CD44 could be detected, and the ultrastructure confirmed the relative absence of EVs, raising the possibility that avian SF interacts differently with the female genitalia as compared to the seminal plasma of mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Alvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Services (BKV), BHK/O&G Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Maria Ntzouni
- Microscopy Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences (MEDFAK), Core Facility (COREF) Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Dominic Wright
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Kabirul Islam Khan
- Department of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Manel López-Béjar
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary, Universitat Autòmoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina A Martinez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Services (BKV), BHK/O&G Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Alvarez-Rodriguez M, Ljunggren SA, Karlsson H, Rodriguez-Martinez H. Exosomes in specific fractions of the boar ejaculate contain CD44: A marker for epididymosomes? Theriogenology 2019; 140:143-152. [PMID: 31473497 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Seminal plasma (SP) is a complex fluid containing proteins, peptides, enzymes, hormones as well as extracellular vesicles (EVs). The SP interacts with spermatozoa and the inner cell lining of the female genital tract, adsorbing proteins and exosomes that modulate sperm functions and female immune responsiveness. In the present study, boar sperm-free SP was studied using flow cytometry (FC) after membrane tetraspanins (CD9, CD63 and CD81) and membrane receptor CD44 marking of non-enriched (whole SP) or gradient fractions enriched through two-step discontinuous KBr-density-gradient ultracentrifugation, in whole ejaculate or in selected ejaculate fractions. The results, evaluated by transmission electron microscopy, confirmed the presence of exosomes in all fractions of the pig SP. Noteworthy, these pig SP-exosomes were CD44-bearing when analysed by FC, with bands detected by western blotting (WB) at the expected 85 kD size. The two-step discontinuous KBr-density-gradient ultracentrifugation enriched the population of exosomes in two specific gradient fractions, indicating exosomes (either prostasomes or epididymosomes) could be separated from low-density lipoprotein (LDL) but they co-sediment with the high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-bearing fraction. The findings pave for the selective isolation of exosomes in functional studies of their function when interacting with spermatozoa, the oocyte and/or the female genitalia, including hyaluronan-CD44 interplay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Alvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Clinical & Experimental Medicine (IKE), BHK/O&G Linköping University, SE-58185, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Stefan A Ljunggren
- Occupational & Environmental Medicine Centre, Linköping University, SE-58185, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Helen Karlsson
- Occupational & Environmental Medicine Centre, Linköping University, SE-58185, Linköping, Sweden
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Harris EN, Cabral F. Ligand Binding and Signaling of HARE/Stabilin-2. Biomolecules 2019; 9:biom9070273. [PMID: 31336723 PMCID: PMC6681266 DOI: 10.3390/biom9070273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The Stabilin receptors are a two-member family in the type H class of scavenger receptors. These dynamic receptors bind and internalize multiple ligands from the cell surface for the purpose of clearing extracellular material including some synthetic drugs and for sensing the external environment of the cell. Stabilin-1 was the first receptor to be cloned, though the biological activity of Hyaluronic Acid Receptor for Endocytosis (HARE)/Stabilin-2 was observed about 10 years prior to the cloning of Stabilin-1. Stabilin-1 has a more diverse expression profile among the tissues than HARE/Stabilin-2. This review will focus on HARE/Stabilin-2 and its interactions with hyaluronan, heparin, and phosphorothioate antisense oligonucleotides and what is known about how this receptor participates in signaling upon ligand binding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward N Harris
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA.
| | - Fatima Cabral
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA
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Alvarez-Rodriguez M, López-Bejar M, Rodriguez-Martinez H. The risk of using monoclonal or polyclonal commercial antibodies: controversial results on porcine sperm CD44 receptor identification. Reprod Domest Anim 2019; 54:733-737. [PMID: 30746820 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Presence of the hyaluronan (hyaluronic acid, HA) receptor CD44 on spermatozoa has been difficult to pursue, mostly obeying to the use of different commercial mono- and/or polyclonal antibodies, often lacking proper controls. Here, we describe how the presence (Western blotting) and specific location (immunocytochemistry) of the CD44 receptor differs in ejaculated pig spermatozoa depending on the type of antibody and protocol used. While we were able to detect binding to spermatozoa and mark its presence in the sperm membrane, the use of blocking peptides clearly indicated that only the monoclonal antibody could confirm the specific presence and location of the CD44 receptor, whereas the polyclonal antibody was detecting multiple presumed CD44 isoforms or degraded proteins thus proving unspecific. These results call for strict protocols when attempting immunological determination of sperm membrane receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Alvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKE), BKH, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Veterinary Faculty, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Manel López-Bejar
- Department of Animal Health and Anatomy, Veterinary Faculty, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKE), BKH, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Gavin-Plagne L, Commin L, Bruyère P, Buff S, Joly T. Comparison Between an Animal-Derived Product Medium and a Chemically Defined Medium for Ram Sperm Cryopreservation. Biopreserv Biobank 2018; 17:11-17. [PMID: 30325650 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2018.0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal-derived products are widely used in sperm cryopreservation for their cryoprotective properties. These components, however, tend to be replaced because of sanitary risks. STEMALPHA.CRYO3 (Ref. 5617; Stem Alpha, Saint-Genis-l'Argentière, France), called "CRYO3," is a chemically defined preservation medium currently used for freezing human tissue and adult stem cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a CRYO3-based medium on ram sperm freezing regarding in vitro parameters and in vivo fertility. Semen from nine Charolais rams was collected using an artificial vagina, then split and frozen using two media: a CRYO3-based medium or a control medium containing egg yolk (10%) and milk (45%). Sperm membrane integrity (propidium iodide [PI]/SYBR-14 and calcein AM/ethidium homodimer-1), acrosome integrity (FITC-PNA/PI), and mitochondrial membrane potential (JC-1) were assessed using flow cytometry, while functional membrane integrity was assessed using a hypo-osmotic swelling test and motility parameters, evaluated by computer-assisted sperm analysis. Pregnancy rates, prolificacy, and the average daily weight gain (DWG) of lambs were evaluated after performing 195 laparoscopic inseminations. The control medium showed significantly higher results than CRYO-based medium for all in vitro parameters, except for linearity and straightness (motions parameters). Conversely, field trials showed no significant difference between the control medium and the CRYO3-based medium for pregnancy rates (72.2% and 67.9%, respectively), prolificacy (1.8 and 1.6, respectively), and the DWG (0.34 and 0.35 kg/d, respectively). This preliminary study showed that CRYO3 cannot replace egg yolk and milk in freezing extenders for commercial purposes. However, as laparoscopic inseminations allowed a 67% pregnancy rate, CRYO3-based medium remains an option for international transport or long-term storage of genetic diversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Gavin-Plagne
- 1 UPSP ICE 2016.A104, VetAgro Sup, Université de Lyon, Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - Loris Commin
- 1 UPSP ICE 2016.A104, VetAgro Sup, Université de Lyon, Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - Pierre Bruyère
- 1 UPSP ICE 2016.A104, VetAgro Sup, Université de Lyon, Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - Samuel Buff
- 1 UPSP ICE 2016.A104, VetAgro Sup, Université de Lyon, Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - Thierry Joly
- 2 UPSP ICE 2016.A104, ISARA-Lyon, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
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Álvarez-Rodriguez M, Vicente-Carrillo A, Rodriguez-Martinez H. Hyaluronan improves neither the long-term storage nor the cryosurvival of liquid-stored CD44-bearing AI boar spermatozoa. J Reprod Dev 2018; 64:351-360. [PMID: 29887535 PMCID: PMC6105739 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2017-141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyaluronan (hyaluronic acid, HA) apparently improves sperm survival in vitro and in vivo (oviduct), maintaining sperm motility and inducing capacitation,
but not acrosome exocytosis, either by direct action as a macromolecule or via CD44 membrane receptors. This study explored ejaculated, liquid-extended pig spermatozoa to ascertain (i) the
presence (Western blotting) and specific location (immunocytochemistry) of the CD44 receptor, using a specific monoclonal commercial antibody; (ii) whether the CD44 receptor changed location
when exposed to bicarbonate, a capacitating trigger, in vitro; and (iii) whether the addition of HA, of molecular size comparable to that produced in the oviduct sperm
reservoir (0.0625 to 2.0 mg/ml; 0 HA: control), to semen extenders would improve sperm liquid storage in vitro or cryosurvival post-freezing. Variables tested were sperm
velocity and progressive motility (QualispermTM), sperm viability and acrosome status, membrane integrity and early destabilization, mitochondrial activation, and superoxide
production (flow cytometry). The CD44 receptor presence in ejaculated, liquid-stored AI boar spermatozoa, as confirmed by a porcine-specific monoclonal antibody, maintained its membrane
location under in vitro capacitation-inducing conditions. HA exposure to 24-, 48-, or 72-h liquid-stored (17–20ºC) spermatozoa lowered sperm velocity in membrane-intact
spermatozoa, but increased mitochondrial superoxide production. Finally, HA addition during cooling did not improve cryosurvival but did increase mitochondrial activation and membrane
destabilization in surviving cells. These results confirm the existence of a CD44 receptor in pig spermatozoa, but the usefulness of adding HA for long-term storage or cryopreservation of
liquid-stored, extended boar semen remains in question, thereby warranting further non-empirical analyses of HA-sperm membrane interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Álvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKE), BKH, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58115 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Alejandro Vicente-Carrillo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKE), BKH, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58115 Linköping, Sweden.,Present: Evidensia Valla Djursjukhus Linköping, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKE), BKH, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-58115 Linköping, Sweden
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Soriano-Úbeda C, García-Vázquez FA, Romero-Aguirregomezcorta J, Matás C. Improving porcine in vitro fertilization output by simulating the oviductal environment. Sci Rep 2017. [PMCID: PMC5356470 DOI: 10.1038/srep43616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Differences between the in vitro and in vivo environment in which fertilization occurs seem to play a key role in the low efficiency of porcine in vitro fertilization (IVF). This work proposes an IVF system based on the in vivo oviductal periovulatory environment. The combined use of an IVF medium at the pH found in the oviduct in the periovulatory stage (pHe 8.0), a mixture of oviductal components (cumulus-oocyte complex secretions, follicular fluid and oviductal periovulatory fluid, OFCM) and a device that interposes a physical barrier between gametes (an inverted screw cap of a Falcon tube, S) was compared with the classical system at pHe 7.4, in a 4-well multidish (W) lacking oviduct biological components. The results showed that the new IVF system reduced polyspermy and increased the final efficiency by more than 48%. This higher efficiency seems to be a direct consequence of a reduced sperm motility and lower capacitating status and it could be related to the action of OFCM components over gametes and to the increase in the sperm intracellular pH (pHi) caused by the higher pHe used. In conclusion, a medium at pH 8.0 supplemented with OFCM reduces polyspermy and improves porcine IVF output.
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