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1
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Zhang P, Wang C, Liu X, Zhang M, Fu Q, Pan L, Huang Y. Integrated Quantitative Proteomics and Phosphoproteomics Analysis Reveals the Dynamic Process of Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Spermatogenesis. Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14753. [PMID: 39697112 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14753] [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: 07/03/2024] [Revised: 09/22/2024] [Accepted: 11/27/2024] [Indexed: 12/20/2024]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a highly complex and tightly regulated cellular differentiation process closely related to the productive performance of male livestock. We do not yet have a clear understanding of the spermatogenesis mechanism of buffalo. In this study, spermatogonia, spermatocytes and spermatids were analysed by flow cytometry. Quantitative proteomic and phosphoproteomic studies were performed on different spermatogenic cells using tandem mass tagging technology and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. A total of 219 differentially expressed proteins (involved in focal adhesions and actin cytoskeleton pathways) and 71 phosphoproteins (involved in RNA transport and adhesion junction pathways) were obtained. Through trend analysis, a dynamic profile of protein expression was obtained, enriched to the main biological processes at different stages of spermatogenesis. By immunohistochemical localisation analysis, it was found that MACROH2A2, TOP2A, LMNA, LMNA (pS392), VIM and VIM (pS56) had specific localisation in testis cells. Network analysis of kinase-substrate phosphorylation sites showed that AKT1 is the most active kinase, LMNA is regulated by most kinases and AKT1 can catalyse the phosphorylation of LMNA. This study provides a reference for studying the molecular mechanism of buffalo spermatogenesis and helps clarify the regulatory mechanism of protein translation and post-translational modification during mammalian spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Zhang
- Institute of Biological Science and Technology, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Chenyang Wang
- Department of Cell and Genetics, College of Basic Medicine, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Xuyang Liu
- Department of Cell and Genetics, College of Basic Medicine, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Ming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Qiang Fu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Animal Reproduction Institute, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Limei Pan
- Key Laboratory of Guangxi for High-Quality Formation and Utilization of Dao-di Herbs, Guangxi Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants, Nanning, China
| | - Yulin Huang
- Department of Cell and Genetics, College of Basic Medicine, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine, Nanning, Guangxi, China
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2
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Khan MZ, Chen W, Naz S, Liu X, Liang H, Chen Y, Kou X, Liu Y, Ashraf I, Han Y, Peng Y, Wang C, Zahoor M. Determinant genetic markers of semen quality in livestock. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1456305. [PMID: 39429738 PMCID: PMC11489916 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1456305] [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: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 10/22/2024] Open
Abstract
The reproductive efficiency of livestock is crucial for agricultural productivity and economic sustainability. One critical factor in successful fertilization and the viability of offspring is the quality of semen. Poor semen quality, especially in frozen-thawed semen used in artificial insemination (AI) have been shown to influence conception outcomes, resulting a negative impact on livestock production. Recent advancements in genetic research have identified specific markers linked to semen quality traits in various livestock species, such as cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, buffalo, and equines. These genetic markers are essential in screening males for breeding suitability, which in turn enhances selective breeding programs. Understanding these markers is crucial for improving reproductive performance and increasing productivity in livestock populations. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the genetic markers associated with semen quality in key livestock. It explores the underlying genetic mechanisms and their practical implications in animal breeding and management. The review underscores the importance of integrating genetic insights into breeding strategies to optimize reproductive efficiency and ensure the sustainable development of livestock industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Zahoor Khan
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Wenting Chen
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Saima Naz
- Department of Zoology, Government Sadiq College Women University, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Xiaotong Liu
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Huili Liang
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Yinghui Chen
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Xiyan Kou
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Yihong Liu
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Iqra Ashraf
- Department of Zoology, Government Sadiq College Women University, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Ying Han
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Yongdong Peng
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Changfa Wang
- Liaocheng Research Institute of Donkey High-Efficiency Breeding and Ecological Feeding, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Muhammad Zahoor
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Chen YL, Li CY, Wang PH, Wang R, Zhuo X, Zhang Y, Wang SJ, Sun ZP, Chen JH, Cheng X, Zhang ZJ, Ren CH, Wang QJ. Comparative Proteomic Identification of Ram Sperm before and after In Vitro Capacitation. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2363. [PMID: 39199899 PMCID: PMC11350773 DOI: 10.3390/ani14162363] [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: 07/14/2024] [Revised: 08/10/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Ram sperm undergo a sequence of physiological and biochemical changes collectively termed as capacitation to perform oocyte fertilization. However, the protein changes induced by capacitation remain in need of further exploration. Thus, the present study investigated the comparative proteomic profiling in ram spermatozoa under non-capacitating (NC) and capacitating (CAP) conditions in vitro using a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry combined with tandem mass tag labeling strategy. As a results, 2050 proteins were identified and quantified; 348 of them were differentially abundant, with 280 of the proteins upregulated and 68 of the proteins downregulated between the CAP and NC spermatozoa, respectively. Functional enrichment analysis indicated that the differentially abundant proteins Prune Exopolyphosphatase 1, Galactose-1-Phosphate Uridylyltransferase, and ATP Citrate Lyase were strictly related to energy production and conversion, and Phosphoglycolate phosphatase, Glucosamine-6-Phosphate Deaminase 1 and 2 were related to metabolism, RNA processing, and vesicular transport pathways. Furthermore, the networks of protein-protein interaction indicated a strong interaction among these differential proteins in annotated pathways such as ubiquitin and transport metabolism. Our findings indicate that capacitation progress might be regulated through different pathways, providing insights into mechanisms involved in ram sperm capacitation and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Le Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; (Y.-L.C.); (P.-H.W.); (R.W.); (X.Z.); (S.-J.W.); (Z.-P.S.); (J.-H.C.); (X.C.); (Z.-J.Z.)
| | - Chun-Yan Li
- Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming 650224, China; (C.-Y.L.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Peng-Hui Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; (Y.-L.C.); (P.-H.W.); (R.W.); (X.Z.); (S.-J.W.); (Z.-P.S.); (J.-H.C.); (X.C.); (Z.-J.Z.)
| | - Ru Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; (Y.-L.C.); (P.-H.W.); (R.W.); (X.Z.); (S.-J.W.); (Z.-P.S.); (J.-H.C.); (X.C.); (Z.-J.Z.)
| | - Xian Zhuo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; (Y.-L.C.); (P.-H.W.); (R.W.); (X.Z.); (S.-J.W.); (Z.-P.S.); (J.-H.C.); (X.C.); (Z.-J.Z.)
| | - Yan Zhang
- Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming 650224, China; (C.-Y.L.); (Y.Z.)
| | - Shi-Jia Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; (Y.-L.C.); (P.-H.W.); (R.W.); (X.Z.); (S.-J.W.); (Z.-P.S.); (J.-H.C.); (X.C.); (Z.-J.Z.)
| | - Zhi-Peng Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; (Y.-L.C.); (P.-H.W.); (R.W.); (X.Z.); (S.-J.W.); (Z.-P.S.); (J.-H.C.); (X.C.); (Z.-J.Z.)
| | - Jia-Hong Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; (Y.-L.C.); (P.-H.W.); (R.W.); (X.Z.); (S.-J.W.); (Z.-P.S.); (J.-H.C.); (X.C.); (Z.-J.Z.)
- Center of Agriculture Technology Cooperation and Promotion of Dingyuan County, Chuzhou 233200, China
| | - Xiao Cheng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; (Y.-L.C.); (P.-H.W.); (R.W.); (X.Z.); (S.-J.W.); (Z.-P.S.); (J.-H.C.); (X.C.); (Z.-J.Z.)
| | - Zi-Jun Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; (Y.-L.C.); (P.-H.W.); (R.W.); (X.Z.); (S.-J.W.); (Z.-P.S.); (J.-H.C.); (X.C.); (Z.-J.Z.)
- Center of Agriculture Technology Cooperation and Promotion of Dingyuan County, Chuzhou 233200, China
| | - Chun-Huan Ren
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; (Y.-L.C.); (P.-H.W.); (R.W.); (X.Z.); (S.-J.W.); (Z.-P.S.); (J.-H.C.); (X.C.); (Z.-J.Z.)
- Center of Agriculture Technology Cooperation and Promotion of Dingyuan County, Chuzhou 233200, China
| | - Qiang-Jun Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei 230036, China; (Y.-L.C.); (P.-H.W.); (R.W.); (X.Z.); (S.-J.W.); (Z.-P.S.); (J.-H.C.); (X.C.); (Z.-J.Z.)
- Center of Agriculture Technology Cooperation and Promotion of Dingyuan County, Chuzhou 233200, China
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Batra V, Dagar K, Diwakar MP, Kumaresan A, Kumar R, Datta TK. The proteomic landscape of sperm surface deciphers its maturational and functional aspects in buffalo. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1413817. [PMID: 39005499 PMCID: PMC11239549 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1413817] [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: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Buffalo is a dominant dairy animal in many agriculture-based economies. However, the poor reproductive efficiency (low conception rate) of the buffalo bulls constrains the realization of its full production potential. This in turn leads to economic and welfare issues, especially for the marginal farmers in such economies. The mammalian sperm surface proteins have been implicated in the regulation of survival and function of the spermatozoa in the female reproductive tract (FRT). Nonetheless, the lack of specific studies on buffalo sperm surface makes it difficult for researchers to explore and investigate the role of these proteins in the regulation of mechanisms associated with sperm protection, survival, and function. This study aimed to generate a buffalo sperm surface-specific proteomic fingerprint (LC-MS/MS) and to predict the functional roles of the identified proteins. The three treatments used to remove sperm surface protein viz. Elevated salt, phosphoinositide phospholipase C (PI-PLC) and in vitro capacitation led to the identification of N = 1,695 proteins (≥1 high-quality peptide-spectrum matches (PSMs), p < 0.05, and FDR<0.01). Almost half of these proteins (N = 873) were found to be involved in crucial processes relevant in the context of male fertility, e.g., spermatogenesis, sperm maturation and protection in the FRT, and gamete interaction or fertilization, amongst others. The extensive sperm-surface proteomic repertoire discovered in this study is unparalleled vis-à-vis the depth of identification of reproduction-specific cell-surface proteins and can provide a potential framework for further studies on the functional aspects of buffalo spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vipul Batra
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
- Animal Genomics Lab, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Komal Dagar
- Animal Genomics Lab, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Maharana Pratap Diwakar
- Cell Science and Molecular Biology Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Arumugam Kumaresan
- Southern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Animal Genomics Lab, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Tirtha Kumar Datta
- Animal Genomics Lab, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
- ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, India
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Chen Y, Meng F, Liu Y, Zhu C, Ling Y, Liu C, Li L, Liu Y, He X, Cao J, Zhang Y. Effects of resveratrol on DLD and NDUFB9 decrease in frozen semen of Mongolian sheep. Cryobiology 2024; 114:104791. [PMID: 37956782 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2023.104791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
Mongolian sheep are a breed of sheep in China known for their excellent cold and drought resistance. Sperm from Mongolian sheep are often cryopreserved to improve breeding outcomes. However, cryopreservation of sperm often results in issues such as reduced vitality and altered morphology. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the impact of the cryoprotectant resveratrol on frozen sperm from Mongolian sheep, specifically examining its effects on key proteins during cryopreservation. In this study, sperm samples were obtained from three adult Mongolian rams and processed through semen centrifugation. The sperm motility parameters of Fresh Sperm Group (FR), Resveratrol added before freezing group (FF-Res), Resveratrol-free frozen sperm group (FT), and Resveratrol added after freeze-thawing group (FA-Res) were determined. The tandem mass tags (TMT) peptide labeling combined with LC-MS/MS was used for proteomic analysis of the total proteins in FR and FT groups. A total of 2651 proteins were identified, among which 41 proteins were upregulated and 48 proteins were downregulated after freezing. In-depth bioinformatics analysis of differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) revealed their close association with the tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) and oxidative phosphorylation pathway. The energy-related protein dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase (DLD) and the reactive oxygen species (ROS)-related protein NADH dehydrogenase 1 beta subcomplex subunit 9 (NDUFB9) exhibited significant decreases, indicating their potential role as key proteins contributing to reduced sperm vitality. The study demonstrated that the addition of resveratrol (RES) to semen could elevate the expression levels of DLD and NDUFB9 proteins. This study represents the pioneering proteomic analysis of Mongolian ram sperm before and after cryopreservation, establishing the significance of DLD and NDUFB9 as key proteins influencing the decline in vitality following cryopreservation of Mongolian ram sperm. These findings clarify that resveratrol can enhance the levels of DLD and NDUFB9 proteins in cryopreserved Mongolian ram sperm, consequently enhancing their vitality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuting Chen
- College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Key Laboratory of Biomanufacturing, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Endemic Livestock Biotechnology Innovation Team, China
| | - Fanhua Meng
- College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Key Laboratory of Biomanufacturing, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Endemic Livestock Biotechnology Innovation Team, China.
| | - Yang Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Key Laboratory of Biomanufacturing, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Endemic Livestock Biotechnology Innovation Team, China
| | - Chunxiao Zhu
- College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Key Laboratory of Biomanufacturing, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Endemic Livestock Biotechnology Innovation Team, China
| | - Yu Ling
- College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Key Laboratory of Biomanufacturing, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Endemic Livestock Biotechnology Innovation Team, China
| | - Chunxia Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Key Laboratory of Biomanufacturing, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Endemic Livestock Biotechnology Innovation Team, China
| | - Lu Li
- College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Key Laboratory of Biomanufacturing, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Endemic Livestock Biotechnology Innovation Team, China
| | - Yongbin Liu
- Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, 010021, China
| | - Xiaolong He
- Inner Mongolia Academy of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Sciences, Hohhot, 010031, China
| | - Junwei Cao
- College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Key Laboratory of Biomanufacturing, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Endemic Livestock Biotechnology Innovation Team, China.
| | - Yanru Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Key Laboratory of Biomanufacturing, Hohhot, 010018, China; Inner Mongolia Endemic Livestock Biotechnology Innovation Team, China.
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Ribeiro JC, Bernardino RL, Gonçalves A, Barros A, Calamita G, Alves MG, Oliveira PF. Aquaporin-7-Mediated Glycerol Permeability Is Linked to Human Sperm Motility in Asthenozoospermia and during Sperm Capacitation. Cells 2023; 12:2003. [PMID: 37566082 PMCID: PMC10416866 DOI: 10.3390/cells12152003] [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: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Osmoregulation plays a vital role in sperm function, encompassing spermatogenesis, maturation, and fertilization. Aquaglyceroporins, a subclass of aquaporins (AQPs), facilitate the transport of water and glycerol across the sperm membrane, with glycerol serving as an important substrate for sperm bioenergetics. This study aimed to elucidate the significance of AQP-mediated glycerol permeability in sperm motility. The presence and localization of AQP3 and AQP7 in human sperm were assessed using immunofluorescence. Subsequently, the glycerol permeability of spermatozoa obtained from normozoospermic individuals (n = 30) was measured, using stopped-flow light scattering, after incubation with specific aquaporin inhibitors targeting AQP3 (DFP00173), AQP7 (Z433927330), or general aquaglyceroporin (phloretin). Sperm from asthenozoospermic men (n = 30) were utilized to evaluate the AQP7-mediated glycerol permeability, and to compare it with that of normozoospermic men. Furthermore, hypermotile capacitated sperm cells were examined, to determine the AQP7 expression and membrane glycerol permeability. AQP3 was predominantly observed in the tail region, while AQP7 was present in the head, midpiece, and tail of human sperm. Our findings indicate that AQP7 plays a key role in glycerol permeability, as the inhibition of AQP7 resulted in a 55% decrease in glycerol diffusion across the sperm membrane. Importantly, this glycerol permeability impairment was evident in spermatozoa from asthenozoospermic individuals, suggesting the dysregulation of AQP7-mediated glycerol transport, despite similar AQP7 levels. Conversely, the AQP7 expression increased in capacitated sperm, compared to non-capacitated sperm. Hence, AQP7-mediated permeability may serve as a valuable indicator of sperm motility, and be crucial in sperm function.
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Affiliation(s)
- João C. Ribeiro
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.R.); (R.L.B.)
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- LAQV-REQUIMTE and Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3010-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Raquel L. Bernardino
- Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (J.C.R.); (R.L.B.)
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Gonçalves
- Centre for Reproductive Genetics Professor Alberto Barros, 4100-012 Porto, Portugal (A.B.)
| | - Alberto Barros
- Centre for Reproductive Genetics Professor Alberto Barros, 4100-012 Porto, Portugal (A.B.)
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Giuseppe Calamita
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy;
| | - Marco G. Alves
- iBiMED-Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Pedro F. Oliveira
- LAQV-REQUIMTE and Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3010-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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Sahoo B, Mishra B, Bhaskar R, Vikas YNV, Umesh A, Guttula PK, Gupta MK. Analyzing the effect of heparin on in vitro capacitation and spermatozoal RNA population in goats. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 241:124502. [PMID: 37080410 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124502] [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: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Heparin is a glycosaminoglycan polymer that is commonly used as an anticoagulant. Heparin also induces in vitro capacitation in spermatozoa, although its molecular mechanism is elusive. This study investigated the effect of heparin on in vitro capacitation and spermatozoal RNA (spRNA) population in goats. Goat spermatozoa were treated with 20 μM heparin for 0-6 h and evaluated for motility, capacitation, acrosome reaction, and spRNA population by RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). It was observed that heparin enhanced sperm motility up to 6 h of incubation (p < 0.05). Heparin also induced capacitation and acrosome reaction within 4 h. RNA-seq identified 1254 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between heparin-treated and control spermatozoa. Most DEGs (1251 nos.) were upregulated and included 1090 protein-coding genes. A few genes (PRND, ITPR1, LLCFC1, and CHRM2) showed >5-fold increased expression in heparin-treated spermatozoa compared to the control. The upregulated genes were found to be involved in cAMP-PKA, PI3-Akt, calcium, MAPK signaling, and oxidative stress pathways. DCFDA staining confirmed the increased oxidative stress in heparin-treated spermatozoa compared to the control (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the results of the present study suggest that heparin enhances sperm motility and induces capacitation by upregulation of the spRNA population and oxidative stress pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijayalaxmi Sahoo
- Gene Manipulation Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha 769 008, India
| | - Balaram Mishra
- Gene Manipulation Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha 769 008, India
| | - Rakesh Bhaskar
- Gene Manipulation Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha 769 008, India
| | - Y N V Vikas
- Gene Manipulation Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha 769 008, India
| | - Anushri Umesh
- Gene Manipulation Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha 769 008, India
| | - Praveen Kumar Guttula
- Gene Manipulation Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha 769 008, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar Gupta
- Gene Manipulation Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology and Medical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Rourkela, Odisha 769 008, India.
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8
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Zhang R, Guo X, Liang C, Pei J, Bao P, Yin M, Wu F, Chu M, Yan P. Identification and Validation of Yak ( Bos grunniens) Frozen-Thawed Sperm Proteins Associated with Capacitation and the Acrosome Reaction. J Proteome Res 2022; 21:2754-2770. [PMID: 36251486 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.2c00528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
To achieve fertilization, mammalian spermatozoa must undergo capacitation and the acrosome reaction (AR) within the female reproductive tract. However, the effects of cryopreservation on sperm maturation and fertilizing potential have yet to be established. To gain insight into changes in protein levels within sperm cells prepared for use in the context of fertilization, a comprehensive quantitative proteomic profiling approach was used to analyze frozen-thawed Ashidan yak spermatozoa under three sequential conditions: density gradient centrifugation-based purification, incubation in a capacitation medium, and treatment with the calcium ionophore A23187 to facilitate AR induction. In total, 3280 proteins were detected in these yak sperm samples, of which 3074 were quantified, with 68 and 32 being significantly altered following sperm capacitation and AR induction. Differentially abundant capacitation-related proteins were enriched in the metabolism and PPAR signaling pathways, while differentially abundant AR-related proteins were enriched in the AMPK signaling pathway. These data confirmed a role for superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) as a regulator of sperm capacitation while also offering indirect evidence that heat shock protein 90 alpha (HSP90AA1) regulates the AR. Together, these findings offer a means whereby sperm fertility-related marker proteins can be effectively identified. Data are available via Proteome Xchange with identifier PXD035038.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renzheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Xian Guo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Chunnian Liang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Jie Pei
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Pengjia Bao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Mancai Yin
- Yak Breeding and Extension Service Center in Qinghai Province, Xining 810000, China
| | - Fude Wu
- Yak Breeding and Extension Service Center in Qinghai Province, Xining 810000, China
| | - Min Chu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
| | - Ping Yan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730050, China
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9
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Zhang R, Liang C, Guo X, Bao P, Pei J, Wu F, Yin M, Chu M, Yan P. Quantitative phosphoproteomics analyses reveal the regulatory mechanisms related to frozen-thawed sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction in yak (Bos grunniens). Front Physiol 2022; 13:1013082. [PMID: 36277216 PMCID: PMC9583833 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1013082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian spermatozoa are not mature after ejaculation and must undergo additional functional and structural changes within female reproductive tracts to achieve subsequent fertilization, including both capacitation and acrosome reaction (AR), which are dominated by post-translational modifications (PTMs), especially phosphorylation. However, the mechanism of protein phosphorylation during frozen-thawed sperm capacitation and AR has not been well studied. In this study, the phosphoproteomics approach was employed based on tandem mass tag (TMT) labeling combined with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) strategy to analyze frozen-thawed sperm in Ashidan yak under three sequential conditions (density gradient centrifugation-based purification, incubation in the capacitation medium and induction of AR processes by the calcium ionophore A23187 treatment). The identification of 1,377 proteins with 5,509 phosphorylation sites revealed changes in phosphorylation levels of sperm-specific proteins involved in regulation of spermatogenesis, sperm motility, energy metabolism, cilium movement, capacitation and AR. Some phosphorylated proteins, such as AKAP3, AKAP4, SPA17, PDMD11, CABYR, PRKAR1A, and PRKAR2A were found to regulate yak sperm capacitation and AR though the cAMP/PKA signaling pathway cascades. Notably, the phosphorylation level of SPA17 at Y156 increased in capacitated sperm, suggesting that it is also a novel functional protein besides AKAPs during sperm capacitation. Furthermore, the results of this study suggested that the phosphorylation of PRKAR1A and PRKAR2A, and the dephosphorylation of CABYR both play key regulatory role in yak sperm AR process. Protein-protein interaction analysis revealed that differentially phosphorylated proteins (AKAP3, AKAP4, FSIP2, PSMD11, CABYR, and TPPP2) related to capacitation and AR process played a key role in protein kinase A binding, sperm motility, reproductive process, cytoskeleton and sperm flagella function. Taken together, these data provide not only a solid foundation for further exploring phosphoproteome of sperm in yak, but an efficient way to identify sperm fertility-related marker phosphorylated proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renzheng Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Chunnian Liang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xian Guo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Pengjia Bao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jie Pei
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Fude Wu
- Yak Breeding and Extension Service Center in in Qinghai Province, Xining, China
| | - Mancai Yin
- Yak Breeding and Extension Service Center in in Qinghai Province, Xining, China
| | - Min Chu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Min Chu, ; Ping Yan,
| | - Ping Yan
- Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics and Breeding on Tibetan Plateau, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Min Chu, ; Ping Yan,
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10
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Bisconti M, Leroy B, Gallagher MT, Senet C, Martinet B, Arcolia V, Wattiez R, Kirkman-Brown JC, Simon JF, Hennebert E. The ribosome inhibitor chloramphenicol induces motility deficits in human spermatozoa: A proteomic approach identifies potentially involved proteins. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:965076. [PMID: 36120567 PMCID: PMC9478589 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.965076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mature spermatozoa are almost completely devoid of cytoplasm; as such it has long been believed that they do not contain ribosomes and are therefore not capable of synthesising proteins. However, since the 1950s, various studies have shown translational activity within spermatozoa, particularly during their in vitro capacitation. But the type of ribosomes involved (cytoplasmic or mitochondrial) is still debated. Here, we investigate the presence and activity of the two types of ribosomes in mature human spermatozoa. By targeting ribosomal RNAs and proteins, we show that both types of ribosomes are localized in the midpiece as well as in the neck and the base of the head of the spermatozoa. We assessed the impact of cycloheximide (CHX) and chloramphenicol (CP), inhibitors of cytoplasmic and mitochondrial ribosomes, respectively, on different sperm parameters. Neither CHX, nor CP impacted sperm vitality, mitochondrial activity (measured through the ATP content), or capacitation (measured through the content in phosphotyrosines). However, increasing CP concentrations induced a decrease in total and progressive motilities as well as on some kinematic parameters while no effect was observed with CHX. A quantitative proteomic analysis was performed by mass spectrometry in SWATH mode to compare the proteomes of spermatozoa capacitated in the absence or presence of the two ribosome inhibitors. Among the ∼700 proteins identified in the different tested conditions, 3, 3 and 25 proteins presented a modified abundance in the presence of 1 and 2 mg/ml of CHX, and 1 mg/ml of CP, respectively. The observed abundance variations of some CP-down regulated proteins were validated using Multiple-Reaction Monitoring (MRM). Taken together, our results are in favor of an activity of mitochondrial ribosomes. Their inhibition by CP results in a decrease in the abundance of several proteins, at least FUNDC2 and QRICH2, and consequently induces sperm motility deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Bisconti
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Baptiste Leroy
- Laboratory of Proteomics and Microbiology, CISMa, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Meurig T. Gallagher
- Centre for Systems Modelling and Quantitative Biomedicine, University of Birmingham, Centre for Human Reproductive Science, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s National Health Service Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Coralie Senet
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Baptiste Martinet
- Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vanessa Arcolia
- Clinique de Fertilité Régionale de Mons, CHU Ambroise Paré Hospital, Mons, Belgium
| | - Ruddy Wattiez
- Laboratory of Proteomics and Microbiology, CISMa, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Jackson C. Kirkman-Brown
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Centre for Human Reproductive Science, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s National Health Service Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jean-François Simon
- Clinique de Fertilité Régionale de Mons, CHU Ambroise Paré Hospital, Mons, Belgium
| | - Elise Hennebert
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Elise Hennebert,
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11
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Targeted Analysis of HSP70 Isoforms in Human Spermatozoa in the Context of Capacitation and Motility. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23126497. [PMID: 35742939 PMCID: PMC9224233 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126497] [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: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
HSP70s constitute a family of chaperones, some isoforms of which appear to play a role in sperm function. Notably, global proteomic studies analyzing proteins deregulated in asthenozoospermia, a main cause of male infertility characterized by low sperm motility, showed the dysregulation of some HSP70 isoforms. However, to date, no clear trend has been established since the variations in the abundance of HSP70 isoforms differed between studies. The HSPA2 isoform has been reported to play a key role in fertilization, but its dysregulation and possible relocation during capacitation, a maturation process making the spermatozoon capable of fertilizing an oocyte, is debated in the literature. The aim of the present study was to investigate the fate of all sperm HSP70 isoforms during capacitation and in relation to sperm motility. Using Multiple-Reaction Monitoring (MRM) mass spectrometry, we showed that the relative abundance of all detected isoforms was stable between non-capacitated and capacitated spermatozoa. Immunofluorescence using two different antibodies also demonstrated the stability of HSP70 isoform localization during capacitation. We also investigated spermatozoa purified from 20 sperm samples displaying various levels of total and progressive sperm motility. We showed that the abundance of HSP70 isoforms is not correlated to sperm total or progressive motility.
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12
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Zhang R, Chu M, Chen Y, Yan P. Heparin-induced and caffeine or ouabain supplemented capacitation of frozen-thawed yak (Bos grunniens) spermatozoa. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57:587-597. [PMID: 35171518 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Our goal was to investigate heparin-induced capacitation of frozen-thawed yak sperm, and to assess the effects of caffeine or ouabain supplementation with heparin on sperm capacitation. Sperm were incubated with varying heparin concentrations, namely, 0, 12.5, 25, 50 and 100 μg/ml, for 0, 15, 30 and 60min. In every treatment, sperm capacitation was assessed using microscopic examination of the sperm acrosomal status and western blot analysis of the levels of tyrosine phosphorylation (Tyr-P). Based on our results, the optimal condition for frozen-thawed yak sperm capacitation was a 30min exposure to 50 μg/ml heparin. Next, we incubated frozen-thawed yak sperm with 50ug/ml heparin, along with varying concentrations of caffeine supplementation, namely, 0, 2.5, 5, and 10mM for 30min. Interestingly, caffeine significantly increased yak sperm acrosome reaction (AR) and Tyr-P (p < 0.05). The optimal caffeine concentration was 5mM, followed by 2.5mM and 10mM, with the lowest AR and Tyr-P found in sperm cells that did not receive any caffeine. To examine the effects of ouabain on sperm capacitation, we next incubated frozen-thawed yak sperm with 50 μg/ml heparin, along with varying concentrations of ouabain, namely, 0, 25, 50, and 100 µM for 30min. We demonstrated that ouabain supplementation did not alter yak sperm AR or Tyr-P in sperm cells, relative to the control (p>0.05). In summary, our findings suggested that caffeine acts synergistically with heparin to increase yak sperm capacitation, but ouabain does not synergize with heparin to promote yak sperm capacitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renzheng Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
| | - Min Chu
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural, Lanzhou, 730050, China
| | - Yiwei Chen
- Key Laboratory of Yak Breeding Engineering Gansu Province, Lanzhou Institute of Husbandry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Agricultural, Lanzhou, 730050, China
| | - Ping Yan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, China
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13
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Impact of Cryopreservation on Motile Subpopulations and Tyrosine-Phosphorylated Regions of Ram Spermatozoa during Capacitating Conditions. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10111213. [PMID: 34827206 PMCID: PMC8614982 DOI: 10.3390/biology10111213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Spermatozoa go through diverse changes to achieve their fertilizing potential (capacitation) and develop a specific motility pattern (hyperactivation). However, to ensure a greater reproductive success, not all the spermatozoa present in an ejaculate react equally or at the same time. Therefore, a comparative analysis was performed in the present study to improve our current understanding about how cryopreservation may affect the heterogeneous nature of fresh ejaculates during these two events. Among the four motile sperm subpopulations identified in fresh and frozen-thawed ram semen, one of them developed a hyperactivated-like movement and was the main group involve in those changes associated with sperm capacitation based on the marked increase and the positive correlation with mitochondrial activity and tyrosine phosphorylation, two relevant parameters that usually increase during capacitation. In addition, cryopreservation altered the distribution of the motile sperm subpopulations. Although the subpopulation with hyperactivated-like movement increased at the beginning of incubation in frozen-thawed samples, this subpopulation together with the subpopulation of rapid and progressive spermatozoa were replaced after a prolonged incubation by the subpopulation of slow spermatozoa with the lowest mitochondrial activity, which clearly indicate the reduction in sperm quality. These findings will aid to optimize the current cryopreservation and in vitro fertilization protocols. Abstract The heterogeneous nature of ejaculates highlights the relevance of studying the behavior of different sperm subpopulations. Changes in sperm motility and the increase in tyrosine phosphorylation are key events that usually occur during capacitation and can be modified by the cryopreservation process. However, the relationship between both events remains poorly defined throughout capacitation in the different sperm subpopulations. Fresh and frozen-thawed spermatozoa were incubated in capacitating (CAP) and non-capacitating (NC) media up to 240 min. Sperm kinematics, tyrosine phosphorylation and mitochondrial activity were measured by the CASA system and imaging flow cytometry. Four motile sperm subpopulations (SP) were identified in fresh and frozen-thawed ram semen after the cluster analysis. Incubation under CAP conditions over time led to greater changes in the percentage of spermatozoa included in each subpopulation compared to NC conditions, being different between fresh and frozen-thawed spermatozoa. The SP1, characterized by slow spermatozoa, progressively increased after 15 min in frozen-thawed samples incubated in both media but not in fresh ones. The SP4, characterized by fast and non-linear spermatozoa, showed a marked increase during CAP, but not under NC conditions, occurring more rapidly in frozen-thawed spermatozoa. This subpopulation (SP4) was also the only one positively and strongly correlated with mitochondrial activity and all phosphorylated sperm regions during capacitation, either in fresh or frozen-thawed samples. Our results indicated that in vitro capacitation induced significant changes in the distribution of motile sperm subpopulations, being affected by cryopreservation. Notwithstanding, the subpopulation which probably represents hyperactivated-like spermatozoa (SP4) also increased in frozen-thawed samples, occurring faster and simultaneously to the increment of mitochondrial activity and tyrosine phosphorylation of different sperm regions.
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14
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Feng Y, Wang R, Su D, Zhai Y, Wang L, Yu L, Zhang Y, Ma X, Ma F. Identifying new sperm Western blot loading controls. Andrologia 2021; 53:e14226. [PMID: 34478154 DOI: 10.1111/and.14226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The measurement of protein expression level plays a pivotal role in both biological and medical studies. Housekeeping proteins, generally encoded by housekeeping genes are used as loading control proteins to normalize protein expression. Obviously, proper reference standards are essential for adequate analysis of protein expression. However, our study showed that the widely used normalisation proteins, whose expression levels varied greatly among sperm samples, were unsuitable for data standardisation. To uncover the proteins steadily expressed in sperm, we analysed several published transcriptome data of sperm. Seven proteins whose expression levels were relatively stable (co-efficient variation values less than 0.35) were selected and further evaluated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western Blot (WB) and immunocytochemistry. Our results showed that among the classical housekeeping proteins, only β-tubulin remained constant in sperm samples from 85 individuals. Compared with other classical housekeeping proteins such as glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase, actin and histone H3, Cullin-1 (CUL1) and F-box only protein 7 (FBXO7) seemed to be more suitable to be used as internal controls for WB in sperm protein studies. Combined with the locations of these proteins, CUL1 and FBXO7 were suggested to be used as a housekeeping protein for total proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Feng
- West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruohan Wang
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dongmei Su
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yujia Zhai
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lin Yu
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Human Sperm Bank, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xue Ma
- Department of Pediatric Urology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fang Ma
- Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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15
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Zhao Y, Wang Y, Guo F, Lu B, Sun J, Wang J, Ren Z. iTRAQ-based proteomic analysis of sperm reveals candidate proteins that affect the quality of spermatozoa from boars on plateaus. Proteome Sci 2021; 19:9. [PMID: 34330296 PMCID: PMC8323236 DOI: 10.1186/s12953-021-00177-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Tibetan pigs (TP) exhibit heritable adaptations to their hypoxic environments as a result of natural selection. However, candidate proteins that affect the sperm quality of boars on plateaus have not yet been clearly investigated. Methods In this study, to reveal the candidate proteins that affect the quality of spermatozoa of boars on plateaus, we analyzed the sperm quality using computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) system and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. We also compared the proteomes of sperm proteomes between TP and Yorkshire pigs (YP) raised at high altitudes using the isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) in combination with the liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) proteomic method, and confirmed the relative expression levels of the four proteins by western blotting. Results The sperm quality of the TP was superior to that of the YP on plateaus. Of the 1,555 quantified proteins, 318 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified. Gene ontology (GO) analysis revealed that the DEPs were predominantly associated with the sorbitol metabolic process, removal of superoxide radicals, cellular response to superoxide, response to superoxide and regulation of the mitotic spindle assembly. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways were mainly enriched in pathways involved in the regulation of the actin cytoskeleton, glutathione metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation, and estrogen signaling. Based on the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, we identified 8 candidate proteins (FN1, EGF, HSP90B1, CFL1, GPX4, NDUFA6, VDAC2, and CP) that might play important roles and affect the sperm quality of boars on plateaus. Moreover, the relative expression levels of four proteins (CFL1, EGF, FN1, and GPX4) were confirmed by western blot analysis. Conclusions Our study revealed 8 candidate proteins (FN1, EGF, HSP90B1, CFL1, GPX4, NDUFA6, VDAC2, and CP) that affect the sperm quality of boar on plateaus and provide a reference for further studies on improving sperm quality and the molecular breeding of boars on plateaus. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12953-021-00177-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanling Zhao
- College of Animal Science, Tibet Agricultural and Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi, Tibet, 860000, P.R. China
| | - Yaomei Wang
- College of Animal Science, Tibet Agricultural and Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi, Tibet, 860000, P.R. China
| | - Feipeng Guo
- College of Animal Science, Tibet Agricultural and Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi, Tibet, 860000, P.R. China
| | - Bo Lu
- College of Animal Science, Tibet Agricultural and Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi, Tibet, 860000, P.R. China
| | - Jiale Sun
- College of Animal Science, Tibet Agricultural and Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi, Tibet, 860000, P.R. China
| | - Jianzhou Wang
- College of Animal Science, Tibet Agricultural and Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi, Tibet, 860000, P.R. China
| | - Zili Ren
- College of Animal Science, Tibet Agricultural and Animal Husbandry University, Linzhi, Tibet, 860000, P.R. China.
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16
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Ge C, Feng N, Hu C, Tang Y, Li X, Wang X. Transwell isolation and difference analysis of capacitated boar sperm proteins based on the iTRAQ technique. Theriogenology 2021; 168:13-24. [PMID: 33839467 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.03.010] [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: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
During capacitation, proteins in boar sperm are released to maintain the stability of their own state and membrane structure. No studies have analyzed the differences between retained proteins and released proteins during sperm capacitation. In the present study, a Transwell chamber and polycarbonate membrane were used to separate the proteins of boar sperm and their released proteins. Isotopically labeled relative and absolute quantification (iTRAQ) was used to analyze each compartment protein. A total of 108 differential proteins were identified in the upper and lower chambers of the Transwell, among which 27 were significantly upregulated (p-value≤0.05 and |log2 (fold change)|≥1) and 81 were significantly downregulated (p-value≤0.05 and |log2 (fold change)|≤1). These differential proteins were mainly involved in biological processes (e.g., the regulation of cysteine peptidase activity, transmembrane transportation, ion transportation and ATP synthesis) and major signaling pathways (e.g., glutathione/galactose metabolism, cellular adhesion and PI3K-Akt), and most of them interacted with each other to some extent. In conclusion, retained proteins and released proteins of capacitated sperm were effectively separated using a Transwell chamber, and differential proteins were successfully identified from among the proteins. Bioinformatics analysis suggested that these differential proteins affect sperm capacitation mainly by adjusting sperm energy metabolism, motion characteristics and acrosome membrane status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenling Ge
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
| | - Ni Feng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
| | - Chuanhuo Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
| | - Yinsheng Tang
- Guangxi Work Station of Livestock & Poultry Breed Improvement, Nanning, 530001, China.
| | - Xun Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
| | - Xiaoye Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China.
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17
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Elucidating the processes and pathways enriched in buffalo sperm proteome in regulating semen quality. Cell Tissue Res 2020; 383:881-903. [PMID: 33151454 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03303-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Sperm carries a reservoir of proteins regulating the molecular functions to attain functional competence. Semen samples collected from buffalo bulls were assessed for sperm functional attributes (n = 11) and proteome profiling (n = 6). Sperm proteins were extracted and profiled by employing LC-MS/MS. Overall, the buffalo sperm contained 1365 proteins, of which 458 were common between the groups. The unique proteins were 477 and 430 in good and poor quality semen, respectively. In the whole proteome of buffalo sperm, sexual reproduction with phosphatidylethanolamine-binding protein1 (PEBP1), fetuin-B (FETUB) and acrosin (ACR) was the most enriched (p = 8.44E-19) biological process, also with thermogenesis (p = 0.003), oocyte meiosis (p = 0.007) and vascular smooth muscle contraction (p = 0.009) apart from metabolic pathways. In good quality semen, mesenchyme migration (p = 1.24E-07) and morphogenesis (p = 0.001) were abundant biological processes. In good quality semen, the fluid shear stress (p = 0.01) and, in poor quality semen, valine, leucine and isoleucine degradation (p = 3.8E-05) pathways were enriched. In good quality semen, 7 proteins were significantly (p < 0.05) upregulated and 33 proteins were significantly (p < 0.05) downregulated. On validating the abundantly expressed sperm proteins, serine protease inhibitor Kazal-type 2-like (SPINK2; 2.17-fold) and neddylin (NEDD8; 1.13-fold) were upregulated and YBX2 was downregulated (0.41-fold) in good quality semen as compared with poor quality semen (1-fold). The present findings revealed the importance of sperm proteins in oocyte maturation, fertilization process and early embryonic development. The variations in the proteomic composition can be used as potential markers for the selection of breeding bulls.
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Castillo J, Bogle OA, Jodar M, Torabi F, Delgado-Dueñas D, Estanyol JM, Ballescà JL, Miller D, Oliva R. Proteomic Changes in Human Sperm During Sequential in vitro Capacitation and Acrosome Reaction. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:295. [PMID: 31824947 PMCID: PMC6879431 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The male gamete is not completely mature after ejaculation and requires further events in the female genital tract to acquire fertilizing ability, including the processes of capacitation and acrosome reaction. In order to shed light on protein changes experienced by the sperm cell in preparation for fertilization, a comprehensive quantitative proteomic profiling based on isotopic peptide labeling and liquid chromatography followed by tandem mass spectrometry was performed on spermatozoa from three donors of proven fertility under three sequential conditions: purification with density gradient centrifugation, incubation with capacitation medium, and induction of acrosome reaction by exposure to the calcium ionophore A23187. After applying strict selection criteria for peptide quantification and for statistical analyses, 36 proteins with significant changes in their relative abundance within sperm protein extracts were detected. Moreover, the presence of peptide residues potentially harboring sites for post-translational modification was revealed, suggesting that protein modification may be an important mechanism in sperm maturation. In this regard, increased levels of proteins mainly involved in motility and signaling, both regulated by protein modifiers, were detected in sperm lysates following incubation with capacitation medium. In contrast, less abundant proteins in acrosome-reacted cell lysates did not contain potentially modifiable residues, suggesting the possibility that all those proteins might be relocated or released during the process. Protein-protein interaction analysis revealed a subset of proteins potentially involved in sperm maturation, including the proteins Erlin-2 (ERLIN2), Gamma-glutamyl hydrolase (GGH) and Transmembrane emp24 domain-containing protein 10 (TMED10). These results contribute to the current knowledge of the molecular basis of human fertilization. It should now be possible to further validate the potential role of the detected altered proteins as modulators of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judit Castillo
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Orleigh Adeleccia Bogle
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Meritxell Jodar
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Forough Torabi
- LIGHT Laboratories, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - David Delgado-Dueñas
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Maria Estanyol
- Proteomics Unit, Scientific and Technical Services, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Lluís Ballescà
- Clinic Institute of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Miller
- LIGHT Laboratories, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Rafael Oliva
- Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Research Group, Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clínic, Barcelona, Spain
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Peris-Frau P, Martín-Maestro A, Iniesta-Cuerda M, Sánchez-Ajofrín I, Mateos-Hernández L, Garde JJ, Villar M, Soler AJ. Freezing-Thawing Procedures Remodel the Proteome of Ram Sperm before and after In Vitro Capacitation. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E4596. [PMID: 31533312 PMCID: PMC6769739 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20184596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian sperm must undergo a set of structural and functional changes collectively termed as capacitation to ensure a successful oocyte fertilization. However, capacitation can be compromised by cryopreservation procedures, which alter the proteome and longevity of sperm. To date, how the protein changes induced by cryopreservation could affect the acquisition of sperm fertilizing potential remains unexplored. The present study investigated the protein profile of ram sperm during in vitro capacitation before and after cryopreservation to elucidate the impact of cryopreservation on sperm capacitation at a molecular level. Fresh and cryopreserved ram sperm were incubated under capacitating (CAP) and non-capacitating (NC) conditions for 240 min. The sperm proteome of these four treatments was analyzed and compared at different incubation times using reverse phase liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (RP-LC-MS/MS). The comparison between fresh and cryopreserved sperm suggested that cryopreservation facilitated an apoptosis-stress response and redox process, while the comparison between sperm incubated in CAP and NC conditions showed that capacitation increased those biological processes associated with signaling, metabolism, motility, and reproductive processes. In addition, 14 proteins related to mitochondrial activity, sperm motility, oocyte recognition, signaling, spermatogenesis, and the apoptosis-stress response underwent significant changes in abundance over time when fresh and cryopreserved sperm incubated in CAP and NC conditions were compared. Our results indicate that disturbances in a ram sperm proteome after cryopreservation may alter the quality of sperm and its specific machinery to sustain capacitation under in vitro conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Peris-Frau
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain.
| | - Alicia Martín-Maestro
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain.
| | - María Iniesta-Cuerda
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain.
| | - Irene Sánchez-Ajofrín
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain.
| | - Lourdes Mateos-Hernández
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain.
- UMR BIPAR, INRA, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, ANSES, Université Paris-Est, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
| | - J Julián Garde
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain.
| | - Margarita Villar
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain.
| | - Ana Josefa Soler
- SaBio IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), ETSIAM, Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain.
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Abstract
During ejaculation and deposition in the female genital tract, spermatozoa are exposed to seminal plasma, a mix of secretions primarily from the accessory sex glands. Proteins, which make up the largest contribution to seminal plasma by weight, have been the focus of much interest, in particular the identification of specific proteins both in the plasma and/or found bound to the sperm surface post ejaculation. Global proteomic studies of seminal plasma originating from a range of species over the last 15 years have revealed their hitherto unknown diversity and complexity. Seminal plasma is generally known to aid sperm survival and fertility in a range of species and studies have begun to reveal its link with sperm function and identification, as markers of fertility. This review summarises recent data on proteins found on the sperm surface that originate from seminal plasma and have subsequently been shown to correlate with fertility, with a focus on the pig.
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