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Kyrgiafini MA, Giannoulis T, Chatziparasidou A, Christoforidis N, Mamuris Z. Unveiling the Genetic Complexity of Teratozoospermia: Integrated Genomic Analysis Reveals Novel Insights into lncRNAs' Role in Male Infertility. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15002. [PMID: 37834450 PMCID: PMC10573971 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241915002] [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: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a global health issue, affecting over 20 million men worldwide. Genetic factors are crucial in various male infertility forms, including teratozoospermia. Nonetheless, the genetic causes of male infertility remain largely unexplored. In this study, we employed whole-genome sequencing and RNA expression analysis to detect differentially expressed (DE) long-noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in teratozoospermia, along with mutations that are exclusive to teratozoospermic individuals within these DE lncRNAs regions. Bioinformatic tools were used to assess variants' impact on lncRNA structure, function, and lncRNA-miRNA interactions. Our analysis identified 1166 unique mutations in teratozoospermic men within DE lncRNAs, distinguishing them from normozoospermic men. Among these, 64 variants in 23 lncRNAs showed potential regulatory roles, 7 variants affected 4 lncRNA structures, while 37 variants in 17 lncRNAs caused miRNA target loss or gain. Pathway Enrichment and Gene Ontology analyses of the genes targeted by the affected miRNAs revealed dysregulated pathways in teratozoospermia and a link between male infertility and cancer. This study lists novel variants and lncRNAs associated for the first time with teratozoospermia. These findings pave the way for future studies aiming to enhance diagnosis and therapy in the field of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria-Anna Kyrgiafini
- Laboratory of Genetics, Comparative and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Viopolis, Mezourlo, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| | - Themistoklis Giannoulis
- Laboratory of Biology, Genetics and Bioinformatics, Department of Animal Sciences, University of Thessaly, Gaiopolis, 41336 Larissa, Greece
| | - Alexia Chatziparasidou
- Embryolab IVF Unit, St. 173-175 Ethnikis Antistaseos, Kalamaria, 55134 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Zissis Mamuris
- Laboratory of Genetics, Comparative and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Viopolis, Mezourlo, 41500 Larissa, Greece
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2
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Mostafa T, Abdel-Hamid I, Taymour M, Ali O. Genetic variants in varicocele-related male infertility: a systematic review and future directions. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:632-648. [PMID: 34587863 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2021.1983214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Genetic association studies (GAS) may have the capability to probe the genetic susceptibility alleles in many disorders. This systemic review aimed to assess whether an association exists between gene(s)/allelic variant(s), and varicocele-related male infertility (VRMI). This review included 19 GAS that investigated 26 genes in 1,826 men with varicocele compared to 2,070 healthy men, and 263 infertile men without varicocele. These studies focussed on candidate genes and relevant variants, with glutathione S-transferase gene being the most frequently studied (n = 5) followed by the nitric oxide synthase 3 (NOS3) gene (n = 3) and the phosphoprotein tyrosine phosphatase 1 gene (n = 2). In one study the genes for NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1, sperm protamine, human 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase 1, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, polymerase gamma, heat shock protein 90, mitochondrial DNA, superoxide dismutase 2, transition nuclear protein 1, and transition nuclear protein 2, were assessed. There is no clear indication that any of these polymorphisms are sturdily associated with VRMI. However, three studies established that the polymorphic genotype (GT + TT) for rs1799983 polymorphism of the NOS3 gene is more frequent in varicocele patients. Further endeavours such as standardising reporting, exploring complementary designs, and the use of GWAS technology are justified to help replicate these early findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taymour Mostafa
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ibrahim Abdel-Hamid
- Division of Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Mai Taymour
- Dermatology & Andrology specialist, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Omar Ali
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, 6th October University, Giza, Egypt
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3
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Sharma P, Kaushal N, Saleth LR, Ghavami S, Dhingra S, Kaur P. Oxidative stress-induced apoptosis and autophagy: Balancing the contrary forces in spermatogenesis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166742. [PMID: 37146914 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process in the testis and is a cornerstone of male infertility. The abundance of unsaturated fatty acid and high cell division rate make male germs cells prone to DNA deterioration. ROS-mediated oxidative stress triggers DNA damage, autophagy, and apoptosis in male germ cells, which are critical causative factors that lead to male infertility. The complex connection and molecular crosstalk between apoptosis and autophagy is seen at multifaceted levels that interconnect the signaling pathways of these two processes. Multilevel interaction between apoptosis and autophagy is a seamless state of survival and death in response to various stressors. Interaction between multiple genes and proteins such as the mTor signaling pathway, Atg12 proteins, and the death adapter proteins, such as Beclin 1, p53, and Bcl-2 family proteins, validates such a link between these two phenomena. Testicular cells being epigenetically different from somatic cells, undergo numerous significant epigenetic transitions, and ROS modulates the epigenetic framework of mature sperm. Epigenetic deregulation of apoptosis and autophagy under oxidative stress conditions can cause sperm cell damage. The current review recapitulates the current role of prevailing stressors that generate oxidative stress leading to the induction of apoptosis and autophagy in the male reproductive system. Considering the pathophysiological consequences of ROS-mediated apoptosis and autophagy, a combinatorial approach, including apoptosis inhibition and autophagy activation, a therapeutic strategy to treat male idiopathic infertility. Understanding the crosslink between apoptosis and autophagy under stress conditions in male germ cells may play an essential role in developing therapeutic strategies to treat infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parul Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology, Patiala, Punjab 147004, India
| | - Naveen Kaushal
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Leena Regi Saleth
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2H 2A6, Canada
| | - Saeid Ghavami
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; Research Institute of Hematology and Oncology, Cancer Care Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada; Faculty of Medicine in Zabrze, University of Technology in Katowice, Academia of Silesia, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Sanjiv Dhingra
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2H 2A6, Canada
| | - Parminder Kaur
- Department of Biotechnology, University Institute of Engineering & Technology, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160024, India.
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Abdelnour SA, Sindi RA, Abd El-Hack ME, Khalifa NE, Khafaga AF, Noreldin AE, Samir H, Tufarelli V, Losacco C, Gamal M, Imam MS, Swelum AA. Quercetin: Putative effects on the function of cryopreserved sperms in domestic animals. Reprod Domest Anim 2023; 58:191-206. [PMID: 36337040 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Quercetin is one of the most used antioxidant flavonoids and largely exists in many fruits and vegetables because of its capability to scavenge the free reactive oxygen species (ROSs) by repressing lipid peroxy radical fusion, metal ion chelating through enzyme inhibition, and adopting the repair mechanisms. It also exhibits various biological actions, including antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities. Furthermore, it contributes well to sustaining the endogenous cellular antioxidant defence system. The process of cryopreservation is associated with increased oxidative stress, and some steps are potential sources of ROSs, including the method of semen collection, handling, cryopreservation culture media, and thawing, which result in impaired sperm function. Several antioxidants have been proposed to counteract the harmful impact of ROS during semen cryopreservation. The antioxidant capability of quercetin has been verified in different animal species for providing valuable defence to sperm during the cryopreservation process. The beneficial properties of quercetin on various parameters of fresh and post-thaw sperm in different species are clarified in this review. More in-depth investigations are required to clarify quercetin's mechanism of action in different animal species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh A Abdelnour
- Department of Animal Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Ramya A Sindi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Norhan E Khalifa
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Fuka, Matrouh University, Matrouh, Egypt
| | - Asmaa F Khafaga
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Edfina, Egypt
| | - Ahmed E Noreldin
- Histology and Cytology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Damanhour University, Damanhour, Egypt
| | - Haney Samir
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Vincenzo Tufarelli
- Department of DETO, Section of Veterinary Science and Animal Production, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Caterina Losacco
- Department of DETO, Section of Veterinary Science and Animal Production, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - Mohammed Gamal
- Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Mohamed S Imam
- Pharmacy Practice Department, College of Pharmacy, Shaqra University, Shaqra, Saudi Arabia.,Clinical Pharmacy Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ayman A Swelum
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
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5
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Bang S, Tanga BM, Fang X, Seong G, Saadeldin IM, Qamar AY, Lee S, Kim KJ, Park YJ, Nabeel AHT, Yu IJ, Cooray A, Lee KP, Cho J. Cryopreservation of Pig Semen Using a Quercetin-Supplemented Freezing Extender. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12081155. [PMID: 36013334 PMCID: PMC9410179 DOI: 10.3390/life12081155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced during freeze−thaw procedures cause oxidative damage to the sperm, reducing fertility. We aimed to improve the post-thaw quality of pig sperm by quercetin (QRN) supplementation to reduce the cryodamage associated with the freeze−thaw procedure. Four equal aliquots of pooled boar semen were diluted with a freezing extender supplemented with different concentrations of QRN (0, 25, 50, and 100 µM) and then were subjected to cryopreservation in liquid nitrogen. Semen analysis was performed following 7 days of cryopreservation. Results demonstrated that the semen samples supplemented with 50 µM QRN significantly improved the post-thaw sperm quality than those subjected to other supplementations (p < 0.05). Semen samples supplemented with 50 µM QRN showed significantly improved plasma membrane functional integrity (47.5 ± 1.4 vs. 43.1 ± 4.1, 45.3 ± 1.7, and 44.1 ± 1.4) and acrosome integrity (73.6 ± 3.4 vs. 66.3 ± 2.4, 66.7 ± 3.6, and 68.3 ± 32.9) as compared to the control, 25 µM, and 100 µM QRN groups, respectively. The mitochondrial activity of the 50 µM QRN group was greater than control and 25 µM QRN groups (43.0 ± 1.0 vs. 39.1 ± 0.9 and 41.9 ± 1.0) but showed no difference with the 100 µM QRN group. Moreover, the 50 µM QRN group showed a higher sperm number displaced to 1 cm and 3 cm points in the artificial mucus than other groups. Therefore, supplementing the freezing extender with QRN can serve as an effective tool to reduce the magnitude of oxidative damage associated with sperm freezing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seonggyu Bang
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (S.B.); (B.M.T.); (X.F.); (G.S.); (I.M.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Bereket Molla Tanga
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (S.B.); (B.M.T.); (X.F.); (G.S.); (I.M.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Xun Fang
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (S.B.); (B.M.T.); (X.F.); (G.S.); (I.M.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Gyeonghwan Seong
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (S.B.); (B.M.T.); (X.F.); (G.S.); (I.M.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Islam M. Saadeldin
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (S.B.); (B.M.T.); (X.F.); (G.S.); (I.M.S.); (S.L.)
- Research Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44519, Egypt
| | - Ahmad Yar Qamar
- Collage of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan;
| | - Sanghoon Lee
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (S.B.); (B.M.T.); (X.F.); (G.S.); (I.M.S.); (S.L.)
| | - Keun-Jung Kim
- Livestock Experiment Institute, Government of Chungcheongnam-do, Cheongyang-gun 33303, Korea; (K.-J.K.); (Y.-J.P.)
| | - Yun-Jae Park
- Livestock Experiment Institute, Government of Chungcheongnam-do, Cheongyang-gun 33303, Korea; (K.-J.K.); (Y.-J.P.)
| | - Abdelbagi Hamad Talha Nabeel
- Laboratory of Theriogenology and Reproductive Biotechnology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio-Safety Research Institute, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan 54596, Korea; (A.H.T.N.); (I.-j.Y.)
| | - Il-jeoung Yu
- Laboratory of Theriogenology and Reproductive Biotechnology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Bio-Safety Research Institute, Jeonbuk National University, Iksan 54596, Korea; (A.H.T.N.); (I.-j.Y.)
| | - Akila Cooray
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (A.C.); (K.P.L.)
| | - Kyu Pil Lee
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (A.C.); (K.P.L.)
| | - Jongki Cho
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (S.B.); (B.M.T.); (X.F.); (G.S.); (I.M.S.); (S.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-42-821-6788; Fax: +82-72-821-89
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Afolabi O, Alabi B, Omobowale T, Oluranti O, Iwalewa O. Cysteamine mitigates torsion/detorsion-induced reperfusion injury via inhibition of apoptosis, oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in experimental rat model. Andrologia 2021; 54:e14243. [PMID: 34498746 DOI: 10.1111/and.14243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis are major pathways in pathophysiology of testicular torsion/detorsion (TTDT) reperfusion injury. This study evaluated the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic role of cysteamine in TTDT-induced injury. Male Wistar rats (n = 32) were grouped into four (n = 8): sham, ischaemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), cysteamine (100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg) for in vivo study. Samples were taken for biomolecular and histological evaluation 48 hr after detorsion. Tissue SOD, GPx, GSH, GST activity, total thiol, H2 O2 and MDA were assessed. Serum levels of NO, MPO, TNF-alpha and IL-6 and sperm motility, count and viability were assessed. Caspase-3 and bax were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Significant difference was set as p < .05. Significant increase in H2 O2, MDA and nitrite but reduction in SOD, GPx, GSH, GST and total thiol in the testicular tissue of IRI rats was reversed by cysteamine. Serum MPO and TNF-α were significantly elevated in RI, while treated-RI rats showed decrease (p < .05) in tissue level of the inflammation markers. Reduced sperm motility in RI was significantly reversed by cysteamine. Increased tissue expression of bax and caspase-3 was reversed by cysteamine. Cysteamine protected the testis against reperfusion injury through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant effects and inhibition of apoptosis in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oladele Afolabi
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | - Babatunde Alabi
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Olugbenga Iwalewa
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Basic Medical Science, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
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Flow Cytometry Detection of Sperm DNA Fragmentation and Apoptotic Markers in the Semen of Infertile Males. Int J Reprod Med 2021; 2021:9531775. [PMID: 34336991 PMCID: PMC8313342 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9531775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The effect of sperm molecular defects on fertilization and pregnancy outcome after assisted reproductive therapy (ART) is widely documented by both research and clinical societies. Sperm DNA fragmentation and abnormal chromatin condensation represent critical causes of male infertility. Advanced androgenic techniques for accurately identifying molecular defects help in selecting an appropriate treatment strategy. Additionally, specific markers of apoptosis are increasingly important in predicting male infertility. The ability of flow cytometry to estimate the quantity of sperm with DNA fragmentation or damage and multifactor measurements in immotile sperm have made this developed technique essential in fertility centers. The study is aimed at assessing the level of DNA fragmentation and apoptosis by measuring flow cytometry using new techniques. Flow cytometry analysis revealed a varying degree of DNA damage. It was able to quantify the degree of impairment even in samples with minimal DNA fragmentation. DNA damage was observed even in samples that were considered normal with a routine semen analysis. Flow cytometry was sensitive to changes in sperm apoptosis. Elevated p53 activity levels were associated with high DNA fragmentation. Meanwhile, B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) activities showed a different pattern. In conclusion, flow cytometry for sperm DNA fragmentation and markers of apoptosis can be a valuable tool in assisted reproductive centers.
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8
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Acute mild heat stress alters gene expression in testes and reduces sperm quality in mice. Theriogenology 2020; 158:375-381. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 10/01/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Dolatkhah MA, Shokoohi M, Charvandeh S, Tvrda E, Shoorei H, Moghimian M, Alihemmati A. Fumaria parviflora regulates oxidative stress and apoptosis gene expression in the rat model of varicocele induction. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13826. [PMID: 32991040 DOI: 10.1111/and.13826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Revised: 08/02/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is one of the leading causes of male infertility in which oxidative stress induces DNA damages in spermatozoa of patients with varicocele. Recent studies indicated that the treatment with antioxidant agents has protective effects against the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Our research aimed to evaluate the impact of Fumaria Parviflora (FP) on the varicocele-induced testicular injury. For this purpose, 32 adult male Wistar rats (n = 8 per group) were randomly assigned to four groups as follows: sham group, varicocele group, varicocele treatment group and the control treatment group. The experimental groups daily received FP (250 mg/kg) for 8 weeks. The induction of varicocele was conducted by partial occlusion on the left renal vein. The diameter of seminiferous tubules, Johnsen's score and the epithelium thickness improved in the treated-varicocele group as compared to the varicocele group. FP extract could increase the biochemical parameters including superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, and also decrease malondialdehyde level in the varicocele group. Furthermore, varicocele markedly increased both mRNA and intensity of Bax, while treatment with FP could alleviate them. We concluded that FP could alleviate varicocele, possibly by lowering oxidative stress and testicular damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Amin Dolatkhah
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Majid Shokoohi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sheida Charvandeh
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Eva Tvrda
- Department of Animal Physiology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Slovak University of Agriculture, Nitra, Slovakia
| | - Hamed Shoorei
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Maryam Moghimian
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Alireza Alihemmati
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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10
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Increased Sperm DNA Fragmentation in Infertile Men with Varicocele: Relationship with Apoptosis, Seminal Oxidative Stress, and Spermatic Parameters. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:909-919. [PMID: 32909188 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00311-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study intends to determine the extent of nuclear sperm injury in patients with varicocele and to investigate its relationship with apoptosis and oxidative stress (OS). Ejaculated sperm samples from 51 patients diagnosed with varicocele and 29 fertile men were examined. According to the guidelines, the patient's sperm samples were classified into varicocele with normal semen parameters (n = 11) and varicocele with abnormal semen parameters (n = 40). Sperm DNA fragmentation was assessed using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay. The proportion of both viable and dead spermatozoa with externalized phosphatidylserine (PS) was detected by the bivariate annexin V/6-CFDA staining method. Seminal malondialdehyde (MDA) amounts and antioxidant enzymes activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were measured spectrophotometrically. Sperm DNA fragmentation, viable spermatozoa with externalized PS, and MDA levels were significantly higher in studied subgroups of patients with varicocele, either with normal or with abnormal semen parameters than controls. The seminal antioxidant enzymes activities were significantly reduced in both subgroups of patients with varicocele compared to the controls. The percentage of spermatozoa with fragmented DNA was positively correlated to the MDA level as well as the proportion of viable spermatozoa with externalized PS. However, the decreased seminal antioxidant status was negatively correlated with the increased proportion of sperm DNA fragmentation and apoptotic spermatozoa. Impaired seminal antioxidant profile and increased seminal level of lipid peroxidation may be involved in the pathophysiological mechanisms of cell death-mediated DNA breaks in patients with varicocele.
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11
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Abd El Rahman SH, Rashed LA, Akl EM, Mostafa T. Assessment of seminal YKL-40 in infertile men with varicocele. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13756. [PMID: 32654211 DOI: 10.1111/and.13756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Several studies attempted to explain the negative impact of varicocele on spermatogenesis and fertilisation processes. YKL-40 is a novel glycoprotein biomarker that had been associated with several diseases. This quasi-interventional study aimed to assess the seminal levels of YKL-40 in infertile men with varicocele before and after varicocelectomy. Overall, 50 men were included in this study divided into 20 healthy fertile men and 30 infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic (OAT) men with varicocele that underwent varicocelectomy. All participants were subjected to history taking, clinical examination and scrotal Doppler. Also, semen analysis and seminal YKL-40 assessment were carried out in the start and 6 months after varicocele surgical repair. The results showed a significant increase in the mean seminal YKL-40 level in infertile OAT men with varicocele compared with the healthy fertile men. Six months post-varicocelectomy, the mean seminal KYL-40 level exhibited significant decreases correlated with improved sperm parameters. Overall, seminal levels of YKL-40 showed significant negative correlations with sperm concentration, total sperm motility and sperm normal morphology. It could be concluded that seminal YKL-40 is elevated in infertile OAT men with varicocele where varicocelectomy induces decreased seminal YKL-40 levels correlated with improved semen parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherine H Abd El Rahman
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology & Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Laila A Rashed
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Essam M Akl
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology & Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Taymour Mostafa
- Department of Andrology & Sexology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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12
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van Son M, Tremoen NH, Gaustad AH, Våge DI, Zeremichael TT, Myromslien FD, Grindflek E. Transcriptome profiling of porcine testis tissue reveals genes related to sperm hyperactive motility. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:161. [PMID: 32456687 PMCID: PMC7249385 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02373-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sperm hyperactive motility has previously been shown to influence litter size in pigs, but little is known about the underlying biological mechanisms. The aim of this study was to use RNA sequencing to investigate gene expression differences in testis tissue from Landrace and Duroc boars with high and low levels of sperm hyperactive motility. Boars with divergent phenotypes were selected based on their sperm hyperactivity values at the day of ejaculation (day 0) (contrasts (i) and (ii) for Landrace and Duroc, respectively) and on their change in hyperactivity between day 0 and after 96 h liquid storage at 18 °C (contrast (iii)). RESULTS RNA sequencing was used to measure gene expression in testis. In Landrace boars, 3219 genes were differentially expressed for contrast (i), whereas 102 genes were differentially expressed for contrast (iii). Forty-one differentially expressed genes were identified in both contrasts, suggesting a functional role of these genes in hyperactivity regardless of storage. Zinc finger DNLZ was the most up-regulated gene in contrasts (i) and (iii), whereas the most significant differentially expressed gene for the two contrasts were ADP ribosylation factor ARFGAP1 and solute carrier SLC40A1, respectively. For Duroc (contrast (ii)), the clustering of boars based on their gene expression data did not reflect their difference in sperm hyperactivity phenotypes. No results were therefore obtained for this breed. A case-control analysis of variants identified in the Landrace RNA sequencing data showed that SNPs in NEU3, CHRDL2 and HMCN1 might be important for sperm hyperactivity. CONCLUSIONS Differentially expressed genes were identified in Landrace boars with high and low levels of sperm hyperactivity at the day of ejaculate collection and high and low change in hyperactivity after 96 h of sperm storage. The results point towards important candidate genes, biochemical pathways and sequence variants underlying sperm hyperactivity in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nina Hårdnes Tremoen
- Department of Biotechnology, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2318 Hamar, Norway
- Centre for Integrative Genetics (CIGENE), Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Faculty of Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Ann Helen Gaustad
- Norsvin SA, 2317 Hamar, Norway
- Department of Biotechnology, Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, 2318 Hamar, Norway
| | - Dag Inge Våge
- Centre for Integrative Genetics (CIGENE), Department of Animal and Aquacultural Sciences, Faculty of Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1432 Ås, Norway
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13
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Kamal HM, El-Fallah AA, Abdelbaki SA, Khalil MM, Kamal MM, Behiry EG. Association between seminal granulysin and malondialdehyde in infertile men with varicocele and the potential effect of varicocelectomy. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13579. [PMID: 32271478 DOI: 10.1111/and.13579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study assessed the seminal plasma granulysin and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in patients suffering from varicocele-associated infertility prior to and after varicocelectomy. This study was conducted on 34 infertile men with varicocele (group A) and same patients after varicocelectomy (group B) and 32 fertile normozoospermic males (group C). A detailed history taking, clinical examination, scrotal doppler ultrasound for varicocele diagnosis and grading, semen analysis and estimation of seminal granulysin and MDA before and after varicocelectomy were done to all participants. The mean (SD) granulysin and MDA levels in patients with varicocele were higher than in controls with highly significant differences. Post-operatively, there was a significant reduction in mean (SD) granulysin and in MDA level. Basal seminal granulysin positively correlated with basal seminal MDA, abnormal forms and negatively correlated with basal sperm count, concentration, and progressive motility. The receiver operating characteristic curve of seminal granulysin and MDA levels were conducted for discrimination between infertility cases with varicocele and control groups. Excellent AUCs were found for both markers (AUC = 0.971, 0.991 respectively). We concluded that high levels of granulysin and MDA in the semen of infertile males with varicocele negatively impact their spermatogenesis. Varicocelectomy leads to the improvement of semen parameters and significantly decreases seminal plasma granulysin and MDA levels. Hence, seminal granulysin and MDA could be used as a prognostic test in infertile patients with varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Howyda M Kamal
- Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Asmaa A El-Fallah
- Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | | | - Mostafa M Khalil
- Urology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Mai M Kamal
- M.B.B.CH. Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Eman G Behiry
- Clinical and Chemical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
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14
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Mostafa T, Nabil N, Rashed L, Abo-Sief AF, Eissa HH. Seminal SIRT1-oxidative stress relationship in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic men with varicocele after its surgical repair. Andrologia 2019; 52:e13456. [PMID: 31696601 DOI: 10.1111/and.13456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This work assessed seminal SIRT1-oxidative stress (OS) relationship in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic (OAT) men after varicocele repair. Overall, thirty OAT men with varicocele were investigated. Inclusion criteria were infertile males (males who were unable to initiate a pregnancy within 1 year of regular unprotected intercourse), confirmed OAT and normal female factor. These cases were subjected to history taking, clinical checkup and semen analysis. In their semen, seminal SIRT1, malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels were assessed. These men were subjected to varicocele surgical repair and were followed up for 3 months. Post-operatively, the mean seminal SIRT1, GPx levels showed significant increases and the mean MDA level showed significant decrease compared to the pre-operative levels linked to improved sperm parameters. The mean seminal SIRT1, GPx, MDA levels showed more significant improvement in grade III varicocele cases compared to grade II cases after surgical repair. Seminal SIRT1 levels showed significant positive correlations with sperm concentration, sperm motility, sperm normal morphology, seminal GPx levels and a significant negative correlation with seminal MDA levels. It could be concluded that seminal SIRT1 is significantly decreased in infertile OAT men with varicocele after its surgical repair linked to improved sperm parameters as well as seminal OS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taymour Mostafa
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nashaat Nabil
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Laila Rashed
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed F Abo-Sief
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Hadier H Eissa
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
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15
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Menezes ESB, Badial PR, El Debaky H, Husna AU, Ugur MR, Kaya A, Topper E, Bulla C, Grant KE, Bolden-Tiller O, Moura AA, Memili E. Sperm miR-15a and miR-29b are associated with bull fertility. Andrologia 2019; 52:e13412. [PMID: 31671225 DOI: 10.1111/and.13412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs modulate male fertility by regulating gene expression. In this study, dynamics of sperm miR-15a, miR-29b and miR-34a from high fertility (HF) and low fertility (LF) bulls using RT-qPCR were evaluated. Bioinformatic tools were employed to ascertain genes of interest of the sperm miRNAs. The expression levels of p53, BCL2, BAX and DNMT1 in bull spermatozoa were determined by immunoblotting. MicroRNA levels of miR-15a and miR-29 were higher in LF sires when compared with those present in HF bulls. Expression levels of miR-34a did not differ between the two groups. We found an inverse correlation between miR-15a and bull fertility. MiR29-b was also negatively associated with fertility scores. BCL2 and DNMT1 were higher in HF bulls while BAX was higher in the LF group. Our data showed a positive correlation between BCL2 and bull fertility. In addition, DNMT1 was positively associated with bull fertility. Furthermore, levels of BAX were negatively linked with bull fertility scores. Identification of miRNAs found in the spermatozoa of sires with different in vivo fertility helps understand the alterations in the fertilising capacity from cattle and other mammals. These potential biomarkers can be used in reproductive biotechnology as fertility markers to assess semen quality and predict male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika S B Menezes
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA.,Department of Animal Sciences, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Peres Ramos Badial
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - Hazem El Debaky
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA.,National Research Center, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Asma Ul Husna
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA.,Department of Zoology, Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Muhammet Rasit Ugur
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - Abdullah Kaya
- URUS Group LP, Madison, WI, USA.,Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey
| | | | - Camilo Bulla
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - Kamilah E Grant
- Center for Biotechnology and Department of Agriculture School of Agriculture & Applied Sciences, Alcorn State University, Lorman, MS, USA
| | - Olga Bolden-Tiller
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, AL, USA
| | - Arlindo A Moura
- Department of Animal Sciences, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Erdoğan Memili
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
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16
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Effect of silencing HIF-1α gene on testicle spermatogenesis function in varicocele rats. Cell Tissue Res 2019; 378:543-554. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-019-03064-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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17
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Panner Selvam MK, Agarwal A. Sperm and Seminal Plasma Proteomics: Molecular Changes Associated with Varicocele-Mediated Male Infertility. World J Mens Health 2019; 38:472-483. [PMID: 31385477 PMCID: PMC7502311 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.190018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Male infertility is a rising problem and the etiology at the molecular level is unclear. Use of omics has provided an insight into the underlying cellular changes in the spermatozoa of infertile men. Proteomics is one the promising omics techniques for biomarker screening that can provide complete information on molecular processes associated with male infertility. Varicocele is a pressing issue in the field of male infertility and the search for an appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic biomarker is still ongoing. In this review, we discuss the reports on proteomic profiles of sperm and seminal plasma in male infertility and provide an in-depth insight into varicocele studies associated with male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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18
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Shokoohi M, Khaki A, Shoorei H, Khaki AA, Moghimian M, Abtahi-Eivary SH. Hesperidin attenuated apoptotic-related genes in testicle of a male rat model of varicocoele. Andrology 2019; 8:249-258. [PMID: 31325243 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2019] [Revised: 05/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Varicocoele is a swollen bulge of the pampiniform venous plexus inside the scrotum. It is also considered one of the causes of infertility in males. It has been demonstrated that hesperidin has remarkable pharmacological potentials, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticarcinogenic effects. OBJECTIVE The present study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of hesperidin on varicocoele-induced testicular tissue damage and oxidative stress in the testicles of adult male rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Animals were assigned into the following groups: control group (Ctrl) or sham, varicocoele group (Vcl) which received no treatment, varicocoele group that was daily fed with hesperidin (Vcl+Hsp) at a dose of 50 mg/kg for eight weeks, and hesperidin group (Hsp) which received only hesperidin. At the end of the treatment period, the levels of oxidative stress markers were measured in plasma, and the expression of Bax and Bcl-2 was determined by immunocytochemistry and RT-qPCR methods. The index of apoptosis was assessed by the TUNEL assay. RESULTS Johnsen's score, the epithelium thickness, and diameter of seminiferous tubules were improved in the Vcl+Hsp group as compared to the Vcl group. Treatment with hesperidin enhanced the serum levels of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes and decreased the heightened concentrations of malondialdehyde (MDA) in testicular tissue (p < 0.001). Moreover, our results demonstrated that hesperidin considerably diminished Bax and increased Bcl-2 expression (gene and protein) levels compared with the Vcl group (p < 0.05). It also markedly reduced the rate of programmed cell death in germ cells (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS It seems that the treatment with hesperidin could mitigate testicular tissue damage in rats underwent varicocoele possibly through its antioxidant properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Shokoohi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - A Khaki
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Pathology, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - H Shoorei
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - A A Khaki
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein Campus Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - M Moghimian
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - S-H Abtahi-Eivary
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
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19
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He QQ, Wu X, Liu XP, Yang XJ, Yuan ZM, Zhang Y. 14-3-3 epsilon plays an important role in testicular germ cell apoptosis: A functional proteomic study of experimental varicocele. Andrologia 2019; 51:e13275. [PMID: 30950109 DOI: 10.1111/and.13275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The latest perspective indicates that apoptotic dysregulation is an important mechanism in male infertility induced by varicocele. To elucidate the molecular mechanism of apoptosis caused by varicocele, we used proteomics (2D-MALDI-TOF MS) to identify the altered proteins in the testes of experimental varicocele rats compared with the control. Here, 21 significantly different protein spots were detected by proteomics technology. 14-3-3 epsilon (14-3-3ε) was our subsequent research target because of its function in apoptosis. The expression of 14-3-3ε in rat testes was confirmed by Western blot and immunohistochemistry, and the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL) method was used to analyse the apoptosis of germ cells. GC-1 spg cells transfected with small interfering RNA were used to confirm the function of 14-3-3ε in vitro. 14-3-3ε protein expression decreased, accompanied by a higher apoptosis index in rat testes of the varicocele group. Furthermore, 14-3-3ε siRNA-treated GC-1 spg cells caused the upregulation of the apoptotic rate detected by flow cytometry. The expression of Bax and Bcl-2 was found to be regulated by 14-3-3ε in vitro. Our investigation demonstrated the pro-apoptotic function of the downregulation of 14-3-3ε, which may play an important role in germ cell apoptosis induced by varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Qing He
- Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Wu
- Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Department of Urology, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Peng Liu
- Department of Urology, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao Jian Yang
- Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhong Min Yuan
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Institute of Neurosciences of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Infertility and Sexual Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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20
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Mikhael NW, El-Refaie AM, Sabry JH, Akl EM, Habashy AY, Mostafa T. Assessment of seminal granulysin in infertile men with varicocele. Andrologia 2018; 50:e13066. [PMID: 29896906 DOI: 10.1111/and.13066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 05/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Varicocele has a common association with male infertility, but its exact role is still debated. Apoptosis has been suggested as one of the mechanisms of varicocele-associated infertility. Granulysin is a molecule that plays a role in apoptosis with no previous study about its role in male infertility. This case-controlled study aimed to assess seminal plasma granulysin level in infertile patients with varicocele. This study involved 90 men that were allocated into fertile normozoospermic men (n = 20), infertile men without varicocele (n = 30) and infertile men with varicocele (n = 40). These men were subjected to history taking, clinical examination, semen analysis and estimation of seminal granulysin. In general, seminal granulysin level was significantly elevated in infertile men compared with fertile men. Infertile men with varicocele showed significantly higher seminal granulysin compared with infertile men without varicocele, in bilateral varicocele cases and in grade III varicocele. Seminal granulysin level was negatively correlated with sperm concentration, sperm motility, sperm normal forms percentage and testicular volumes. It is concluded that increased seminal granulysin has a negative impact on spermatogenesis in infertile men in general and in infertile men associated with varicocele in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nancy W Mikhael
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology & Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Asmaa M El-Refaie
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology & Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Jehan H Sabry
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Essam M Akl
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology & Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Amal Y Habashy
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology & Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Taymour Mostafa
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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21
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Mostafa T, Nabil N, Rashed L, Makeen K, El-Kasas MA, Mohamaed HA. Seminal SIRT1 expression in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic men with varicocoele. Andrology 2018; 6:301-305. [PMID: 29359516 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2017] [Revised: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
In a case-controlled study, we assessed the expressed seminal NAD-dependent protein deacetylase (SIRT1) expression in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic (OAT) men associated with varicocoele. Our study involved 81 men, recruited from the University hospitals, after ethical approval and informed consent. They were allocated into fertile normozoospermic men (n = 23), infertile OAT men without varicocoele (n = 23) and infertile OAT men with varicocoele (n = 35). Inclusion criteria consisted of confirmation of abnormal semen parameters and normal female partners whereas exclusion criteria were leukocytospermia, tobacco smoking, hormonal therapy, immunological disorders, dyslipidemia, hypogonadism, cardiovascular disorders, morbid obesity, and hepatic or renal failures. All participants had an interview to assess clinical history, clinical examination, semen analysis, and estimation of seminal SIRT1 expression. Seminal SIRT1 expression was significantly lower in infertile OAT men than fertile men. Among infertile OAT men, seminal SIRT1 expression was significantly lower in those with varicocoele than in those without. Additionally, seminal SIRT1 expression was significantly lower in varicocoele grade III cases compared with other grades. Seminal SIRT1 expression was positively correlated with sperm concentration (r = 0.327, p = 0.001), total sperm motility (r = 0.532, p = 0.001), and sperm normal forms (r = 0.469, p = 0.001). Our results suggest that seminal SIRT1 expression has a role of male infertility being significantly decreased in infertile OAT men in general and in infertile OAT men associated with varicocoele in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Mostafa
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - N Nabil
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
| | - L Rashed
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - K Makeen
- General Surgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - M A El-Kasas
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - H A Mohamaed
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
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22
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Zaazaa A, Adel A, Fahmy I, Elkhiat Y, Awaad AA, Mostafa T. Effect of varicocelectomy and/or mast cells stabilizer on sperm DNA fragmentation in infertile patients with varicocele. Andrology 2017; 6:146-150. [PMID: 29195028 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Revised: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the effect of varicocelectomy and/or mast cells (MCs) stabilizer on sperm DNA fragmentation in infertile men with varicocele (Vx). Overall, 120 infertile patients were randomized to three equal treatment arms; patients that underwent varicocelectomy, patients on 1 mg ketotifen twice daily for three months, and patients that underwent varicocelectomy followed with 1 mg ketotifen twice daily for three months. These patients were subjected to history taking, clinical examination, semen analysis, and estimation of sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI). After 3 months, all investigated groups showed significant improvement regarding the mean total sperm count, sperm concentration, total sperm motility, and sperm normal forms percentage compared with the pre-treatment data. As well, the mean sperm DFI was significantly improved compared with the pre-treatment data; in men that underwent varicocelectomy (34.6% vs. 28.3%), in men on MC stabilizer only (33.4% vs. 27.8%), and in men that underwent varicocelectomy followed by MC stabilizer (34.3% vs. 25.1%). Sperm DFI improvement percentages showed the highest improvement in men that underwent varicocelectomy followed with MC stabilizer compared with the other two groups (26.8% vs. 18.2%, 16.8%). Sperm DFI improvement percentages showed significant increases in the infertile patients with Vx grade III compared to Vx grade II in all investigated groups. It is concluded that in infertile men associated with Vx and high sperm DFI, surgical repair followed with MCs stabilizer significantly improve sperm DFI compared with either surgical repair or MCs stabilizer alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zaazaa
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - A Adel
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - I Fahmy
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Y Elkhiat
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - A A Awaad
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - T Mostafa
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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23
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Wang Y, Chen F, Liang M, Chen S, Zhu Y, Zou Z, Shi B. Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract attenuates varicocele‑induced testicular oxidative injury in rats by activating the Nrf2‑antioxidant system. Mol Med Rep 2017; 17:1799-1806. [PMID: 29138814 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.8020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated whether grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) can attenuate varicocele‑induced testicular oxidative injury through the nuclear factor (erythroid‑derived 2)‑like 2 (Nrf2) antioxidant pathway. A varicocele model in rats was established by partial ligation of the left renal vein. Following 4 weeks of GSPE administration, the decreased sperm count and motility and other pathological changes caused by varicocele were significantly alleviated, as indicated by the results of computer‑assisted sperm analysis and hematoxylin and eosin staining. In addition, the decreased antioxidant enzyme (superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase) activity and elevated oxidative stress level were partially reversed by administration of GSPE. Furthermore, the apoptotic level of the testis induced by varicocele was decreased by the GSPE treatment, according to terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay. Additionally, the expression of apoptosis‑related proteins, including B‑cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‑2), Bcl‑2‑like protein 4 and cleaved caspase‑3, were also affected by GSPE. GSPE activated Nrf2, which is a key antioxidative transcription factor, with elevation of the downstream factor hemeoxygenase‑1. These findings suggest that GSPE can ameliorate abnormal spermatogenesis and testicular injury in varicocele rats, potentially due to its antioxidative activity and ability to activate the Nrf2 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Wang
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250000, P.R. China
| | - Fan Chen
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250000, P.R. China
| | - Ming Liang
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250000, P.R. China
| | - Shouzhen Chen
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250000, P.R. China
| | - Yaofeng Zhu
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250000, P.R. China
| | - Zhichuan Zou
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250000, P.R. China
| | - Benkang Shi
- Department of Urology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong 250000, P.R. China
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Ning JZ, Li W, Cheng F, Rao T, Yu WM, Ruan Y, Yuan R, Zhang XB, Du Y, Xiao CC. The protective effects of GYY4137 on ipsilateral testicular injury in experimentally varicocele-induced rats. Exp Ther Med 2017; 15:433-439. [PMID: 29387197 PMCID: PMC5768093 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2017.5417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether morpholin-4-ium 4 methoxyphenyl (morpholino) phosphonodithioate (GYY4137) exhibits a protective effect on ipsilateral testicular injury in experimentally varicocele (VC)-induced rats. A total of 48 rats were randomly divided into the following 6 groups (n=8 each): Group A (control group); group B (sham group); group C (VC group); group D (VC group administered 5 mg/kg/day GYY4137); group E (VC group administered 10 mg/kg/day GYY4137) and group F (VC group administered 20 mg/kg/day GYY4137). Indicators of oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation were measured to evaluate the effect of GYY4137 on ipsilateral testicular injury. Compared with groups A and B, rats in group C exhibited severe histological changes and an increase in oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation. By contrast, amelioration of testicular damage was evident in the group D, E and F that were treated with GYY4137. These results demonstrate that GYY4137 may be a promising therapy to treat VC as it alleviates oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation in experimentally VC-induced rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Zhuo Ning
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Anesthesia, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Fan Cheng
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Ting Rao
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Wei-Min Yu
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Ruan
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Run Yuan
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Bin Zhang
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Yang Du
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Cheng-Cheng Xiao
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
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Zhu SM, Rao T, Yang X, Ning JZ, Yu WM, Ruan Y, Yuan R, Li CL, Jiang K, Hu W, Li HY, Cheng F. Autophagy may play an important role in varicocele. Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:5471-5479. [PMID: 28849201 PMCID: PMC5647093 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.7253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study aimed to determine the expression of autophagy and investigate whether the hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α)/BCL2 interacting protein (BNIP3)/Beclin-1 autophagy signaling pathway serves an important role in activating autophagy in varicocele (VC) rat testes cells. Furthermore, the current study aimed to explain the possible association between autophagy and apoptosis. A total of 48 adult male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into group A (control), group B (VC 15-day), group C (VC 30-day) and group D (VC 45-day), with 12 rats in each group. The rats in group A did not receive any interventions, and in groups B, C, and D the VC model was established simultaneously. At 0, 15, 30, and 45 days, an orchidectomy on the left testes was performed in groups A-D, each on its respective day. Transmission electron microscopy was used to investigate the expression of autophagy. Compared with groups A and B, it was demonstrated that the expression of autophagy in groups C, and D was significantly increased. Hematoxylin and eosin staining revealed that as the rats survived VC longer, the testicular tissue damage became more serious. Furthermore, the Johnson score revealed that VC impaired the spermeiogenesis function of the male rats. Additionally, it was demonstrated that the apoptosis index of the seminiferous epithelia cells in VC rat testes increased over time, as measured using TUNEL staining. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that as the VC was prolonged, the expression of HIF-1α gradually increased while the expression of (apoptosis regulator Bcl-2) Bcl-2 gradually decreased. Furthermore, western blot analysis revealed that the protein expression of Bcl-2 decreased and apoptosis regulator Bax increased. Furthermore, HIF-1α, BNIP3, Beclin1 and microtubule associated protein 1 light chain 3 α (LC3)II/LC3I expression gradually increased. However, significant increases in Beclin 1 and LC3II/LC3I were only observed between the day 0 and day 30 groups. In addition, the expression of p62 significantly increased between day 0 and day 15, but gradually decreased between day 15 and day 45. The results of the present study revealed that VC can lead to testicular tissue hypoxia, and that the HIF-1α/BNIP3/Beclin1 autophagy signaling pathway may upregulate autophagy in VC rats testes. Thus, the association between autophagy and apoptosis may serve an important role in male infertility caused by VC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao-Ming Zhu
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Ting Rao
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Xiao Yang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Jin-Zhuo Ning
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Wei-Ming Yu
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Yuan Ruan
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Run Yuan
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Cheng-Long Li
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Kun Jiang
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Wei Hu
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Hao-Yong Li
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Fan Cheng
- Department of Urology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
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Santana VP, Miranda-Furtado CL, de Oliveira-Gennaro FG, Dos Reis RM. Genetics and epigenetics of varicocele pathophysiology: an overview. J Assist Reprod Genet 2017; 34:839-847. [PMID: 28523408 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-017-0931-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is found in approximately 20% of adults and adolescents and in 19-41% of men seeking treatment for infertility. It is associated with a decrease in sperm count as well as sperm motility and morphology. The currently accepted description of the pathophysiology of varicocele does not explain all its clinical manifestations; therefore, other factors such as genetic and epigenetic changes, associated with the environment, might be involved in causing infertility and decrease in sperm quality. It has been reported that the varicocele-induced deterioration of testicular function is progressive and interferes with fertility; hence, early and efficient assessment of the genetic manifestations in patients would be important for developing future medical interventions. Chromosomal disorders, mutations, polymorphisms, changes in gene expression, and epigenetic changes have all been reported to be associated with varicocele. Several studies are underway to unravel the genetic basis of this disease, as it is important to understand the origin and the aggravating factors to ensure appropriate guidance and intervention. Here, we review the available literature regarding the genetic and epigenetic changes associated with varicocele, and how these alterations are related to the different clinical manifestations of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviane Paiva Santana
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (USP), 3900 Bandeirantes Ave, São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Cristiana Libardi Miranda-Furtado
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (USP), 3900 Bandeirantes Ave, São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, Brazil
- Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Ceará, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Flavia Gaona de Oliveira-Gennaro
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (USP), 3900 Bandeirantes Ave, São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Rosana Maria Dos Reis
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo (USP), 3900 Bandeirantes Ave, São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, Brazil.
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Seminal miRNA Relationship with Apoptotic Markers and Oxidative Stress in Infertile Men with Varicocele. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:4302754. [PMID: 28105423 PMCID: PMC5220416 DOI: 10.1155/2016/4302754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Accepted: 11/16/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Aim. This study aimed to assess seminal miRNA relationship with seminal apoptotic markers and oxidative stress (OS) in infertile men associated with varicocele (Vx). Methods. In all, 220 subjects were divided into the following groups: fertile normozoospermic men, fertile normozoospermic men with Vx, infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic (OAT) men without Vx, and infertile OAT men with Vx. They were subjected to history taking, clinical examination, and semen analysis. In their semen, the following were estimated: miRNA-122, miRNA-181a, and miRNA-34c5 using quantitative real-time PCR, apoptotic markers (BAX, BCL2) protein expression, and OS markers [malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx)]. Results. The mean levels of seminal miRNA-122, miRNA-181a, and miRNA-34c5 were significantly reduced in infertile OAT men with Vx compared with other groups coupled with Vx grade and Vx bilaterality. Seminal miRNA-122, miRNA-181a, and miRNA-34c5 were positively correlated with sperm concentration, total sperm motility, sperm normal morphology, seminal GPx, and seminal BCL2 and negatively correlated with seminal MDA and seminal BAX. Conclusions. Seminal miRNA-122, miRNA-181a, and miRNA-34c5 are decreased in infertile OAT men with Vx associated with increased Vx grade and Vx bilaterality. In addition, they are positively correlated with sperm parameters and negatively correlated with OS, apoptotic markers.
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Agarwal A, Sharma R, Harlev A, Esteves SC. Effect of varicocele on semen characteristics according to the new 2010 World Health Organization criteria: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Asian J Androl 2016; 18:163-70. [PMID: 26780872 PMCID: PMC4770480 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.172638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of varicocele on semen parameters in infertile men based on the new 2010 World Health Organization laboratory manual for the examination of human semen. Semen analysis results (volume, sperm count, motility, and morphology) were the primary outcomes. An electronic search to collect the data was conducted using the Medline/PubMed, SJU discover, and Google Scholar databases. We searched articles published from 2010 to August 2015, i.e., after the publication of the 2010 WHO manual. We included only those studies that reported the actual semen parameters of adult infertile men diagnosed with clinical varicocele and contained a control group of either fertile men or normozoospermic men who were not diagnosed with varicocele. Ten studies were included in the meta-analysis, involving 1232 men. Varicocele was associated with reduced sperm count (mean difference: −44.48 × 106 ml−1; 95% CI: −61.45, −27.51 × 106 ml−1; P < 0.001), motility (mean difference: −26.67%; 95% CI: −34.27, −19.08; P < 0.001), and morphology (mean difference: −19.68%; 95% CI: −29.28, −10.07; P < 0.001) but not semen volume (mean difference: −0.23 ml; 95% CI: −0.64, 0.17). Subgroup analyses indicated that the magnitude of effect was influenced by control subtype but not WHO laboratory manual edition used for semen assessment. We conclude that varicocele is a significant risk factor that negatively affects semen quality, but the observed pooled effect size on semen parameters does not seem to be affected by the WHO laboratory manual edition. Given most of the studies published after 2010 still utilized the 1999 manual for semen analysis, further research is required to fully understand the clinical implication of the 2010 WHO laboratory manual on the association between varicocele and semen parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, 10681 Carnegie Avenue, X-11, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA
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29
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Mostafa RM, Abol-Magd R, Younis SE, Dessouki OF, Azab M, Mostafa T. Assessment of seminal mast cells in infertile men with varicocele after surgical repair. Andrologia 2016; 49. [PMID: 27246870 DOI: 10.1111/and.12625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess seminal mast cells in infertile men associated with varicocele (Vx) pre- and post-surgical repair. Forty-five infertile men associated with Vx were subjected to history taking and clinical examination. In addition, semen parameters and seminal mast cells stained with 1% toluidine blue were estimated pre-varicocelectomy and three months post-varicocelectomy. Vx surgical repair revealed a significant improvement in the mean sperm concentration, progressive sperm motility, total sperm motility and sperm abnormal morphology and a significant decrement in seminal mast cells (mean ± SD, 3.56 ± 2.23 cells per high-power field (HPF) vs. 2.22 ± 1.06 cells per HPF, p = .01). The pre-operative mean mast cell count demonstrated significant increases in cases with Vx grade III compared with other Vx grades and in cases with bilateral Vx compared with unilateral Vx cases. Seminal mast cells demonstrated a significant correlation with sperm concentration, progressive sperm motility and total sperm motility and a nonsignificant correlation with age and sperm abnormal morphology. It is concluded that seminal mast cells decrease significantly in infertile men with Vx after surgical repair showing a significant negative correlation with sperm concentration, progressive sperm motility and total sperm motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Mostafa
- Andrology, Sexology & STDs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - R Abol-Magd
- Dermatology & Venereology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - S E Younis
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - O F Dessouki
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - M Azab
- Andrology, Sexology & STDs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - T Mostafa
- Andrology, Sexology & STDs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Mostafa T, Rashed L, Taymour M. Seminal cyclooxygenase relationship with oxidative stress in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic men with varicocele. Andrologia 2016; 48:137-42. [PMID: 25906828 DOI: 10.1111/and.12423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/24/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the relation of seminal cyclooxygenase COX-1, COX-2 with oxidative stress in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic (OAT) men with varicocele (Vx). In all, 128 men were allocated into fertile men, fertile men with Vx, infertile OAT men without Vx and infertile OAT men with Vx. They were subjected to history taking, clinical examination and semen analysis. Also, seminal COX-1, COX-2, malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were estimated. Mean levels of seminal COX-1, COX-2 were over-expressed, the mean level of seminal MDA was significantly increased, and the mean level of seminal GPx was significantly decreased in infertile OAT men with Vx compared with other groups. Seminal COX-1 and COX-2 were over-expressed in cases with Vx grade III compared with Vx grades I, II cases and in cases with bilateral Vx compared with unilateral Vx. There was significant negative correlation between seminal COX-1 and COX-2 with sperm concentration, sperm motility, sperm normal morphology, seminal GPx and significant positive correlation with seminal MDA. It is concluded that seminal COX-1 and COX-2 are over-expressed in infertile OAT men with Vx compared with fertile men with/without and infertile OAT men without Vx being associated with oxidative stress, Vx grade and Vx laterality.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Mostafa
- Andrology and Sexology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - L Rashed
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - M Taymour
- Dermatology and Andrology Department, Egypt Air Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
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Role of Inhibitors of Apoptosis Proteins in Testicular Function and Male Fertility: Effects of Polydeoxyribonucleotide Administration in Experimental Varicocele. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:248976. [PMID: 26347229 PMCID: PMC4539425 DOI: 10.1155/2015/248976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2015] [Revised: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Neuronal apoptosis inhibitory protein (NAIP) and survivin might play an important role in testicular function. We investigated the effect of PDRN, an agonist of adenosine A2A receptor, on testicular NAIP and survivin expression in an experimental model of varicocele. After the creation of experimental varicocele (28 days), adolescent male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomized to one of the following treatments lasting 21 days: vehicle, PDRN (8 mg/kg i.p., daily), PDRN + 3,7-dimethyl-propargylxanthine (DMPX, a specific adenosine A2A-receptor antagonist, 0.1 mg/kg i.p., daily), varicocelectomy, and varicocelectomy + PDRN (8 mg/kg i.p., daily). Sham-operated animals were used as controls. Animals were then euthanized and testis expression of NAIP and survivin was evaluated through qRT-PCR, western blot, and immunohistochemical analysis. Spermatogenetic activity was also assessed. NAIP and survivin expressions were significantly reduced following varicocele induction when compared to sham animals whereas PDRN-treated rats showed an increase in NAIP and survivin levels. Immunohistochemistry revealed an enhanced expression of NAIP and survivin with a characteristic pattern of cellular localization following PDRN treatment. Moreover, administration of PDRN significantly restored spermatogenic function in varicocele rats. PDRN may represent a rational therapeutic option for accelerating recovery from depressed testicular function through a strategic modulation of apoptosis in experimental varicocele.
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Mostafa T, Taymour M. TNF-α -308 polymorphisms and male infertility risk: A meta-analysis and systematic review. J Adv Res 2015; 7:185-92. [PMID: 26966560 PMCID: PMC4767804 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2015.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2015] [Revised: 07/08/2015] [Accepted: 07/09/2015] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective studies discussing TNF-α -308 polymorphism and male infertility. This study was conformed to Preferred Reported Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. PubMed, Embase and Scopus databases were searched to identify relevant studies by two independent reviewers. Hazard ratios were pooled using fixed-effect or random-effects models when appropriate. Q-test was performed to evaluate study heterogeneity and publication bias appraised using funnel plots. The search yielded five studies (three of Caucasians ethnicity and 2 of Asian ethnicity) comprising 2939 men (2262 infertile men and 677 fertile controls). Most of the studied cases were carried out on TNF-α promoter region at positions -308 G/A (four studies) where -308 C/T was dealt with in one study. Overall, significant associations between TNF-α -308 gene polymorphisms and idiopathic male infertility risk were observed (fixed effect: OR = 0.472, 95% CI: 0.378-0.589; P = 0.001; random effect: OR = 0.407, 95% CI: 0.211-0.785; P = 0.007) with robust findings according to sensitivity analyses. Funnel plot inspections did not give evidences of publication bias. A stratified analysis performed for ethnic groups revealed significant association in both Caucasian and Asian populations. It is concluded that there are evidences of associations between TNF-α -308 gene polymorphisms and male infertility risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taymour Mostafa
- Department of Andrology & Sexology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mai Taymour
- Department of Dermatology & Andrology, Egypt Air Hospital, Cairo, Egypt
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Amer MK, Mostafa RM, Fathy A, Saad HM, Mostafa T. Ropporin gene expression in infertile asthenozoospermic men with varicocele before and after repair. Urology 2015; 85:805-8. [PMID: 25704993 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2014.12.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2014] [Revised: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess Ropporin gene expression in the sperm of infertile asthenozoospermic men with varicocele (Vx) before and after repair. METHODS This study included 24 infertile asthenozoospermic men with Vx. They were subjected to history taking, clinical examination, scrotal color Doppler, and semen analysis with sperm separation. Three months after varicocelectomy, they were subjected to postoperative color Doppler, semen analysis, and sperm semiquantitative Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction assay for Ropporin gene expression levels. RESULTS Ropporin gene expression is significantly associated with different types of sperm motility, except for nonprogressive sperm motility. There was significant Ropporin gene overexpression postvaricocelectomy that was correlated with improved sperm count, sperm motility, and abnormal sperm morphology with decreased veins diameters. CONCLUSION Ropporin gene expression is related to the sperm motility. Its abnormal expression in the sperm of asthenozoospermic men with Vx is associated with impaired sperm motility that is improved after varicocelectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Medhat K Amer
- Andrology & Sexology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt; Adam International Hospital, Giza, Egypt
| | - Rashad M Mostafa
- Department of Dermatology and Andrology, Andrology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Amal Fathy
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Hany M Saad
- Department of Dermatology and Andrology, Andrology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Taymour Mostafa
- Andrology & Sexology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
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