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Bouloorchi Tabalvandani M, Saeidpour Z, Habibi Z, Javadizadeh S, Firoozabadi SA, Badieirostami M. Microfluidics as an emerging paradigm for assisted reproductive technology: A sperm separation perspective. Biomed Microdevices 2024; 26:23. [PMID: 38652182 DOI: 10.1007/s10544-024-00705-2] [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] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Millions of people are subject to infertility worldwide and one in every six people, regardless of gender, experiences infertility at some period in their life, according to the World Health Organization. Assisted reproductive technologies are defined as a set of procedures that can address the infertility issue among couples, culminating in the alleviation of the condition. However, the costly conventional procedures of assisted reproduction and the inherent vagaries of the processes involved represent a setback for its successful implementation. Microfluidics, an emerging tool for processing low-volume samples, have recently started to play a role in infertility diagnosis and treatment. Given its host of benefits, including manipulating cells at the microscale, repeatability, automation, and superior biocompatibility, microfluidics have been adopted for various procedures in assisted reproduction, ranging from sperm sorting and analysis to more advanced processes such as IVF-on-a-chip. In this review, we try to adopt a more holistic approach and cover different uses of microfluidics for a variety of applications, specifically aimed at sperm separation and analysis. We present various sperm separation microfluidic techniques, categorized as natural and non-natural methods. A few of the recent developments in on-chip fertilization are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zahra Saeidpour
- MEMS Lab, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, 1439957131, Iran
| | - Zahra Habibi
- MEMS Lab, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, 1439957131, Iran
| | - Saeed Javadizadeh
- MEMS Lab, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, 1439957131, Iran
| | - Seyed Ahmadreza Firoozabadi
- MEMS Lab, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, 1439957131, Iran
| | - Majid Badieirostami
- MEMS Lab, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, 1439957131, Iran.
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Rosyada ZNA, Pardede BP, Kaiin EM, Gunawan M, Maulana T, Said S, Tumbelaka LITA, Solihin DD, Ulum MF, Purwantara B. A proteomic approach to identifying spermatozoa proteins in Indonesian native Madura bulls. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1287676. [PMID: 38111731 PMCID: PMC10725959 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1287676] [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: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteins assist sperm mature, transit the female reproductive tract, and recognise sperm oocytes. Indigenous Indonesian bulls, Madura bulls, have not been studied for reproductive proteomics. As local Indonesian beef livestock, Madura cattle assist in achieving food security; hence, their number must be improved. Thus, the identification of molecular proteomics-based bull fertility biomarkers is needed. This study aimed to characterise the sperm fertility function of the superior Madura bull (Bos indicus × Bos Javanicus) spermatozoa proteome. Frozen semen from eight Madura superior bulls (Bos indicus × Bos javanicus) aged 4-8 years was obtained from the artificial insemination centre (AIC) in Singosari and Lembang. Madura superior bulls are those that have passed the bull breeding soundness evaluation. Frozen sperm were thawed and centrifuged at 3000 × g for 30 min. Proteins in sperm were characterised through proteomic analysis using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The resulting gene symbols for each protein were then subjected to bioinformatics tools, including UniProt, DAVID, and STRING databases. Regarding sperm fertility, the analysis revealed that 15 proteins were identified in the sperm of Madura bulls. Amongst the identified proteins, the superior Madura bull sperm contained several motilities, energy-related proteins, and chaperone proteins. A substantial portion of characterised proteins are linked to metabolic pathways and the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, contributing to sperm energy production. In conclusion, the first in-depth proteome identification of sperm related to sperm quality and bull fertility of a unique indigenous Madura breed of Indonesia was performed using the LC-MS/MS proteomic method. These findings may serve as a reference point for further studies related to the functions of bovine sperm and biomarkers of fertility and sperm quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zulfi Nur Amrina Rosyada
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
- Research Center for Applied Zoology, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Bogor, Indonesia
- Division of Veterinary Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Berlin Pandapotan Pardede
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
- Research Center for Applied Zoology, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Ekayanti Mulyawati Kaiin
- Research Center for Applied Zoology, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Muhammad Gunawan
- Research Center for Applied Zoology, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Tulus Maulana
- Research Center for Applied Zoology, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Syahruddin Said
- Research Center for Applied Zoology, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Ligaya I. T. A Tumbelaka
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | | | - Mokhamad Fakhrul Ulum
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Bambang Purwantara
- Division of Reproduction and Obstetrics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, IPB University, Bogor, Indonesia
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Garcia-Oliveros LN, Paes de Arruda R, Batissaco L, Guilger Gonzaga VH, Moreira Nogueira VJ, Florez-Rodriguez SA, Almeida FDS, Rodrigues Alves MB, Costa Pinto SC, Nichi M, Diego de Agostini Losano J, Vechiato Kawai GK, Carvalho Celeghini EC. Chronological characterization of sperm morpho-functional damage and recovery after testicular heat stress in Nellore bulls. J Therm Biol 2022; 106:103237. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtherbio.2022.103237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Jueraitetibaike K, Ding Z, Wang DD, Peng LP, Jing J, Chen L, Ge X, Qiu XH, Yao B. The effect of vitamin D on sperm motility and the underlying mechanism. Asian J Androl 2020; 21:400-407. [PMID: 30618415 PMCID: PMC6628736 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_105_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Vitamin D deficiency is a common health issue around the world. We therefore evaluated the associations of semen quality with both serum and seminal plasma vitamin D levels and studied the mechanisms underlying these by incubating spermatozoa with 1,25(OH)2D in vitro. Two hundred and twenty-two men were included in our study. Vitamin D was detected using an electrochemiluminescence method. Spermatozoa used for in vitro experiments were isolated by density gradient centrifugation. Positive relationships of serum 25(OH)D with semen volume and seminal plasma fructose were identified. Seminal plasma 25(OH)D level showed no relationship with serum 25(OH)D level, while it was inversely associated with sperm concentration and positively correlated with semen volume and sperm kinetic values. In vitro, sperm kinetic parameters increased after incubation with 1,25(OH)2D, especially upon incubation for 30 min with it at a concentration of 0.1 nmol l−1. Under these incubation conditions, the upward migration of spermatozoa increased remarkably with increasing adenosine triphosphate (ATP) concentration. The concentration of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and the activity of protein kinase A (PKA) were both elevated, and the PKA inhibitor, N-[2-(p-Bromocinnamylamino)ethyl]-5-isoquinolinesulfonamide dihydrochloride (H89) reversed the increase of ATP production. The concentrations of cytoplasmic calcium ions and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) were both enhanced, while mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) inhibitor, Ruthenium 360 (Ru360) did not reverse the increase of ATP production. Therefore, seminal plasma vitamin D may be involved in regulating sperm motility, and 1,25(OH)2D may enhance sperm motility by promoting the synthesis of ATP both through the cAMP/PKA pathway and the increase in intracellular calcium ions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kadiliya Jueraitetibaike
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Zheng Ding
- The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical School, Nanjing 210000, China
| | - Dan-Dan Wang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Long-Ping Peng
- Urology Department, Shunde Hospital of Southern Medical University, Foshan 528300, China
| | - Jun Jing
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Li Chen
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Xie Ge
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Xu-Hua Qiu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China
| | - Bing Yao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Jinling Hospital, Clinical School of Medical College, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, China
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Nikolova S, Parvanov D, Georgieva V, Ivanova I, Ganeva R, Stamenov G. Impact of sperm characteristics on time-lapse embryo morphokinetic parameters and clinical outcome of conventional in vitro fertilization. Andrology 2020; 8:1107-1116. [PMID: 32119189 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12781] [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: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sperm abnormalities may negatively affect embryo development. OBJECTIVES To determine the influence of sperm abnormalities (morphology, motility, DNA fragmentation) on embryo morphokinetic variables and clinical outcome of conventional IVF. MATERIALS AND METHODS Participants were 86 couples undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). Sperm morphology was evaluated according to the strict criteria proposed by Kruger/Tygerberg. CASA system was applied for sperm motility assessment. Sperm DNA fragmentation was assessed by the chromatin structure assay (SCSA). Morphokinetic parameters were determined in 223 embryos obtained from conventional IVF only and cultured in a single-step medium using time-lapse imaging technology. RESULTS Time-lapse variables from the initial embryo development, such as time of pronuclei fading (tPNf) and time for two cells (t2), were those more strongly related with abnormalities of sperm motility, morphology, and DNA fragmentation. Sperm morphological abnormalities rather than sperm motility were more closely associated with embryo morphokinetics. Sperm head defects were mainly correlated with the last stages of embryonic development (t9 to tHB), sperm midpiece defects with intermediate cleaving embryos (t5-t9), and sperm tail defects with the initial stages of embryonic development (tPNa-t4). Excess residual cytoplasm was positively correlated with all embryo morphokinetic parameters except t2 and tM. Absence of acrosomes, pinheads, coiled tails, and multiple sperm morphological defects correlated negatively with time-lapse embryo morphokinetic variables. DISCUSSION A large number of sperm-related variables, including frequency of specific morphological defects, morphological indexes, DNA fragmentation and motility, and time-lapse embryo variables, such as time intervals based mainly of 15 time points were recorded. CONCLUSION There were strong associations between specific sperm defects of the head, midpiece, and tail with certain stages of embryonic development from observation of pronuclei to the hatched blastocyst. Coiled tail, cumulative head defects, and multiple abnormalities index (MAI) were associated both with embryo morphokinetics and the implantation success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefka Nikolova
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Dimitar Parvanov
- Research Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Vilyana Georgieva
- Andrology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ivka Ivanova
- Embryology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Rumiana Ganeva
- Research Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Georgi Stamenov
- Obsterics and Gynecology Department, Nadezhda Women's Health Hospital, Sofia, Bulgaria
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E Silva PV, Borges CDS, Rosa JDL, Pacheco TL, Figueiredo TM, Leite GAA, Guerra MT, Anselmo-Franci JA, Klinefelter GR, Kempinas WDG. Effects of isolated or combined exposure to sibutramine and rosuvastatin on reproductive parameters of adult male rats. J Appl Toxicol 2020; 40:947-964. [PMID: 32072669 DOI: 10.1002/jat.3955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Many obese patients are exposed to hypolipidemic and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) drugs. Statins are one of the most marketed drugs in the world to treat dyslipidemia, while sibutramine, a SNRI drug, is prescribed in some countries to treat obesity and is detected as an additive in many adulterated weight loss supplements marketed worldwide. Previous studies reported adverse effects of isolated exposure to these drugs on male rat reproductive parameters. In the present work, we further investigated male reproductive toxicity of these drugs, administered in isolation or combination in adult rats for a longer period of treatment. Adult male rats (90 days) were treated (gavage) for 70 days with saline and dimethyl sulfoxide (control), sibutramine (10 mg/kg), rosuvastatin (5 mg/kg), or rosuvastatin combined with sibutramine. Sibutramine alone or with rosuvastatin, promoted a reduction in food intake and body weight gain, weight of the epididymis, ventral prostate and seminal vesicle; as well as decreased sperm reserves and transit time through the epididymis; androgen depletion; and increased index of cytoplasmic droplet. The rosuvastatin-treated group showed reduced frequency of ejaculation. Exposure to this drug alone or combined with sibutramine impaired epididymal morphology. Co-exposed rats had altered epididymal morphometry, and seminal vesicle and testis weights. The rats also showed decreased fertility after natural mating and a trend toward a delay in ejaculation, suggesting a small synergistic effect of these drugs. Given the greater reproductive efficiency of rodents, the results obtained in the present study raise concern regarding possible fertility impairment in men taking statins and SNRI drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrícia Villela E Silva
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University - UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Cibele Dos Santos Borges
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University - UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Josiane de Lima Rosa
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University - UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Tainá Louise Pacheco
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University - UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Thamiris Moreira Figueiredo
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University - UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Adan Araújo Leite
- Graduate Program in Cell and Structural Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Marina Trevizan Guerra
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University - UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Janete Aparecida Anselmo-Franci
- Department of Morphology, Physiology and Basic Pathology, School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo - USP, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Gary Robert Klinefelter
- Reproductive Toxicity Branch, Toxicity Assessment Division, National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, US Environmental Protection Agency, North Carolina, USA
| | - Wilma De Grava Kempinas
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University - UNESP, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
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7
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Genetic relationships among sperm quality traits of Duroc boars collected during the summer season. Anim Reprod Sci 2019; 206:85-92. [PMID: 31151862 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2019.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The goals of the study were to estimate the heritability and repeatability of boar sperm quality traits during the summer season, estimate phenotypic and genetic correlations between sperm quality traits, and assess the effect of these traits on total number born (TNB). Semen samples were collected and individually processed from Duroc boars (n = 363) from May through October 2017. Single sire litter information was available for 121 of the boars. Heritability, repeatability, genetic correlations, and phenotypic correlations were estimated for and among the following traits: total percentage of motile cells (MOT), total percentage of progressively motile cells (PROG), percentage of cells with a distal droplet (DIST), percentage of cells with a proximal droplet (PROX), percentage of cells with a bent tail (BENT), percentage of cells with a distal midpiece reflex (DMR), mean sperm head elongation (ELON), and total sperm cells per ejaculate (TOTSP). Heritability estimates ranged from 0.08 to 0.24 and repeatability estimates ranged from 0.21 to 0.62. The phenotypic and genetic correlations between sperm motility traits and morphological defects indicated a negative relationship. Sperm morphological defects had positive phenotypic and genetic correlations with each other. Total sperm per ejaculate showed positive genetic correlations with the motility traits. Positive phenotypic and genetic correlations existed between ELON and the motility traits. Total sperm motility (P < 0.001) positively affected TNB while DIST (P < 0.001), PROX (P < 0.001), BENT (P = 0.05) and DMR (P = 0.002) negatively affected TNB. Results indicate genetic selection could enhance sperm quality during the summer season in boars.
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Zhu WJ. Transmission electron microscopy analysis of the origin and incidence of sperm intranuclear cytoplasmic retention in fertile and teratozoospermia men. Andrology 2018; 6:317-324. [PMID: 29457364 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Revised: 12/31/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The human sperm nucleus contains cytoplasm. However, the origin and incidence of human sperm intranuclear cytoplasmic retention (INCR) remain unknown. The objectives of this study were to observe the morphological origin of INCR within the seminiferous epithelium and investigate the incidence of INCR in fertile and teratozoospermia men using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). By TEM, INCR initially appeared in elongating round spermatid nuclei and varied in size, number, shape, content, location and distribution within sperm nuclei. The teratozoospermia group (n = 16) demonstrated a higher incidence of INCR than did the fertile group (n = 16) (17.6 ± 5.2% vs. 9.7 ± 3.4%; p = 0.000). In the fertile group, no correlations were found between the incidence of INCR and abnormal sperm morphology, nuclear vacuole, acrosome integrity, motility or concentration (p > 0.05). However, the incidence of INCR exhibited a positive relationship with sperm abnormal morphology in the teratozoospermia group (r = 0.616, p = 0.011). These results demonstrate that INCR occurs in the early process of spermatogenesis and is an alteration found in the nucleus. Spermatozoa from teratozoospermia men contained more INCRs than those from fertile males. More attention should be paid to the possibility of spermatozoa containing INCR when using spermatozoa with abnormal head morphology for clinical or diagnostic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- W-J Zhu
- Department of Developmental and Regenerative Biology, College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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Taghizadeh L, Eidi A, Mortazavi P, Rohani AH. Effect of selenium on testicular damage induced by varicocele in adult male Wistar rats. J Trace Elem Med Biol 2017; 44:177-185. [PMID: 28965574 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtemb.2017.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Revised: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PROJECT Varicocele is an abnormal tortuosity and distension of the veins of the pampiniform plexus in the spermatic cord. It is the most common surgically correctable cause of male infertility. Several studies have revealed the effects of increased oxidative stress on serum, semen, and testicular tissues in patients with varicocele or in animal models. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of sodium selenite on testicular damage induced by experimental left varicocele in male Wistar rats. PROCEDURE In the present study, the effects of oral administration of sodium selenite (at doses of 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.4mg/kg bw) were assessed in normal and varicocelized rats. RESULTS The varicocelized control rats showed decrease in sperm quality parameters, decreased activity of testes CAT, GPX and SOD, increased levels of MDA, and damage in testicular architecture. Administration of sodium selenite significantly reduced these changes to nearly normal levels, but did not change these parameters in normal rats. Histopathological studies further confirmed the protective effects of sodium selenite on varicocele-induced testicular damage in rats. Administrations of sodium selenite did not change these parameters in normal rats. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, the results of this study suggest that sodium selenite treatment may have beneficial effect on the testes of varicocelized rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Taghizadeh
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Akram Eidi
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Pejman Mortazavi
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Specialized Veterinary Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Haeri Rohani
- Department of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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10
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Aydos SE, Yukselten Y, Sunguroglu A, Demircan K, Aydos K. Role of ADAMTS1 and ADAMTS5 in male infertility. Andrologia 2016; 48:1113-1119. [PMID: 26888488 DOI: 10.1111/and.12547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship of infertility with metalloproteinases ADAMTS1 and ADAMTS5, which are known to be responsible for the degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins associated with many diseases. ECM is the noncellular component that provides structural and biochemical support to the surrounding cells required for tissue morphogenesis, differentiation and homoeostasis. Sixty infertile individuals and 10 healthy semen donors were included in this study. The infertile individuals were classified as normozoospermia (NS; n = 20), oligozoospermia (OS; n = 20), azoospermia (AS; n = 20) groups. ADAMTS1 and ADAMTS5 protein levels in semen were analysed by Western blot. ADAMTS1 protein level was 3.0-, 3.3- and 1.6-fold lower in the OS, AS and NS groups, respectively, than in the control group (P < 0.001). ADAMTS5 protein level was 3.2-, 2.7- and 1.4-fold lower in the OS, AS and NS groups, respectively, than in the control group (P < 0.001). Sperm count and sperm motility showed a negative correlation with the levels of ADAMTS1 and ADAMTS5 protein expression: r = -0.477, r = -0.470; and r = -0.332, r = -0.275 respectively (P < 0.001). In conclusion, ADAMTS1 and ADAMTS5 protein expressions in semen are significantly related with sperm production. It is very important to understand molecular function and organisation of ADAMTSs which will be significant in enlightening the process of spermatogenesis in male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- S E Aydos
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Y Yukselten
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - A Sunguroglu
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - K Demircan
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, Turgut Ozal University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - K Aydos
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
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12
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Rengan AK, Agarwal A, van der Linde M, du Plessis SS. An investigation of excess residual cytoplasm in human spermatozoa and its distinction from the cytoplasmic droplet. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2012; 10:92. [PMID: 23159014 PMCID: PMC3551780 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-10-92] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2012] [Accepted: 11/13/2012] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have shown cytoplasmic droplets to be normal morphological occurrences in human male spermatozoa. When the cytoplasm around the sperm midpiece is present in large amounts, however, pathological effects may transpire. The cytoplasmic droplet then becomes known as excess residual cytoplasm, which can impair overall sperm function and produce higher levels of reactive oxygen species, potentially leading to male infertility. Though the distinction between cytoplasmic droplets and excess residual cytoplasm has been made, some studies fail to recognize the difference and incorrectly label the latter as a cytoplasmic droplet. This review attempts to clarify excess residual cytoplasm's effect on fertility, examine the enzymes responsible, and suggest tests and possible treatment options for those affected by this defect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anil K Rengan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, 44195, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, 44195, USA
| | - Michelle van der Linde
- Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Avenue, Tygerberg, 7507, South Africa
| | - Stefan S du Plessis
- Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Francie van Zijl Avenue, Tygerberg, 7507, South Africa
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13
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Carreira JT, Mingoti GZ, Rodrigues LH, Silva C, Perri SHV, Koivisto MB. Impact of proximal cytoplasmic droplets on quality traits and in-vitro embryo production efficiency of cryopreserved bull spermatozoa. Acta Vet Scand 2012; 54:1. [PMID: 22240071 PMCID: PMC3292455 DOI: 10.1186/1751-0147-54-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2011] [Accepted: 01/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Proximal cytoplasmic droplets (PCDs), a remnant of germ cell cytoplasm, are common non-specific morphological defects in bovine semen. This study evaluated the effect of higher percentages of PCDs on the quality of frozen-thawed bovine semen, embryo production and early embryo development. Methods Three ejaculates from each of five (group 1: PCD ≤ 1%, control) and eight adult Bos indicus bulls (group 2: PCD ≥ 24%) were analysed. Semen samples were examined for: post-thaw motility, vigour of movement, concentration, sperm morphology, slow thermoresistance test (STT), membrane integrity, acrosome status, mitochondrial function using fluorescent probes association (FITC-PSA, PI and JC-1) and sperm chromatin integrity using acridine orange assay. Two bulls from group 2, with 28.5% and 48.5% PCD, respectively, and three bulls from the control group, each with 0% PCD, were selected for IVF (in vitro fertilisation). Results Semen analyses revealed a significant correlation (P < 0.01) between increased rates of PCD and sperm quality traits. Nevertheless, no differences were observed in sperm motility and vigour either before or after the STT or in the percentage of intact acrosomes (analysed by differential interference contrast microscopy (DIC) after STT), but membrane integrity, acrosome status (evaluated with FITC-PSA staining method after thawing) and mitochondrial function were reduced, when compared with group 1 (P < 0.05). The higher incidence of PCD was positively correlated to chromatin damage, especially after three hours of incubation at 37°C. IVF showed similar results for bull C2 (group 1, control) and bull P2 (group 2, group with higher PCDs). Conclusion Higher PCD levels influenced spermatozoa quality traits. IVF and embryo development data showed that cleavage, blastocyst formation and blastocyst hatching may have been influenced by the interaction of morphology traits and individual bull effects.
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Petrochelli Banzato T, Godinho AF, da Silva Zacarin ECM, Perobelli JE, Dal Bianco Fernandez C, Favareto APA, De Grava Kempinas W. Sperm quality in adult male rats exposed to cadmium in utero and lactation. JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART A 2012; 75:1047-1058. [PMID: 22852854 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2012.697831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies indicate that several anomalies of the male reproductive system may be produced by acute or chronic exposure to chemical substances released into the environment, attributed to increased industrial development. Among these substances are trace metals such as cadmium (Cd). The aim of this study was to assess reproductive parameters in adult male rats whose mothers were exposed to Cd during pregnancy and lactation. For this, pregnant rats were divided into two experimental groups: treated rats, which received ad libitum cadmium acetate (CdAc) solution in distilled water (10 mg Cd/L), and control rats, which received sodium acetate (NaAc) solution in distilled water (equimolar to the CdAc). The results showed that the exposure to Cd in utero and through lactation adversely affected sperm quality of adult rats, as evidenced by compromised sperm morphology and motility and increased rate of cell death in testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thais Petrochelli Banzato
- Graduate Program in General and Applied Biology , Institute of Biosciences, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
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15
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Toledo FC, Perobelli JE, Pedrosa FPC, Anselmo-Franci JA, Kempinas WDG. In utero protein restriction causes growth delay and alters sperm parameters in adult male rats. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2011; 9:94. [PMID: 21702915 PMCID: PMC3141647 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-9-94] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2010] [Accepted: 06/24/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies have supported the concept of "fetal programming" which suggests that during the intrauterine development the fetus may be programmed to develop diseases in adulthood. The possible effects of in utero protein restriction on sexual development of rat male offspring were evaluated in the present study. METHODS Pregnant Wistar rats were divided into two experimental groups: one group treated with standard chow (SC, n = 8, 17% protein) and the other group treated with hypoproteic chow (HC, n = 10, 6% protein) throughout gestation. After gestation the two experimental groups received standard chow. To evaluate the possible late reproductive effects of in utero protein restriction, the male offspring of both groups were assessed at different phases of sexual development: prepubertal (30 days old); peripubertal (60 days old); adult (90 days old). Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney test were utilized. Differences were considered significant when p < 0.05. RESULTS We found that in utero protein restriction reduced the body weight of male pups on the first postnatal day and during the different sexual development phases (prepubertal, peripubertal and adult). During adulthood, Sertoli cell number, sperm motility and sperm counts in the testis and epididymal cauda were also reduced in HC. Furthermore, the numbers of sperm presenting morphological abnormalities and cytoplasmic drop retention were higher in HC. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, in utero protein restriction, under these experimental conditions, causes growth delay and alters male reproductive-system programming in rats, suggesting impairment of sperm quality in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabíola C Toledo
- Graduate Program in Cell and Structural Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana E Perobelli
- Graduate Program in Cell and Structural Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Flávia PC Pedrosa
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Janete A Anselmo-Franci
- Department of Morphology, Stomatology and Physiology, School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo - USP, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Wilma DG Kempinas
- Department of Morphology, Institute of Biosciences, UNESP - Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
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Kowal M, Lenartowicz M, Pecio A, Gołas A, Błaszkiewicz T, Styrna J. Copper Metabolism Disorders Affect Testes Structure and Gamete Quality in Male Mice. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2010; 56:431-44. [DOI: 10.3109/19396361003734624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Nasr-Esfahani MH, Abasi H, Razavi S, Ashrafi S, Tavalaee M. Varicocelectomy: semen parameters and protamine deficiency. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 32:115-22. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2007.00822.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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18
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Suwanpugdee A, Kornkeawrat K, Saikhun K, Siriaroonrat B, Tipkantha W, Doungsa-Ard K, Sa-Ardrit M, Suthunmapinatha P, Pinyopummin A. Semen characteristics and sperm morphology of serow (Capricornis sumatraensis). Theriogenology 2009; 71:576-85. [PMID: 18945482 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2008.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2008] [Revised: 07/21/2008] [Accepted: 08/18/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The serow (Capricornis sumatraensis) is a critically endangered species. The objectives of this study were to evaluate ejaculate quality in captive males, and to investigate and characterize sperm morphology. Semen was collected using electroejaculation. Mean (+/-S.D.) seminal characteristics were: semen volume 2.3+/-0.8 mL, pH 7.8+/-0.4, and osmolality 329.9+/-32.9mOsmol/kg; sperm concentration 515.8+/-263.1 x 10(6) cells/mL; wave motion score (1-5) 3.9+/-0.4; motile sperm 60.5+/-22%; viable sperm 68.3+/-9.4%; morphologically normal sperm 70.8+/-19.3%; and an opacity that was yellowish to milky-white. Sperm head length, width, degree of elongation, area, and perimeter were 6.0+/-0.6 microm, 4.3+/-0.3 microm, 71.7+/-8.6%, 19.8+/-2.5 microm(2), and 17.9+/-2.1 microm. Based on these measurements, we categorized sperm head morphometry as small, medium, or large. In addition, sperm morphology was examined by light and scanning electron microscopy; overall, morphologically normal and abnormal sperm were similar to those reported for other bovidae. In summary, this study provided baseline data regarding semen characteristics of C. sumatraensis, which should be of value in the preservation of this endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Suwanpugdee
- Center of Agricultural Biotechnology, Kasetsart University, Nakhon Pathom 73140, Thailand.
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19
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Griffiths GS, Galileo DS, Reese K, Martin-Deleon PA. Investigating the role of murine epididymosomes and uterosomes in GPI-linked protein transfer to sperm using SPAM1 as a model. Mol Reprod Dev 2008; 75:1627-36. [PMID: 18384048 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Sperm uptake of glycosyl phosphatidylinositol (GPI)-linked proteins from luminal fluids has been shown to occur in male and estrous female reproductive tracts. In males, this is attributed to membranous vesicles secreted into the epididymis and prostate. While epididymosomes have been characterized, there have been no reports of the presence of vesicles in female luminal fluids. Here we report the presence of vesicles, characterized as "uterosomes," in the murine estrous female reproductive fluid; and use Sperm Adhesion Molecule 1 (SPAM1/PH-20), a well-known hyaluronidase found in male and female fluids, as a model to investigate vesicle-mediated GPI-linked protein transfer to sperm. Epididymosomes and uterosomes isolated after ultracentrifugation of epididymal (ELF) and uterine luminal fluid (ULF) were analyzed by electron microscopy and shown to be approximately 10-70 and approximately 15-50 nm in diameter. The structural integrity of uterosomes was confirmed by their resistance to hypo-osmotic and freeze/thaw stresses; and immunogold labeling localized SPAM1 to their outer membrane surface, as was the case for epididymosomes. SPAM1 was acquired by caudal sperm during incubation in epididymosomes and uterosomes; uptake was abolished when the GPI anchor was enzymatically cleaved. Sperm analyzed by confocal and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) after incubation in fluorescently labeled vesicles revealed the label on the membrane over the acrosome and midpiece of the flagella, where SPAM1 normally resides. High magnification TEM images demonstrated vesicles juxtaposed to the sperm plasma membrane potentially transferring SPAM1. Taken together, these results implicate vesicular docking as the mechanism of vesicle-mediated GPI-linked protein transfer to sperm from murine reproductive fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Genevieve S Griffiths
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19716, USA
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Aitken R, Roman S, Baker M, De Iuliis G. Redox Regulation of DNA Damage in the Male Germ Line. MALE-MEDIATED DEVELOPMENTAL TOXICITY 2007. [DOI: 10.1039/9781847557643-00197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- R.J. Aitken
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development and Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle Callaghan NSW 2308 Australia
| | - S.D. Roman
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development and Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle Callaghan NSW 2308 Australia
| | - M.A. Baker
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development and Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle Callaghan NSW 2308 Australia
| | - G. De Iuliis
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development and Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle Callaghan NSW 2308 Australia
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Kumar V, Rangaraj N, Shivaji S. Activity of Pyruvate Dehydrogenase A (PDHA) in Hamster Spermatozoa Correlates Positively with Hyperactivation and Is Associated with Sperm Capacitation1. Biol Reprod 2006; 75:767-77. [PMID: 16855207 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.106.053587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Unravelling the molecular basis of capacitation is crucial to our understanding the basis of acquisition of fertilization competence by spermatozoa. In two recent studies, we have demonstrated that dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase, which is a post-pyruvate metabolic enzyme and one of the components of pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, undergoes capacitation-dependent tyrosine phosphorylation, and that the activity of the enzyme correlates with capacitation events in the hamster spermatozoa. However, it is not clear as to whether other components of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex are also crucial for sperm capacitation. In this report, we have identified pyruvate dehydrogenase A2 (PDHA2), a constituent of pyruvate dehydrogenase A (PDHA), which is a component of pyruvate dehydrogenase complex that exhibits tyrosine phosphorylation during hamster spermatozoal capacitation. This is the first report showing that hamster sperm PDHA2 is a testis-specific phosphotyrosine that is associated with the fibrous sheath of hamster spermatozoa. The localization of PDHA2 in spermatozoa was investigated using antibodies to PDHA, which is the active tetrameric protein that consists of a homodimer of PDHA2 and PDHB. Both immunofluorescence and confocal studies indicated a unique non-canonical, extramitochondrial localization for PDHA in the principal piece of hamster spermatozoa. It was also observed that PDHA colocalized with AKAP4 in the fibrous sheath of the spermatozoon. The enzymatic activity of PDHA was positively correlated with hyperactivation but not with the acrosome reaction. Given the localization of PDHA and the evidence that its activity correlates positively with hyperactivation and that its PDHA2 subunit exhibits capacitation-associated protein tyrosine phosphorylation, it appears that PDHA2 is associated with the process of capacitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Kumar
- Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad 500 007, India
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22
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the generation of the superoxide anion by equine spermatozoa. SAMPLE POPULATION Multiple ejaculates collected from 3 Thoroughbred stallions. PROCEDURES Induced superoxide production by reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotides (NAD[P]H; ie, reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide [NADH] and reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate [NADPH]) was measured by use of a nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) reduction assay on whole spermatozoa and a cytochrome c reduction assay on isolated membrane fractions of spermatozoa. Localization of superoxide generation was determined by use of NBT cytochemistry. RESULTS A dose-dependent increase in NBT reduction was found in the presence of NADPH, which was inhibited by superoxide dismutase (SOD). The flavoprotein inhibitor, diphenyleneiodonium (DPI; 5 or 15 microM), significantly decreased NBT reduction. Cytochrome c reduction by plasma membranes of spermatozoa was significantly higher in the presence of NADPH than in its absence. Cytochemical staining of equine spermatozoa in the presence of NADPH and NADH revealed diaphorase labeling in the spermatozoon midpiece and head. This staining was inhibited by DPI and SOD. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results of our study indicate that superoxide generation is associated with a membrane-associated NAD(P)H oxidase present in equine spermatozoa, although mitochondrial generation of superoxide is also detected. This oxidase may play a role in cell signaling or may also contribute to cytopathic effects associated with oxidative stress in equine spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalida Sabeur
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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23
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Bassols J, Kádár E, Briz M, Pinart E, Sancho S, Garcia-Gil N, Badia E, Pruneda A, Bussalleu E, Yeste M, Casas I, Dacheux JL, Bonet S. Evaluation of boar sperm maturation after co-incubation with caput, corpus and cauda epididymal cultures. Theriogenology 2005; 64:1995-2009. [PMID: 15964065 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2005.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2005] [Revised: 03/29/2005] [Accepted: 05/01/2005] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Boar sperm from the proximal caput epididymis were co-incubated with 1, 4, 7, 10 and 14-day old caput, corpus and cauda epididymal cultures for 24, 48 and 72 h. Boar kidney epithelial cells (LLC-PK1) and ECM alone were used as negative controls. Sperm motility, morphology and membrane integrity were studied to evaluate boar sperm maturation in vitro. Our results showed that epithelial cell monolayers (10, 14-day old) create a suitable microenvironment for the survival of proximal caput sperm and the maintenance of sperm motility over a 72 h period. Moreover, corpus epididymal tubule fragments in culture (1, 4-day old) are capable of promoting the migration of the cytoplasmic droplet along the sperm tail after 24h of co-incubation.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Bassols
- Biotechnology of Porcine Reproduction, Department of Biology, INTEA, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Campus Montilivi s/n, 17071 Girona, Spain
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24
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Abstract
The term cytoplasmic droplets is used to mean two different structures by basic scientists and clinicians. The literature on the presence, position and loss of cytoplasmic droplets and their relationship to infertility in animal species is reviewed. It is proposed that a change in terminology is required: 'cytoplasmic droplet' should be used to describe normal droplets associated with functional sperm produced by normal spermatogenesis and 'excess residual cytoplasm' is suggested to describe abnormal droplets associated with dysfunctional sperm that are products of faulty spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- T G Cooper
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine of the University Clinic, Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, D-48129 Münster, Germany.
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Said TM, Agarwal A, Sharma RK, Mascha E, Sikka SC, Thomas AJ. Human sperm superoxide anion generation and correlation with semen quality in patients with male infertility. Fertil Steril 2004; 82:871-7. [PMID: 15482762 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2004.02.132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2003] [Revised: 02/13/2004] [Accepted: 02/13/2004] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To measure levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) including H(2)O(2) and O(2)(.-) generation in infertile men and determine whether sperm quality is correlated with levels of ROS triggered by the exogenous reduced form of beta nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH). DESIGN Prospective study. SETTING Male infertility clinic at a tertiary healthcare center. PATIENT(S) Eleven infertile men and six healthy donors. INTERVENTION(S) Chemiluminescence assay using luminol and lucigenin as probes before and after incubating sperm samples with 5 mM and 10 mM of NADPH. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The ROS generation (10(6) counted photons per minute/10(6) sperm). RESULT(S) Baseline levels of O(2)(.-) generation were significantly higher in the infertile patients than in the healthy donors (r = 0.73, 95% confidence interval [median (25th, 75th percentiles): 0.73 (0.5, 5.5) vs. 0.2 (0.0, 0.5)] when lucigenin was used as the probe. Compared with basal levels, O(2)(.-) generation was significantly higher after coincubation with NADPH (5 mM and 10 mM) in the entire combined study population, and patients only but not donors. The O(2)(.-) generation was negatively correlated with sperm concentration (r = -0.75, 95% CI 0.38-1), motility (r = -0.69, 95% CI 0.28-1), and percentage of normal morphology (r = -0.78, 95% CI 0.36-1). CONCLUSION(S) Spermatozoa from infertile men produce higher levels of O(2)(.-) in the presence of exogenous NADPH compared to healthy donors. The ability of spermatozoa to generate O(2)(.-) increases as the semen quality declines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamer M Said
- Center for Advanced Research in Human Reproduction, Infertility, and Sexual Function, Glickman Urological Institute and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH 44195, USA
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Aitken RJ, Sawyer D. The human spermatozoon--not waving but drowning. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2004; 518:85-98. [PMID: 12817679 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4419-9190-4_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The poor quality of the human ejaculate sets man apart from all other mammalian species. Even in normal fertile men the ejaculate may contain up to 85% abnormal forms according to the World Heath Organization (1999). In the wake of this poor semen quality comes extremely poor fertility (Hull et al, 1985) and the highest rates of aneuploidy, pregnancy loss and birth defects in viviparous vertebrates. Thus, the poor quality of human spermatozoa is reflected in both their capacity for fertilization and their genetic integrity. The ultimate cause of defective sperm function is unknown. In certain patients a genetic basis for male infertility has been identified involving DNA deletions on the long arm of the Y chromosome. Such deletions might explain the impoverished semen quality seen in about 10-14% of men with severely impaired spermatogenesis, but fail to explain the infertility seen in most (>85%) cases of male infertility. One of the key attributes and probable causes of defective sperm function is oxidative stress created by excessive ROS generation by the spermatozoa and/or the disruption of antioxidant defence systems in the male reproductive tract. Excess free radical generation frequently involves an error in spermiogenesis resulting in the release of spermatozoa from the germinal epithelium exhibiting abnormally high levels of cytoplasmic retention. The excess cytoplasm contains enzymes that fuel the generation of ROS by the spermatozoa's plasma membrane redox systems. The consequences of such oxidative stress include a loss of motility and fertilizing potential and the induction of DNA damage in the sperm nucleus. The loss of sperm function is due to the peroxidation of unsaturated fatty acids in the sperm plasma membrane as a consequence of which the latter loses its fluidity and the cells lose their function. The causes and consequences of oxidative damage to the DNA in the sperm nucleus are still not known with certainty. The available evidence suggests that early pregnancy loss and morbidity in the offspring, including childhood cancer, are associated with such damage. Developing animal models with which to establish the validity of these relationships and identifying the environmental factors associated with the proposed 'testicular dysgenesis syndrome' will clearly be important tasks for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- R John Aitken
- Discipline of Biological Sciences, Centre for Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
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27
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Abstract
Spermatozoa were the first cell type in which the cellular generation of reactive oxygen was demonstrated. This activity has now been confirmed in spermatozoa from all mammalian species examined including the rat, mouse, rabbit, horse, bull and human being. Under physiological circumstances, cellular redox activity is thought to drive the cAMP-mediated, tyrosine phosphorylation events associated with sperm capacitation. In addition to this biological role, human spermatozoa also appear to suffer from oxidative stress, with impacts on the normality of their function and the integrity of their nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. Recent studies have helped to clarify the molecular basis for the intense redox activity observed in defective human spermatozoa, the nature of the subcellular structures responsible for this activity and possible mechanisms by which oxidative stress impacts on these cells. Given the importance of oxidative damage in the male germ line to the origins of male infertility, early pregnancy loss and childhood disease, this area of sperm biochemistry deserves attention from all those interested in improved methods for the diagnosis, management and prevention of male-mediated reproductive failure.
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Aitken RJ, Baker MA, Sawyer D. Oxidative stress in the male germ line and its role in the aetiology of male infertility and genetic disease. Reprod Biomed Online 2003; 7:65-70. [PMID: 12930576 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)61730-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The human male is characterized by extremely poor semen quality as reflected in the number, morphology and motility of the spermatozoa and a high incidence of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA damage. As a consequence of these factors, defective sperm function is thought to be a major contributor to the aetiology of human infertility, as well as childhood diseases including dominant genetic mutations such as achondroplasia and cancer. Factors associated with the origin of poor semen quality include: (i) a lack of selection pressure for high fecundity genes in developed countries, (ii) an evolutionary lineage associated with the deterioration of several male fertility genes in humans and their close ancestors, (iii) genetic factors including, but not limited to, Y-chromosome deletions (iv) paternal age and (v) environmental factors. A model is proposed whereby factors such as ageing or environmental toxicants initiate DNA strand breakage in the spermatozoa of affected males, eventually leading to a mutation in the embryo. This hypothesis stresses the importance of discovering the identity of those environmental factors that are capable of damaging DNA integrity in the male germ line. Such information could make an important contribution to understanding of the origins of both male infertility and a variety of pathological conditions that affect humans, including cancer and dominant genetic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- R John Aitken
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development, Discipline of Biological Sciences, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, NSW 2308, Australia.
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29
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the retention of sperm cytoplasmic droplets (CD) and DNA denaturation (DD) in semen from fertile and infertile men. METHODS Semen samples were obtained from consecutive nonazoospermic men presenting for infertility evaluation (n = 101) and fertile men presenting for vasectomy (n = 13). The standard semen parameters (sperm concentration, motility, and morphology), sperm DD, and sperm CD were monitored. Sperm DD was evaluated by flow cytometry analysis of acridine orange-treated spermatozoa and expressed as the percentage of spermatozoa demonstrating denatured DNA. RESULTS The mean (+/-SE) percentages of spermatozoa with CD and DD were significantly higher in infertile than in fertile men (sperm CD 15.7% +/- 0.8% versus 4.8% +/- 0.7% and sperm DD 22.0% +/- 1.5% versus 10.8% +/- 1.8%, respectively). Sperm CD and DD were positively correlated (r = 0.59). Also, sperm CD and DD values correlated inversely with the standard semen parameters. CONCLUSIONS Our data demonstrate that the retention of sperm CD correlates positively with sperm DD and that significantly higher sperm DD and CD are found in infertile than in fertile men. These data suggest that the enhanced susceptibility of sperm DNA to denaturation is associated with the abnormal disposal of residual sperm cytoplasm in the testis and/or epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Anthony Fischer
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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30
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Thundathil J, Palasz AT, Barth AD, Mapletoft RJ. The use of in vitro fertilization techniques to investigate the fertilizing ability of bovine sperm with proximal cytoplasmic droplets. Anim Reprod Sci 2001; 65:181-92. [PMID: 11267798 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-4320(00)00231-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this experiment was to determine the effect of proximal droplets on sperm-oocyte binding, zona penetration, fertilization, and the developmental competence of oocytes fertilized by sperm with proximal droplets (PD) in an in vitro fertilization (IVF) and culture system. Frozen semen from three bulls (PD1, PD2 and PD3) with varying proportions of normal appearing sperm with proximal droplets and semen from a normal control bull (C) were used in this experiment. The mean number of sperm bound to the zona pellucida (26.8 +/- 2.0, n=100; 15.2 +/- 1.1, n=100; 16.2 +/- 1.0, n=100) for bulls PD1, PD2, and PD3, respectively, were significantly lower (P<0.05) than that of the control bull C (47.4+/- 1.9; n=114). No spermatozoa with PD were found bound to the zona pellucida and this finding was consistent among the three bulls. The percentage penetration of zonae for the bulls PD1, PD2 and PD3 (74%, 74/100; 71%, 71/100 and 69%, 69/100, respectively) were not different than that of bull C (72%, 179/245). Similarly, the mean number of sperm penetrating the zona pellucida (1.43+/- 1.2, 1.24 +/- 1.1 and 1.20 +/- 1.1, for bulls PD1, PD2 and PD3, respectively) were not different than that of bull C (1.45 +/- 1.1). However, fertilization rates (8.8%, 8/90; 16.8%, 16/95; and 10.6%, 11/103, for bulls PD1, PD2 and PD3, respectively) were lower (P<0.001) than that of bull C (68.7%; 77/112). Similarly, cleavage rates (5%, 10/200; 8%, 8/100 and 14%, 15/111) for the bulls PD1, PD2 and PD3, respectively, were lower than that of the control bull, C (60.7%; 79/130). Cleaved zygotes resulting from the fertilization of oocytes by apparently normal sperm from bulls with PD did not develop beyond cleavage, whereas, 43.8% (57/130) morulae and 20% (26/130) blastocysts were produced by oocytes fertilized by sperm from bull C. In summary, normal appearing sperm with PD did not bind to the zona pellucida. Apparently normal sperm with out proximal droplets co-existing in the semen along with sperm containing PD were also functionally deficient, resulting in reduced zonae binding and zygotes resulting from insemination with semen with a high percentage of PD did not develop beyond cleavage.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Thundathil
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, 52 Campus Dr, University of Saskatchewan, SK, S7N 5B4, Saskatoon, Canada
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Mak V, Jarvi K, Buckspan M, Freeman M, Hechter S, Zini A. Smoking is associated with the retention of cytoplasm by human spermatozoa. Urology 2000; 56:463-6. [PMID: 10962316 DOI: 10.1016/s0090-4295(00)00700-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine whether cigarette smoking is associated with the abnormal retention of residual sperm cytoplasm in infertile men. METHODS Semen samples were obtained from 87 consecutive non-azoospermic men with idiopathic infertility (18 smokers and 69 nonsmokers) and from 20 men presenting for vasectomy (fertile controls). Standard semen parameters and the percentage of spermatozoa with residual cytoplasm (on Papanicolaou smears) were recorded. RESULTS Subject age, semen volume, and sperm density, motility, and morphology were not significantly different between the two groups of infertile men. However, a significant difference was found in the mean +/- SEM percentages of sperm with cytoplasm droplets between smokers and nonsmokers (12.9% +/- 1.7% and 8.1% +/- 0.9%, respectively; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that cigarette smoking is associated with retention of sperm cytoplasmic droplets in infertile men, a morphologic characteristic associated with impaired sperm function.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Mak
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Zini A, Defreitas G, Freeman M, Hechter S, Jarvi K. Varicocele is associated with abnormal retention of cytoplasmic droplets by human spermatozoa. Fertil Steril 2000; 74:461-4. [PMID: 10973638 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(00)00703-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether varicocele is associated with retention of sperm cytoplasmic droplets in infertile men. DESIGN Retrospective study. SETTING University infertility clinic. PATIENT(S) Nonazoospermic men with idiopathic (n = 69) and varicocele-associated infertility (n = 73), and 20 fertile controls presenting for vasectomy. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES(S) Standard semen parameters and percentage of spermatozoa with cytoplasmic droplets on Papanicolaou smears. RESULT(S) No statistically significant differences were found between the fertile and infertile groups with respect to semen volume. Fertile controls had significantly greater mean percent sperm motility and normal morphology than infertile men. The mean percentage of sperm with residual cytoplasm was statistically significantly different in all three groups. Infertile men with varicocele had the highest percentage of sperm with cytoplasmic droplets, the next highest level being in men with idiopathic infertility and the lowest level in fertile controls (11.7 +/- 1.0, 8.1 +/- 0.9 and 3.2 +/- 0.4%, respectively, P<.0001). CONCLUSION(S) Our data show that idiopathic and even moreso, varicocele-related male infertility are conditions associated with impaired disposal of residual sperm cytoplasm by the testis and/or epididymis. These data provide a possible mechanism for the observed semen abnormalities and reduced fertility potential associated with varicocele and idiopathic male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zini
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Zini A, Buckspan M, Jamal M, Jarvi K. Effect of varicocelectomy on the abnormal retention of residual cytoplasm by human spermatozoa. Hum Reprod 1999; 14:1791-3. [PMID: 10402391 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/14.7.1791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal retention of cytoplasmic residues by human spermatozoa is associated with the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in semen and defective sperm function. We have examined the effect of varicocelectomy on the retention of residual cytoplasm by human spermatozoa. Clinical reports of 43 men who underwent microsurgical varicocelectomy at our institution during a 1 year period beginning July 1996 were reviewed. Standard semen parameters (concentration, motility and morphology) and residual cytoplasm retention (monitored by Papanicolaou stain) were assessed before and 6 months after varicocelectomy. The percentage of spermatozoa with residual cytoplasm decreased significantly following varicocelectomy compared to pre-operatively (25.8 versus 18.1% respectively). The percentages of motile spermatozoa and normal forms increased significantly (P = 0.0003, P = 0.005 respectively) following varicocelectomy (22.6 versus 32.9% and 46.4 versus 54.4% respectively). Our data suggest that varicocelectomy can improve the disposal of residual sperm cytoplasm by the testis and/or epididymis in infertile men with varicocele. These data also suggest that varicocelectomy reduces the potential for ROS generation by human spermatozoa in these men.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zini
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, 600 University Avenue, Suite 455, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5G 1X5
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