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Michałek K, Grabowska M, Oberska P, Gączarzewicz D, Syczewski A, Tripon SC, Barbu-Tudoran L, Suciu M. Ultrastructure of the Bovine Testis in Cattle ( Bos taurus): New View. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1777. [PMID: 38929396 PMCID: PMC11201160 DOI: 10.3390/ani14121777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to analyze the ultrastructure of the testes of sexually immature calves and reproductive bulls of the Polish Holstein-Friesian Black-and-White breed. Utilizing TEM, this study identified three distinct stages of seminiferous tubule development in calves, characterized by varying shapes, distributions, and arrangements of individual cells. In immature animals, early developing spermatocytes, prespermatogonia, and pre-Sertoli cells were observed within the seminiferous tubules. In sexually mature bulls, all cells of the spermatogenic series were observed, situated on a thin, multilayered basal lamina, which forms characteristic undulations. An abundant smooth endoplasmic reticulum was observed in the cytoplasm of spermatogonia in both groups of animals, forming characteristic membranous swirls. In adult bulls, spermatogonia maintain contact with each other through numerous cytoplasmic bridges and cell connections, forming small spaces with visible microvilli between them. The ultrastructural analysis facilitated the identification of morphological changes occurring during the maturation of pre-Sertoli cells, transitioning from a large euchromatic nucleus to a nucleus in which the formation of characteristic vesicles and tubules could be observed. It should also be emphasized that two types of Sertoli cells, namely dark and light electron-dense cells, can be found in cattle. These cells differ from each other, indicating that they may perform different functions. The widespread recognition of the presence of two types of Sertoli cells in cattle will undoubtedly contribute to a better understanding of the processes occurring within the testes and provide a basis for further research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Michałek
- Department of Physiology, Cytobiology and Proteomics, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Marta Grabowska
- Department of Histology and Developmental Biology, Pomeranian Medical University, Żołnierska 48, 71-210 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Patrycja Oberska
- Department of Physiology, Cytobiology and Proteomics, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Dariusz Gączarzewicz
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Klemensa Janickiego 29, 71-270 Szczecin, Poland;
| | | | - Septimiu Cassian Tripon
- Electron Microscopy Centre, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babeș-Bolyai University, 44 Republicii St., 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (S.C.T.); (L.B.-T.); (M.S.)
| | - Lucian Barbu-Tudoran
- Electron Microscopy Centre, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babeș-Bolyai University, 44 Republicii St., 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (S.C.T.); (L.B.-T.); (M.S.)
| | - Maria Suciu
- Electron Microscopy Centre, Faculty of Biology and Geology, Babeș-Bolyai University, 44 Republicii St., 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (S.C.T.); (L.B.-T.); (M.S.)
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Northup SL, Coffman EA, Strickland LG, Pohler KG, Daniel JA, Whitlock BK. Intravenous infusion of kisspeptin increased serum luteinizing hormone acutely and decreased serum follicle stimulating hormone chronically in prepubertal bull calves. Theriogenology 2019; 144:1-7. [PMID: 31881476 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 11/15/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Kisspeptin (KP) is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that stimulates the secretion of gonadotropin releasing hormone. To determine the acute and chronic effects of KP on serum concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), prepubertal bull calves [12 ± 1 (SD) weeks of age; 96.5 ± 14.5 kg BW] were administered one of four treatments [0.0 (control; CON), 0.125 (L-KP), 0.25 (M-KP), or 0.5 (H-KP) μg of KP/kg BW/hour] by intravenous infusion for 76 h. Blood samples were collected every 15 min for the first (acute; 1-6 h; Day 1) and last (chronic; 71-76 h; Day 4) 6 h of the intravenous infusions. Serum concentrations of LH and FSH were determined by radioimmunoassay. For each day, effects of treatment, time, and interactions on LH and FSH concentrations and pulse parameters were analyzed using procedures for repeated measures with JMP Software (SAS Inst. Inc., Cary, NC). There was a treatment effect (P = 0.002) and a treatment × time interaction during Day 1 (P = 0.02) such that LH concentrations were greatest following administration of all doses of KP when compared to CON. However, there was no treatment effect (P = 0.57) or a treatment × time interaction during Day 4 (P = 0.20) on serum LH concentrations. There was a treatment by day interaction (P = 0.02) on mean serum FSH concentrations. Most notably, on Day 4 mean serum FSH concentrations during intravenous infusion of M-KP and H-KP doses were less than that of CON. There was a treatment by day interaction (P = 0.0054) on FSH pulse amplitude concentrations, such that intravenous infusion of all doses of KP on Day 4 decreased FSH pulse amplitudes. In conclusion, acute infusion of KP increased LH concentrations and chronic infusion of KP decreased FSH concentrations. Despite the potential suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis with chronic infusion of KP, there are likely applications of KP, KP analogs, or KP receptor agonists to hasten the onset of puberty in livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha L Northup
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA; Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Coffman
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Lew G Strickland
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA; Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Ky G Pohler
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Jay A Daniel
- School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, Berry College, Mount Berry, GA, USA
| | - Brian K Whitlock
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA.
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Crespilho AM, Ferreira CS, Bastos YHGB, Guasti PN, Nascimento JC, Guimarães KDOP, Agopian RG, Gomes GM, Peixoto KDC. Testicular needle aspiration: Is it a safe method for breeding soundness evaluation in bulls? Anim Reprod 2019; 16:880-886. [PMID: 32368267 PMCID: PMC7189565 DOI: 10.21451/1984-3143-ar2019-0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of successive bovine testicular punctures using different needle sizes. Fifteen bulls were submitted to testicular needle aspiration (TNA) in the left and right testis using 18-gauge (40×12mm) or 22-gauge (25×7mm) needles, respectively, once every 30 days. Animals were randomly divided into three groups, which were submitted to bilateral orchiectomy two days after the last puncture. Group 1 (G1): only one puncture (n=5); Group 2 (G2): three consecutive punctures in a period of three months (n=5); Group 3 (G3): six consecutive punctures in a period of 6 months (n=5). Fragments from the medial portion of the testicular parenchyma were excised and fixed in Bouin's fluid for histological analysis. No differences were observed in the percentage of seminiferous tubules degeneration between G1, G2 and G3 (P>0.05). Higher amounts of erythrocyte were found in G1 and G2 groups compared to G3, in the intra- and intertubular tissue (P<0.05). There was no interaction between the needle gauge and the occurrence of testicular damage in animals submitted to one (G1) or three (G2) punctures. However, a higher percentage of tubular degeneration was associated to 18-gauge compared to 22-gauge fine needles in G3. In conclusion, multiple testicular needle aspiration can be safely conducted using fine needles. Large needles are recommended only for a single TNA, since multiple punctures may result in increased tubular degeneration and compromise testicular architecture and functionality.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Maciel Crespilho
- Universidade Santo Amaro, Programa de Pós-graduação em Medicina Veterinária e Bem-Estar Animal, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.,Universidade de Vassouras, Vassouras, RJ, Brasil
| | - Cristiano Silva Ferreira
- Universidade Santo Amaro, Programa de Pós-graduação em Medicina Veterinária e Bem-Estar Animal, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.,Universidade de Vassouras, Vassouras, RJ, Brasil
| | | | | | | | | | - Rafael Garabet Agopian
- Universidade Santo Amaro, Programa de Pós-graduação em Medicina Veterinária e Bem-Estar Animal, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | | | - Kleber da Cunha Peixoto
- Universidade Santo Amaro, Programa de Pós-graduação em Medicina Veterinária e Bem-Estar Animal, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
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Impotentia generandi in male dromedary camels: FSH, LH and testosterone profiles and their association with clinical findings and semen analysis data. Theriogenology 2018; 120:98-104. [PMID: 30096621 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2018] [Revised: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Impotentia generandi (IG) is a major problem in male dromedary camels. The objective of this research was to characterize the FSH, LH and testosterone profiles and their association with clinical findings and semen characteristics in IG-male dromedaries. Semen was collected by electroejaculation from camels with IG (n = 17) and from a fertile group (FERT, n = 5) and was evaluated for motility, viability, abnormality and concentration. According to their sperm counts, the IG-camels were categorized into three groups: those with normal sperm concentration (IG-NC, n = 8), those with oligospermia (IG-OLIGO, n = 5) and those with azoospermia (IG-AZOO, n = 4). Jugular blood was collected from all camels for analysis of FSH, LH and testosterone (T) concentrations. Results showed that the FSH, LH and T levels were higher in the IG-OLIGO and IG-AZOO groups than in the FERT and IG-NC groups (P < 0.05). The IG-camels with small testes showed lower sperm counts (P < 0.01) and greater FSH and T levels (P < 0.05) than the IG-camels with normal-sized testes. Inverse relationships were observed between the sperm counts and both the FSH and the LH levels (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the IG dromedary camels with oligo- and azoospermia were characterized by high serum levels of FSH, LH and T, indicating a condition of spermatogenic failure. In addition, inverse correlations were observed between these hormones and testicular size and sperm count.
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Gangadhar Jadhav V, Bharath Kumar BS, Pandita S. Age-related changes in testicular parameters and their relationship to thyroid hormones and testosterone in male Murrah buffaloes. Arch Anim Breed 2018. [DOI: 10.5194/aab-61-191-2018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract. The present study aims to investigate the age-related changes in testicular
parameters and their association with plasma triiodothyronine (T3),
thyroxine (T4), and testosterone in male Murrah buffaloes. Testicular
measurements and single blood samples were collected from male Murrah
buffaloes (n= 103) aged between 6 months and 8 years. The correlation
coefficients of average testicular length (ATL), paired testis width (PTW),
and scrotal circumference (SC) in relation to age were 0.88, 0.91, and 0.90,
respectively. The regression equation between testicular weight (TW) and age
was Y=1.48×x0.005 (r= 0.90; R2= 0.79). Plasma
T4 and testosterone increased significantly (p< 0.001) with age and
their levels ranged between 12.9 and 41.8 and 0.05 and 1.48 ng mL−1, respectively.
With respect to associations between testicular parameters and plasma hormone
levels, we observed significant (p< 0.01) correlations between ATL, PTW,
SC, TW, and plasma T4. A significant correlation (r= 0.31; p< 0.01) between plasma T4 and testosterone levels was also observed.
However, the correlations between plasma T3 and testicular parameters
and plasma T3 and testosterone were non-significant. From the present
study, we conclude that plasma T4 is positively correlated with
testicular parameters and plasma testosterone, indicating its role in testis
development and steroidogenesis.
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Kobayashi M, Hori T, Kawakami E. Efficacy of low-dose human chorionic gonadotropin therapy in dogs with spermatogenic dysfunction: a preliminary study. Reprod Domest Anim 2014; 49:E44-7. [PMID: 25130649 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2014] [Accepted: 05/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a glycoprotein used in the treatment of spermatogenic dysfunction. However, previous studies performed in dogs show that repeated administration of large doses of hCG produces antibodies against hCG. In this study, we examined the efficacy of low-dose injections of hCG in four male dogs with spermatogenic dysfunction and low plasma testosterone (T) levels. We administered 100 IU hCG per animal, five times at 3-day intervals, and evaluated the changes in semen quality and plasma T levels. The total number of sperm in ejaculate, the percentage of progressively motile sperm and the plasma T levels had increased by 3-5 weeks after the first injection of hCG in three of the four dogs, but were unchanged in the fourth dog. These findings indicate that temporary improvement of the semen quality of dogs with spermatogenic dysfunction and low plasma T levels is possible after five low-dose injections of hCG.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kobayashi
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, Tokyo, Japan
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Sironen A, Uimari P, Venhoranta H, Andersson M, Vilkki J. An exonic insertion within Tex14 gene causes spermatogenic arrest in pigs. BMC Genomics 2011; 12:591. [PMID: 22136159 PMCID: PMC3248578 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-12-591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2011] [Accepted: 12/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male infertility is an increasing problem in all domestic species including man. Localization and identification of genes involved in defects causing male infertility provide valuable information of specific events in sperm development. Sperm development is a complex process, where diploid spermatogonia develop into haploid, highly specialized spermatozoa. Correct expression and function of various genes and their protein products are required for production of fertile sperm. We have identified an infertility defect in Finnish Yorkshire boars caused by spermatogenic arrest. The aim of this study was to locate the disease associated region using genome wide screen with the PorcineSNP60 Beadchip and identify the causal mutation by candidate gene approach. RESULTS In the Finnish Yorkshire pig population the spermatogenic arrest (SA) defect appears to be of genetic origin and causes severe degeneration of germ cells and total absence of spermatozoa. Genome wide scan with the PorcineSNP60 Beadchip localized the SA defect to porcine chromosome 12 in a 2 Mbp region. Sequencing of a candidate gene Tex14 revealed a 51 bp insertion within exon 27, which caused differential splicing of the exon and created a premature translation stop codon. The expression of Tex14 was markedly down regulated in the testis of a SA affected boar compared to control boars and no protein product was identified by Western blotting. The SA insertion sequence was also found within intron 27 in all analyzed animals, thus the insertion appears to be a possible duplication event. CONCLUSION In this study we report the identification of a causal mutation for infertility caused by spermatogenic arrest at an early meiotic phase. Our results highlight the role of TEX14 specifically in spermatogenesis and the importance of specific genomic remodeling events as causes for inherited defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anu Sironen
- Agrifood Research Finland, MTT, Biotechnology and Food Research, Genomics, FI-36100 Jokioinen, Finland.
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Moura AA, Souza CEA, Erickson BH. Early prepubertal testis criteria, seminiferous epithelium and hormone concentrations as related to testicular development in beef bulls. Anim Reprod Sci 2011; 124:39-47. [PMID: 21333471 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2011.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2010] [Revised: 01/06/2011] [Accepted: 01/26/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The present study was conducted to evaluate testis size, spermatogenesis and hormone concentrations before and when peripheral testosterone reached 1 ng/ml as related to further gonad development of beef bulls (n=28). Blood samples were taken weekly starting at 10 weeks (wk) and when testosterone reached 1 ng/ml (AGE1), the left testis was surgically excised. From AGE1 until 54 wk, blood samples were collected to follow basal and GnRH-stimulated hormone profiles. At 54 wk, the second testis was removed. Testosterone reached 1 ng/ml at 20±0.6 wk and, at this developmental state, the seminiferous tubules occupied 57±1.1% of the testis parenchyma. At this phase, 79.3±1.4% of tubule sections had no germ cells and only 2.4±0.3% of the remaining tubules had spermatocytes as the most advanced germ cell type. Also at AGE1, testis size was correlated with the number of Sertoli cells per testis (r=0.67; P<0.05), but not (P>0.05) with the percentage of tubules with germ cells. There was a consistent increase in body weight and testis size throughout the study showing that hemicastration did not impair the development of the bulls. At 54 wk, seminiferous tubules represented 76±0.7% of the testis parenchyma and 72.3±1.7% of tubule sections were found with either round or elongated spermatids. Quantitative criteria of spermatogenesis in the second testis (excised at 54 wk) were not correlated (P>0.05) with the percentage of seminiferous tubules with germ cells in the first testis (excised at AGE1). As determined by regression analysis, testis diameter measured between 30 and 44 wk (AVTD) was associated with AGE1 and testis diameter averaged at 12 wk and AGE1 (R(2)=0.77; P<0.01). Also, AVTD was related to AGE1, testis diameter at 12 wk and concentrations of 17β-estradiol (estradiol; basal+GnRH-stimulated) averaged between 10 wk and AGE1 (R(2)=0.79; P<0.01). Yearling testis weight, in turn, was linked to AGE1 and testis weight at AGE1 (R(2)=0.49, P<0.01). In conclusion, early detection of 1 ng of testosterone/ml, larger testis size and greater estradiol before and at that developmental period positively relate to future testis attributes. When testosterone reached 1 ng/ml, the seminiferous tubules had Sertoli cells, spermatogonia and a few spermatocytes and events occurring before and at that phase are potential markers of testis growth and sperm-producing capacity of sires.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arlindo A Moura
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará, Brazil.
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DEVKOTA B, TAKAHASHI KI, MATSUZAKI S, MATSUI M, MIYAMOTO A, YAMAGISHI N, OSAWA T, HASHIZUME T, IZAIKE Y, MIYAKE YI. Basal Levels and GnRH-induced Responses of Peripheral Testosterone and Estrogen in Holstein Bulls with Poor Semen Quality. J Reprod Dev 2011; 57:373-8. [DOI: 10.1262/jrd.10-136t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bhuminand DEVKOTA
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University
- Faculty of Agriculture, Iwate University
| | | | | | | | - Akio MIYAMOTO
- Graduate School of Animal and Food Hygiene, Obihiro University
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Scarth J, Akre C, van Ginkel L, Le Bizec B, De Brabander H, Korth W, Points J, Teale P, Kay J. Presence and metabolism of endogenous androgenic-anabolic steroid hormones in meat-producing animals: a review. Food Addit Contam Part A Chem Anal Control Expo Risk Assess 2010; 26:640-71. [PMID: 19680938 DOI: 10.1080/02652030802627160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The presence and metabolism of endogenous steroid hormones in meat-producing animals has been the subject of much research over the past 40 years. While significant data are available, no comprehensive review has yet been performed. Species considered in this review are bovine, porcine, ovine, equine, caprine and cervine, while steroid hormones include the androgenic-anabolic steroids testosterone, nandrolone and boldenone, as well as their precursors and metabolites. Information on endogenous steroid hormone concentrations is primarily useful in two ways: (1) in relation to pathological versus 'normal' physiology and (2) in relation to the detection of the illegal abuse of these hormones in residue surveillance programmes. Since the major focus of this review is on the detection of steroids abuse in animal production, the information gathered to date is used to guide future research. A major deficiency in much of the existing published literature is the lack of standardization and formal validation of experimental approach. Key articles are cited that highlight the huge variation in reported steroid concentrations that can result when samples are analysed by different laboratories under different conditions. These deficiencies are in most cases so fundamental that it is difficult to make reliable comparisons between data sets and hence it is currently impossible to recommend definitive detection strategies. Standardization of the experimental approach would need to involve common experimental protocols and collaboratively validated analytical methods. In particular, standardization would need to cover everything from the demographic of the animal population studied, the method of sample collection and storage (especially the need to sample live versus slaughter sampling since the two methods of surveillance have very different requirements, particularly temporally), sample preparation technique (including mode of extraction, hydrolysis and derivatization), the end-point analytical detection technique, validation protocols, and the statistical methods applied to the resulting data. Although efforts are already underway (at HFL and LABERCA) to produce more definitive data and promote communication among the scientific community on this issue, the convening of a formal European Union working party is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Scarth
- HFL Sport Science (a Quotient Bioresearch Company), Fordham, UK.
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11
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DEVKOTA B, SASAKI M, MATSUI M, TAKAHASHI KI, MATSUZAKI S, KOSEKI T, MIYAKE YI. Effects of Scrotal Insulation and Pathological Lesions on .ALPHA.-Smooth Muscle Actin (SMA) and Vimentin in the Bull Testes. J Reprod Dev 2010; 56:187-90. [DOI: 10.1262/jrd.09-118n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Bhuminand DEVKOTA
- The United Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Applied Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
- Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Tribhuvan University
| | - Motoki SASAKI
- The United Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University
- Laboratory of Anatomy, Department of Basic Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
| | - Motozumi MATSUI
- The United Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Applied Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
| | | | | | | | - Yoh-Ichi MIYAKE
- The United Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Applied Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
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12
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Kopp C, Ijäs R, Flyckt A, Taponen J, Parvinen M, Andersson M. Morphometric evaluations of testicular tissues from azoospermic boars in Finnish Yorkshire and Landrace breeds. Theriogenology 2008; 70:1129-35. [PMID: 18640712 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2008.06.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2008] [Revised: 06/04/2008] [Accepted: 06/08/2008] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In 1996-2005, ejaculates of 2048 boars were collected. All boars were intended for use in artificial insemination or natural breeding and had two descended testes. Azoospermia was present in 16 of the 1097 Yorkshire boars (1.5%) and in 2 of the 951 Landrace boars (0.2%). The two most frequent diagnoses of azoospermia were arrested spermatogenesis at the pachytene spermatocyte stage (n=8) and segmental aplasia of the Wolffian ducts (n=7). Morphometric evaluations of testicular tissues of azoospermic boars were performed using an image analyzer. The morphometric evaluations revealed decreased portions and diameter of seminiferous tubule in tissue slides from the studied azoospermic boars compared with normal boars. The use of an image analyzer for morphometric evaluations of testicular tissues proved to be a good tool to characterize findings in testicular slides of azoospermic boars.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Kopp
- Department of Production Animal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Pohjoinen pikatie 800, 04920 Saarentaus, Finland
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13
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Siemieniuch MJ, Wocławek-Potocka I. Morphological features of the seminiferous epithelium in cat (Felis catus, L. 1758) testes. J Reprod Dev 2007; 53:1125-30. [PMID: 17615443 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.19053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to assess the changes in the germinal epithelium in cats of different ages. Routine histological staining was applied to perform morphological and stereological examinations. The animals were divided into five groups according to age: under 8 months (n=28), 8-12 months (n=30), 12-36 months (n=33), 3-6 years (n=14) and older than 6 years (n=13). The appearance of the gonads of the males in the first group varied the most. The seminiferous tubules of the youngest cats consisted of a monolayer of supporting cells and a few spermatogonia. No tubular lumina were present, and the diameters of the seminiferous tubules reached 132.5 microm. We noted the typical arrangement of gametogenic cells with a tubule diameter of 191.83 microm in the second group. We observed multilayer germinal epithelia with the most significant production of gametes and a seminiferous tubule diameter of 202.61 microm in the third group. The diameters of the seminiferous tubules of the forth and fifth groups were 193.38 microm and 191.84 microm, respectively. The obtained data revealed that the most intensive morphological diversification of the seminiferous epithelium in cats occurs at about 7-8 months of age. The diameters of seminiferous tubules were highest in the third group of cats, and the activity of spermatogenesis of this group, expressed as the number of sperm per 10 mm(2), was also the most distinctive. The spermatogenesis process was most evident in cats between 12 and 36 months of age, which was also when the sperm concentration was highest per estimated surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta J Siemieniuch
- Department of Reproductive Immunology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, 10-747 Olsztyn, Poland.
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14
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Andriana BB, Mizukami T, Kanai Y, Kimura J, Fukuta K, Kurohmaru M, Hayashi Y. Peculiar Bundles of Filaments in Leydig Cells of the Lesser Mouse Deer (Tragulus javanicus): an Ultrastructural Study. Anat Histol Embryol 2003; 32:370-2. [PMID: 14651486 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0264.2003.00499.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Leydig cells of lesser mouse deer (Tragulus javanicus) testes were observed using light and transmission electron microscopies. Sexually mature lesser mouse deer were obtained in East Malaysia. The testes were perfused with 5% glutaraldehyde, postfixed with 1% OsO4, dehydrated in ethanol and embedded in Araldite. The semithin sections were cut, stained with toluidine blue and observed under light microscopy. The ultrathin sections were cut, stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate, and examined using a JEM-1200 transmission electron microscope. As a result, two types of filament bundles were frequently recognized in Leydig cells, but not in other testicular cells. These bundles were clearly seen at even a light microscopic level. One type was bundles of actin filaments (approximately 5 nm in diameter). These structures were found not only in the cytoplasm but also in the nucleus. The other type was bundles of intermediate filaments (approximately 10 nm in diameter). These structures were found only in the cytoplasm. The existence of filament bundles has never been reported in the testicular cells of another mammalian species. Thus, while bundles of actin and intermediate filaments are specifically present in the Leydig cells of the lesser mouse deer, their functions are still unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- B B Andriana
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-Tokyo 113-8657, Japan.
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Andriana BB, Ishii M, Kanai Y, Kimura J, Fukuta K, Kurohmaru M, Hayashi Y. Multivesicular nuclear body in sertoli cells of the lesser mouse deer, Tragulus javanicus. Okajimas Folia Anat Jpn 2003; 80:35-9. [PMID: 14604151 DOI: 10.2535/ofaj.80.35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/27/2023]
Abstract
The Sertoli cell of the lesser mouse deer, Tragulus javanicus, was examined using light and transmission electron microscopy. Similar to other ruminants, a multivesicular nuclear body (MNB) and laminated smooth endoplasmic reticulum (sER) were observed in the lesser mouse deer Sertoli cell. The MNB was present within the Sertoli cell nucleus, and consisted of vesicles, irregular tubules and ribosome-like structures. It was infrequent in the lesser mouse deer, which differs from domestic ruminants. Vesicles and irregular tubules seem to contain some materials with low and/or middle electron density, and be surrounded by electron dense materials. The diameter of vesicles was between 30 nm and 180 nm. Since the MNB, though less developed compared to that of bulls and goats, was present even in the Sertoli cell nucleus of the primitive ruminant-lesser mouse deer, it should be a common structure of ruminant Sertoli cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bibin Bintang Andriana
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy. Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences. The University of Tokyo. Tokyo, Japan.
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Kukuvitis A, Georgiou I, Bouba I, Tsirka A, Giannouli CH, Yapijakis C, Tarlatzis B, Bontis J, Lolis D, Sofikitis N, Papadimas J. Association of oestrogen receptor alpha polymorphisms and androgen receptor CAG trinucleotide repeats with male infertility: a study in 109 Greek infertile men. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ANDROLOGY 2002; 25:149-52. [PMID: 12031042 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2605.2002.00339.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This study was performed to examine the contribution of genetic polymorphism of oestrogen and androgen receptor (AR) genes in male infertility. We have studied in total 173 Greek men, 109 infertile patients and 64 controls (group A). Patients were divided in to three subgroups: group B (n=29) with idiopathic moderate oligospermia, group C (n=42) with azoospermia or idiopathic severe oligospermia and group D (n=38) with azoospermia or oligospermia of various known aetiologies. All patients and controls were genotyped for two polymorphisms of the oestrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) gene and also for the (CAG)n repeat length polymorphism of the X-linked androgen receptor (AR)gene. The control group had statistically significant difference from group C regarding the XbaI polymorphism of ERalpha gene. Despite the fact that we did not observe any statistically significant differences in the mean and range of the CAG repeat number, the frequency of the higher repeats of the nucleotide repeat sequence (CAG)n of the AR gene was 2-4 times higher in groups B and C compared with the control group A. Our results indicate that both ERalpha and AR gene play significant role in male fertility. It is possible that a synergy may exist between unfavourable genotypes of these two genes in male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kukuvitis
- Human reproduction unit, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece
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