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Zhang J, Li X, Wang R, Feng X, Wang S, Wang H, Wang Y, Li H, Li Y, Guo Y. DNA methylation patterns in patients with asthenospermia and oligoasthenospermia. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:602. [PMID: 38886667 PMCID: PMC11181631 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10491-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenesis is a highly regulated and complex process in which DNA methylation plays a crucial role. This study aimed to explore the differential methylation profiles in sperm DNA between patients with asthenospermia (AS) and healthy controls (HCs), those with oligoasthenospermia (OAS) and HCs, and patients with AS and those with OAS. RESULTS Semen samples and clinical data were collected from five patients with AS, five patients with OAS, and six age-matched HCs. Reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) was performed to identify differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in sperm cells among the different types of patients and HCs. A total of 6520, 28,019, and 16,432 DMRs were detected between AS and HC, OAS and HC, and AS and OAS groups, respectively. These DMRs were predominantly located within gene bodies and mapped to 2868, 9296, and 9090 genes in the respective groups. Of note, 12, 9, and 8 DMRs in each group were closely associated with spermatogenesis and male infertility. Furthermore, BDNF, SMARCB1, PIK3CA, and DDX27; RBMX and SPATA17; ASZ1, CDH1, and CHDH were identified as strong differentially methylated candidate genes in each group, respectively. Meanwhile, the GO analysis of DMR-associated genes in the AS vs. HC groups revealed that protein binding, cytoplasm, and transcription (DNA-templated) were the most enriched terms in the biological process (BP), cellular component (CC), and molecular function (MF), respectively. Likewise, in both the OAS vs. HC and AS vs. OAS groups, GO analysis revealed protein binding, nucleus, and transcription (DNA-templated) as the most enriched terms in BP, CC, and MF, respectively. Finally, the KEGG analysis of DMR-annotated genes and these genes at promoters suggested that metabolic pathways were the most significantly associated across all three groups. CONCLUSIONS The current study results revealed distinctive sperm DNA methylation patterns in the AS vs. HC and OAS vs. HC groups, particularly between patients with AS and those with OAS. The identification of key genes associated with spermatogenesis and male infertility in addition to the differentially enriched metabolic pathways may contribute to uncovering the potential pathogenesis in different types of abnormal sperm parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingdi Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, No.1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xiaogang Li
- Medical Science Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Rongrong Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, No.1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xinxin Feng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, No.1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Siyu Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, No.1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Hai Wang
- Department of Urology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yutao Wang
- Department of Urology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hongjun Li
- Department of Urology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yongzhe Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, No.1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Ye Guo
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, No.1 Shuaifuyuan, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730, China.
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2
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Chen M, Duan C, Yin X, Li X, Liu X, Zhang L, Yue S, Zhang Y, Liu Y. Prolactin inhibitor changes testosterone production, testicular morphology, and related genes expression in cashmere goats. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1249189. [PMID: 37954671 PMCID: PMC10637432 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1249189] [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: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Prolactin has multifaceted roles in lactation, growth, metabolism, osmoregulation, behavior, and the reproduction of animals. This study aimed to investigate the involvement of prolactin in testicular function in cashmere goats. Twenty cashmere goats were randomly assigned to either the control group (CON) or the bromocriptine treatment group (BCR, bromocriptine, prolactin inhibitor). Blood and testis samples collected for analysis after 30 days of treatment. The results indicated that, compared with the CON group, BCR significantly decreased (p < 0.05) the serum concentrations of prolactin, and significantly increased (p < 0.05) the levels of testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH) on day 30. The serum level of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) was not affected (p > 0.05) by the treatment. The mean seminiferous tubule diameter and spermatogenic epithelium thickness were increased (p < 0.05) in the BCR group. Subsequently, we performed RNA sequencing and bioinformatics analysis to identify the key genes and pathways associated with the regulation of spermatogenesis or testosterone secretion function. A total of 142 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified (91 were upregulated, 51 were downregulated). Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) revealed that the DEGs were mainly involved in the extracellular matrix (ECM), hippo, and steroid hormone biosynthesis, which are related to testicular function. The expression of the genes SULT2B1, CYP3A24, and CYP3A74 in the steroid hormone biosynthesis pathway significantly increased (p < 0.05) in the BCR group, which was validated by qRT-PCR. These results provide a basis for understanding the mechanisms underlying the regulation of testicular function by prolactin in cashmere goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meijing Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Chunhui Duan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Xuejiao Yin
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Xianglong Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Normal University of Science and Technology, Qinhuangdao, China
| | - Xiaona Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Lechao Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Sicong Yue
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Yingjie Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Yueqin Liu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
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3
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The Association study of eNOS 4a/b and G1190T variant with Iranian male infertility: A case-control study and computational analysis. Meta Gene 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mgene.2021.100971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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4
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Karimian M, Parvaresh L, Behjati M. Genetic variations as molecular diagnostic factors for idiopathic male infertility: current knowledge and future perspectives. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2021; 21:1191-1210. [PMID: 34555965 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2021.1985469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Infertility is a major health problem, worldwide, which affects 10-15% of couples. About half a percent of infertility cases are related to male-related factors. Male infertility is a complex disease that is the result of various insults as lifestyle issues, genetics, and epigenetic factors. Idiopathic infertility is responsible for 30% of total cases. The genetic factors responsible for male infertility include chromosomal abnormalities, deletions of chromosome Y, and mutations and genetic variations of key genes. AREAS COVERED In this review article, we aim to narrate performed studies on polymorphisms of essential genes involved in male infertility including folate metabolizing genes, oxidative stress-related genes, inflammation, and cellular pathways related to spermatogenesis. Moreover, possible pathophysiologic mechanisms responsible for genetic polymorphisms are discussed. EXPERT OPINION Analysis and assessment of these genetic variations could help in screening, diagnosis, and treatment of idiopathic male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Karimian
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
| | - Leila Parvaresh
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohaddeseh Behjati
- Cellular, Molecular and Genetics Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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5
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Li X, Yao X, Xie H, Deng M, Gao X, Deng K, Bao Y, Wang Q, Wang F. Effects of SPATA6 on proliferation, apoptosis and steroidogenesis of Hu sheep Leydig cells in vitro. Theriogenology 2021; 166:9-20. [PMID: 33667862 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2021.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the expression pattern of spermatogenesis associated protein 6 (SPATA6) in Hu sheep testis and to ascertain the effects of SPATA6 on sheep Leydig cells (LCs) function linked to spermatogenesis. In the present study, we detected a 1970 bp cDNA fragment of SPATA6 included a 1467 bp coding sequence which encoded 487 amino acids. Meanwhile, sheep SPATA6 shared 51.70%-97.41% amino acid sequences with its orthologs compared with other species. In addition, SPATA6 was highly expressed in testis and localized in cytoplasm and nucleus of LCs as well as spermatogenic cells at different stages. Compared to the negative control (NC), SPATA6 interference promoted apoptosis of LCs with the increase of BAX/BCL-2 mRNA and protein levels, while the results of SPATA6 overexpression were on the contrary. Meanwhile, cell cycle was blocked at G2/M phase and CDK1 and CCNB1 were down-regulated after SPATA6 interference. SPATA6 overexpression induced cell cycle transfer G0/G1 into S and G2/M phase with upregulation of CDK1, CDK4, CCND1 and CCND2. Moreover, the secretion of testosterone hormone and the expression of StAR in LCs with SPATA6 overexpression were significantly promoted. Overall, our data suggest that SPATA6 is an important functional molecule of spermatogenesis, via regulating the proliferation, apoptosis and testosterone biosynthesis of Hu sheep LCs. These findings will enhance the understanding of the roles of SPATA6 in sheep spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Li
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiaolei Yao
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Haiqiang Xie
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Mingtian Deng
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Gao
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Kaiping Deng
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Yongjin Bao
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; Hu Sheep Academy, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China; College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China.
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6
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Okada D, Endo S, Matsuda H, Ogawa S, Taniguchi Y, Katsuta T, Watanabe T, Iwaisaki H. An intersection network based on combining SNP coassociation and RNA coexpression networks for feed utilization traits in Japanese Black cattle. J Anim Sci 2018; 96:2553-2566. [PMID: 29762780 DOI: 10.1093/jas/sky170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of quantitative traits have detected numerous genetic associations, but they encounter difficulties in pinpointing prominent candidate genes and inferring gene networks. The present study used a systems genetics approach integrating GWAS results with external RNA-expression data to detect candidate gene networks in feed utilization and growth traits of Japanese Black cattle, which are matters of concern. A SNP coassociation network was derived from significant correlations between SNPs with effects estimated by GWAS across 7 phenotypic traits. The resulting network genes contained significant numbers of annotations related to the traits. Using bovine transcriptome data from a public database, an RNA coexpression network was inferred based on the similarity of expression patterns across different tissues. An intersection network was then generated by superimposing the SNP and RNA networks and extracting shared interactions. This intersection network contained 4 tissue-specific modules: nervous system, reproductive system, muscular system, and glands. To characterize the structure (topographical properties) of the 3 networks, their scale-free properties were evaluated, which revealed that the intersection network was the most scale-free. In the subnetwork containing the most connected transcription factors (URI1, ROCK2, and ETV6), most genes were widely expressed across tissues, and genes previously shown to be involved in the traits were found. Results indicated that the current approach might be used to construct a gene network that better reflects biological information, providing encouragement for the genetic dissection of economically important quantitative traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daigo Okada
- Faculty of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Satoko Endo
- Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | | | - Yukio Taniguchi
- Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | | | - Toshio Watanabe
- National Livestock Breeding Center, Nishigo, Fukushima, Japan.,Shirakawa Institute of Animal Genetics, Japan Livestock Technology Association, Nishigo, Fukushima, Japan
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7
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Tran TN, Schimenti JC. A putative human infertility allele of the meiotic recombinase DMC1 does not affect fertility in mice. Hum Mol Genet 2018; 27:3911-3918. [PMID: 30085085 PMCID: PMC6216207 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddy286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Whole-exome or whole-genome sequencing is becoming routine in clinical situations for identifying mutations underlying presumed genetic causes of disease including infertility. While this is a powerful approach for implicating polymorphisms or de novo mutations in genes plausibly related to the phenotype, a greater challenge is to definitively prove causality. This is a crucial requisite for treatment, especially for infertility, in which validation options are limited. In this study, we created a mouse model of a putative infertility allele, DMC1M200V. DMC1 encodes a RecA homolog essential for meiotic recombination and fertility in mice. This allele was originally implicated as being responsible for the sterility of a homozygous African woman, a conclusion supported by subsequent biochemical analyses of the mutant protein and by studies of yeast with the orthologous amino acid change. Here, we found that Dmc1M200V/M200V male and female mice are fully fertile and do not exhibit any gonadal abnormalities. Detailed immunocytological analysis of meiosis revealed no defects suggestive of compromised fertility. This study serves as a cautionary tale for making conclusions about consequences of genetic variants, especially with respect to infertility, and emphasizes the importance of conducting relevant biological assays for making accurate diagnoses in the era of genomic medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina N Tran
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - John C Schimenti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, USA
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Nakamura S, Kobori Y, Ueda Y, Tanaka Y, Ishikawa H, Yoshida A, Katsumi M, Saito K, Nakamura A, Ogata T, Okada H, Nakai H, Miyado M, Fukami M. STX2 is a causative gene for nonobstructive azoospermia. Hum Mutat 2018; 39:830-833. [PMID: 29570232 DOI: 10.1002/humu.23423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Revised: 03/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
STX2 encodes a sulfoglycolipid transporter. Although Stx2 nullizygosity is known to cause spermatogenic failure in mice, STX2 mutations have not been identified in humans. Here, we performed STX2 mutation analysis for 131 Japanese men clinically diagnosed with nonobstructive azoospermia. As a result, we identified a homozygous frameshift mutation [c.8_12delACCGG, p.(Asp3Alafs*8)] in one patient. The mutation-positive patient exhibited loss-of-heterozygosity for 58.4 Mb genomic regions involving STX2, suggesting possible parental consanguinity. The patient showed azoospermia, relatively small testes, and a mildly elevated follicle stimulating hormone level, but no additional clinical features. Testicular histology of the patient showed universal maturation arrest and multinucleated spermatocytes, which have also been observed in mice lacking Stx2. PCR-based cDNA screening revealed wildtype STX2 expression in various tissues including the testis. Our results indicate that STX2 nullizygosity results in nonsyndromic maturation arrest with multinucleated spermatocytes, and accounts for a small fraction of cases with nonobstructive azoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shigeru Nakamura
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Pediatric Urology, Jichi Medical University, Children's Medical Center Tochigi, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Yoshitomo Kobori
- Department of Urology, Dokkyo Medical University Saitama Medical Center, Koshigaya, Japan
| | - Yoshihiko Ueda
- Department of Pathology, Dokkyo Medical University Saitama Medical Center, Koshigaya, Japan
| | - Yoko Tanaka
- Department of Pediatrics, Tokyo Dental College Ichikawa General Hospital, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - Hiromichi Ishikawa
- Reproduction Center, Tokyo Dental College Ichikawa General Hospital, Ichikawa, Japan
| | | | - Momori Katsumi
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kazuki Saito
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Akie Nakamura
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Ogata
- Department of Pediatrics, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Okada
- Department of Urology, Dokkyo Medical University Saitama Medical Center, Koshigaya, Japan
| | - Hideo Nakai
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Jichi Medical University, Children's Medical Center Tochigi, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Mami Miyado
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Maki Fukami
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
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9
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Nakamura S, Miyado M, Saito K, Katsumi M, Nakamura A, Kobori Y, Tanaka Y, Ishikawa H, Yoshida A, Okada H, Hata K, Nakabayashi K, Okamura K, Ogata H, Matsubara Y, Ogata T, Nakai H, Fukami M. Next-generation sequencing for patients with non-obstructive azoospermia: implications for significant roles of monogenic/oligogenic mutations. Andrology 2018; 5:824-831. [PMID: 28718531 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Revised: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 04/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Azoospermia affects up to 1% of adult men. Non-obstructive azoospermia is a multifactorial disorder whose molecular basis remains largely unknown. To date, mutations in several genes and multiple submicroscopic copy-number variations (CNVs) have been identified in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia. The aim of this study was to clarify the contribution of nucleotide substitutions in known causative genes and submicroscopic CNVs in the genome to the development of non-obstructive azoospermia. To this end, we conducted sequence analysis of 25 known disease-associated genes using next-generation sequencing and genome-wide copy-number analysis using array-based comparative genomic hybridization. We studied 40 Japanese patients with idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia. Functional significance of molecular alterations was assessed by in silico analyses. As a result, we identified four putative pathogenic mutations, four rare polymorphisms possibly associated with disease risk, and four probable neutral variants in 10 patients. These sequence alterations included a heterozygous splice site mutation in SOHLH1 and a hemizygous missense substitution in TEX11, which have been reported as causes of non-obstructive azoospermia. Copy-number analysis detected five X chromosomal or autosomal CNVs of unknown clinical significance, in addition to one known pathogenic Y chromosomal microduplication. Five patients carried multiple molecular alterations. The results indicate that monogenic and oligogenic mutations, including those in SOHLH1 and TEX11, account for more than 10% of cases of idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia. Furthermore, this study suggests possible contributions of substitutions in various genes as well as submicroscopic CNVs on the X chromosome and autosomes to non-obstructive azoospermia, which require further validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Nakamura
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Pediatric Urology, Jichi Medical University, Children's Medical Center Tochigi, Tochigi, Japan
| | - M Miyado
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - K Saito
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Comprehensive Reproductive Medicine, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - M Katsumi
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of NCCHD Child Health and Development, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - A Nakamura
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Y Kobori
- Department of Urology, Dokkyo Medical University Koshigaya Hospital, Koshigaya, Japan
| | - Y Tanaka
- Department of Pediatrics, Tokyo Dental College Ichikawa General Hospital, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - H Ishikawa
- Reproduction Center, Tokyo Dental College Ichikawa General Hospital, Ichikawa, Japan
| | - A Yoshida
- Reproduction Center, Kiba Park Clinic, Tokyo, Japan
| | - H Okada
- Department of Urology, Dokkyo Medical University Koshigaya Hospital, Koshigaya, Japan
| | - K Hata
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Biology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - K Nakabayashi
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Biology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - K Okamura
- Department of Systems BioMedicine, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - H Ogata
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Biology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Y Matsubara
- National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - T Ogata
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Pediatrics, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Japan
| | - H Nakai
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Jichi Medical University, Children's Medical Center Tochigi, Tochigi, Japan
| | - M Fukami
- Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
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10
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Testis Transcriptome Modulation in Klinefelter Patients with Hypospermatogenesis. Sci Rep 2017; 7:45729. [PMID: 28361989 PMCID: PMC5374630 DOI: 10.1038/srep45729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The main genetic cause of male infertility is represented by the Klinefelter Syndrome (KS), a condition accounting for 3% of all cases of infertility and up to15% of cases of azoospermia. KS is generally characterized by azoospermia; approximately 10% of cases have severe oligozoospermia. Among these, the 30-40% of patients show hypospermatogenesis. The mechanisms leading to adult testis dysfunctions are not completely understood. A microarray transcriptome analysis was performed on testis biopsies obtained from three KS patients with hypospermatogenesis and three control subjects. KS testis showed a differential up- and down-regulation of 303 and 747 transcripts, respectively, as compared to controls. The majority of down-regulated transcripts were involved in spermiogenesis failure and testis morphological defects, whereas up-regulated genes were responsible for testis apoptotic processes. Functional analysis of the transcriptionally altered genes indicated a deregulation in cell death, germ cell function and morphology as well as blood-testis-barrier maintenance and Leydig cells activity. These data support a complex scenario in which spermatogenic impairment is the result of functional and morphological alterations in both germinal and somatic components of KS testis. These findings could represent the basis for evaluating new markers of KS spermatogenesis and potential targets of therapeutic intervention to preserve residual spermatogenesis.
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11
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Miyamoto T, Koh E, Tsujimura A, Miyagawa Y, Saijo Y, Namiki M, Sengoku K. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in theLRWD1gene may be a genetic risk factor for Japanese patients with Sertoli cell-only syndrome. Andrologia 2013; 46:273-6. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- T. Miyamoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; School of Medicine; Asahikawa Medical University; Asahikawa Japan
| | - E. Koh
- Department of Integrated Cancer Therapy and Urology; Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science; Kanazawa Japan
| | - A. Tsujimura
- Department of Urology; Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine; Suita Japan
| | - Y. Miyagawa
- Department of Urology; Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine; Suita Japan
| | - Y. Saijo
- Division of Community Medicine and Epidemiology; Department of Health Science; Asahikawa Medical University; Asahikawa Japan
| | - M. Namiki
- Department of Integrated Cancer Therapy and Urology; Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science; Kanazawa Japan
| | - K. Sengoku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology; School of Medicine; Asahikawa Medical University; Asahikawa Japan
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Nie DS, Liu Y, Juan H, Yang X. Overexpression of human SPATA17 protein induces germ cell apoptosis in transgenic male mice. Mol Biol Rep 2012; 40:1905-10. [PMID: 23079716 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-012-2246-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2012] [Accepted: 10/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
SPATA17 is a new testis-specific-expressed gene that is involved in Spermatogenesis process. Previous studies show that SPATA17 was involved in acceleration of cell apoptosis in GC-1 cell lines. To further investigate specific roles of SPATA17 in Spermatogenesis in vivo, we generated transgenic mice in which the human SPATA17 gene was expressed specifically in spermatocytes using the human phosphoglycerate kinase 2 (PGK2) promoter. The SPATA17 transgenic mice did not show any significant defect in gross testicular anatomy as well as in fertility. However, a significant increase was observed in defective spermatogenic cells, such as apoptotic cells in the SPATA17 transgenic mice. These results revealed that elevated production of the SPATA17 protein disturbed the normal development of male germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Song Nie
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Hunan Institute of Science and Technology, YueYang, 414006, Hunan, China.
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13
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Abstract
At present many couples face difficulties when trying to conceive that may have a genetic basis. The male factor is the cause of infertility as often as the female. Therefore it is important to identify key genes involved in spermatogenesis which may be linked to male infertility. This review discusses the identification of a range of genes associated with male fertility using microarrays. Based on differences in gene expression profiles between fertile and infertile male subgroups or between fetal and adult male gonads, many genes important for spermatogenesis have been discovered. Genes that are critical at particular stages of spermatogenesis were defined and can be considered as potential male fertility biomarkers. The studies described showed that microarrays may be potentially used as a diagnostic platform to increase the efficacy of diagnosis and perhaps treatment of infertile males.
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Single-nucleotide polymorphisms in HORMAD1 may be a risk factor for azoospermia caused by meiotic arrest in Japanese patients. Asian J Androl 2012; 14:580-3. [PMID: 22407170 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2011.180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic mechanisms are implicated as a cause of some male infertility, yet are poorly understood. Meiosis is unique to germ cells and essential for reproduction. The synaptonemal complex is a critical component for chromosome pairing, segregation and recombination. Hormad1 is essential for mammalian gametogenesis as knockout male mice are infertile. Hormad1-deficient testes exhibit meiotic arrest in the early pachytene stage and synaptonemal complexes cannot be visualized. To analyze the hypothesis that the human HORMAD1 gene defects are associated with human azoospermia caused by meiotic arrest, mutational analysis was performed in all coding regions by direct sequence analysis of 30 Japanese men diagnosed with azoospermia resulting from meiotic arrest. By the sequence analysis, three polymorphism sites, Single Nucleotide Polymorphism 1 (c. 163A>G), SNP2 (c. 501T>G) and SNP3 (c. 918C>T), were found in exons 3, 8 and 10. The 30 patients with azoospermia and 80 normal pregnancy-proven, fertile men were analyzed for HORMAD1 polymorphisms. Both SNP1 and SNP2 were associated with human azoospermia caused by complete early meiotic arrest (P<0.05). We suggest that the HORMAD1 has an essential meiotic function in human spermatogenesis.
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Miyamoto T, Tsujimura A, Miyagawa Y, Koh E, Namiki M, Sengoku K. Male infertility and its causes in human. Adv Urol 2011; 2012:384520. [PMID: 22046184 PMCID: PMC3199180 DOI: 10.1155/2012/384520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2011] [Accepted: 08/20/2011] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is one of the most serious social problems facing advanced nations. In general, approximate half of all cases of infertility are caused by factors related to the male partner. To date, various treatments have been developed for male infertility and are steadily producing results. However, there is no effective treatment for patients with nonobstructive azoospermia, in which there is an absence of mature sperm in the testes. Although evidence suggests that many patients with male infertility have a genetic predisposition to the condition, the cause has not been elucidated in the vast majority of cases. This paper discusses the environmental factors considered likely to be involved in male infertility and the genes that have been clearly shown to be involved in male infertility in humans, including our recent findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshinobu Miyamoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaokahigashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 078-8510, Japan
| | - Akira Tsujimura
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamadaoka 2-2, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yasushi Miyagawa
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Yamadaoka 2-2, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Eitetsu Koh
- Department of Integrated Cancer Therapy and Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Takaramachi 13-1, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Mikio Namiki
- Department of Integrated Cancer Therapy and Urology, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medical Science, Takaramachi 13-1, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-8641, Japan
| | - Kazuo Sengoku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Asahikawa Medical University, Midorigaokahigashi 2-1-1-1, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 078-8510, Japan
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Carrell DT, Aston KI. The search for SNPs, CNVs, and epigenetic variants associated with the complex disease of male infertility. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2011; 57:17-26. [PMID: 21208142 DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2010.521615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the genetic basis of idiopathic male infertility has long been the focus of many researchers. Numerous recent studies have attempted to identify relevant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) through medical re-sequencing studies in which candidate genes are sequenced in large numbers of cases and controls in the search for risk or causative polymorphisms. Two major characteristics have limited the utility of the re-sequencing studies. First, reported SNPs have only accounted for a small percentage of idiopathic male infertility. Second, SNPs reported to have an association with male infertility based on gene re-sequencing studies often fail validation in follow-up studies. Recent advances in the tools available for genetic studies have enabled interrogation of the entire genome in search of common, and more recently, rare variants. In this review, we discuss the progress of studies on genetic and epigenetic variants of male infertility as well as future directions that we predict will be the most productive in identifying the genetic basis for male factor infertility based on our current state of knowledge in this field as well as lessons learned about the genetic basis for complex diseases from other disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas T Carrell
- Andrology and IVF Laboratories, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108, USA.
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Overexpression a novel zebra fish spermatogenesis-associated gene 17 (SPATA17) induces apoptosis in GC-1 cells. Mol Biol Rep 2010; 38:3945-52. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-010-0511-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2010] [Accepted: 11/13/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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