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Lira FT, Campos LR, Roque M, Esteves SC. From pathophysiology to practice: addressing oxidative stress and sperm DNA fragmentation in Varicocele-affected subfertile men. Int Braz J Urol 2024; 50:530-560. [PMID: 39106113 PMCID: PMC11446552 DOI: 10.1590/s1677-5538.ibju.2024.9917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Varicocele can reduce male fertility potential through various oxidative stress mechanisms. Excessive production of reactive oxygen species may overwhelm the sperm's defenses against oxidative stress, damaging the sperm chromatin. Sperm DNA fragmentation, in the form of DNA strand breaks, is recognized as a consequence of the oxidative stress cascade and is commonly found in the ejaculates of men with varicocele and fertility issues. This paper reviews the current knowledge regarding the association between varicocele, oxidative stress, sperm DNA fragmentation, and male infertility, and examines the role of varicocele repair in alleviating oxidative-sperm DNA fragmentation in these patients. Additionally, we highlight areas for further research to address knowledge gaps relevant to clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe Tenório Lira
- Andros RecifeRecifePEBrasilAndros Recife, Recife, PE, Brasil
- Instituto de Medicina Integral Prof. Fernando FigueiraDepartamento de UrologiaRecifePEBrasilDepartamento de Urologia, Instituto de Medicina Integral Prof. Fernando Figueira, Recife, PE, Brasil
- Hospital Santa Joana RecifeRecifeBrasilHospital Santa Joana Recife, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - Lucas Ribeiro Campos
- Universidade Federal de Minas GeraisDepartamento de UrologiaBelo HorizonteMGBrasilDepartamento de Urologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | - Matheus Roque
- Mater PrimeDepartamento de Medicina ReprodutivaSão PauloSPBrasilDepartamento de Medicina Reprodutiva, Mater Prime, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Sandro C. Esteves
- ANDROFERT - Clínica de Andrologia e Reprodução HumanaCentro de Referência. em Reprodução MasculinaCampinasSPBrasilANDROFERT - Clínica de Andrologia e Reprodução Humana, Centro de Referência. em Reprodução Masculina, Campinas, SP, Brasil
- Disciplina de Urologia da Universidade Estadual de CampinasDepartamento de CirurgiaCampinasSPBrasilDepartamento de Cirurgia, Disciplina de Urologia da Universidade Estadual de Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brasil
- Aarhus UniversityFaculty of HealthDepartment of Clinical MedicineAarhusDenmarkDepartment of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Hekim N, Gunes S, Ergun S, Barhan EN, Asci R. Investigation of sperm hsa-mir-145-5p and MLH1 expressions, seminal oxidative stress and sperm DNA fragmentation in varicocele. Mol Biol Rep 2024; 51:588. [PMID: 38683237 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-024-09534-1] [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: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mechanisms by which varicocele causes infertility are not clear and few studies have reported that some miRNAs show expression alterations in men with varicocele. Recently, sperm promoter methylation of MLH1 has been shown to be higher in men diagnosed with varicocele. This study aimed to assess the potential effects of miR-145, which was determined to target MLH1 mRNA in silico on sperm quality and function in varicocele. METHODS Sperm miR-145 and MLH1 expressions of six infertile men with varicocele (Group 1), nine idiopathic infertile men (Group 2), and nine fertile men (control group) were analyzed by quantitative PCR. Sperm DNA fragmentation was evaluated by TUNEL and the levels of seminal oxidative damage and total antioxidant capacity were analyzed by ELISA. RESULTS Our results have shown that sperm expression of miR-145 was decreased in Group 1 compared to Group 2 (P = 0.029). MLH1 expression was significantly higher in Group 2 than the controls (P = 0.048). Total antioxidant level and sperm DNA fragmentations of Group 1 and Group 2 were decreased (P = 0.001 and P = 0.011, respectively). Total antioxidant capacity was positively correlated with sperm concentration (ρ = 0.475, P = 0.019), total sperm count (ρ = 0.427, P = 0.037), motility (ρ = 0.716, P < 0.0001) and normal morphological forms (ρ = 0.613, P = 0.001) and negatively correlated with the seminal oxidative damage (ρ=-0.829, P = 0.042) in varicocele patients. CONCLUSION This is the first study investigating the expressions of sperm miR-145 and MLH1 in varicocele patients. Further studies are needed to clarify the potential effect of miR-145 on male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neslihan Hekim
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, 55139, Turkey.
- Graduate Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey.
| | - Sezgin Gunes
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, 55139, Turkey
- Graduate Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Sercan Ergun
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, 55139, Turkey
- Graduate Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Elzem Nisa Barhan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Biology, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, 55139, Turkey
| | - Ramazan Asci
- Graduate Institute, Department of Molecular Medicine, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Urology, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey
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Lira Neto FT, Roque M, Esteves SC. Effect of varicocele and varicocelectomy on sperm deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation rates in infertile men with clinical varicocele. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2024; 76:49-69. [PMID: 36222786 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.22.05169-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Varicocele is the leading cause of male infertility. It can affect sperm quantity and quality through various non-mutually exclusive pathophysiological mechanisms, mainly oxidative stress. Excessive production of reactive oxygen species may overwhelm the sperm's defenses against oxidative stress and harm the sperm's DNA. Excessive sperm DNA breaks, so-called sperm DNA fragmentation, result from the oxidative stress cascade and are commonly found in the ejaculates of men with varicocele and fertility-related issues. Measuring sperm DNA fragmentation can provide valuable information on the extent of harm and might help select candidates for surgical treatment. Varicocelectomy is beneficial for alleviating oxidative stress-associated infertility and improving sperm DNA integrity. However, reproductive outcomes of infertile men with elevated sperm DNA fragmentation rates and surgically treated varicoceles remain poorly studied, and there is a need for well-designed trials to determine the impact of sperm DNA fragmentation reduction on natural and medically assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe T Lira Neto
- AndrosRecife, Andrology Clinic, Recife, Brazil
- Department of Urology, Prof. Fernando Figueira Institute of Integrative Medicine, Recife, Brazil
| | - Matheus Roque
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Mater Prime, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Referral Center for Male Reproduction, Campinas, Brazil -
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Farkouh A, Agarwal A, Hamoda TAAAM, Kavoussi P, Saleh R, Zini A, Arafa M, Harraz AM, Gul M, Karthikeyan VS, Durairajanayagam D, Rambhatla A, Boitrelle F, Chung E, Birowo P, Toprak T, Ghayda RA, Cannarella R, Phuoc NHV, Dimitriadis F, Russo GI, Sokolakis I, Mostafa T, Makarounis K, Ziouziou I, Kuroda S, Bendayan M, Kaiyal RS, Japari A, Simopoulou M, Rocco L, Garrido N, Gherabi N, Bocu K, Kahraman O, Le TV, Wyns C, Tremellen K, Sarikaya S, Lewis S, Evenson DP, Ko E, Calogero AE, Bahar F, Martinez M, Crafa A, Nguyen Q, Ambar RF, Colpi G, Bakircioglu ME, Henkel R, Kandil H, Serefoglu EC, Alarbid A, Tsujimura A, Kheradmand A, Anagnostopoulou C, Marino A, Adamyan A, Zilaitiene B, Ozer C, Pescatori E, Vogiatzi P, Busetto GM, Balercia G, Elbardisi H, Akhavizadegan H, Sajadi H, Taniguchi H, Park HJ, Maldonado Rosas I, Al-Marhoon M, Sadighi Gilani MA, Alhathal N, Pinggera GM, Kothari P, Mogharabian N, Micic S, Homa S, Darbandi S, Long TQT, Zohdy W, Atmoko W, Sabbaghian M, Ibrahim W, Smith RP, Ho CCK, de la Rosette J, El-Sakka AI, Preto M, Zenoaga-Barbăroșie C, Abumelha SM, Baser A, Aydos K, Ramirez-Dominguez L, Kumar V, Ong TA, Mierzwa TC, Adriansjah R, Banihani SA, Bowa K, Fukuhara S, Rodriguez Peña M, Moussa M, Ari UÇ, Cho CL, Tadros NN, Ugur MR, Amar E, Falcone M, Santer FR, Kalkanli A, Karna KK, Khalafalla K, Vishwakarma RB, Finocchi F, Giulioni C, Ceyhan E, Çeker G, Yazbeck C, Rajmil O, Yilmaz M, Altay B, Barrett TL, Ngoo KS, Roychoudhury S, Salvio G, Lin H, Kadioglu A, Timpano M, Avidor-Reiss T, Hakim L, Sindhwani P, Franco G, Singh R, Giacone F, Ruzaev M, Kosgi R, Sofikitis N, Palani A, Calik G, Kulaksız D, Jezek D, Al Hashmi M, Drakopoulos P, Omran H, Leonardi S, Celik-Ozenci C, Güngör ND, Ramsay J, Amano T, Sogutdelen E, Duarsa GWK, Chiba K, Jindal S, Savira M, Boeri L, Borges E, Gupte D, Gokalp F, Hebrard GH, Minhas S, Shah R. Controversy and Consensus on the Management of Elevated Sperm DNA Fragmentation in Male Infertility: A Global Survey, Current Guidelines, and Expert Recommendations. World J Mens Health 2023; 41:809-847. [PMID: 37118965 PMCID: PMC10523126 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.230008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) has been associated with male infertility and poor outcomes of assisted reproductive technology (ART). The purpose of this study was to investigate global practices related to the management of elevated SDF in infertile men, summarize the relevant professional society recommendations, and provide expert recommendations for managing this condition. MATERIALS AND METHODS An online global survey on clinical practices related to SDF was disseminated to reproductive clinicians, according to the CHERRIES checklist criteria. Management protocols for various conditions associated with SDF were captured and compared to the relevant recommendations in professional society guidelines and the appropriate available evidence. Expert recommendations and consensus on the management of infertile men with elevated SDF were then formulated and adapted using the Delphi method. RESULTS A total of 436 experts from 55 different countries submitted responses. As an initial approach, 79.1% of reproductive experts recommend lifestyle modifications for infertile men with elevated SDF, and 76.9% prescribe empiric antioxidants. Regarding antioxidant duration, 39.3% recommend 4-6 months and 38.1% recommend 3 months. For men with unexplained or idiopathic infertility, and couples experiencing recurrent miscarriages associated with elevated SDF, most respondents refer to ART 6 months after failure of conservative and empiric medical management. Infertile men with clinical varicocele, normal conventional semen parameters, and elevated SDF are offered varicocele repair immediately after diagnosis by 31.4%, and after failure of antioxidants and conservative measures by 40.9%. Sperm selection techniques and testicular sperm extraction are also management options for couples undergoing ART. For most questions, heterogenous practices were demonstrated. CONCLUSIONS This paper presents the results of a large global survey on the management of infertile men with elevated SDF and reveals a lack of consensus among clinicians. Furthermore, it demonstrates the scarcity of professional society guidelines in this regard and attempts to highlight the relevant evidence. Expert recommendations are proposed to help guide clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ala’a Farkouh
- Global Andrology Forum, American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Global Andrology Forum, American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
- Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Taha Abo-Almagd Abdel-Meguid Hamoda
- Department of Urology, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Parviz Kavoussi
- Department of Reproductive Urology, Austin Fertility & Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Ramadan Saleh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
- Ajyal IVF Center, Ajyal Hospital, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Armand Zini
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mohamed Arafa
- Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medical-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ahmed M. Harraz
- Urology Department, Urology and Nephrology Center, Mansoura University, Mansura, Egypt
- Department of Surgery, Urology Unit, Farwaniya Hospital, Farwaniya, Kuwait
- Department of Urology, Sabah Al Ahmad Urology Center, Kuwait City, Kuwait
| | - Murat Gul
- Department of Urology, Selçuk University School of Medicine, Konya, Turkey
| | | | - Damayanthi Durairajanayagam
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Amarnath Rambhatla
- Department of Urology, Henry Ford Health System, Vattikuti Urology Institute, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Florence Boitrelle
- Reproductive Biology, Fertility Preservation, Andrology, CECOS, Poissy Hospital, Poissy, France
- Department of Biology, Reproduction, Epigenetics, Environment and Development, Paris Saclay University, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Eric Chung
- Department of Urology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Ponco Birowo
- Department of Urology, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Tuncay Toprak
- Department of Urology, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ramy Abou Ghayda
- Urology Institute, University Hospitals, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Nguyen Ho Vinh Phuoc
- Department of Andrology, Binh Dan Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Fotios Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, Aristotle University, School of Medicine, Thessaloniki,
| | | | - Ioannis Sokolakis
- Department of Urology, Aristotle University, School of Medicine, Thessaloniki,
| | - Taymour Mostafa
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Imad Ziouziou
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Shinnosuke Kuroda
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Marion Bendayan
- Reproductive Biology, Fertility Preservation, Andrology, CECOS, Poissy Hospital, Poissy, France
| | - Raneen Sawaid Kaiyal
- Department of Urology, Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Andrian Japari
- Fertility Clinic, Telogorejo Hospital, Semarang, Indonesia
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Lucia Rocco
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Nicolas Garrido
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - Nazim Gherabi
- Department of Urology, University of Algiers, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Kadir Bocu
- Department of Urology, Silopi State Hospital, Sirnak, Turkey
| | - Oguzhan Kahraman
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Baskent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Tan V. Le
- Department of Andrology, Binh Dan Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Pham Ngoc Thach University of Medicine, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Christine Wyns
- Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kelton Tremellen
- Department of Obstetrics Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Flinders University, South Australia, Australia
| | - Selcuk Sarikaya
- Department of Urology, Gülhane Research and Training Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | | | - Edmund Ko
- Department of Urology, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Aldo E. Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Fahmi Bahar
- Andrology Section, Siloam Sriwijaya Hospital, Palembang, Indonesia
| | - Marlon Martinez
- Section of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Manila, Philippines
| | - Andrea Crafa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Quang Nguyen
- Center for Andrology and Sexual Medicine, Viet Duc University Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Department of Urology, Andrology and Sexual Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Rafael F. Ambar
- Department of Urology, Centro Universitario em Saude do ABC, Santo André, Brazil
- Andrology Group at Ideia Fertil Institute of Human Reproduction, Santo André, Brazil
| | - Giovanni Colpi
- Andrology and IVF Center, Next Fertility Procrea, Lugano, Switzerland
| | | | - Ralf Henkel
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | | | - Ege Can Serefoglu
- Department of Urology, Biruni University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Abdullah Alarbid
- Department of Surgery, Urology Unit, Farwaniya Hospital, Farwaniya, Kuwait
| | - Akira Tsujimura
- Department of Urology, Juntendo University Urayasu Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Alireza Kheradmand
- Urology Department, Golestan Hospital, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | | | - Angelo Marino
- ANDROS Day Surgery Clinic, Reproductive Medicine Unit, Palermo, Italy
| | - Aram Adamyan
- IVF Department, Astghik Medical Center, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Birute Zilaitiene
- Institute of Endocrinology, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Cevahir Ozer
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Baskent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Edoardo Pescatori
- Andrology and Reproductive Medicine Unit, Gynepro Medical, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paraskevi Vogiatzi
- Andromed Health & Reproduction, Fertility & Reproductive Health Diagnostic Center, Athens, Greece
| | - Gian Maria Busetto
- Department of Urology and Renal Transplantation, University of Foggia, Policlinico Riuniti, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Department of Endocrinology, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Haitham Elbardisi
- Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hamed Akhavizadegan
- Department of Urology, Sina Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hesamoddin Sajadi
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Teheran, Iran
| | - Hisanori Taniguchi
- Department of Urology and Andrology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hyun Jun Park
- Department of Urology, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Busan, Korea
- Medical Research Institute of Pusan National University Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | | | - Mohamed Al-Marhoon
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Mohammad Ali Sadighi Gilani
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Teheran, Iran
| | - Naif Alhathal
- King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Priyank Kothari
- Department of Urology, Topiwala National Medical College, B.Y.L Nair Ch Hospital, Mumbai, India
| | - Nasser Mogharabian
- Sexual Health and Fertility Research Center, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Sava Micic
- Department of Andrology, Uromedica Polyclinic, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Sheryl Homa
- Department of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Sara Darbandi
- Fetal Health Research Center, Hope Generation Foundation, Tehran, Iran
- Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Hope Generation Foundation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tran Quang Tien Long
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hanoi Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Wael Zohdy
- Department of Andrology, Sexology & STIs, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Widi Atmoko
- Department of Urology, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Marjan Sabbaghian
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Teheran, Iran
| | - Wael Ibrahim
- Department of Obstetrics Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Fertility Care Center in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ryan P. Smith
- Department of Urology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Virginia, USA
| | | | | | | | - Mirko Preto
- Department of Urology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Saad Mohammed Abumelha
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aykut Baser
- Department of Urology, Bandirma Onyedi Eylül University, Balikesir, Turkey
| | - Kaan Aydos
- Department of Urology, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Vijay Kumar
- Department of Microbiology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, India
| | - Teng Aik Ong
- Department of Surgery, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Ricky Adriansjah
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine of Padjadjaran University, Hasan Sadikin General Hospital, Bandung, Indonesia
| | - Saleem A. Banihani
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Kasonde Bowa
- Department of Urology, University of Lusaka, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Shinichiro Fukuhara
- Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | | | - Mohamad Moussa
- Department of Urology, Lebanese University, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Urology, Al Zahraa Hospital, UMC, Lebanon
| | - Umut Çağın Ari
- Department of Reproduction, Kafkas University, Kars, Turkey
| | - Chak-Lam Cho
- S. H. Ho Urology Centre, Department of Surgery, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | | | | | | | - Marco Falcone
- Department of Urology, Molinette Hospital, A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | | | - Arif Kalkanli
- Department of Urology, Taksim Education and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Keshab Kumar Karna
- Department of Molecular Cell and Cancer Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Kareim Khalafalla
- Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Urology Department, University of Texas McGovern Medical School, Houston, TX, USA
- Urology Department, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ranjit B. Vishwakarma
- Division of Andrology, Department of Urology, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Federica Finocchi
- Department of Endocrinology, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Carlo Giulioni
- Department of Urology, Polytechnic University of Marche Region, Ancona, Italy
| | - Erman Ceyhan
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Baskent University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gökhan Çeker
- Department of Urology, Başakşehir Çam and Sakura City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Chadi Yazbeck
- Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Reprogynes Medical Institute, Paris, France
| | - Osvaldo Rajmil
- Department of Andrology, Fundacio Puigvert, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mehmet Yilmaz
- Asklepios Clinic Triberg, Urology, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Baris Altay
- Department of Urology, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | | | - Kay Seong Ngoo
- Hospital Angkatan Tentera Tuanku Mizan, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Department of Endocrinology, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Haocheng Lin
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ates Kadioglu
- Section of Andrology, Department of Urology, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Massimiliano Timpano
- Department of Urology, Molinette Hospital, A.O.U. Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
| | - Tomer Avidor-Reiss
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, USA
- Department of Urology and Transplantation, University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, USA
| | - Lukman Hakim
- Department of Urology, Universitas Airlangga, Rumah Sakit Universitas Airlangga Teaching Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Puneet Sindhwani
- Department of Urology, Universitas Airlangga, Rumah Sakit Universitas Airlangga Teaching Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Giorgio Franco
- Department of Urology, Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Rajender Singh
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Filippo Giacone
- Centro HERA, Unità di Medicina della Riproduzione, Sant’Agata Li Battiati, Catania, Italy
| | | | - Raghavender Kosgi
- Department of Urology, Andrology and Renal Transplant, AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad, India
| | - Nikolaos Sofikitis
- Department of Urology, Ioannina University School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Ayad Palani
- Research Centre, University of Garmian, Kalar, Iraq
| | - Gokhan Calik
- Department of Urology, Istanbul Medipol University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Deniz Kulaksız
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Health Sciences Kanuni Training and Research Hospital, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Davor Jezek
- Department for Transfusion Medicine and Transplantation Biology, Reproductive Tissue Bank, University Hospital Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Manaf Al Hashmi
- Department of Urology, Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine and Health Science, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Panagiotis Drakopoulos
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- IVF Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Huda Omran
- Al Aljenan Medical Center, Pulse Health Training Center, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain
| | - Sofia Leonardi
- Central Laboratory, Hospital Público Materno Infantil de Salta, Salta, Argentina
| | - Ciler Celik-Ozenci
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Koç University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nur Dokuzeylül Güngör
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology and IVF Unit, School of Medicine, Bahcesehir University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Toshiyasu Amano
- Department of Urology, Nagano Red Cross Hospital, Nagano, Japan
| | | | | | - Koji Chiba
- Department of Urology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
| | - Sunil Jindal
- Department of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Jindal Hospital, Meerut, India
| | - Missy Savira
- Department of Urology, Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Luca Boeri
- Department of Urology, IRCCS Fondazione Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Edson Borges
- Fertility Assisted Fertilization Center, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Deepak Gupte
- Department of Urology, Bombay Hospital and Medical Research Center, Mumbai, India
| | - Fatih Gokalp
- Department of Urology, Hatay Mustafa Kemal University, Antakya, Turkey
| | | | - Suks Minhas
- Division of Surgery, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College, London, UK
| | - Rupin Shah
- Division of Andrology, Department of Urology, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
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5
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Cai D, Li X, Xu Q, Li H, Liu R, Chen J, Jiang X, Sun J, Lai C, Bai W. Cyanidin-3- O-glucoside and protocatechuic acid alleviate heat stress-induced testicular damage. Food Funct 2023; 14:2200-2211. [PMID: 36756975 DOI: 10.1039/d2fo03423a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Testicular hyperthermia induced by unhealthy living habits and pathological or occupational factors can cause spermatogenic dysfunction with an outcome of sub-fertility or even infertility. Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside (C3G) is the most typical anthocyanin in foods that has been recognized as an antioxidant with promising protection for male reproduction. However, its specific effect against testicular hyperthermia and the mechanisms involving its primary gastrointestinal metabolite protocatechuic acid (PCA) are still unexplored. In the present study, testicular hyperthermia in mice was established by employing a single hot water bath at 43 °C for 30 min. C3G and PCA were intragastrically given to investigate their prevention ability against heat stress-induced testicular damage. It was found that C3G and PCA restored the external diameter and thickness, and alleviated atrophy and vacuolation of seminiferous tubules. Simultaneously, C3G and PCA enhanced testicular heat stress tolerance through reducing superfluous eIF2α phosphorylation and stress granule formation. C3G and PCA effectively improved the testicular antioxidant system and regulated the IRE1α-XBP1 pathway, contributing to mitigatory spermatogenesis dysfunction and testicular damage. This finding revealed that anthocyanins were the novel compounds for alleviating testicular damage, and provided a reliable theoretical basis for improving male fertility disturbed by heat stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongbao Cai
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Guangdong Engineering Technology Center of Food Safety Molecular Rapid Detection, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, PR China.
| | - Xusheng Li
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Guangdong Engineering Technology Center of Food Safety Molecular Rapid Detection, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, PR China.
| | - Qingjie Xu
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Guangdong Engineering Technology Center of Food Safety Molecular Rapid Detection, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, PR China.
| | - Haiwei Li
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Guangdong Engineering Technology Center of Food Safety Molecular Rapid Detection, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, PR China.
| | - Ruijing Liu
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Guangdong Engineering Technology Center of Food Safety Molecular Rapid Detection, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, PR China.
| | - Jiali Chen
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Guangdong Engineering Technology Center of Food Safety Molecular Rapid Detection, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, PR China.
| | - Xinwei Jiang
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Guangdong Engineering Technology Center of Food Safety Molecular Rapid Detection, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, PR China.
| | - Jianxia Sun
- School of Chemical Engineering and Light Industry, Guangdong University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510006, PR China
| | - Caiyong Lai
- Department of Urology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, PR China
| | - Weibin Bai
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, Institute of Food Safety and Nutrition, Guangdong Engineering Technology Center of Food Safety Molecular Rapid Detection, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, PR China.
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6
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Szymański M, Domaracki P, Szymańska A, Wandtke T, Szyca R, Brycht Ł, Wasilow K, Skorupski WJ. The Role and Place of Antioxidants in the Treatment of Male Infertility Caused by Varicocele. J Clin Med 2022; 11:6391. [PMID: 36362619 PMCID: PMC9655278 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11216391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 08/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The inability to become pregnant for at least 1 year despite regular unprotected intercourse may indicate infertility of one or both partners. This problem affects approximately 10-20% of couples worldwide, regardless of race, with male infertility reported to account for 25-60% of cases. Among the most common pathological causes of male infertility is the presence of varicocele and chronic infections of the male reproductive system. This study was performed using data collected at the Genesis Infertility Treatment Clinic, Bydgoszcz, Poland, between 1 January 2015 and 30 June 2017. A total of 163 men meeting the inclusion criteria were selected and divided into the idiopathic infertility group (78 men) and varicocele-related infertility group (85 men). All patients received treatment with a male fertility supplement containing a combination of 1725 mg of L-carnitine fumarate, 500 mg of acetyl-L-carnitine, 90 mg of vitamin C, 20 mg of coenzyme Q10, 10 mg of zinc, 200 µg of folic acid, 50 µg of selenium, and 1.5 µg of vitamin B12 (Proxeed® Plus, Sigma-Tau, Italy) twice a day for a period of 6 months from the time of the diagnosis of infertility. The treatment resulted in significant improvements in general semen parameters, particularly sperm count, sperm concentration, total motility, and progressive motility. This antioxidant therapy produced a particularly marked therapeutic benefit in patients with Grade III varicocele, with a greater improvement in progressive motility than in men with less severe or no varicocele. The use of the antioxidant preparation examined here seems reasonable in men with idiopathic infertility and as an adjuvant in those with varicocele-related infertility in whom surgical treatment has resulted in no improvement. Its use should be considered particularly in patients with Grade III varicocele who do not wish to undergo surgical treatment or in whom such a treatment is not possible for various reasons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek Szymański
- Department of Women’s Health and Reproductive Medicine, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 85-067 Bydgoszcz, Poland
- NZOZ Medical Center, Clinic of Infertility Treatment “Genesis”, 85-435 Bydgoszcz, Poland
- Clinic of Gynaecology and Oncological Gynecology, 10th Military Research Hospital and Polyclinic, IPHC, 85-681 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Piotr Domaracki
- Department of Women’s Health and Reproductive Medicine, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 85-067 Bydgoszcz, Poland
- Clinic of Gynaecology and Oncological Gynecology, 10th Military Research Hospital and Polyclinic, IPHC, 85-681 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Angelika Szymańska
- NZOZ Medical Center, Clinic of Infertility Treatment “Genesis”, 85-435 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Tomasz Wandtke
- NZOZ Medical Center, Clinic of Infertility Treatment “Genesis”, 85-435 Bydgoszcz, Poland
- Department of Lung Diseases, Neoplasms and Tuberculosis, Faculty of Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Robert Szyca
- Clinic of Surgery and Oncological Surgery, 10th Military Research Hospital and Polyclinic, IPHC, 85-681 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Łukasz Brycht
- Department of Women’s Health and Reproductive Medicine, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 85-067 Bydgoszcz, Poland
- Clinic of Surgery and Oncological Surgery, 10th Military Research Hospital and Polyclinic, IPHC, 85-681 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Karolina Wasilow
- Department of Women’s Health and Reproductive Medicine, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 85-067 Bydgoszcz, Poland
- NZOZ Medical Center, Clinic of Infertility Treatment “Genesis”, 85-435 Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Wojciech Jan Skorupski
- 1st Department of Cardiology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-848 Poznan, Poland
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7
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Wang K, Gao Y, Wang C, Liu Z, Liang M, Liao Y, Hu K. Is Parthanatos Involved in Varicocele? DNA Cell Biol 2022; 41:861-870. [PMID: 36067068 DOI: 10.1089/dna.2022.0289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicoceles (VCs) have received widespread attention as a primary factor affecting male fertility and a pathological condition that may lead to decreased sperm count and motility in patients. Many studies have shown that an imbalance of local antioxidant balance exists in patients with VC, leading to an obvious increase in the content of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and may cause reductive stress. Excessive ROS may aggravate spermatogenesis dysfunction and affect male fertility. Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) is an enzyme associated with DNA repair in eukaryotic cells, can be activated by DNA fragments with structural damage, and has been considered a DNA damage receptor in DNA damage repair and apoptosis. We built a rat model of VC and an oxidative damage model of a spermatocyte-derived cell line (GC-2 cells) induced by hydrogen peroxide to study the role of PARP1 in VC. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained by RNA sequencing in the testes of VC rats. Analysis of DEGs revealed some genes with significantly altered expression, which were validated in rat and cell models. Immunofluorescence, real-time quantitative PCR analysis, Western blot, and flow cytometry were used to analyze the changes between the control group and the VC or hydrogen peroxide group. Overall, we found that PARP1 protein expression increased in VC rats and in the hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress model of GC-2 cells. Parthanatos may be one of the factors leading to reduced reproductive capacity in VC patients. Our study provides novel insights into the mechanisms of male infertility induced by oxidative stress and provides a new therapeutic target for VC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanxian Wang
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Gao
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, People's Republic of China
| | - Chen Wang
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, People's Republic of China
| | - Zirui Liu
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Liang
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaping Liao
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Hu
- School of Life Science, Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, People's Republic of China
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8
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Drevet JR, Hallak J, Nasr-Esfahani MH, Aitken RJ. Reactive Oxygen Species and Their Consequences on the Structure and Function of Mammalian Spermatozoa. Antioxid Redox Signal 2022; 37:481-500. [PMID: 34913729 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2021.0235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Significance: Among the 200 or so cell types that comprise mammals, spermatozoa have an ambiguous relationship with the reactive oxygen species (ROS) inherent in the consumption of oxygen that supports aerobic metabolism. Recent Advances: In this review, we shall see that spermatozoa need the action of ROS to reach their structural and functional maturity, but that due to intrinsic unique characteristics, they are, perhaps more than any other cell type, susceptible to oxidative damage. Recent studies have improved our knowledge of how oxidative damage affects sperm structures and functions. The focus of this review will be on how genetic and epigenetic oxidative alterations to spermatozoa can have dramatic unintended consequences in terms of both the support and the suppression of sperm function. Critical Issues: Oxidative stress can have dramatic consequences not only for the spermatozoon itself, but also, and above all, on its primary objective, which is to carry out fertilization and to ensure, in part, that the embryonic development program should lead to a healthy progeny. Future Directions: Sperm oxidative DNA damage largely affects the integrity of the paternal genetic material to such an extent that the oocyte may have difficulties in correcting it. Diagnostic and therapeutic actions should be considered more systematically, especially in men with difficulties to conceive. Research is underway to determine whether the epigenetic information carried by spermatozoa is also subject to changes mediated by pro-oxidative situations. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 37, 481-500.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joël R Drevet
- Faculty of Medicine, GReD Institute, INSERM U1103-CNRS UMR6293-Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Jorge Hallak
- Androscience, Science and Innovation Center in Andrology and High-Complex Clinical and Research Andrology Laboratory, São Paulo, Brazil.,Division of Urology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Men's Health Study Group, Institute for Advanced Studies, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Reproductive Toxicology Unit, Department of Pathology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mohammad-Hossein Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.,Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Robert J Aitken
- Faculty of Science and Priority Research Center for Reproductive Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Medicine, Priority Research Center for Reproductive Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Australia
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9
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Sciorio R, Esteves SC. Contemporary Use of ICSI and Epigenetic Risks to Future Generations. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11082135. [PMID: 35456226 PMCID: PMC9031244 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11082135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the birth of Louise Brown in 1978 via IVF, reproductive specialists have acquired enormous knowledge and refined several procedures, which are nowadays applied in assisted reproductive technology (ART). One of the most critical steps in this practice is the fertilization process. In the early days of IVF, a remarkable concern was the unpleasant outcomes of failed fertilization, overtaken by introducing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), delineating a real breakthrough in modern ART. ICSI became standard practice and was soon used as the most common method to fertilize oocytes. It has been used for severe male factor infertility and non-male factors, such as unexplained infertility or advanced maternal age, without robust scientific evidence. However, applying ICSI blindly is not free of potential detrimental consequences since novel studies report possible health consequences to offspring. DNA methylation and epigenetic alterations in sperm cells of infertile men might help explain some of the adverse effects reported in ICSI studies on reproductive health in future generations. Collected data concerning the health of ICSI children over the past thirty years seems to support the notion that there might be an increased risk of epigenetic disorders, congenital malformations, chromosomal alterations, and subfertility in babies born following ICSI compared to naturally conceived children. However, it is still to be elucidated to what level these data are associated with the cause of infertility or the ICSI technique. This review provides an overview of epigenetic mechanisms and possible imprinting alterations following the use of ART, in particular ICSI. It also highlights the sperm contribution to embryo epigenetic regulation and the risks of in vitro culture conditions on epigenetic dysregulation. Lastly, it summarizes the literature concerning the possible epigenetic disorders in children born after ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Sandro C. Esteves
- Androfert, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas 13075-460, Brazil;
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-970, Brazil
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
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10
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Napolitano L, Pandolfo SD, Aveta A, Cirigliano L, Martino R, Mattiello G, Celentano G, Barone B, Rosati C, La Rocca R, Spena G, Spirito L. The Management of Clinical Varicocele: Robotic Surgery Approach. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:791330. [PMID: 36303643 PMCID: PMC9580646 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.791330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is a pathologic dilation of the testicular veins within the spermatic cord. Varicocele is considered the most common problem in reproductive medicine practice. It is identified in 15% of healthy men and up to 35% of men with primary infertility. The exact pathophysiology of varicoceles is not very well understood, and several theories have been proposed to explain it. Varicocele can impair sperm quality and fertility via various mechanisms: reflux of adrenal metabolites, increased testicular hypoxia, oxidative stress, and increased testicular temperature have been proposed. Several studies have reported the significant benefits on semen parameters with the surgical treatment of varicocele: reducing oxidatively induced sperm DNA damage and potentially improving fertility. Varicocele repair should be offered as a part of treatment option for male partners of infertile couples presenting with palpable varicoceles. Nowadays, there are several surgical approaches available for the treatment of varicocele, such as the retroperitoneal approach, inguinal approach, and the subinguinal approach. The subinguinal microscopic approach offers the best outcomes, such as shorter hospital stays, preservation of the testicular arteries and lymphatics, least number of postoperative complications, recurrence, and a higher number of pregnancies. Currently robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery is widely adopted in urology and surgeons began to explore the potential applications of the robotic platform to male infertility microsurgical operations. Robotic approach offers many advantages: elimination of tremor, retraction with third arm, high quality, 3-dimensional visualization and surgeon ergonomics, all contributing to the precision of surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Napolitano
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Savio Domenico Pandolfo
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Achille Aveta
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Cirigliano
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaele Martino
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gennaro Mattiello
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Celentano
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Biagio Barone
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Claudia Rosati
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto La Rocca
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gianluca Spena
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Spirito
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Odontostomatology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Lorenzo Spirito
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11
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Barradas V, Pereira Antoniassi M, Intasqui P, Nichi M, Pimenta Bertolla R, Montagnini Spaine D. Evaluation of oxidative stress in seminal plasma of adolescents with varicocele. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2022; 2:141-150. [PMID: 35128449 PMCID: PMC8812440 DOI: 10.1530/raf-20-0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele, defined by a dilation of efferent testicular veins, is the most commonly identifiable, surgically correctable lesion associated with male-factor infertility, starts at puberty and causes a progressive decline in fertility potential. The pathophysiology of infertility caused by this disease is still poorly understood, but it is suggested that the main mechanism is oxidative stress. Therefore, the aim of this study was to verify if the varicocele is associated with changes in enzymatic antioxidant mechanisms and seminal plasma lipid peroxidation levels in adolescents. We recruited 90 adolescents that were divided into control (C; n = 27); varicocele and normal semen (VNS; n =46); varicocele and altered semen (VAS; n =17). Seminal and serum levels of lipid peroxidation were quantified by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). Seminal plasma antioxidant profile was evaluated by the activities of catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). The VAS group had increased lipid peroxidation levels when compared to the other groups. The levels of serum lipid peroxidation and activities of the enzymes SOD and GPx did not differ between groups. CAT was undetectable by the method used. In conclusion, in adolescents with varicocele and altered semen analysis, there is an increase in seminal lipid peroxidation levels compared to adolescents with varicocele and without seminal change and adolescents without evident varicocele. However, the observed oxidative stress is not caused by a decrease in superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities, which did not differ between adolescents with and without evident varicocele. Lay summary Varicocele, defined by a dilation of efferent testicular veins, is the most commonly identifiable, surgically correctable lesion associated with male-factor infertility, starts at puberty and causes a progressive decline in fertile potential. There is still much that is not understood regarding how exactly it affects semen quality, but most studies agree that oxidative stress, which is defined as excessive amounts of free radicals in relation to antioxidant defense, is an important mechanism. In this study, we aimed to verify if the varicocele is associated with changes in antioxidant defense and semen oxidation in 90 adolescents with and without varicocele. In adolescents with varicocele and abnormal semen, there is an increase in semen oxidation compared to controls or to the group with varicocele and normal semen quality. Our results can help to understand how varicocele leads to infertility in adolescents, identifying changes in oxidative activity in semen, since the onset of varicocele and before damage to sperm production can be detected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valéria Barradas
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Human Reproduction Section, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana Pereira Antoniassi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Human Reproduction Section, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paula Intasqui
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Human Reproduction Section, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcilio Nichi
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Pimenta Bertolla
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Human Reproduction Section, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.,Hospital São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Deborah Montagnini Spaine
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Human Reproduction Section, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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12
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Agarwal A, Finelli R, Durairajanayagam D, Leisegang K, Henkel R, Salvio G, Aghamajidi A, Sengupta P, Crisóstomo L, Tsioulou PA, Roychoudhury S, Finocchi F, Darbandi M, Mottola F, Darbandi S, Iovine C, Santonastaso M, Zaker H, Kesari KK, Nomanzadeh A, Gugnani N, Rambhatla A, Duran MB, Ceyhan E, Kandil H, Arafa M, Saleh R, Shah R, Boitrelle F. Comprehensive Analysis of Global Research on Human Varicocele: A Scientometric Approach. World J Mens Health 2022; 40:636-652. [PMID: 35118839 PMCID: PMC9482861 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.210202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study provides a comprehensive analysis of research trends on the etiology, mechanisms, potential risk factors, diagnosis, prognosis, surgical and non-surgical treatment of varicocele, and clinical outcomes before and after varicocele repair. Materials and Methods Varicocele studies published between 1988 and 2020 were retrieved from the Scopus database on April 5, 2021. Original studies on human varicocele were included, irrespective of language. Retrieved articles were manually screened for inclusion in various sub-categories. Bibliometric data was subjected to scientometric analysis using descriptive statistics. Network, heat and geographic mapping were generated using relevant software. Results In total, 1,943 original human studies on varicocele were published. These were predominantly from the northern hemisphere and developed countries, and published in journals from the United States and Germany. Network map analysis for countries showed several interconnected nodal points, with the USA being the largest, and Agarwal A. from Cleveland Clinic, USA, being a center point of worldwide varicocele research collaborations. Studies of adolescents were underrepresented compared with studies of adults. Studies on diagnostic and prognostic aspects of varicocele were more numerous than studies on varicocele prevalence, mechanistic studies and studies focusing on etiological and risk factors. Varicocele surgery was more investigated than non-surgical approaches. To evaluate the impact of varicocele and its treatment, researchers mainly analyzed basic semen parameters, although markers of seminal oxidative stress are being increasingly investigated in the last decade, while reproductive outcomes such as live birth rate were under-reported in the literature. Conclusions This study analyzes the publication trends in original research on human varicocele spanning over the last three decades. Our analysis emphasizes areas for further exploration to better understand varicocele’s impact on men’s health and male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Damayanthi Durairajanayagam
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Sungai Buloh Campus, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Kristian Leisegang
- Department of Physiology, School of Natural Medicine, Faculty of Community and Health Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Ralf Henkel
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,LogixX Pharma Ltd., Theale, Berkshire, UK.,Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Azin Aghamajidi
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Luís Crisóstomo
- Unidade Multidisciplinar de Investigação Biomédica (UMIB), Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar (ICBAS), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Petroula A Tsioulou
- Department of Physiology, Group of Physiology of Reproduction and Clinical Embryology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Federica Finocchi
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Mahsa Darbandi
- Fetal Health Research Center, Hope Generation Foundation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Filomena Mottola
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy
| | - Sara Darbandi
- Fetal Health Research Center, Hope Generation Foundation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Concetta Iovine
- Department of Environmental, Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Caserta, Italy.,Gamma Analisi Cliniche S.r.l, Caserta, Italy
| | - Marianna Santonastaso
- Department of Women, Children and General and Specialized Surgery, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - Himasadat Zaker
- Histology and Mcroscopic Analysis Division, RASTA Specialized Research Institute (RSRI), West Azerbaijan Science and Technology Park (WASTP), Urmia, Iran
| | | | - Amir Nomanzadeh
- Histology and Mcroscopic Analysis Division, RASTA Specialized Research Institute (RSRI), West Azerbaijan Science and Technology Park (WASTP), Urmia, Iran
| | | | - Amarnath Rambhatla
- Department of Urology, Vattikuti Urology Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Mesut Berkan Duran
- Department of Urology, Samsun Training and Research Hospital, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Erman Ceyhan
- Deparment of Urology, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Mohamed Arafa
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,Department of Andrology, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ramadan Saleh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt.,Ajyal IVF Center, Ajyal Hopsital, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Rupin Shah
- Division of Andrology, Department of Urology, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Florence Boitrelle
- Reproductive Biology, Fertility Preservation, Andrology, CECOS, Poissy Hospital, Poissy, France.,Paris Saclay University, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Jouy-en-Josas, France
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13
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Sengupta P, Roychoudhury S, Nath M, Dutta S. Oxidative Stress and Idiopathic Male Infertility. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1358:181-204. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-89340-8_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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14
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Salvarci A, Balasar M. Different group of non-obstructive intermittent azoospermias among non-obstructive azoospermia patients: A ten-year retrospective cohort study with control group. Andrologia 2021; 54:e14335. [PMID: 34866223 DOI: 10.1111/and.14335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We have identified patients among non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) cases in whom spermatozoa could not be detected despite treatment, but intermittent ejaculatory spermatozoon was found in their follow-up. NOA was observed in the retrospective screening at a rate of 15.35% among infertile men (n = 1976/12,871), while non-obstructive intermittent azoospermia (NO-IA) was detected at a rate of 6.8% among NO-IA (n = 135/1976) and 1.1% among all infertile men (n = 135/12,871). Spermatozoon was identified in the form of cryptospermia or extreme oligospermia in 58.13 (13.6-92.3) weeks on average in n = 55/135 patients among NO-IA. Pregnancy and live birth were achieved at a rate of 43.6% (n = 24/55) and 29% (n = 16/55), respectively, in intracytoplasmic sperm injection. NO-IA was composed of a group with no genetic pathological diagnosis, with lower follicle-stimulating hormone, lutenizing hormone and clinical varicocele rates compared with those of NOA (<0.05) and higher testicular volumes and pathological scores (<0.05). A major activity was observed in total testosterone, lutenizing hormone, testicular volumes and the logistic regression of pathological scores (<0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Salvarci
- Department of Urology, Novafertile/Medicana Hospital IVF Centers and Medicana Hospital Affiliated with KTO Medical Faculty, Konya, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Balasar
- Department of Urology, Meram Faculty of Medicine, Necmettin Erbakan University, Konya, Turkey
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15
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Who cares about oligozoospermia when we have ICSI. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 44:769-775. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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16
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Wood GJA, Cardoso JPG, Paluello DV, Nunes TF, Cocuzza M. Varicocele-Associated Infertility and the Role of Oxidative Stress on Sperm DNA Fragmentation. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3:695992. [PMID: 36304050 PMCID: PMC9580684 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.695992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele has been extensively described and studied as the most important reversible cause of male infertility. Its impact on semen parameters, pregnancy rates, and assisted reproductive outcomes have been associated with multifactorial aspects, most of them converging to increase of reactive oxygen species (ROS). More recently, sperm DNA fragmentation has gained significant attention and potential clinical use, although the body of evidence still needs further evolution. The associations between sperm DNA damage and a variety of disorders, including varicocele itself, share common pathways to ROS increase. This mini-review discusses different aspects related to the etiology of ROS and its relation to varicocele and potential mechanisms of DNA damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Jacom Abdulmassih Wood
- Huntington Medicina Reprodutiva, São Paulo, Brazil
- Division of Urology, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Guilherme Jacom Abdulmassih Wood
| | - João Paulo Greco Cardoso
- Division of Urology, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Davi Vischi Paluello
- Division of Urology, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Marcello Cocuzza
- Division of Urology, Hospital das Clínicas HCFMUSP, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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17
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Finelli R, Leisegang K, Kandil H, Agarwal A. Oxidative Stress: A Comprehensive Review of Biochemical, Molecular, and Genetic Aspects in the Pathogenesis and Management of Varicocele. World J Mens Health 2021; 40:87-103. [PMID: 34666421 PMCID: PMC8761243 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.210153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress is a condition due to an imbalance between the concentrations of oxidants and antioxidants, and it is a well-recognized contributor in several male infertility conditions. Varicocele, a common vascular condition, may cause male infertility due to hyperthermia, hypoxia and/or exposure to toxic adrenal and renal metabolites. In this review, the mechanisms by which oxidative stress can affect cellular integrity and functions are described, along with molecular markers of cellular oxidative damage, and the most commonly performed techniques for their detection in seminal fluid. Moreover, we focus on the role of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of varicocele based on recently published evidence from omics based studies, such as proteomics and genomics. Finally, we discuss strategies for the management of oxidative stress and the clinical guidelines for testing oxidative stress-related sperm DNA fragmentation in this group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Finelli
- Department of Urology, American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Kristian Leisegang
- School of Natural Medicine, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Hussein Kandil
- Fakih IVF Fertility Center, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Department of Urology, American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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18
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Achermann APP, Pereira TA, Esteves SC. Microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) in men with infertility due to nonobstructive azoospermia: summary of current literature. Int Urol Nephrol 2021; 53:2193-2210. [PMID: 34410586 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-021-02979-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is associated with intrinsic testicular defects that severely impair sperm production. Although NOA invariably leads to infertility, focal sperm production may exist in the testicles of affected patients, which can be retrieved and used for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) to generate healthy offspring. However, geographic locations of testicular sperm producing-areas are uncertain, making microsurgical-guided sperm retrieval (microdissection testicular sperm extraction; micro-TESE) an attractive method to identify and retrieve sperm in patients with NOA due to spermatogenic failure. Given the widespread use of micro-TESE, its effectiveness in harvesting sperm and related potential complications need to be clarified. METHODS We queried PubMed/MEDLINE for studies published in English, from inception to May 2021, concerning the effect of micro-TESE on sperm retrieval rate (SRR), complication rate and ICSI pregnancy rate-using retrieved testicular sperm in subfertile couples where the male had NOA. RESULTS We found 116 articles, including 70 original papers, 32 review articles, and 14 systematic reviews. The evidence accounted for 4895 patients. Micro-TESE retrieved sperm in 46.6% of men with NOA, but SRRs varied considerably (18.4-70.8%) and were mainly related to the treated population characteristics. Concerning the general population of NOA patients who have not undergone previous sperm retrieval (naïve population), the SRR by micro-TESE was 46.8% (1833 of 3914 patients; range 20-70.8%; 28 studies). In studies reporting SR by micro-TESE for men who had failed percutaneous testicular sperm aspiration or non-microsurgical testicular sperm extraction, the SRR was 39.1% (127 of 325 patients; range 18.4-57.1%; 4 studies). Data on adverse events indicated that micro-TESE was associated with low (~ 3%) short-term postoperative complication rates. The fertilizing ability of testicular sperm retrieved by micro-TESE and used for ICSI was adequate (~ 57%), whereas clinical pregnancy and live birth were obtained in 39% and 24% of couples who had an embryo transfer, respectively. The health of the resulting children seems reassuring, but the evidence is limited. The procedure increases sperm retrieval success compared to non-microsurgical retrieval methods, particularly in men with Sertoli cell-only testicular histopathology. CONCLUSION We concluded that micro-TESE is an effective and safe method to retrieve sperm from men with NOA-related infertility, with potential advantages over non-microsurgical methods. Nevertheless, high-quality, head-to-head comparative randomized controlled trials by sperm retrieval method, focusing on SRR, live birth rate and assessing long-term adverse events and health of children conceived using testicular sperm from NOA patients are lacking. Therefore, further research is required to determine the full clinical implications of micro-TESE in male infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnold P P Achermann
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Av. Dr. Heitor Penteado 1464, Campinas, SP, 13075-460, Brazil.,Post-Graduation Program in Surgical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil.,Urocore-Centro de Urologia e Fisioterapia Pélvica, Londrina, PR, Brazil
| | - Thairo A Pereira
- Post-Graduation Program in Surgical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Av. Dr. Heitor Penteado 1464, Campinas, SP, 13075-460, Brazil. .,Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil. .,Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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19
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Using Data Mining to Assist in Predicting Reproductive Outcomes Following Varicocele Embolization. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10163503. [PMID: 34441799 PMCID: PMC8397051 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10163503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
We carried out a retrospective analysis of infertile couple data using several methodologies and data analysis techniques, including the application of a novel data mining approach for analyzing varicocele treatment outcomes. The aim of this work was to characterize embolized varicocele patients by ascertaining the improvement of some of their clinical features, predicting the success of treatment via pregnancy outcomes, and identifying data patterns that can contribute to both ongoing varicocele research and the more effective management of patients treated for varicocele. We retrospectively surveyed the data of 293 consenting couples undergoing infertility treatment with male varicocele embolization over a 10-year period, and sperm samples were collected before and at 3, 6, and 12 months after varicocele embolization treatment and analyzed with World Health Organization parameters—varicocele severity grades were assessed with medical assessment and scrotal ultrasound, patient personal information (e.g., age, lifestyle, and embolization complications) was collected with clinical inquiries, and varicocele embolization success was measured through pregnancy outcomes. Varicocele embolization significantly improved sperm concentration, motility, and morphology mean values, as well as sperm chromatin integrity. Following this study, we can predict that a male patient without a high varicocele severity grade (with grade I or II) has a 70.83% chance of conceiving after embolization treatment if his partners’ age is between 24 and 33 with an accuracy of 70.59%. Furthermore, male patients successful in achieving pregnancy following embolization are mostly characterized by having a normal sperm progressive motility before treatment, a normal sperm concentration after treatment, a moderate to low varicocele severity grade, and not working in a putatively hazardous environment.
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20
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Lira Neto FT, Roque M, Esteves SC. Effect of varicocelectomy on sperm deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation rates in infertile men with clinical varicocele: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril 2021; 116:696-712. [PMID: 33985792 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of varicocelectomy on sperm deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation (SDF) rates in infertile men with clinical varicocele. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) Infertile men with clinical varicocele subjected to varicocelectomy. INTERVENTION(S) Systematic search using PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane's central database, Scielo, and Google Scholar to identify relevant studies published from inception until January 2021. We included studies comparing SDF rates before and after varicocelectomy in infertile men with clinical varicocele. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The primary outcome was the difference between the SDF rates before and after varicocelectomy. A meta-analysis of weighted data using random-effects models was performed. Results were reported as weighted mean differences (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses were performed on the basis of the SDF assay, varicocelectomy technique, preoperative SDF levels, varicocele grade, follow-up time, and study design. RESULT(S) Nineteen studies involving 1,070 patients provided SDF data. Varicocelectomy was associated with reduced postoperative SDF rates (WMD -7.23%; 95% CI: -8.86 to -5.59; I2 = 91%). The treatment effect size was moderate (Cohen's d = 0.68; 95% CI: 0.77 to 0.60). The pooled results were consistent for studies using sperm chromatin structure assay, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling, sperm chromatin dispersion test, and microsurgical varicocele repair. Subgroup analyses showed that the treatment effect was more pronounced in men with elevated vs. normal preoperative SDF levels, but the impact of varicocele grade remained equivocal. Meta-regression analysis demonstrated that SDF decreased after varicocelectomy as a function of preoperative SDF levels (coefficient: 0.23; 95% CI: 0.07 to 0.39). CONCLUSION(S) We concluded that pooled results from studies including infertile men with clinical varicocele indicated that varicocelectomy reduced the SDF rates. The treatment effect was greater in men with elevated (vs. normal) preoperative SDF levels. Further research is required to determine the full clinical implications of SDF reduction for these men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe Tenório Lira Neto
- Andros Recife, Andrology Clinic, Recife, Brazil; Department of Urology, Instituto de Medicina Integral Professor Fernando Figueira, Recife, Brazil
| | - Matheus Roque
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Mater Prime, 04029-200 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Referral Center for Male Reproduction, 13075-460 Campinas, Brazil; Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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21
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Achermann APP, Esteves SC. Diagnosis and management of infertility due to ejaculatory duct obstruction: summary evidence. Int Braz J Urol 2021; 47:868-881. [PMID: 33566474 PMCID: PMC8321472 DOI: 10.1590/s1677-5538.ibju.2020.0536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Arnold Peter Paul Achermann
- Departmento de Cirurgia (Disciplina de Urologia), Universidade Estadual de Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brasil.,ANDROFERT, Clínica de Andrologia e Reprodução Humana, Centro de Referência para Reprodução Masculina, Campinas, SP, Brasil.,Urocore - Centro de Urologia e Fisioterapia Pélvica, Londrina, PR, Brasil
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- Departmento de Cirurgia (Disciplina de Urologia), Universidade Estadual de Campinas - UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brasil.,ANDROFERT, Clínica de Andrologia e Reprodução Humana, Centro de Referência para Reprodução Masculina, Campinas, SP, Brasil
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22
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Esteves SC, Zini A, Coward RM, Evenson DP, Gosálvez J, Lewis SEM, Sharma R, Humaidan P. Sperm DNA fragmentation testing: Summary evidence and clinical practice recommendations. Andrologia 2021; 53:e13874. [PMID: 33108829 PMCID: PMC7988559 DOI: 10.1111/and.13874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 09/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
We herein summarise the evidence concerning the impact of sperm DNA fragmentation in various clinical infertility scenarios and the advances on sperm DNA fragmentation tests. The collected evidence was used to formulate 41 recommendations. Of these, 13 recommendations concern technical aspects of sperm DNA fragmentation testing, including pre-analytical information, clinical thresholds and interpretation of results. The remaining 28 recommendations relate to indications for sperm DNA fragmentation testing and clinical management. Clinical scenarios like varicocele, unexplained infertility, idiopathic infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, intrauterine insemination, in vitro fertilisation/intracytoplasmic sperm injection, fertility counselling for men with infertility risk factors and sperm cryopreservation have been contemplated. The bulk evidence supporting the recommendations has increased in recent years, but it is still of moderate to low quality. This guideline provides clinicians with advice on best practices in sperm DNA fragmentation testing. Also, recommendations are provided on possible management strategies to overcome infertility related to sperm DNA fragmentation, based on the best available evidence. Lastly, we identified gaps in knowledge and opportunities for research and elaborated a list of recommendations to stimulate further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro C. Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction ClinicReferral Center for Male ReproductionCampinasSPBrazil
- Department of Surgery (Division of Urology)University of Campinas (UNICAMP)CampinasSPBrazil
- Faculty of HealthAarhus UniversityAarhusDenmark
| | - Armand Zini
- Division of UrologyDepartment of SurgerySt. Mary's HospitalMcGill UniversityMontrealQuébecCanada
| | - Robert Matthew Coward
- Department of UrologyUniversity of North CarolinaChapel HillNCUSA
- UNC FertilityRaleighNCUSA
| | - Donald P. Evenson
- SCSA DiagnosticsBrookingsSDUSA
- Sanford Medical SchoolUniversity of South DakotaSioux FallsSDUSA
| | - Jaime Gosálvez
- Unit of GeneticsDepartment of BiologyUniversidad Autónoma de MadridMadridSpain
| | | | - Rakesh Sharma
- American Center for Reproductive MedicineCleveland ClinicClevelandOHUSA
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Faculty of HealthAarhus UniversityAarhusDenmark
- Fertility Clinic SkiveSkive Regional HospitalSkiveDenmark
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23
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Povelitsa EА, Dosta NI, Parhomenko O, Shesternja A. COMBINED TREATMENT OF PATHOSOSPERMIA WITH ADJUVANT THERAPY WITH SPEROTON COM- PLEX IN PATIENTS WITH VARICOCELE. REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.37800/rm2020-1-36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effectiveness of combined treatment of pathozoospermia in patients with varicocele by performing micro- surgical phlebectomy of varicose veins of the spermatic cord in combination with adjuvant therapy with the Speroton complex
MATERIAL AND METHODS
Twenty microsurgical phlebectomies of varicose veins of the spermatic cord were performed in patients with pathozoo- spermia (oligoasthenospermia) against the background of varicocele with the appointment of the Speroton complex in the postoperative period for 3 months with an assessment of spermogram parameters before and after the operation in comparison with a group of 20 men with pathozocelemia without the use of adjuvant therapy. The study of morphological and functional parameters of spermogram of men of reproductive age (18-49 years) without signs of immune infertility (MAR-test IgG <10%) before and after the start of treatment was carried out. The average age of men was 33 ± 2.3 years (M ± m).
RESULTS
All patients with infertility in combination with varicocele had oligoasthenozoospermia before treatment. Three months after the start of treatment in the study groups, there was a statistically significant improvement in sperm counts due to an increase in the concentration of spermatozoa in 1 ml of ejaculate, an increase in the number of progressively mobile forms and total motility of spermatozoa by 50-68%, an increase in the number of live sperm by 19-20% and a decrease in the num- ber of dead forms of spermatozoa by 30-35%. A statistically significant decrease in the DNA fragmentation index by 34-52% (p <0.05) was found in all study groups. It was found that combination therapy, including microsurgical phlebectomy of the spermatic cord veins using the Speroton complex for 3 months, statistically significantly led to an increase in the concentration of spermatozoa in 1 ml of ejaculate (38.6 [38.2; 69.4]), an increase in progressively mobile forms (49.2 [26.7; 47.2]%) and general motility (72.2 [35.3; 64.7]%) of spermatozoa and viable forms (67.8 [39.3; 81.7] %), a decrease in the DNA fragmenta- tion index compared with the spermogram indicators of patients who underwent only microsurgical phlebectomy (p <0.05 for all study indicators). In the group of patients after combined treatment with the inclusion of adjuvant therapy of the Speroton complex, there was a statistically significant decrease in the sperm DNA fragmentation index to almost normal values (12.1 ± 1.1%) compared with the group of patients who underwent only surgery (17.2 ± 0.8%) (p = 0.01). Combined treatment (micro- surgical phlebectomy of the veins of the spermatic cord in combination with adjuvant therapy Speroton) of pathozoospermia in men of reproductive age with infertility on the background of varicocele can significantly improve the morphofunctional parameters of spermogram after 3 months from the start of treatment compared to men who underwent only surgical correction of varicocele.
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24
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Razi M, Tavalaee M, Sarrafzadeh-Rezaei F, Moazamian A, Gharagozloo P, Drevet JR, Nasr-Eshafani MH. Varicocoele and oxidative stress: New perspectives from animal and human studies. Andrology 2020; 9:546-558. [PMID: 33145958 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Varicocoele (VCL), one of the main causes of male subfertility, negatively affects testicular function. Due to limited access to human testicular tissue, animal model studies have been used to evaluate molecular and, recently, epigenetic changes attributed to pathophysiology induced by VCL. OBJECTIVES This review aims to provide an update on the latest findings regarding the link between VCL-induced biochemical stress and molecular changes in germ cells and spermatozoa. Endocrine and antioxidant status, testicular chaperone-specific hemostasis failure, altered testicular ion balance, metabolic disorders, and altered carbon cycling during spermatogenesis are among the many features that will be presented. DISCUSSION Literature review coupled with our own findings suggests that ionic imbalance, hypoxia, hyperthermia, and altered blood flow could lead to severe chronic oxidative and nitrosative stress in patients with VCL leading to defective spermatogenesis and impairment of the integrity of all sperm cell components and compartments down to the epigenetic information they carry. CONCLUSION Since oxidative stress is an important feature of the reproductive pathology of VCL, therapeutic strategies such as the administration of appropriate antioxidants could be undertaken as a complementary non-invasive treatment line.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazdak Razi
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Farshid Sarrafzadeh-Rezaei
- Department of Surgery and Diagnostic Imaging, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | | | | | - Joël R Drevet
- Faculty of Medicine, GReD Institute, INSERM U1103, CNRS UMR6293, Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Mohammad-Hossein Nasr-Eshafani
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
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25
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Male Factors: the Role of Sperm in Preimplantation Embryo Quality. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:1788-1811. [DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00334-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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26
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Wang X, Chen T, Qiu J, Wu H, Chen X, Xuan X. Effects of Primary Varicocele and Related Surgery in Male Infertility: A Meta-Analysis. Front Surg 2020; 7:586153. [PMID: 33330606 PMCID: PMC7673405 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2020.586153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate the effect of primary varicocele and related surgery in male infertility through meta-analysis. Methods: A systematic search of the literature was conducted using the Medline, Embase, Cochrane, and CNKI databases. The search was up to September 2019. Article selection proceeded according to the search strategy based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses criteria. Data were analyzed using RevMan 5.2. A random-effects model was used to calculate the overall combined risk estimates. Results: After screening 687 articles, 4 randomized controlled trials with 349 patients were included. One hundred seventy two patients were addressed in embolization/ligation, with 177 patient's observation treatment. The number of spontaneous pregnancies in the two groups was 41 and 40, respectively. There was no significant difference in pregnancy rate between the operation group and the control group. RR = 1.05 [0.72, 1.54]. Conclusion: There is not enough evidence to explain the surgical treatment of varicocele can improve the natural fertility of the infertile couples, and there is still a need for most of prospective randomized controlled trials to verify the efficacy of varicocele surgery for treating of male infertility. We do not deny the importance of this operation, we just want to call on everyone to strictly grasp the indications of the operation, avoid ineffective medical expenses, and avoid unnecessary pain to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinkun Wang
- Department of Andrology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Tong Chen
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Shanghai Children's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,The Key Laboratory for Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Junfeng Qiu
- Department of Andrology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hongwei Wu
- Department of Andrology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xuehua Chen
- Department of Andrology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xujun Xuan
- Department of Andrology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China.,The Key Laboratory for Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Yao H, Li F, Qiu X, Xu Y, Xue P, Chang D. The effect of varicocele repair for sperm DNA fragmentation: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e21960. [PMID: 32957313 PMCID: PMC7505379 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000021960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sperm DNA integrity has been considered as one of the important determinants of normal fertilization and embryonic development in natural and assisted pregnancy. It is difficult for men with high levels of sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) in semen to conceive their partners naturally and assist in conception. The studies have found that the level of SDF in the semen of patients with varicocele (VC) was on the high side. In recent years, the effect of VC surgery on DNA fragmentation index has attracted the attention of researchers. In this study, we will evaluate the effectiveness of VC repair as a way to alleviate SDF and improve male fertility. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Electronic databases including English databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library) and Chinese databases (China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Biology Medicine Database, Wanfang Database, VIP Database) will be searched from their inception to December 2020 to recognize related studies. All the randomized controlled trials of microsurgical varicocelectomy for the management of VC patients will be included. The potential outcome will include improvement in SDF, oxidative stress markers (reactive oxygen species, nitric oxide, and lipid peroxidation products), sperm chromatin compaction, other advanced sperm function characteristics, follow-up of fertility results. We will conduct this study strictly according to the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. RESULTS The study is a protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis without results, and data analysis will be carried out after the protocol. We will share our findings on April 5th of 2021. CONCLUSION This systematic review will provide more evidence to assess whether varicocelectomy is an effective intervention for patients with SDF. The results will be published in a public issue journal and offer the urologists help to make clinical decisions. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Formal ethical approval is not required in this protocol. We will collect and analyze data based on published research. Since this research does not involve patients, personal privacy will not be affected. The results of this review will be distributed to peer-reviewed journals or submitted to relevant conferences. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION NUMBER INPLASY202070119.
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Bhardwaj JK, Panchal H, Saraf P. Ameliorating Effects of Natural Antioxidant Compounds on Female Infertility: a Review. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:1227-1256. [PMID: 32935256 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00312-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of female infertility cases has been increasing at a frightening rate, affecting approximately 48 million women across the world. However, oxidative stress has been recognized as one of the main mediators of female infertility by causing various reproductive pathologies in females such as endometriosis, PCOS, preeclampsia, spontaneous abortion, and unexplained infertility. Nowadays, concerned women prefer dietary supplements with antioxidant properties over synthetic drugs as a natural way to lessen the oxidative stress and enhance their fertility. Therefore, the current review is an attempt to explore the efficacy of various natural antioxidant compounds including vitamins, carotenoids, and plant polyphenols and also of some medicinal plants in improving the fertility status of females. Our summarization of recent findings in the current article would pave the way toward the development of new possible antioxidant therapy to treat infertility in females. Natural antioxidant compounds found in fruits, vegetables, and other dietary sources, alone or in combination with other antioxidants, were found to be effective in ameliorating the oxidative stress-mediated infertility problems in both natural and assisted reproductive settings. Numerous medicinal plants showed promising results in averting the various reproductive disorders associated with female infertility, suggesting a plant-based herbal medicine to treat infertility. Although optimum levels of natural antioxidants have shown favorable results, however, their excessive intake may have adverse health impacts. Therefore, larger well-designed, dose-response studies in humans are further warranted to incorporate natural antioxidant compounds into the clinical management of female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitender Kumar Bhardwaj
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana, 136119, India.
| | - Harish Panchal
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana, 136119, India
| | - Priyanka Saraf
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, Haryana, 136119, India
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Increased Sperm DNA Fragmentation in Infertile Men with Varicocele: Relationship with Apoptosis, Seminal Oxidative Stress, and Spermatic Parameters. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:909-919. [PMID: 32909188 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00311-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study intends to determine the extent of nuclear sperm injury in patients with varicocele and to investigate its relationship with apoptosis and oxidative stress (OS). Ejaculated sperm samples from 51 patients diagnosed with varicocele and 29 fertile men were examined. According to the guidelines, the patient's sperm samples were classified into varicocele with normal semen parameters (n = 11) and varicocele with abnormal semen parameters (n = 40). Sperm DNA fragmentation was assessed using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay. The proportion of both viable and dead spermatozoa with externalized phosphatidylserine (PS) was detected by the bivariate annexin V/6-CFDA staining method. Seminal malondialdehyde (MDA) amounts and antioxidant enzymes activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were measured spectrophotometrically. Sperm DNA fragmentation, viable spermatozoa with externalized PS, and MDA levels were significantly higher in studied subgroups of patients with varicocele, either with normal or with abnormal semen parameters than controls. The seminal antioxidant enzymes activities were significantly reduced in both subgroups of patients with varicocele compared to the controls. The percentage of spermatozoa with fragmented DNA was positively correlated to the MDA level as well as the proportion of viable spermatozoa with externalized PS. However, the decreased seminal antioxidant status was negatively correlated with the increased proportion of sperm DNA fragmentation and apoptotic spermatozoa. Impaired seminal antioxidant profile and increased seminal level of lipid peroxidation may be involved in the pathophysiological mechanisms of cell death-mediated DNA breaks in patients with varicocele.
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Agarwal A, Baskaran S, Panner Selvam MK, Finelli R, Barbarosie C, Robert KA, Iovine C, Master K, Henkel R. Scientific landscape of oxidative stress in male reproductive research: A scientometric study. Free Radic Biol Med 2020; 156:36-44. [PMID: 32439384 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2020.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Unraveling the role of reactive oxygen species and associated oxidative stress (OS) in male reproduction is one of the key areas of male reproductive research. This article illustrates the scientific landscape of OS in male reproductive research over the past several decades (1941-2018) using a scientometric approach. Scientometric data (articles per year, authors, affiliations, journals, and countries) on OS related to male reproduction were retrieved from the Scopus database and analyzed for each decade. Our analysis revealed an increasing trend in OS-based male reproductive research from 1941 to 2018 with a steep raise in publications and research collaborations starting from the period 1991-2000 (R2 = 0.81). Semen abnormalities and varicocele were the major areas investigated in relation to OS with the highest positive trend in publications from the time interval 1981-1990 to 2011-2018. Analysis of publications based on OS assessment techniques revealed chemiluminescence (n = 180) and evaluation of antioxidants (n = 300) as the most widely used direct and indirect tests, respectively. Furthermore, prognostic/diagnostic studies on OS evaluation increased significantly over the time. Our analysis highlights the evolution of OS in male reproductive research and its emergence as an important prognostic and diagnostic tool in the evaluation of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Saradha Baskaran
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | | | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Catalina Barbarosie
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Kathy Amy Robert
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Concetta Iovine
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Kruyanshi Master
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ralf Henkel
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
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Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress (ER Stress) and Unfolded Protein Response (UPR) Occur in a Rat Varicocele Testis Model. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2020; 2020:5909306. [PMID: 32802266 PMCID: PMC7411497 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5909306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Using a surgically induced varicocele rat model, we show here strong evidence that the misfolded/unfolded protein response that is part of the stress response of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is activated in the varicocele testis (VCL), leading to the induction of apoptosis. To support this hypothesis, it is observed that the spliced variant of the X-box protein 1 (XBP1s), resulting from the activation of the inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1) membrane sensor, is significantly more represented in VCL testicular extracts. The activation of the IRE1/XBP1s pathway is also supported by the observation that the VCL testes show an increase phosphorylation of the c-Jun-kinase (JNK) known to be one intermediate of this pathway and an increased level of caspase-3, the terminal apoptotic effector, partly explaining the apoptotic status of the VCL testis.
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Santana VP, James ER, Miranda-Furtado CL, Souza MFD, Pompeu CP, Esteves SC, Carrell DT, Aston KI, Jenkins TG, Reis RMD. Differential DNA methylation pattern and sperm quality in men with varicocele. Fertil Steril 2020; 114:770-778. [PMID: 32709382 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.04.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the global DNA methylation pattern in spermatozoa of patients with varicocele as well as investigate their semen quality. DESIGN Prospective observational case-control study. SETTING University-affiliated hospital. PATIENT(S) A total of 26 men with varicocele and 26 fertile men without the disorder. INTERVENTIONS Analysis of semen quality and sperm DNA methylation patterns. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Semen quality evaluated by semen analysis, and sperm DNA methylation patterns investigated using the Infinium MethylationEPIC BeadChip platform. RESULT(S) Men with varicocele displayed decreased semen quality. The sperm DNA methylation analysis showed that men with varicocele exhibit global hypomethylation in comparison with the control group. A total of 59 differentially methylated CpG sites were identified, most of them hypomethylated in the varicocele group. In regional analyses, 1,695 DNA regions were differentially methylated in men with varicocele. These regions show associations with gamete generation, meiotic and meiosis cell cycle, and semen quality based on gene ontology analysis. CONCLUSION(S) Gene ontology results suggest that changes in methylation may be associated with the low semen quality phenotype observed in some varicocele patients because the observed differentially methylated regions in varicocele patients are related to male reproductive pathways. Additionally, the varicocele grade may influence the magnitude of global sperm DNA methylation change. To our knowledge, this is the first report analyzing changes at a regional or CpG-specific level in men with varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviane Paiva Santana
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Emma Rae James
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Cristiana Libardi Miranda-Furtado
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, São Paulo, Brazil; Drug Research and Development Center, Postgraduate Program in Medical and Surgical Sciences, Federal University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Mateus Felipe de Souza
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Douglas T Carrell
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Kenneth Ivan Aston
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Timothy Gerald Jenkins
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah; Department of Physiology and Developmental Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
| | - Rosana Maria Dos Reis
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Dave P, Farber N, Vij S. Conventional semen analysis and advanced sperm function tests in diagnosis and management of varicocele. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13629. [PMID: 32369238 DOI: 10.1111/and.13629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical varicoceles are a common cause of male infertility and affect sperm parameters as measured in a conventional semen analysis. Varicocelectomy has been shown in prospective studies to improve semen parameters in men with a clinical varicocele. Clinical varicoceles are also a well-known source of oxidative stress which may affect the quality of spermatozoa. Spermatozoa are particularly susceptible to oxidative stress due to a limited capacity for DNA repair. The susceptibility of spermatozoa to oxidative stress is modulated by a balance between ROS and antioxidants, which can be quantified by various laboratory assays. Varicocelectomy has been consistently shown to reduce both ROS and sperm DNA fragmentation, and various assays should be utilised in the diagnosis and treatment of infertile men with a clinical varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Dave
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Nicholas Farber
- Department of Urology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Sarah Vij
- Department of Urology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Vaz ADC, Paccola CC, Mendes TB, Cabral REL, Simas JN, Vendramini V, Miraglia SM. Sertoli Cell Alterations in Peripubertal Varicocelized Rats: Evidence of Primary Damage on Spermatogenesis. J Histochem Cytochem 2020; 68:185-198. [PMID: 31984829 DOI: 10.1369/0022155420902547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic varicocele is closely associated with male infertility or subfertility. Sertoli cell is a very important regulator of spermatogenesis. We investigated the morphofunctional alterations in the Sertoli cell and its possible involvement in the establishment of testicular primary lesion in experimental left-sided varicocele, induced from peripuberty. Twenty-five male peripubertal rats (44 days postpartum [dpp]) were distributed into two groups: control (C) and varicocele (V). Experimental left varicocele was induced in rats through the partial ligature of the left renal vein. Euthanasia was performed at 100 dpp. Testicular histopathology and testosterone plasmatic level were evaluated. Transferrin and vimentin proteins were, respectively, used as immunomarkers of Sertoli cell function and structure. Significant reductions in vimentin and transferrin expressions were noticed in androgen-dependent stages (VII and VIII) of the seminiferous epithelium cycle in V rats; testosterone plasmatic level was also reduced. Bilateral testicular histopathological alterations were found in V rats, mainly massive germ cell desquamation. The histological damage and changes in protein expressions occurred bilaterally. The relevant impairment of the functional and structural characteristics of the Sertoli cell, together with the typical massive germ cell desquamation, indicates that Sertoli cell changes can primarily contribute to the significant testicular dysfunction associated with varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- André da Costa Vaz
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Morphology and Genetics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Camila Cicconi Paccola
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Morphology and Genetics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Talita Biude Mendes
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Morphology and Genetics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Joana Noguères Simas
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Morphology and Genetics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vanessa Vendramini
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Morphology and Genetics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sandra Maria Miraglia
- Laboratory of Developmental Biology, Department of Morphology and Genetics, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Barati E, Nikzad H, Karimian M. Oxidative stress and male infertility: current knowledge of pathophysiology and role of antioxidant therapy in disease management. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:93-113. [PMID: 31377843 PMCID: PMC11105059 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03253-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 243] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is a global health problem involving about 15% of couples. Approximately half of the infertility cases are related to male factors. The oxidative stress, which refers to an imbalance in levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants, is one of the main causes of infertility in men. A small amount of ROS is necessary for the physiological function of sperm including the capacitation, hyperactivation and acrosomal reaction. However, high levels of ROS can cause infertility through not only by lipid peroxidation or DNA damage but inactivation of enzymes and oxidation of proteins in spermatozoa. Oxidative stress (OS) is mainly caused by factors associated with lifestyle. Besides, immature spermatozoa, inflammatory factors, genetic mutations and altering levels of sex hormones are other main source of ROS. Since OS occurs due to the lack of antioxidants and its side effects in semen, lifestyle changes and antioxidant regimens can be helpful therapeutic approaches to overcome this problem. The present study aimed to describe physiological ROS production, roles of genetic and epigenetic factors on the OS and male infertility with various mechanisms such as lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, and disorder of male hormone profile, inflammation, and varicocele. Finally, the roles of oral antioxidants and herbs were explained in coping with OS in male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erfaneh Barati
- Anatomical Sciences Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Hossein Nikzad
- Anatomical Sciences Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
- Gametogenesis Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karimian
- Anatomical Sciences Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
- Gametogenesis Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
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36
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Esteves SC, Santi D, Simoni M. An update on clinical and surgical interventions to reduce sperm DNA fragmentation in infertile men. Andrology 2019; 8:53-81. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandro C. Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic Referral Center for Male Reproduction Campinas Brazil
- Department of Surgery (Division of Urology) University of Campinas (UNICAMP) Campinas Brazil
- Faculty of Health Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Daniele Santi
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Modena Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology Department of Medical Specialties Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Modena Italy
| | - Manuela Simoni
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Modena Italy
- Unit of Endocrinology Department of Medical Specialties Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Modena Italy
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37
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Karna KK, Choi BR, You JH, Shin YS, Cui WS, Lee SW, Kim JH, Kim CY, Kim HK, Park JK. The ameliorative effect of monotropein, astragalin, and spiraeoside on oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and mitochondrial signaling pathway in varicocelized rats. Altern Ther Health Med 2019; 19:333. [PMID: 31771569 PMCID: PMC6880392 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-019-2736-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Monotropein, astragalin, and spiraeoside (MAS) are active compounds extracted from medicinal herbs; monotropein from Morinda officinalis How (Rubiaceae), astragalin (kaempferol 3-O-glucoside) from Cuscuta chinensis Lamark (Convolvulaceae) and spiraeoside from the outer scales of Allium cepa L. (Liliceae) in a ratio of 6.69:0.41:3.61. Monotropein, astragalin, and spiraeoside are well-known antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and antinociceptive agents. The current investigation aims to study the molecular mechanism of varicocele-induced male infertility and the underlying pharmacological mechanisms of MAS. Methods Four groups were included: control (CTR), MAS 200 group (MAS 200 mg/kg), varicocele group (VC), and VC + MAS 200 group (MAS 200 mg/kg). Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were treated with 200 mg/kg MAS or vehicle once daily for 28 days. The possible signaling mechanism and effects of MAS were measured via histological staining, immunohistochemistry, western blot, and biochemical assays. Results Parameters such as sperm motility and count, Johnsen’s scores, spermatogenic cell density, serum testosterone, testicular superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and expression of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) improved significantly in the VC + MAS 200 group compared with the VC group. MAS treatment of varicocele-induced group significantly decreased the levels of serum luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), as well as testicular interleukin-6 (IL6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), ROS/RNS, and malondialdehyde (MDA). It also decreased the apoptotic index and reduced the expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) protein levels (Grp78, p-IRE1α, and p-JNK) and apoptotic markers such as cleaved caspase-3 and Bax/Bcl2 ratio. Conclusion This study suggests that the crosstalk between oxidative stress, ER stress, and mitochondrial pathway mediates varicocele-induced testicular germ cell apoptosis. MAS promotes spermatogenesis in varicocele-induced SD rat, probably by decreasing cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) levels, regulating abnormal sex hormones, and decreasing oxidative stress, ER stress, and apoptosis.
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38
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Mostafa T, Nabil N, Rashed L, Abo-Sief AF, Eissa HH. Seminal SIRT1-oxidative stress relationship in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic men with varicocele after its surgical repair. Andrologia 2019; 52:e13456. [PMID: 31696601 DOI: 10.1111/and.13456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
This work assessed seminal SIRT1-oxidative stress (OS) relationship in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermic (OAT) men after varicocele repair. Overall, thirty OAT men with varicocele were investigated. Inclusion criteria were infertile males (males who were unable to initiate a pregnancy within 1 year of regular unprotected intercourse), confirmed OAT and normal female factor. These cases were subjected to history taking, clinical checkup and semen analysis. In their semen, seminal SIRT1, malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels were assessed. These men were subjected to varicocele surgical repair and were followed up for 3 months. Post-operatively, the mean seminal SIRT1, GPx levels showed significant increases and the mean MDA level showed significant decrease compared to the pre-operative levels linked to improved sperm parameters. The mean seminal SIRT1, GPx, MDA levels showed more significant improvement in grade III varicocele cases compared to grade II cases after surgical repair. Seminal SIRT1 levels showed significant positive correlations with sperm concentration, sperm motility, sperm normal morphology, seminal GPx levels and a significant negative correlation with seminal MDA levels. It could be concluded that seminal SIRT1 is significantly decreased in infertile OAT men with varicocele after its surgical repair linked to improved sperm parameters as well as seminal OS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taymour Mostafa
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nashaat Nabil
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Laila Rashed
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed F Abo-Sief
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Hadier H Eissa
- Andrology, Sexology & STIs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
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Esteves SC. Interventions to Prevent Sperm DNA Damage Effects on Reproduction. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1166:119-148. [PMID: 31301050 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-21664-1_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Excessive oxidation and antioxidant imbalance resulting from several conditions may cause sperm DNA damage, which, in turn, affect male fertility, both natural and assisted. Sperm DNA damage transferred to the embryo might also affect the health of offspring. Several conditions associated with excessive oxidative stress are modifiable by the use of specific treatments, lifestyle changes, and averting exposure to environmental/occupational toxicants. Here, we discuss the strategies to reduce sperm DNA damage with a focus on clinical and surgical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Referral Center for Male Reproduction, Campinas, SP, Brazil. .,Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil. .,Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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Esteves SC, Roque M, Bedoschi G, Haahr T, Humaidan P. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection for male infertility and consequences for offspring. Nat Rev Urol 2019; 15:535-562. [PMID: 29967387 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-018-0051-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has become the most commonly used method of fertilization in assisted reproductive technology. The primary reasons for its popularity stem from its effectiveness, the standardization of the procedure, which means that it can easily be incorporated into the routine practice of fertility centres worldwide, and the fact that it can be used to treat virtually all forms of infertility. ICSI is the clear method of choice for overcoming untreatable severe male factor infertility, but its (over)use in other male and non-male factor infertility scenarios is not evidence-based. Despite all efforts to increase ICSI efficacy and safety through the application of advanced sperm retrieval and cryopreservation techniques, as well as methods for selecting sperm with better chromatin integrity, the overall pregnancy rates from infertile men remain suboptimal. Treating the underlying male infertility factor before ICSI seems to be a promising way to improve ICSI outcomes, but data remain limited. Information regarding the health of ICSI offspring has accumulated over the past 25 years, and there are reasons for concern as risks of congenital malformations, epigenetic disorders, chromosomal abnormalities, subfertility, cancer, delayed psychological and neurological development, and impaired cardiometabolic profile have been observed to be greater in infants born as a result of ICSI than in naturally conceived children. However, as subfertility probably influences the risk estimates, it remains to be determined to what extent the observed adverse outcomes are related to parental factors or associated with ICSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil. .,Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil. .,Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Matheus Roque
- ORIGEN, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Giuliano Bedoschi
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Thor Haahr
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark
| | - Peter Humaidan
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark
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Esteves SC, Roque M, Garrido N. Use of testicular sperm for intracytoplasmic sperm injection in men with high sperm DNA fragmentation: a SWOT analysis. Asian J Androl 2019; 20:1-8. [PMID: 28440264 PMCID: PMC5753543 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_7_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa retrieved from the testis of men with high levels of sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) in the neat semen tend to have better DNA quality. Given the negative impact of SDF on the outcomes of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), an increased interest has emerged about the use of testicular sperm for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (Testi-ICSI). In this article, we used a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis to summarize the advantages and drawbacks of this intervention. The rationale of Testi-ICSI is bypass posttesticular DNA fragmentation caused by oxidative stress during sperm transit through the epididymis. Hence, oocyte fertilization by genomically intact testicular spermatozoa may be optimized, thus increasing the chances of creating a normal embryonic genome and the likelihood of achieving a live birth, as recently demonstrated in men with high SDF. However, there is still limited evidence as regards the clinical efficacy of Testi-ICSI, thus creating opportunities for further confirmatory clinical research as well as investigation of Testi-ICSI in clinical scenarios other than high SDF. Furthermore, Testi-ICSI can be compared to other laboratory preparation methods for deselecting sperm with damaged DNA. At present, the available literature supports the use of testicular sperm when performing ICSI in infertile couples whose male partners have posttesticular SDF. Due to inherent risks of sperm retrieval, Testi-ICSI should be offered when less invasive treatments for alleviating DNA damage have failed. A call for continuous monitoring is nonetheless required concerning the health of generated offspring and the potential complications of sperm retrieval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Referral Center for Male Reproduction, Av. Dr. Heitor Penteado 1464, Campinas, SP, 13075-460 Brazil
| | - Matheus Roque
- ORIGEN, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Nicolás Garrido
- Andrology Laboratory and Sperm Bank, IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain
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Dutta S, Majzoub A, Agarwal A. Oxidative stress and sperm function: A systematic review on evaluation and management. Arab J Urol 2019; 17:87-97. [PMID: 31285919 PMCID: PMC6600059 DOI: 10.1080/2090598x.2019.1599624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 236] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To review and present the most distinct concepts on the association of reactive oxygen species (ROS) with male reproduction. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines were used to search PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane electronic databases for studies investigating the role of oxidative stress (OS) on sperm function. Results: The literature search yielded 1857 studies, of which 1791 articles were excluded because of irrelevance of data, non-English language, non-human nature or because they were case reports or commentaries. All included studies were reviews (46), meta-analyses (one), original research studies (18) and guideline articles (one). The studies were published between 1984 and 2018. Under normal physiological conditions, ROS are vital for sperm maturation, hyperactivation, capacitation, acrosome reaction, as well as fertilisation. However, a number of endogenous and exogenous causes may induce supra-physiological levels of ROS resulting in lipid peroxidation, sperm DNA fragmentation and apoptosis, and consequently infertility. Several laboratory testing methods can be used in infertile men to diagnose OS. Treatment usually involves antioxidant supplementation and, when possible, elimination of the causative factor. Conclusion: OS is an important cause of male factor infertility. Its assessment provides essential information that can guide treatment strategies aimed at improving the male’s reproductive potential. Abbreviations: bp: base-pair; CAT: catalase; LPO: lipid peroxidation; MDA: malondialdehyde; MiOXSYS: Male Infertility Oxidative System; mtDNA: mitochondrial DNA; NAD(PH): nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (phosphate); NO: nitric oxide; 8-OHdG: 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine; ORP: oxidation–reduction potential; OS: oxidative stress; PKA: protein kinase A; PLA2: phospholipase A2; PRISMA: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses; PUFA: poly-unsaturated fatty acid; ROS: reactive oxygen species; SOD: superoxide dismutase; TAC: total antioxidant capacity; TBA: thiobarbituric acid
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulagna Dutta
- Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Majzoub
- Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.,Department of Urology, Weill Cornell Medicine - Qatar, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, USA
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Kızılay F, Altay B. Evaluation of the effects of antioxidant treatment on sperm parameters and pregnancy rates in infertile patients after varicocelectomy: a randomized controlled trial. Int J Impot Res 2019; 31:424-431. [DOI: 10.1038/s41443-018-0109-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Revised: 09/26/2018] [Accepted: 12/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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Santana VP, Miranda-Furtado CL, Pedroso DCC, Eiras MC, Vasconcelos MAC, Ramos ES, Calado RT, Ferriani RA, Esteves SC, dos Reis RM. The relationship among sperm global DNA methylation, telomere length, and DNA fragmentation in varicocele: a cross-sectional study of 20 cases. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2019; 65:95-104. [DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1557762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Viviane Paiva Santana
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Daiana Cristina Chielli Pedroso
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Matheus Credendio Eiras
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Ester Silveira Ramos
- Department of Genetics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Tocantins Calado
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rui Alberto Ferriani
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Rosana Maria dos Reis
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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Kumar N, Singh AK. Reactive oxygen species in seminal plasma as a cause of male infertility. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2018; 47:565-572. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2018.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2017] [Revised: 06/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Perruzza D, Bernabò N, Rapino C, Valbonetti L, Falanga I, Russo V, Mauro A, Berardinelli P, Stuppia L, Maccarrone M, Barboni B. Artificial Neural Network to Predict Varicocele Impact on Male Fertility through Testicular Endocannabinoid Gene Expression Profiles. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:3591086. [PMID: 30539009 PMCID: PMC6258097 DOI: 10.1155/2018/3591086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between varicocele and fertility has always been a matter of debate because of the absence of predictive clinical indicators or molecular markers able to define the severity of this disease. Even though accumulated evidence demonstrated that the endocannabinoid system (ECS) plays a central role in male reproductive biology, particularly in the testicular compartment, to date no data point to a role for ECS in the etiopathogenesis of varicocele. Therefore, the present research has been designed to investigate the relationship between testicular ECS gene expression and fertility, using a validated animal model of experimental varicocele (VAR), taking advantage of traditional statistical approaches and artificial neural network (ANN). Experimental induction of VAR led to a clear reduction of spermatogenesis in left testes ranging from a mild (Johnsen score 7: 21%) to a severe (Johnsen score 4: 58%) damage of the germinal epithelium. However, the mean number of new-borns recorded after two sequential matings was quite variable and independent of the Johnsen score. While the gene expression of biosynthetic and degrading enzymes of AEA (NAPE-PLD and FAAH, respectively) and of 2-AG (DAGLα and MAGL, respectively), as well as their binding cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), did not change between testes and among groups, a significant downregulation of vanilloid (TRPV1) expression was recorded in left testes of VAR rats and positively correlated with animal fertility. Interestingly, an ANN trained by inserting the left and right testicular ECS gene expression profiles (inputs) was able to predict varicocele impact on male fertility in terms of mean number of new-borns delivered (outputs), with a very high accuracy (average prediction error of 1%). The present study provides unprecedented information on testicular ECS gene expression patterns during varicocele, by developing a freely available predictive ANN model that may open new perspectives in the diagnosis of varicocele-associated infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Perruzza
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Nicola Bernabò
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Cinzia Rapino
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Luca Valbonetti
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Ilaria Falanga
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Valentina Russo
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Annunziata Mauro
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Paolo Berardinelli
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Liborio Stuppia
- Department of Psychological, Health and Territorial Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University “G. d'Annunzio” of Chieti and Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Mauro Maccarrone
- Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, 00128 Rome, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00164 Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- Faculty of Biosciences and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
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Shaygannia E, Tavalaee M, Akhavanfarid GR, Rahimi M, Dattilo M, Nasr-Esfahani MH. Alpha-Lipoic Acid improves the testicular dysfunction in rats induced by varicocele. Andrologia 2018; 50:e13085. [PMID: 30039556 DOI: 10.1111/and.13085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2018] [Revised: 05/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a disulphide compound with multifunctional antioxidant properties and is soluble in both water and lipid. Several recent studies evaluated efficacy of ALA in various diseases related to oxidative damage such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer and concluded that ALA can reduce oxidative stress by quenching reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, restoring antioxidants such as glutathione, vitamins C and E, and/or improving activity of antioxidant enzymes. Varicocele, an enlargement of the veins in scrotum, is considered as the most common repairable cause of male infertility and is associated with high levels of oxidative stress. In this study, surgical varicocele was induced in 30 adult male Wistar rats with other 20 rats serving as sham-operated and nonoperated control. Varicocele caused significant worsening of sperm parameters, DNA damage and lipid peroxidation 2 and 4 months after surgery. A 2-month ALA administration after surgery was able to revert these effects. These results clearly showed that ALA can reduce the negative side effects of elevated testicular temperature and increased oxidative stress in varicocelised rats. This study warrants future clinical research to assess whether ALA is of help in the treatment of infertile men with varicocele.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erfaneh Shaygannia
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.,Raha Pharmaceutical Company, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Mahshid Rahimi
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad H Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Reproductive Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran.,Isfahan Fertility and Infertility Center, Isfahan, Iran
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Lu XL, Liu JJ, Li JT, Yang QA, Zhang JM. Melatonin therapy adds extra benefit to varicecelectomy in terms of sperm parameters, hormonal profile and total antioxidant capacity: A placebo-controlled, double-blind trial. Andrologia 2018; 50:e13033. [PMID: 29740842 DOI: 10.1111/and.13033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- X.-L. Lu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine; Jinan Central Hospital affiliated to Shandong University; Jinan China
| | - J.-J. Liu
- Hospital affiliated to Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Materia Medica of Shandong Province; Jinan China
| | - J.-T. Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine; Jinan Central Hospital affiliated to Shandong University; Jinan China
| | - Q.-A. Yang
- School of Nursing; Shandong Xiehe University; Jinan China
| | - J.-M. Zhang
- School of Nursing; Shandong Xiehe University; Jinan China
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