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Naderi N, Tavalaee M, Nasr-Esfahani MH. The epigenetic approach of varicocele: a focus on sperm DNA and m6A-RNA methylation. Hum Reprod Update 2024:dmae034. [PMID: 39673728 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmae034] [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: 07/15/2024] [Revised: 10/21/2024] [Indexed: 12/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Varicocele is an abnormal dilation and torsion of the pampiniform venous plexus in the scrotum due to venous reflux, primarily affecting the left side. It affects 15% of men and is a prevalent contributor to male infertility. Varicocele is a complex disorder influenced by genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Epigenetic modifications, which regulate genome activity independently of DNA or RNA sequences, may contribute to the development and severity of varicocele. These include DNA methylation, histone modifications, and RNA modifications like N6-methyladenosine (m6A). Irregularities in DNA and m6A-RNA methylation during spermatogenesis can cause gene expression abnormalities, DNA damage, and decreased fertility in varicocele patients. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The review aims to comprehensively understand the underlying mechanisms of varicocele, a condition that can significantly impact male fertility. By exploring the role of methylation modifications, specifically DNA and m6A-RNA methylation, the review aims to synthesize evidence from basic, preclinical, and clinical research to expand the existing knowledge on this subject. The ultimate goal is to identify potential avenues for developing targeted treatments that can effectively improve varicocele and ultimately increase sperm quality in affected individuals. SEARCH METHODS A thorough investigation of the scientific literature was conducted through searches in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct databases until May 2024. All studies investigating the relationship between DNA and m6A-RNA methylation and male infertility, particularly varicocele were reviewed, and the most pertinent reports were included. Keywords such as varicocele, epigenetics, DNA methylation, m6A-RNA methylation, hypermethylation, hypomethylation, spermatozoa, semen parameters, spermatogenesis, and male infertility were used during the literature search, either individually or in combination. OUTCOMES The sperm has a specialized morphology essential for successful fertilization, and its epigenome is unique, potentially playing a key role in embryogenesis. Sperm DNA and RNA methylation, major epigenetic marks, regulate the expression of testicular genes crucial for normal spermatogenesis. This review explores the role of DNA and m6A-RNA methylation, in responding to oxidative stress and how various nutrients influence their function in varicocele condition. Evidence suggests a potential link between varicocele and aberrant DNA/m6A-RNA methylation patterns, especially hypomethylation, but the body of evidence is still limited. Further studies are needed to understand how abnormal expression of DNA/m6A-RNA methylation regulators affects testicular gene expression. Thus, analyzing sperm DNA 5mC/5hmC levels and m6A-RNA methylation regulators may reveal spermatogenesis defects and predict reproductive outcomes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Nutri-epigenomics is an emerging field that could enhance the knowledge and management of diseases with unpredictable risks and consequences, even among individuals with similar lifestyles, by elucidating the influence of nutrition on DNA/m6A-RNA methylation through one-carbon metabolism. However, the importance of one-carbon metabolism to varicocele is not well-recognized. Health status and diet influence one-carbon metabolism and its associated DNA/m6A-RNA methylation modification. Future research should identify optimal methylation patterns that promote health and investigate modulating one-carbon metabolism to achieve this. Furthermore, additional studies are necessary to develop personalized dietary strategies through clinical and longitudinal research. However, a research gap exists on dietary interventions utilizing epigenetics as a therapeutic method for treating varicocele. REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nushin Naderi
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Tavalaee
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
- Pooyesh & Rooyesh Fertility Center, Isfahan, Iran
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Wang X, Gan M, Wang Y, Wang S, Lei Y, Wang K, Zhang X, Chen L, Zhao Y, Niu L, Zhang S, Zhu L, Shen L. Comprehensive review on lipid metabolism and RNA methylation: Biological mechanisms, perspectives and challenges. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 270:132057. [PMID: 38710243 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132057] [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: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Adipose tissue plays a crucial role in maintaining energy balance, regulating hormones, and promoting metabolic health. To address disorders related to obesity and develop effective therapies, it is essential to have a deep understanding of adipose tissue biology. In recent years, RNA methylation has emerged as a significant epigenetic modification involved in various cellular functions and metabolic pathways. Particularly in the realm of adipogenesis and lipid metabolism, extensive research is ongoing to uncover the mechanisms and functional importance of RNA methylation. Increasing evidence suggests that RNA methylation plays a regulatory role in adipocyte development, metabolism, and lipid utilization across different organs. This comprehensive review aims to provide an overview of common RNA methylation modifications, their occurrences, and regulatory mechanisms, focusing specifically on their intricate connections to fat metabolism. Additionally, we discuss the research methodologies used in studying RNA methylation and highlight relevant databases that can aid researchers in this rapidly advancing field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Mailin Gan
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Saihao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yuhang Lei
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Kai Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Xin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Lei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Ye Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Lili Niu
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Shunhua Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Li Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China.
| | - Linyuan Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Swine and Poultry Breeding Industry, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Key Laboratory of Livestock and Poultry Multi-omics, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Technology, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China; Farm Animal Genetic Resources Exploration and Innovation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China.
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Cheng C, Yu F, Yuan G, Jia J. Update on N6-methyladenosine methylation in obesity-related diseases. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2024; 32:240-251. [PMID: 37989724 DOI: 10.1002/oby.23932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Obesity is a chronic metabolic disease that is closely related to type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and osteoarthritis. The prevalence of obesity is increasing rapidly every year and is recognized as a global public health problem. In recent years, the role of epigenetics in the development of obesity and related diseases has been recognized and is currently a research hotspot. N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation is the most abundant epigenetic modification in the eukaryotic RNA, including mRNA and noncoding RNA. Several studies have shown that the m6A modifications in the target mRNA and the corresponding m6A regulators play a significant role in lipid metabolism and are strongly associated with the pathogenesis of obesity-related diseases. In this review, the latest research findings regarding the role of m6A methylation in obesity and related metabolic diseases are summarized. The authors' aim is to highlight evidence that suggests the clinical utility of m6A modifications and the m6A regulators as novel early prediction biomarkers and precision therapeutics for obesity and obesity-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caiqin Cheng
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University; Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fan Yu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Jurong Hospital Affiliated to Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guoyue Yuan
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University; Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jue Jia
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University; Institute of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
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Zhang H, Gu Y, Gang Q, Huang J, Xiao Q, Ha X. N6-methyladenosine RNA modification: an emerging molecule in type 2 diabetes metabolism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1166756. [PMID: 37484964 PMCID: PMC10360191 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1166756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a metabolic disease with an increasing rate of incidence worldwide. Despite the considerable progress in the prevention and intervention, T2D and its complications cannot be reversed easily after diagnosis, thereby necessitating an in-depth investigation of the pathophysiology. In recent years, the role of epigenetics has been increasingly demonstrated in the disease, of which N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is one of the most common post-transcriptional modifications. Interestingly, patients with T2D show a low m6A abundance. Thus, a comprehensive analysis and understanding of this phenomenon would improve our understanding of the pathophysiology, as well as the search for new biomarkers and therapeutic approaches for T2D. In this review, we systematically introduced the metabolic roles of m6A modification in organs, the metabolic signaling pathways involved, and the effects of clinical drugs on T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haocheng Zhang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese People’s Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Gene Drugs of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Yan Gu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Qiaojian Gang
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Jing Huang
- School of Public Health, Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Qian Xiao
- School of Public Health, Gansu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Xiaoqin Ha
- The Second School of Clinical Medicine, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The 940th Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of Chinese People’s Liberation Army, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
- Key Laboratory of Stem Cells and Gene Drugs of Gansu Province, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
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