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Jahangiri AR, Ziarati N, Dadkhah E, Bucak MN, Rahimizadeh P, Shahverdi A, Sadighi Gilani MA, Topraggaleh TR. Microfluidics: The future of sperm selection in assisted reproduction. Andrology 2024; 12:1236-1252. [PMID: 38148634 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13578] [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: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obtaining functional sperm cells is the first step to treat infertility. With the ever-increasing trend in male infertility, clinicians require access to effective solutions that are able to single out the most viable spermatozoa, which would max out the chance for a successful pregnancy. The new generation techniques for sperm selection involve microfluidics, which offers laminar flow and low Reynolds number within the platforms can provide unprecedented opportunities for sperm selection. Previous studies showed that microfluidic platforms can provide a novel approach to this challenge and since then researchers across the globe have attacked this problem from multiple angles. OBJECTIVE In this review, we seek to provide a much-needed bridge between the technical and medical aspects of microfluidic sperm selection. Here, we provide an up-to-date list on microfluidic sperm selection procedures and its application in assisted reproductive technology laboratories. SEARCH METHOD A literature search was performed in Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus to select papers reporting microfluidic sperm selection using the keywords: microfluidic sperm selection, self-motility, non-motile sperm selection, boundary following, rheotaxis, chemotaxis, and thermotaxis. Papers published before March 31, 2023 were selected. OUTCOMES Our results show that most studies have used motility-based properties for sperm selection. However, microfluidic platforms are ripe for making use of other properties such as chemotaxis and especially rheotaxis. We have identified that low throughput is one of the major hurdles to current microfluidic sperm selection chips, which can be solved via parallelization. CONCLUSION Future work needs to be performed on numerical simulation of the microfluidics chip prior to fabrication as well as relevant clinical assessment after the selection procedure. This would require a close collaboration and understanding among engineers, biologists, and medical professionals. It is interesting that in spite of two decades of microfluidics sperm selection, numerical simulation and clinical studies are lagging behind. It is expected that microfluidic sperm selection platforms will play a major role in the development of fully integrated start-to-finish assisted reproductive technology systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Reza Jahangiri
- NanoLund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Materials Science and Applied Mathematics, Malmö University, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Niloofar Ziarati
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Dadkhah
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mustafa Numan Bucak
- Department of Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Selcuk University, Konya, Turkey
| | - Pegah Rahimizadeh
- Division of Experimental Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Cancer Research Program, The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Abdolhossein Shahverdi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Sadighi Gilani
- Department of Andrology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tohid Rezaei Topraggaleh
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Clinical Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
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Huang TK, Huang CH, Chen PA, Chen CH, Lu F, Yang WJ, Huang JYJ, Li BR. Development of a thermotaxis and rheotaxis microfluidic device for motile spermatozoa sorting. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 258:116353. [PMID: 38696966 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2024.116353] [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: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Male infertility is a pervasive global reproductive challenge, primarily attributed to a decline in semen quality. Addressing this concern, there has been a growing focus on spermatozoa sorting in assisted reproductive technology. This study introduces a groundbreaking development in the form of a thermotaxis and rheotaxis microfluidic (TRMC) device designed for efficient motile spermatozoa sorting within a short 15-min timeframe. The TRMC device mimics the natural sperm sorting mechanism of the oviduct, selecting spermatozoa with superior motility and DNA integrity. The experimental outcomes demonstrate a remarkable enhancement in the percentage of progressive spermatozoa following sorting, soaring from 3.90% to an impressive 96.11% when subjected to a temperature decrease from 38 °C to 35 °C. Notably, sperm motility exhibited a substantial 69% improvement. The TRMC device exhibited a commendable recovery rate of 60.93%, surpassing current clinical requirements. Furthermore, the sorted spermatozoa displayed a notable reduction in the DNA fragmentation index to 6.94%, signifying a substantial 90% enhancement in DNA integrity. This remarkable advancement positions the TRMC device as highly suitable for applications in in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), offering a promising solution to male infertility challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teng-Kuan Huang
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Hsien Huang
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Pei-An Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Ching Hung Chen
- Taiwan IVF Group, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Ton Yen General Hospital, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Farn Lu
- Taiwan IVF Group, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Ton Yen General Hospital, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Ju Yang
- Taiwan IVF Group, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Ton Yen General Hospital, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Jack Yu Jen Huang
- Taiwan IVF Group, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Ton Yen General Hospital, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Bor-Ran Li
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Center for Emergent Functional Matter Science, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan; Medical Device Innovation and Translation R&D Center, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan.
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Ma J, Xie Q, Zhang Y, Xiao Q, Liu X, Qiao C, Tian Y. Advances in microfluidic technology for sperm screening and in vitro fertilization. Anal Bioanal Chem 2024; 416:3717-3735. [PMID: 38189916 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-023-05120-9] [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: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
About 18% of reproductive-age adults worldwide are affected by infertility. In vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) are widely used assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) aimed at improving clinical outcomes. Efficient and noninvasive selection and isolation of highly motile sperm with intact DNA are essential for the success of IVF and ICSI and can potentially impact the therapeutic efficacy and the health of the offspring. Compared to traditional methods, microfluidic technology offers significant advantages such as low sample consumption, high efficiency, minimal damage, high integration, similar microenvironment, and high automation, providing a new platform for ARTs. Here, we review the current situation of microfluidic technology in the field of sperm motility screening and evaluation and IVF research. First, we focus on the working principle, structural design, and screening results of sperm selection microfluidic platforms. We then highlight how the multiple steps of the IVF process can be facilitated and integrated into a microfluidic chip, including oocyte capture, sperm collection and isolation, sperm sorting, fertilization, and embryo culture. Ultimately, we summarize how microfluidics can complement and optimize current sperm sorting and IVF protocols, and challenges and possible solutions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingtong Ma
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, 110169, China
| | - Qianlin Xie
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, 110169, China
| | - Yusongjia Zhang
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, 110169, China
| | - Qirui Xiao
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, 110169, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, 110003, China.
| | - Chong Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110022, China.
- Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110022, China.
| | - Ye Tian
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, 110169, China.
- Foshan Graduate School of Innovation, Northeastern University, Foshan, 528300, China.
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Bouloorchi Tabalvandani M, Saeidpour Z, Habibi Z, Javadizadeh S, Firoozabadi SA, Badieirostami M. Microfluidics as an emerging paradigm for assisted reproductive technology: A sperm separation perspective. Biomed Microdevices 2024; 26:23. [PMID: 38652182 DOI: 10.1007/s10544-024-00705-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Millions of people are subject to infertility worldwide and one in every six people, regardless of gender, experiences infertility at some period in their life, according to the World Health Organization. Assisted reproductive technologies are defined as a set of procedures that can address the infertility issue among couples, culminating in the alleviation of the condition. However, the costly conventional procedures of assisted reproduction and the inherent vagaries of the processes involved represent a setback for its successful implementation. Microfluidics, an emerging tool for processing low-volume samples, have recently started to play a role in infertility diagnosis and treatment. Given its host of benefits, including manipulating cells at the microscale, repeatability, automation, and superior biocompatibility, microfluidics have been adopted for various procedures in assisted reproduction, ranging from sperm sorting and analysis to more advanced processes such as IVF-on-a-chip. In this review, we try to adopt a more holistic approach and cover different uses of microfluidics for a variety of applications, specifically aimed at sperm separation and analysis. We present various sperm separation microfluidic techniques, categorized as natural and non-natural methods. A few of the recent developments in on-chip fertilization are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zahra Saeidpour
- MEMS Lab, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, 1439957131, Iran
| | - Zahra Habibi
- MEMS Lab, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, 1439957131, Iran
| | - Saeed Javadizadeh
- MEMS Lab, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, 1439957131, Iran
| | - Seyed Ahmadreza Firoozabadi
- MEMS Lab, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, 1439957131, Iran
| | - Majid Badieirostami
- MEMS Lab, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, 1439957131, Iran.
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Lin S, Feng D, Han X, Li L, Lin Y, Gao H. Microfluidic platform for omics analysis on single cells with diverse morphology and size: A review. Anal Chim Acta 2024; 1294:342217. [PMID: 38336406 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2024.342217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microfluidic techniques have emerged as powerful tools in single-cell research, facilitating the exploration of omics information from individual cells. Cell morphology is crucial for gene expression and physiological processes. However, there is currently a lack of integrated analysis of morphology and single-cell omics information. A critical challenge remains: what platform technologies are the best option to decode omics data of cells that are complex in morphology and size? RESULTS This review highlights achievements in microfluidic-based single-cell omics and isolation of cells based on morphology, along with other cell sorting methods based on physical characteristics. Various microfluidic platforms for single-cell isolation are systematically presented, showcasing their diversity and adaptability. The discussion focuses on microfluidic devices tailored to the distinct single-cell isolation requirements in plants and animals, emphasizing the significance of considering cell morphology and cell size in optimizing single-cell omics strategies. Simultaneously, it explores the application of microfluidic single-cell sorting technologies to single-cell sequencing, aiming to effectively integrate information about cell shape and size. SIGNIFICANCE AND NOVELTY The novelty lies in presenting a comprehensive overview of recent accomplishments in microfluidic-based single-cell omics, emphasizing the integration of different microfluidic platforms and their implications for cell morphology-based isolation. By underscoring the pivotal role of the specialized morphology of different cells in single-cell research, this review provides robust support for delving deeper into the exploration of single-cell omics data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shujin Lin
- Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350025, China; Central Laboratory at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian-Macao Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Traditional Chinese Medicine-Oriented Chronic Disease Prevention and Treatment, Innovation and Transformation Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
| | - Dan Feng
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Xiao Han
- College of Biological Science and Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, 350108, China.
| | - Ling Li
- Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350025, China; The First Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350004, China; Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350004, China.
| | - Yao Lin
- Central Laboratory at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fujian-Macao Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Traditional Chinese Medicine-Oriented Chronic Disease Prevention and Treatment, Innovation and Transformation Center, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Rehabilitation Technology, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China.
| | - Haibing Gao
- Mengchao Hepatobiliary Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350025, China.
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Bouloorchi Tabalvandani M, Javadizadeh S, Badieirostami M. Bio-inspired progressive motile sperm separation using joint rheotaxis and boundary-following behavior. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:1636-1647. [PMID: 38284817 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00893b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Infertility, as a daunting ever-increasing challenge, poses a worldwide issue to both couples and the healthcare sector. According to the World Health Organization, half of infertility cases are attributed to male factor infertility, either partly or completely. Semen parameters of concern including sperm count, morphology, and motility are deemed to play a vital role in the insemination process. Density gradient centrifugation, being a clinically established procedure for improving on the mentioned parameters, has long been proven to inflict damage on the DNA content of the sperm cells, inducing DNA fragmentation. Herein, a bio-inspired microfluidic device is proposed that capitalizes on the geometry of the uterotubal junction (UTJ) of the female reproductive tract, which can act as a rheological barrier. The device leverages sperm rheotaxis and boundary-following behavior which have been considered as major migratory mechanisms used by sperm during the fertilization process in the female body. The device consists of a series of parallel channels that guide progressive motile sperms into the main sorting channel, where the hydrodynamic barriers created by two consecutive UTJ-like constrictions select sperms based on their propulsive velocity and linearity of motion. The sequential sorting employed here allows for the fractionation of the sperm population into two subpopulations with varying degrees of motility. Both sorted populations showed a significant increase in straight line velocity, reaching 63.4 ± 14.4 μm s-1 and 74 ± 13.8 μm s-1 in the first and second pools, respectively from 35.2 ± 27.2 μm s-1 in raw semen. Additionally, sorted populations demonstrated over 30% reduction in DNA fragmentation index, an indication that the proposed device selects for undamaged sperms with high quality. Apart from the biological superiority of the sorted sperms, this device presents itself as an easy and clinically-applicable method for the separation of progressive motile sperms, while at the same time, benefiting from a straightforward procedure for sperm retrieval.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Saeed Javadizadeh
- MEMS Lab, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Majid Badieirostami
- MEMS Lab, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
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Yaghoobi M, Abdelhady A, Favakeh A, Xie P, Cheung S, Mokhtare A, Lee YL, Nguyen AV, Palermo G, Rosenwaks Z, Cheong SH, Abbaspourrad A. Faster sperm selected by rheotaxis leads to superior early embryonic development in vitro. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:210-223. [PMID: 37990939 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00737e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
To understand the impact of sperm speed as they swim against the flow on fertilization rates, we created conditions similar to the female reproductive tract (FRT) on a microfluidic platform for sperm selection. Selected sperm were evaluated based on early development of fertilized embryos. Bovine and human spermatozoa were selected at various fluid flow rates within the device. We found that the speed of bovine spermatozoa increases as the flow rate increases and that the amount of DNA fragmentation index is lowered by increasing the flow rate. Bovine spermatozoa selected by our platform at low (150 μL h-1, shear rate 3 s-1), medium (250 μL h-1, shear rate 5 s-1), and high flow rates (350 μL h-1, shear rate 7 s-1) were used for fertilization and compared to sperm sorted by centrifugation. The samples collected at the highest flow rate resulted in the formation of 23% more blastocysts compared to the control. While selecting for higher quality sperm by increasing the flow rate does result in lower sperm yield, quality improvement and yield may be balanced by better embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Yaghoobi
- Food Science Department, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), Cornell University, Ithaca 14853, New York, USA.
| | - Abdallah Abdelhady
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM), Cornell University, Ithaca 14853, New York, USA
| | - Amirhossein Favakeh
- Food Science Department, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), Cornell University, Ithaca 14853, New York, USA.
| | - Philip Xie
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Stephanie Cheung
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Amir Mokhtare
- Food Science Department, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), Cornell University, Ithaca 14853, New York, USA.
| | - Yoke Lee Lee
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM), Cornell University, Ithaca 14853, New York, USA
| | - Ann V Nguyen
- Food Science Department, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), Cornell University, Ithaca 14853, New York, USA.
| | - Gianpiero Palermo
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Zev Rosenwaks
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - Soon Hon Cheong
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM), Cornell University, Ithaca 14853, New York, USA
| | - Alireza Abbaspourrad
- Food Science Department, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS), Cornell University, Ithaca 14853, New York, USA.
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Shukla SK, Gaudriault P, Corbera A. Lab-on-chip (LoC) application for quality sperm selection: An undelivered promise? OPEN RESEARCH EUROPE 2023; 3:188. [PMID: 38645796 PMCID: PMC11031645 DOI: 10.12688/openreseurope.16671.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Quality sperm selection is essential to ensure the effectiveness of assisted reproductive techniques (ART). However, the methods employed for sperm selection in ART often yield suboptimal outcomes, contributing to lower success rates. In recent years, microfluidic devices have emerged as a promising avenue for investigating the natural swimming behavior of spermatozoa and developing innovative approaches for quality sperm selection. Despite their potential, the commercial translation of microfluidic-based technologies has remained limited. This comprehensive review aims to critically evaluate the inherent potential of lab-on-chip technology in unraveling sophisticated mechanisms encompassing rheotaxis, thermotaxis, and chemotaxis. By reviewing the current state-of-the-art associated with microfluidic engineering and the swimming of spermatozoa, the goal is to shed light on the multifaceted factors that have impeded the broader commercialization of these cutting-edge technologies and recommend a commercial that can surmount the prevailing constraints. Furthermore, this scholarly exploration seeks to enlighten and actively engage reproductive clinicians in the profound potential and implications of microfluidic methodologies within the context of human infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiva K Shukla
- Research and Development Unit, Beez Biotech SAS, RENNES, Ille-et-Villain, 35000, France
| | - Pierre Gaudriault
- Research and Development Unit, Cherry Biotech SAS, Paris, 93100, France
| | - Antoni Corbera
- Research and Development Unit, Cherry Biotech SAS, Paris, 93100, France
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Herbicht R, Neufeld G, Klein C, Henning H. Evaluation of a novel microfluidic chip-like device for purifying bovine frozen-thawed semen for in vitro fertilization. Theriogenology 2023; 209:50-59. [PMID: 37356279 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.06.019] [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: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to validate a novel sperm purification device, the VetCount™ Harvester, for use in bovine in vitro fertilization (IVF). The device's performance was compared to BoviPure™ gradient centrifugation, a commercially available and accepted routine technique. Semen quality parameters were assessed for frozen-thawed semen from six different bulls (n = 6) following sperm purification. For each bull two semen subsamples were purified utilizing BoviPure™ gradient centrifugation and the VetCount™ Harvester, including a third subsample as untreated control. Both treatments significantly increased the proportion of progressively motile sperm cells (84.4 ± 14.1% and 85.1 ± 7.8%, respectively) compared to the untreated semen (41.9 ± 18.8%). BoviPure™ gradient and VetCount™ Harvester selected predominantly viable acrosome intact (VAI) sperm cells with low membrane fluidity and low free intracellular calcium concentration [Ca2+]i (76.5 ± 4.4% and 78.6 ± 6.0%). Normalizing [Ca2+]i of VAI sperm cells (non-treated semen: [Ca2+]i = 1) VetCount™ Harvester purified spermatozoa (0.67 ± 0.10) showed significantly lower [Ca2+]i than BoviPure™ treated sperm (0.84 ± 0.14; P < 0.05). Subsequently, the fertilizing ability of the spermatozoa was evaluated performing a competitive fertilization assay. Sperm cells from both treatment groups were fluorescently labelled using different dyes and added in equal amounts to in vitro matured oocytes. After 18 h co-incubation, the origin of the fertilizing sperm cell was evaluated via fluorescence microscopy. In two bulls, VetCount™ Harvester selected sperm that fertilized significantly more oocytes then BoviPure™ treated sperm, in another bull it was the opposite. For three bulls no difference was observed. We conclude that the VetCount™ Harvester selects a high-quality, fertile sperm fraction from frozen-thawed bull semen. However, some considerations have to be kept in mind for the direct use of the isolated sperm fraction in IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Herbicht
- Institute of Farm Animal Genetics, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Neustadt, Germany.
| | - Gregor Neufeld
- Institute of Farm Animal Genetics, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Neustadt, Germany
| | - Claudia Klein
- Institute of Farm Animal Genetics, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Neustadt, Germany
| | - Heiko Henning
- Institute of Farm Animal Genetics, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Neustadt, Germany
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Ji F, Wu Y, Pumera M, Zhang L. Collective Behaviors of Active Matter Learning from Natural Taxes Across Scales. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2203959. [PMID: 35986637 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202203959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Taxis orientation is common in microorganisms, and it provides feasible strategies to operate active colloids as small-scale robots. Collective taxes involve numerous units that collectively perform taxis motion, whereby the collective cooperation between individuals enables the group to perform efficiently, adaptively, and robustly. Hence, analyzing and designing collectives is crucial for developing and advancing microswarm toward practical or clinical applications. In this review, natural taxis behaviors are categorized and synthetic microrobotic collectives are discussed as bio-inspired realizations, aiming at closing the gap between taxis strategies of living creatures and those of functional active microswarms. As collective behaviors emerge within a group, the global taxis to external stimuli guides the group to conduct overall tasks, whereas the local taxis between individuals induces synchronization and global patterns. By encoding the local orientations and programming the global stimuli, various paradigms can be introduced for coordinating and controlling such collective microrobots, from the viewpoints of fundamental science and practical applications. Therefore, by discussing the key points and difficulties associated with collective taxes of different paradigms, this review potentially offers insights into mimicking natural collective behaviors and constructing intelligent microrobotic systems for on-demand control and preassigned tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengtong Ji
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Yilin Wu
- Department of Physics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, 999077, China
| | - Martin Pumera
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, VSB - Technical University of Ostrava, 17. listopadu 2172/15, Ostrava, 70800, Czech Republic
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, 03722, Korea
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, 999077, China
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Huang J, Chen H, Li N, Zhao Y. Emerging microfluidic technologies for sperm sorting. ENGINEERED REGENERATION 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.engreg.2023.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
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Yu SX, Wu Y, Luo H, Liu Y, Chen YC, Wang YJ, Liu W, Tang J, Shi H, Gao H, Jing G, Liu YJ. Escaping Behavior of Sperms on the Biomimetic Oviductal Surface. Anal Chem 2023; 95:2366-2374. [PMID: 36655581 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c04338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Before fertilization, sperms adhere to oviductal epithelium cells, and only a restrictive number of winner sperms can escape to reach the egg. To study the sperm escape behavior from the oviductal surface, we developed a microfluidic chip to fabricate an adhesive surface and to create a gradient of progesterone (P4) for mimicking the oviduct microenvironment in vivo. We identified three sperm motion patterns in such a microenvironment─anchored spin, run-and-spin, and escaped mode. By using kinetic analysis, we verified the hypothesis that the responsive rotation energy anchored with the adhered sperm head determines whether the sperm is trapped or detaching, which is defined as the hammer flying strategy of successful escape after accumulating energy in the process of rotating. Intriguingly, this hammer-throw escaping is able to be triggered by the P4 biochemical stimulation. Our results revealed the tangled process of sperm escape before fertilization in the ingenious microfluidic system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sai-Xi Yu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Department of Systems Biology for Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai200032, China
| | - Yi Wu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Department of Systems Biology for Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai200032, China
| | - Hao Luo
- School of Physics, State Key Laboratory of Photon Technology in Western China Energy, Northwest University, Xi'an710069, China
| | - Yanan Liu
- School of Physics, State Key Laboratory of Photon Technology in Western China Energy, Northwest University, Xi'an710069, China
| | - Yu-Chen Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Department of Systems Biology for Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai200032, China
| | - Ya-Jun Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Department of Systems Biology for Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai200032, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Department of Systems Biology for Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai200032, China
| | - Jianan Tang
- NHC Key Lab. of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai200032, China
| | - Huijuan Shi
- NHC Key Lab. of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai200032, China
| | - Hai Gao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Department of Systems Biology for Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai200032, China
| | - Guangyin Jing
- School of Physics, State Key Laboratory of Photon Technology in Western China Energy, Northwest University, Xi'an710069, China
| | - Yan-Jun Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Medical Epigenetics, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Department of Systems Biology for Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai200032, China
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Leung ETY, Lee BKM, Lee CL, Tian X, Lam KKW, Li RHW, Ng EHY, Yeung WSB, Ou JP, Chiu PCN. The role of spermatozoa-zona pellucida interaction in selecting fertilization-competent spermatozoa in humans. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1135973. [PMID: 37020592 PMCID: PMC10067631 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1135973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Human fertilization begins when a capacitated spermatozoon binds to the zona pellucida (ZP) surrounding a mature oocyte. Defective spermatozoa-ZP interaction contributes to male infertility and is a leading cause of reduced fertilization rates in assisted reproduction treatments (ARTs). Human ejaculate contains millions of spermatozoa with varying degrees of fertilization potential and genetic quality, of which only thousands of motile spermatozoa can bind to the ZP at the fertilization site. This observation suggests that human ZP selectively interacts with competitively superior spermatozoa characterized by high fertilizing capability and genetic integrity. However, direct evidence for ZP-mediated sperm selection process is lacking. This study aims to demonstrate that spermatozoa-ZP interaction represents a crucial step in selecting fertilization-competent spermatozoa in humans. ZP-bound and unbound spermatozoa were respectively collected by a spermatozoa-ZP coincubation assay. The time-course data demonstrated that ZP interacted with a small proportion of motile spermatozoa. Heat shock 70 kDa protein 2 (HSPA2) and sperm acrosome associated 3 (SPACA 3) are two protein markers associated with the sperm ZP-binding ability. Immunofluorescent staining indicated that the ZP-bound spermatozoa had significantly higher expression levels of HSPA2 and SPACA3 than the unbound spermatozoa. ZP-bound spermatozoa had a significantly higher level of normal morphology, DNA integrity, chromatin integrity, protamination and global methylation when compared to the unbound spermatozoa. The results validated the possibility of applying spermatozoa-ZP interaction to select fertilization-competent spermatozoa in ART. This highly selective interaction might also provide diagnostic information regarding the fertilization potential and genetic qualities of spermatozoa independent of those derived from the standard semen analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica T. Y. Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Brayden K. M. Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xinyi Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Kevin K. W. Lam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Raymond H. W. Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ernest H. Y. Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S. B. Yeung
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jian-Ping Ou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Philip C. N. Chiu, ; Jian-Ping Ou,
| | - Philip C. N. Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Philip C. N. Chiu, ; Jian-Ping Ou,
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Hernández-Rodríguez JF, López MÁ, Rojas D, Escarpa A. Digital manufacturing for accelerating organ-on-a-chip dissemination and electrochemical biosensing integration. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:4805-4821. [PMID: 36342332 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00499b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Organ on-a-chip (OoC) is a promising technology that aims to recapitulate human body pathophysiology in a more precise way to advance in drug development and complex disease understanding. However, the presence of OoC in biological laboratories is still limited and mainly restricted to laboratories with access to cleanroom facilities. Besides, the current analytical methods employed to extract information from the organ models are endpoint and post facto assays which makes it difficult to ensure that during the biological experiment the cell microenvironment, cellular functionality and behaviour are controlled. Hence, the integration of real-time biosensors is highly needed and requested by the OoC end-user community to provide insight into organ function and responses to stimuli. In this context, electrochemical sensors stand out due to their advantageous features like miniaturization capabilities, ease of use, automatization and high sensitivity and selectivity. Electrochemical sensors have been already successfully miniaturized and employed in other fields such as wearables and point-of-care devices. We have identified that the explanation for this issue may be, to a large extent, the accessibility to microfabrication technologies. These fields employ preferably digital manufacturing (DM), which is a more accessible microfabrication approach regardless of funding and facilities. Therefore, we envision that a paradigm shift in microfabrication that adopts DM instead of the dominating soft lithography for the in-lab microfabrication of OoC devices will contribute to the dissemination of the field and integration of the promising real-time sensing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan F Hernández-Rodríguez
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Miguel Ángel López
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain.
- Chemical Engineering and Chemical Research Institute "Andres M. Del Río", University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
| | - Daniel Rojas
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Alberto Escarpa
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain.
- Chemical Engineering and Chemical Research Institute "Andres M. Del Río", University of Alcalá, Madrid, Spain
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Gai J, Devendran C, Neild A, Nosrati R. Surface acoustic wave-driven pumpless flow for sperm rheotaxis analysis. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:4409-4417. [PMID: 36300498 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00803c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Sperm rheotaxis, the phenomenon where sperm cells swim against the direction of fluid flow, is one of the major guiding mechanisms for long-distance sperm migration within the female reproductive tract. However, current approaches to study this pose challenges in dealing with rare samples by continuously introducing extra buffer. Here, we developed a device utilising acoustic streaming, the steady flow driven by an acoustic perturbation, to drive a tuneable, well-regulated continuous flow with velocities ranging from 40 μm s-1 to 128 μm s-1 (corresponding to maximum shear rates of 5.6 s-1 to 24.1 s-1) in channels of interest - a range suitable for probing sperm rheotaxis behaviour. Using this device, we studied sperm rheotaxis in microchannels of distinct geometries representing the geometrical characteristics of the inner-surfaces of fallopian tubes, identified sperm dynamics with the presence of flow in channels of various widths. We found a 28% higher lateral head displacement (ALH) in sufficiently motile rheotactic sperm in a 50 μm channel in the presence of acoustically-generated flow as well as a change in migration direction and a 52% increase in curvilinear velocity (VCL) of sufficiently motile sperm in a 225 μm channel by increasing the average flow velocity from 40 μm s-1 to 130 μm s-1. These results provided insights for understanding sperm navigation strategy in the female reproductive tract, where rheotactic sperm swim near the boundaries to overcome the flow in the female reproductive tract and reach the fertilization site. This surface acoustic wave device presents a simple, pumpless alternative for studying microswimmers within in vitro models, enabling the discovery of new insights into microswimmers' migration strategies, while potentially offering opportunities for rheotaxis-based sperm selection and other flow-essential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyang Gai
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia.
| | - Citsabehsan Devendran
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia.
| | - Adrian Neild
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia.
| | - Reza Nosrati
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia.
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16
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Xiao W, Yu M, Yuan Y, Liu X, Chen Y. Thermotaxis of mammalian sperm. Mol Hum Reprod 2022; 28:6650698. [PMID: 35894944 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaac027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm are guided through the female reproductive tract. A temperature difference of about 2 °C exists between the storage site and fertilization site of the mammalian oviduct, leading to the hypothesis that sperm can sense and swim towards the oocyte along a rising temperature gradient, known as thermotaxis. Research over the past two decades has reported that sperm feature a sophisticated thermal detection system to detect and track ambient temperature gradients. More recently, thermotaxis is expected to be added to the microfluidic isolation method based on sperm tactic responses for sperm selection. In this paper, mammalian sperm thermotaxis is discussed, explaining the underlying behavioral mechanisms and molecular basis, according to the latest research. Finally, this paper explores the possible application of sperm thermotaxis in assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanglong Xiao
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, P. R. China
| | - Mengdi Yu
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, P. R. China
| | - Yan Yuan
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, P. R. China
| | - Xingzhu Liu
- Queen Mary College, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, P. R. China
| | - Ying Chen
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, P. R. China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, Jiangxi, P. R. China
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17
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Xiao W, Chen Y. TRPV1 in male reproductive system: focus on sperm function. Mol Cell Biochem 2022; 477:2567-2579. [PMID: 35595954 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-022-04469-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) is a receptor used to perceive external noxious stimuli and participates in the regulation of various pathophysiological mechanisms in vivo by integrating multiple signals. The explosive growth in knowledge of TRPV1 stemmed from research on neuronal pain and heat sensation over the last decades and is being expanded tremendously in peripheral tissue research. The discovery that TRPV1 is functionally active in male animal and human reproductive tissues have attracted increasing attention in recent years. Indeed, many studies have indicated that TRPV1 is an endocannabinoid receptor that mediates Anandamide's regulation of sperm function. Other characteristics of the TRPV1 channel itself, such as calcium penetration and temperature sensitivity, have also been investigated, especially the possibility that TRPV1 could act as a mediator for sperm thermotaxis. In addition, some reproductive diseases appear to be related to the protective effects of TRPV1 on oxidative stress and heat stress. A better understanding of TRPV1 in these areas should provide strategies for tackling male infertility. This paper is the first to review the expression and mechanism of TRPV1 in the male reproductive system from molecular and cellular perspectives. A focus is given on sperm function, including calcium homeostasis, crosstalk with endocannabinoid system, participation in cholesterol-related sperm maturation, and thermotaxis, hoping to capture the current situation of this rapidly developing field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanglong Xiao
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, No. 999 Xuefu Avenue, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Chen
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, No. 999 Xuefu Avenue, Honggutan District, Nanchang, 330031, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Nanchang, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China.
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18
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Tourmente M, Sanchez-Rodriguez A, Roldan ERS. Effect of Motility Factors D-Penicillamine, Hypotaurine and Epinephrine on the Performance of Spermatozoa from Five Hamster Species. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11040526. [PMID: 35453725 PMCID: PMC9032960 DOI: 10.3390/biology11040526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Analysis of sperm performance under in vitro conditions provides a good indication of fertilizing potential. Parameters such as motility, swimming kinetics, acrosome integrity, or ATP content are thus examined in efforts to characterize such potential. Hamster species are a good model to study sperm parameters that are key determinants of fertilizing capacity because these species are at the higher end of the diversity of mammalian sperm morphology and performance. In vitro functional studies demand that sperm remain viable during a long period of time under conditions that resemble those in the female tract. Sperm from certain species require supplementation of the incubation medium with factors that stimulate viability and swimming, or that promote acquisition of fertilizing capacity. Molecules important for sperm performance in hamsters have been identified, namely D-penicillamine, hypotaurine and epinephrine (PHE). In the present study, we investigated the effect of PHE on spermatozoa from five hamster species incubated for up to 4 h. Our results revealed that PHE maintains sperm performance in the golden hamster, whereas it improves sperm quality in the Chinese hamster. In contrast, it does not seem to have any effect on sperm from the Siberian (Djungarian), Roborovski and Campbell’s dwarf hamsters. These results are valuable to understand the different regulatory mechanisms of sperm motility and survival in different species. Abstract Assessments of sperm performance are valuable tools for the analysis of sperm fertilizing potential and to understand determinants of male fertility. Hamster species constitute important animal models because they produce sperm cells in high quantities and of high quality. Sexual selection over evolutionary time in these species seems to have resulted in the largest mammalian spermatozoa, and high swimming and bioenergetic performances. Earlier studies showed that golden hamster sperm requires motility factors such as D-penicillamine, hypotaurine and epinephrine (PHE) to sustain survival over time, but it is unknown how they affect swimming kinetics or ATP levels and if other hamster species also require them. The objective of the present study was to examine the effect of PHE on spermatozoa of five hamster species (Mesocricetus auratus, Cricetulus griseus, Phodopus campbelli, P. sungorus, P. roborovskii). In sperm incubated for up to 4 h without or with PHE, we assessed motility, viability, acrosome integrity, sperm velocity and trajectory, and ATP content. The results showed differences in the effect of PHE among species. They had a significant positive effect on the maintenance of sperm quality in M. auratus and C. griseus, whereas there was no consistent effect on spermatozoa of the Phodopus species. Differences between species may be the result of varying underlying regulatory mechanisms of sperm performance and may be important to understand how they relate to successful fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximiliano Tourmente
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, Spanish Research Council (CSIC), 28006 Madrid, Spain;
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Cordoba X5016GCA, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biológicas y Tecnológicas (IIByT), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científica y Técnicas (CONICET), Cordoba X5016GCA, Argentina
- Correspondence: (M.T.); (E.R.S.R.)
| | - Ana Sanchez-Rodriguez
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, Spanish Research Council (CSIC), 28006 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Eduardo R. S. Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, Spanish Research Council (CSIC), 28006 Madrid, Spain;
- Correspondence: (M.T.); (E.R.S.R.)
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Abstract
Sperm selection in the female reproductive tract (FRT) is sophisticated. Only about 1,000 sperm out of millions in an ejaculate reach the fallopian tube and thus have a chance of fertilizing an oocyte. In assisted reproduction techniques, sperm are usually selected using their density or motility, characteristics that do not reflect their fertilization competence and, therefore, might result in failure to fertilize the oocyte. Although sperm processing in in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) bypasses many of the selection processes in the FRT, selection by the cumulus mass and the zona pellucida remain intact. By contrast, the direct injection of a sperm into an oocyte in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) bypasses all natural selection barriers and, therefore, increases the risk of transferring paternal defects such as fragmented DNA and genomic abnormalities in sperm to the resulting child. Research into surrogate markers of fertilization potential and into simulating the natural sperm selection processes has progressed. However, methods of sperm isolation - such as hyaluronic acid-based selection and microfluidic isolation based on sperm tactic responses - use only one or two parameters and are not comparable with the multistep sperm selection processes naturally occurring within the FRT. Fertilization-competent sperm require a panel of molecules, including zona pellucida-binding proteins and ion channel proteins, that enable them to progress through the FRT to achieve fertilization. The optimal artificial sperm selection method will, therefore, probably need to use a multiparameter tool that incorporates the molecular signature of sperm with high fertilization potential, and their responses to external cues, within a microfluidic system that can replicate the physiological processes of the FRT in vitro.
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Sperm Accumulation Induced by the Female Reproductive Fluid: Putative Evidence of Chemoattraction Using a New Tool. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092472. [PMID: 34572122 PMCID: PMC8467055 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is considerable evidence that female reproductive fluid (FRF) interacts intimately with sperm, affecting several sperm traits, including sperm motility and longevity, and ultimately fertilization success. One of the first documented interactions between FRF and sperm is the ability of FRF to attract and guide sperm towards the eggs. However, most of the evidence of FRF’s chemoattraction proprieties comes from a limited number of taxa, specifically mammals and invertebrate broadcasting spawners. In other species, small FRF volumes and/or short sperm longevity often impose methodological difficulties resulting in this gap in chemoattraction studies in non-model species. One of the outcomes of sperm chemotaxis is sperm accumulation towards high chemoattractant concentrations, which can be easily quantified by measuring sperm concentration. Here, we tested sperm accumulation towards FRF in the zebrafish, Danio rerio, using an ad hoc developed, 3D printed, device (‘sperm selection chamber’). This easy-to-use tool allows to select and collect the sperm that swim towards a chemical gradient, and accumulate in a chemoattractant-filled well thus providing putative evidence for chemoattraction. We found that sperm accumulate in FRF in zebrafish. We also found that none of the sperm quality traits we measured (sperm swimming velocity and trajectory, sperm motility, and longevity) were correlated with this response. Together with the 3D printable project, we provide a detailed protocol for using the selection chamber. The chamber is optimized for the zebrafish, but it can be easily adapted for other species. Our device lays the foundation for a standardized way to measure sperm accumulation and in general chemoattraction, stimulating future research aimed at understanding the role and the mechanisms of sperm chemoattraction by FRF.
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