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Nicu AT, Ionel IP, Stoica I, Burlibasa L, Jinga V. Recent Advancements in Research on DNA Methylation and Testicular Germ Cell Tumors: Unveiling the Intricate Relationship. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1041. [PMID: 38791003 PMCID: PMC11117643 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12051041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) are the most common type of testicular cancer, with a particularly high incidence in the 15-45-year age category. Although highly treatable, resistance to therapy sometimes occurs, with devastating consequences for the patients. Additionally, the young age at diagnosis and the treatment itself pose a great threat to patients' fertility. Despite extensive research concerning genetic and environmental risk factors, little is known about TGCT etiology. However, epigenetics has recently come into the spotlight as a major factor in TGCT initiation, progression, and even resistance to treatment. As such, recent studies have been focusing on epigenetic mechanisms, which have revealed their potential in the development of novel, non-invasive biomarkers. As the most studied epigenetic mechanism, DNA methylation was the first revelation in this particular field, and it continues to be a main target of investigations as research into its association with TGCT has contributed to a better understanding of this type of cancer and constantly reveals novel aspects that can be exploited through clinical applications. In addition to biomarker development, DNA methylation holds potential for developing novel treatments based on DNA methyltransferase inhibitors (DNMTis) and may even be of interest for fertility management in cancer survivors. This manuscript is structured as a literature review, which comprehensively explores the pivotal role of DNA methylation in the pathogenesis, progression, and treatment resistance of TGCTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina-Teodora Nicu
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 030018 Bucharest, Romania; (A.-T.N.); (I.S.)
| | - Ileana Paula Ionel
- Department of Specific Disciplines, Faculty of Midwifery and Nursing, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ileana Stoica
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 030018 Bucharest, Romania; (A.-T.N.); (I.S.)
| | - Liliana Burlibasa
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, 030018 Bucharest, Romania; (A.-T.N.); (I.S.)
| | - Viorel Jinga
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Carol Davila”, 050474 Bucharest, Romania;
- The Academy of Romanian Scientists, 050044 Bucharest, Romania
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2
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Olmedo-Suárez MÁ, Ramírez-Díaz I, Pérez-González A, Molina-Herrera A, Coral-García MÁ, Lobato S, Sarvari P, Barreto G, Rubio K. Epigenetic Regulation in Exposome-Induced Tumorigenesis: Emerging Roles of ncRNAs. Biomolecules 2022; 12:513. [PMID: 35454102 PMCID: PMC9032613 DOI: 10.3390/biom12040513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Environmental factors, including pollutants and lifestyle, constitute a significant role in severe, chronic pathologies with an essential societal, economic burden. The measurement of all environmental exposures and assessing their correlation with effects on individual health is defined as the exposome, which interacts with our unique characteristics such as genetics, physiology, and epigenetics. Epigenetics investigates modifications in the expression of genes that do not depend on the underlying DNA sequence. Some studies have confirmed that environmental factors may promote disease in individuals or subsequent progeny through epigenetic alterations. Variations in the epigenetic machinery cause a spectrum of different disorders since these mechanisms are more sensitive to the environment than the genome, due to the inherent reversible nature of the epigenetic landscape. Several epigenetic mechanisms, including modifications in DNA (e.g., methylation), histones, and noncoding RNAs can change genome expression under the exogenous influence. Notably, the role of long noncoding RNAs in epigenetic processes has not been well explored in the context of exposome-induced tumorigenesis. In the present review, our scope is to provide relevant evidence indicating that epigenetic alterations mediate those detrimental effects caused by exposure to environmental toxicants, focusing mainly on a multi-step regulation by diverse noncoding RNAs subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Ángel Olmedo-Suárez
- International Laboratory EPIGEN, Consejo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Estado de Puebla (CONCYTEP), Puebla 72160, Mexico; (M.Á.O.-S.); (I.R.-D.); (A.P.-G.); (A.M.-H.); (M.Á.C.-G.); (S.L.); (P.S.); (G.B.)
- Licenciatura en Médico Cirujano, Universidad de la Salud del Estado de Puebla (USEP), Puebla 72000, Mexico
| | - Ivonne Ramírez-Díaz
- International Laboratory EPIGEN, Consejo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Estado de Puebla (CONCYTEP), Puebla 72160, Mexico; (M.Á.O.-S.); (I.R.-D.); (A.P.-G.); (A.M.-H.); (M.Á.C.-G.); (S.L.); (P.S.); (G.B.)
- Facultad de Biotecnología, Campus Puebla, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla 72410, Mexico
| | - Andrea Pérez-González
- International Laboratory EPIGEN, Consejo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Estado de Puebla (CONCYTEP), Puebla 72160, Mexico; (M.Á.O.-S.); (I.R.-D.); (A.P.-G.); (A.M.-H.); (M.Á.C.-G.); (S.L.); (P.S.); (G.B.)
- Licenciatura en Médico Cirujano, Universidad de la Salud del Estado de Puebla (USEP), Puebla 72000, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Molina-Herrera
- International Laboratory EPIGEN, Consejo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Estado de Puebla (CONCYTEP), Puebla 72160, Mexico; (M.Á.O.-S.); (I.R.-D.); (A.P.-G.); (A.M.-H.); (M.Á.C.-G.); (S.L.); (P.S.); (G.B.)
- Licenciatura en Médico Cirujano, Universidad de la Salud del Estado de Puebla (USEP), Puebla 72000, Mexico
| | - Miguel Ángel Coral-García
- International Laboratory EPIGEN, Consejo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Estado de Puebla (CONCYTEP), Puebla 72160, Mexico; (M.Á.O.-S.); (I.R.-D.); (A.P.-G.); (A.M.-H.); (M.Á.C.-G.); (S.L.); (P.S.); (G.B.)
- Decanato de Ciencias de la Salud, Campus Puebla, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla 72410, Mexico
| | - Sagrario Lobato
- International Laboratory EPIGEN, Consejo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Estado de Puebla (CONCYTEP), Puebla 72160, Mexico; (M.Á.O.-S.); (I.R.-D.); (A.P.-G.); (A.M.-H.); (M.Á.C.-G.); (S.L.); (P.S.); (G.B.)
- Licenciatura en Médico Cirujano, Universidad de la Salud del Estado de Puebla (USEP), Puebla 72000, Mexico
| | - Pouya Sarvari
- International Laboratory EPIGEN, Consejo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Estado de Puebla (CONCYTEP), Puebla 72160, Mexico; (M.Á.O.-S.); (I.R.-D.); (A.P.-G.); (A.M.-H.); (M.Á.C.-G.); (S.L.); (P.S.); (G.B.)
| | - Guillermo Barreto
- International Laboratory EPIGEN, Consejo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Estado de Puebla (CONCYTEP), Puebla 72160, Mexico; (M.Á.O.-S.); (I.R.-D.); (A.P.-G.); (A.M.-H.); (M.Á.C.-G.); (S.L.); (P.S.); (G.B.)
- Laboratoire IMoPA, CNRS, Université de Lorraine, UMR 73635 Nancy, France
- Lung Cancer Epigenetic, Max-Planck-Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
| | - Karla Rubio
- International Laboratory EPIGEN, Consejo de Ciencia y Tecnología del Estado de Puebla (CONCYTEP), Puebla 72160, Mexico; (M.Á.O.-S.); (I.R.-D.); (A.P.-G.); (A.M.-H.); (M.Á.C.-G.); (S.L.); (P.S.); (G.B.)
- Licenciatura en Médico Cirujano, Universidad de la Salud del Estado de Puebla (USEP), Puebla 72000, Mexico
- Laboratoire IMoPA, CNRS, Université de Lorraine, UMR 73635 Nancy, France
- Lung Cancer Epigenetic, Max-Planck-Institute for Heart and Lung Research, 61231 Bad Nauheim, Germany
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3
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Adelakun SA, Ogunlade B, Fidelis OP, Omotoso OD. Protective effect of nutritional supplementation of zinc-sulfate against cisplatin-induced spermatogonial and testicular dysfunctions in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. ENDOCRINE AND METABOLIC SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.endmts.2021.100116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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4
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Beauvais D, Berthaut I, Cabannes-Hamy A, Béhal H, Barraud-Lange DV, Pollet-Villard X, Lengliné E, Itzykson R, Andreoli A, Ricadat E, Dhédin N, Levy R, Poirot C, Boissel N. Semen Cryopreservation in Adolescents and Young Adults with Hematologic Diseases: from Bed to Benchside. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2021; 11:389-393. [PMID: 34756112 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2021.0137] [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
Purpose: Infertility in adolescents and young adult (AYA) survivors of malignant disease remains a major long-term adverse effect, but semen collection for fertility preservation in fertility centers is not always feasible and makes AYAs uncomfortable. We evaluated the feasibility of collecting sperm samples on the ward versus in fertility centers. Methods: Consecutive hospitalized AYA-aged male patients in the Hematology AYA unit (Saint-Louis Hospital, France) between August 2010 and June 2016 with hematological disease and indication of semen collection (n = 95) were included in this retrospective study. Semen quality was analyzed according to World Health Organization guidelines and was compared according to semen collection place: on the ward (n = 46) or in fertility center (n = 49). Results: The median age was median age 19.1 years (range: 13.7-33.3; interquartile range: 17.1-22.8) and 85 patients successfully collected semen. Sperm collection failure was ∼11% and was comparable between the two modalities as were main sperm quality characteristics (semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, progressive motility and vitality, sperm morphology, and multiple anomalies index). Oligospermia was significantly higher in the samples obtained in fertility center (47.7%) than on the ward (26.8%), p = 0.047. Average frozen straws were comparable, 12.2 ± 6.4 on the ward versus 11.9 ± 6.3 in fertility center. Conclusion: Semen collection on the ward is feasible and would be particularly interesting for AYA male patients without altering semen quality characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Beauvais
- Service d'Hématologie Adolescents et Jeunes Adultes, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Isabelle Berthaut
- Service de Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Tenon, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Aurélie Cabannes-Hamy
- Service d'Hématologie Adolescents et Jeunes Adultes, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.,URP-3518, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Hélène Béhal
- Université Lille, CHU Lille, ULR 2694-METRICS: Évaluation des Technologies de Santé et des Pratiques Médicales, Lille, France.,Department of Biostatistics, CHU Lille, Lille, France
| | - Dr Virginie Barraud-Lange
- Unité INSERM 1016, Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Hôpital Cochin, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | | | - Etienne Lengliné
- Service d'Hématologie Adolescents et Jeunes Adultes, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.,URP-3518, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Raphaël Itzykson
- Service d'Hématologie Adolescents et Jeunes Adultes, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.,URP-3518, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Annalisa Andreoli
- Service d'Hématologie Adolescents et Jeunes Adultes, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Elise Ricadat
- URP-3518, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris, Paris, France.,IHSS/CRPMS, La Personne en Médecine, ANR-18-IDEX-001, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Nathalie Dhédin
- Service d'Hématologie Adolescents et Jeunes Adultes, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.,URP-3518, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Rachel Levy
- Service de Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital Tenon, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.,Faculty of Medicine, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Poirot
- Service d'Hématologie Adolescents et Jeunes Adultes, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.,Faculty of Medicine, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Boissel
- Service d'Hématologie Adolescents et Jeunes Adultes, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.,URP-3518, Institut de Recherche Saint-Louis, Université de Paris, Paris, France
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5
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Breton CV, Landon R, Kahn LG, Enlow MB, Peterson AK, Bastain T, Braun J, Comstock SS, Duarte CS, Hipwell A, Ji H, LaSalle JM, Miller RL, Musci R, Posner J, Schmidt R, Suglia SF, Tung I, Weisenberger D, Zhu Y, Fry R. Exploring the evidence for epigenetic regulation of environmental influences on child health across generations. Commun Biol 2021; 4:769. [PMID: 34158610 PMCID: PMC8219763 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02316-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Environmental exposures, psychosocial stressors and nutrition are all potentially important influences that may impact health outcomes directly or via interactions with the genome or epigenome over generations. While there have been clear successes in large-scale human genetic studies in recent decades, there is still a substantial amount of missing heritability to be elucidated for complex childhood disorders. Mounting evidence, primarily in animals, suggests environmental exposures may generate or perpetuate altered health outcomes across one or more generations. One putative mechanism for these environmental health effects is via altered epigenetic regulation. This review highlights the current epidemiologic literature and supporting animal studies that describe intergenerational and transgenerational health effects of environmental exposures. Both maternal and paternal exposures and transmission patterns are considered, with attention paid to the attendant ethical, legal and social implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie V Breton
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - Remy Landon
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Linda G Kahn
- Department of Pediatrics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Michelle Bosquet Enlow
- Department of Psychiatry, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Alicia K Peterson
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Theresa Bastain
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Joseph Braun
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Sarah S Comstock
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Cristiane S Duarte
- Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center and New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alison Hipwell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Hong Ji
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Janine M LaSalle
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, MIND Institute, Genome Center, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | | | - Rashelle Musci
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jonathan Posner
- Department of Psychiatry, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center and New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA
| | - Rebecca Schmidt
- Department of Public Health Sciences, UC Davis School of Medicine, Davis, CA, USA
| | | | - Irene Tung
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Daniel Weisenberger
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Yeyi Zhu
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California and Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Rebecca Fry
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, UNC Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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6
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Barbăroșie C, Agarwal A, Henkel R. Diagnostic value of advanced semen analysis in evaluation of male infertility. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13625. [PMID: 32458468 DOI: 10.1111/and.13625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2020] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Conventional semen analysis is the standard of care to initially evaluate the fertility status of a male patient. However, it has some limitations and among these are failure to correctly identify the aetiology underlying fertility problems, intra- and inter-observer variability and incomplete information about sperm function. Considering these drawbacks, advanced semen tests have been developed to assess male infertility, including sperm function tests, oxidative stress (OS) and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) tests. This review illustrates the commonly utilised sperm function techniques, along with the assays used to assess SDF and OS and their diagnostic value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cătălina Barbăroșie
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Department of Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- 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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Arafa M, Henkel R, Agarwal A, Robert K, Finelli R, Majzoub A, ElBardisi H. Seminal oxidation-reduction potential levels are not influenced by the presence of leucocytospermia. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13609. [PMID: 32400005 DOI: 10.1111/and.13609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) is characterised by an excessive amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which negatively affect sperm functions. In this study, the influence of leucocytes on seminal oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) was investigated in 1,068 men. Seminal leucocyte concentration did not correlate with SDF, unadjusted ORP, ORP normalised for sperm concentration (sORP), ORP normalised for total motile sperm concentration (motORP) or total motile sperm count (TMSC-ORP). Although receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve analyses show that leucocytospermia does not predict high sORP values (>1.34 mV/106 spermatozoa/ml), the motORP (AUC: 0.666) and TMSC-ORP (AUC: 0.683) predict the rate of leucocytospermia significantly (p = .0195 and p = .0085 respectively). Moreover, SDF can significantly predict leucocytospermia (AUC: 0.679; p = .011) and vice versa (AUC: 0.657, p = .0298). Our data confirm the association between OS and SDF. In conclusion, motORP and TMSC-ORP may be better predictive factors of leucocytospermia, probably because sperm motility, included in motORP and TMSC-ORP calculation, is the first seminal parameter to be affected by OS. Although all these parameters are indicative of OS, ORP values, SDF and leucocytospermia should be considered independently for the evaluation of redox seminal status, as they probe distinct seminal features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Arafa
- Male Infertility Unit, Urology Department, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar.,Urology Department, Weill Cornell Medical-Qatar, Doha, Qatar.,American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Andrology Department, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ralf Henkel
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Kathy Robert
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ahmad Majzoub
- Male Infertility Unit, Urology Department, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar.,Urology Department, Weill Cornell Medical-Qatar, Doha, Qatar.,American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Haitham ElBardisi
- Male Infertility Unit, Urology Department, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar.,Urology Department, Weill Cornell Medical-Qatar, Doha, Qatar
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8
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Panner Selvam MK, Finelli R, Agarwal A, Henkel R. Evaluation of seminal oxidation-reduction potential in male infertility. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13610. [PMID: 32399973 DOI: 10.1111/and.13610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of oxidative stress in male infertility has been broadly recognised, and the search for a new marker to determine the redox environment in semen has gained considerable interest. Oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) or redox potential, is a measure of the electron transfer from antioxidants to oxidants and provides information on the redox balance. In this review, the benefits of ORP as a new oxidative stress marker, the protocol for its evaluation and the importance of its measurement in the context of male infertility are discussed. In association with the standard semen analysis, seminal ORP has been analysed to evaluate semen quality and male fertility status. However, further studies are required to establish its use in assisted reproductive techniques (ART) practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- 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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9
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Influence of the Period of Abstinence on Semen Quality in a Patient with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. Case Rep Rheumatol 2020; 2020:9296858. [PMID: 32231843 PMCID: PMC7085386 DOI: 10.1155/2020/9296858] [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: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 01/06/2020] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory disease that can affect fertility. There is currently little information regarding the semen profile of males with SLE. Moreover, there is no consensus on an appropriate period of sexual abstinence for semen analysis and on the use of DNA fragmentation assay, together with multiple semen analyses to document the semen profile in this clinical population. In this case report, multiple semen analyses, with DNA fragmentation assays, were performed for a male with SLE undergoing fertility treatment at our andrology unit. A 4-day period of abstinence improved the semen concentration, total sperm count, total progressive motile sperm, and sperm morphology, with minimal DNA fragmentation. In conclusion, multiple semen analyses obtained after different periods of sexual abstinence, together with DNA fragmentation assays, may be useful to develop a semen profile for patients with SLE, providing information on the optimal abstinence period to yield the best semen quality for subsequent fertility treatment. For patients with fluctuating semen results, concomitant semen cryopreservation should be considered to preserve the better quality semen before starting assisted reproductive technologies if pregnancy is planned in the future.
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10
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Elbardisi H, Finelli R, Agarwal A, Majzoub A, Henkel R, Arafa M. Predictive value of oxidative stress testing in semen for sperm DNA fragmentation assessed by sperm chromatin dispersion test. Andrology 2020; 8:610-617. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Haitham Elbardisi
- Male Infertility Unit Urology Department Hamad General Hospital Doha Qatar
- Urology Department Weill Cornell Medical‐Qatar Doha Qatar
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine Cleveland Clinic Cleveland OH USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine Cleveland Clinic Cleveland OH USA
| | - Ahmad Majzoub
- Male Infertility Unit Urology Department Hamad General Hospital Doha Qatar
- Urology Department Weill Cornell Medical‐Qatar Doha Qatar
- 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
| | - Mohamed Arafa
- Male Infertility Unit Urology Department Hamad General Hospital Doha Qatar
- Urology Department Weill Cornell Medical‐Qatar Doha Qatar
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine Cleveland Clinic Cleveland OH USA
- Andrology Department Cairo University Cairo Egypt
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11
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Simon L, Emery B, Carrell DT. Sperm DNA Fragmentation: Consequences for Reproduction. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1166:87-105. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-21664-1_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
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12
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Panner Selvam MK, Agarwal A. A systematic review on sperm DNA fragmentation in male factor infertility: Laboratory assessment. Arab J Urol 2018; 16:65-76. [PMID: 29713537 PMCID: PMC5922187 DOI: 10.1016/j.aju.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Revised: 11/26/2017] [Accepted: 12/02/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To review sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) testing as an important sperm function test in addition to conventional semen analysis. High SDF is negatively associated with semen quality, the fertilisation process, embryo quality, and pregnancy outcome. Over recent decades, different SDF assays have been developed and reviewed extensively to assess their applicability and accuracy as advanced sperm function tests. Amongst them, the standardisation of the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferased UTP nick-end labelling (TUNEL) assay with a bench top flow cytometer in clinical practice deserves special mention with a threshold value of 16.8% to differentiate infertile men with DNA damage from fertile men. Materials and methods A systematic literature search was performed through the PubMed, Medline, and ScienceDirect databases using the keywords ‘sperm DNA fragmentation’ and ‘laboratory assessment’. Non-English articles were excluded and studies related to humans were only included. Results Of the 618 identified, 87 studies (original research and reviews) and in addition eight book chapters meeting the selection criteria were included in this review. In all, 366 articles were rejected in the preliminary screening and a further 165 articles related to non-human subjects were excluded. Conclusion There are pros and cons to all the available SDF assays. TUNEL is a reliable technique with greater accuracy and as an additional diagnostic test in Andrology laboratories along with basic semen analysis can predict fertility outcome, and thus direct the choice of an assisted reproductive technology procedure for infertile couples. Also, the TUNEL assay can be used as a prognostic test and results are beneficial in deciding personalised treatment for infertile men.
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Key Words
- AO, acridine orange
- ART, assisted reproductive technology
- CMA3, chromomysin A3
- DFI, DNA fragmentation index
- DNA damage
- FITC, Fluorescein isothiocyanate
- ICSI, intracytoplasmic sperm injection
- IUI, intrauterine insemination
- IVF, in vitro fertilisation
- PI, propidium iodide
- ROS, reactive oxygen species
- SCD, sperm chromatin dispersion
- SCSA, sperm chromatin structure assay
- SDF, sperm DNA fragmentation
- Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF)
- Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) assay
- TUNEL, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferased UTP nick-end labelling
- TdT, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase
- Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferased UTP nick-end labelling (TUNEL)
- dUTP, 2′-deoxyuridine 5′-triphosphate
- dsDNA, double-stranded DNA
- ssDNA, single-strand DNA
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Ghasemi H, Khodadadi I, Fattahi A, Moghimbeigi A, Tavilani H. Polymorphisms of DNA repair genes XRCC1 and LIG4 and idiopathic male infertility. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2017; 63:382-390. [PMID: 28991497 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2017.1374488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Sperm DNA damage is one of the associated factors of idiopathic male infertility and abnormal spermatogenesis. This study was conducted to assess possible association between risk of male infertility with X-ray repair cross complementing group 1 (XRCC1) Arg399Gln (G to A) and DNA ligase 4 (LIG4) Thr9Ile (C to T) gene polymorphisms which are involved in different DNA repair pathways. In this case-control study 191 fertile and 191 infertile men (29-40 years old) were enrolled. The single-nucleotide polymorphism genotypes and alleles of XRCC1 Arg399Gln and LIG4 Thr9Ile were assessed using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique. There was no significant association between XRCC1 Arg399Gln polymorphism and risk of male infertility. The frequency of LIG4 Thr9Ile genotypes and alleles were statistically different between fertile and infertile men (p<0.001). We found that the CT genotype increased infertility risk more than threefold (OR, 3.12; 95% CI, 1.803-5.407). The LIG4 TT genotype carriers had decreased progressive motile sperm (p<0.05) and increased non-progressive motile sperm (p<0.001) compared with the CC genotype. Moreover, sperm concentration in subjects carrying the CT genotype was lower than that observed in CC carriers (p<0.05). The results revealed that the GG/CT and GA/CT combinations of genotypes increase the risk of infertility 3.5 and fourfold, respectively (p=0.021 and 0.004, respectively). This study demonstrated that there was an association between LIG4 Thr9Ile polymorphism and male infertility and suggests CT genotype as a risk factor for male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadi Ghasemi
- a Department of Biochemistry , Hamadan University of Medical Sciences , Hamadan , Iran
| | - Iraj Khodadadi
- a Department of Biochemistry , Hamadan University of Medical Sciences , Hamadan , Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- b Women's Reproductive Health Research Center , Tabriz University of Medical Sciences , Tabriz , Iran
| | - Abbas Moghimbeigi
- c Brucellosis Research Center , Hamadan University of Medical Sciences , Hamadan , Iran
| | - Heidar Tavilani
- d Urology & Nephrology Research Center , Hamadan University of Medical Sciences , Hamadan , Iran
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14
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Majzoub A, Agarwal A, Esteves SC. Understanding sperm DNA fragmentation. Transl Androl Urol 2017; 6:S535-S538. [PMID: 29082959 PMCID: PMC5643687 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2017.04.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Majzoub
- Department of Urology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Referral Center for Male Reproduction, Campinas, SP, Brazil
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15
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Pourmasumi S, Sabeti P, Rahiminia T, Mangoli E, Tabibnejad N, Talebi AR. The etiologies of sperm DNA abnormalities in male infertility: An assessment and review. Int J Reprod Biomed 2017. [DOI: 10.29252/ijrm.15.6.331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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16
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Koh SA, Sanders K, Burton P. Effect of male age on oxidative stress markers in human semen. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/2058915816673242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
This study conducted a comprehensive analysis of oxidative stress markers in human semen within the context of assisted reproductive technology (ART) and investigated if these markers varied according to male age. 148 semen samples were collected from 139 men presenting at Concept Fertility Centre, Western Australia, from 2009 to 2012. Semen analyses were performed and demographic information including smoking status and abstinence period was collected. Reactive oxygen species production, lipid peroxidation, oxidative DNA damage (8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG)), total antioxidant capacity and DNA fragmentation ( terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine diphosphate nick-end labelling) were measured as markers of oxidative stress. Semen parameters and oxidative stress markers were compared against age as a continuous variable, and between males <40 and males ≥40 years of age. Older males aged ≥40 years exhibited higher levels of sperm oxidative DNA damage (8-OHdG) compared to younger males ( p = 0.029), but no other oxidative stress marker significantly varied with age. An age-related decrease in sperm concentration ( p = 0.011) and motility ( p = 0.015) was observed after processing. Lower sperm concentration and reduced motility pre- and post-semen processing were significantly correlated with elevated oxidative DNA damage (all p < 0.001). Our results suggest that oxidative stress may be an important mediator between male age and fertility. This is concerning within the context of an ageing ART cohort, as sperm oxidative DNA damage is associated with a range of suboptimal fertility outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Su-Ann Koh
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Katherine Sanders
- School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Peter Burton
- Concept Fertility Centre, Subiaco, WA, Australia
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17
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Hong F, Zhao X, Si W, Ze Y, Wang L, Zhou Y, Hong J, Yu X, Sheng L, Liu D, Xu B, Zhang J. Decreased spermatogenesis led to alterations of testis-specific gene expression in male mice following nano-TiO2 exposure. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2015; 300:718-728. [PMID: 26296075 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2015.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2014] [Revised: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Although TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) exposure has been demonstrated to cross blood-testis barrier and accumulate in the testis resulting in the reduction of sperm numbers, limited data with respect to the molecular mechanism of decreased spermatogenesis caused by TiO2 NP exposure. In this research, testicular damage, sperm number and alterations in testis-specific gene expressions in male mice induced by intragastric administration with TiO2 NPs for six months were investigated. It was found out that TiO2 NPs could migrate to cells, deposit in the testis and epididymis and thus cause damages to relevant organs, which are, to be more specific, the reductions of total sperm concentrations and sperm motility and an enhancement in the number of abnormal sperms in the cauda epididymis. Furthermore, the individual expression regarding to the mRNAs and proteins of testis-specific genes, including Cdc2, Cyclin B1, Dmcl, TERT, Tesmin, TESP-1, XPD and XRCCI, were significantly declined, whereas Gsk3-β and PGAM4 expressions were greatly elevated in mouse testis due to the exposures, which in fact implied that the reduced spermatogenesis may be involved in the alternated testis-specific gene expressions in those exposed male mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fashui Hong
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Regional Modern Agriculture & Environmental Protection, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian 223300, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Eco-Agricultural Biotechnology around Hongze Lake, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian 223300, China; School of Life Sciences, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian 223300, China.
| | - Xiaoyang Zhao
- Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Wenhui Si
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural and Animal Products Processing and Quality Control, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; Suzhou Polytechnic Institute of Agriculture, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Yuguan Ze
- Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Library of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yingjun Zhou
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Regional Modern Agriculture & Environmental Protection, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian 223300, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Eco-Agricultural Biotechnology around Hongze Lake, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian 223300, China; School of Life Sciences, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian 223300, China
| | - Jie Hong
- Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Xiaohong Yu
- Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Lei Sheng
- Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Dong Liu
- Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Bingqing Xu
- Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jianhao Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural and Animal Products Processing and Quality Control, Ministry of Agriculture, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China.
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18
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Sonigo C, Sermondade N, Benard J, Benoit A, Shore J, Sifer C, Grynberg M. The past, present and future of fertility preservation in cancer patients. Future Oncol 2015; 11:2667-2680. [DOI: 10.2217/fon.15.152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility preservation strategies have been developed for men and women whose fertility is compromised for medical reasons, especially in case of cancer therapy. At present, many reliable options for preserving fertility are available. However, a part of these fertility preservation methods, despite being promising, are still considered experimental. Nevertheless, there are still situations where no methods can be offered. Remarkable scientific progress is currently underway to improve available techniques and to develop new technologies to solve problems with current fertility strategies. These new options may drastically change reproductive options for young patients facing germ cell loss and hence sterility. Therefore, oncofertility counseling by a specialist is recommended for all young cancer patients having to undergo treatment that may reduce fertility potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Sonigo
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hôpital Jean-Verdier, Avenue du 14 Juillet, 93140 Bondy, France
- University Paris XIII, 93000 Bobigny, France
- Unité Inserm U1185, Université Paris-Sud, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Nathalie Sermondade
- Department of Cytogenetic & Reproductive Biology, Hôpital Jean-Verdier, Avenue du 14 Juillet, 93140 Bondy, France
| | - Julie Benard
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hôpital Jean-Verdier, Avenue du 14 Juillet, 93140 Bondy, France
- University Paris XIII, 93000 Bobigny, France
| | - Alexandra Benoit
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hôpital Jean-Verdier, Avenue du 14 Juillet, 93140 Bondy, France
| | - Joanna Shore
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hôpital Jean-Verdier, Avenue du 14 Juillet, 93140 Bondy, France
| | - Christophe Sifer
- Department of Cytogenetic & Reproductive Biology, Hôpital Jean-Verdier, Avenue du 14 Juillet, 93140 Bondy, France
| | - Michael Grynberg
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Hôpital Jean-Verdier, Avenue du 14 Juillet, 93140 Bondy, France
- University Paris XIII, 93000 Bobigny, France
- Unité Inserm U1133, Université Paris-Diderot, 75013 Paris, France
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19
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Hosseinifar H, Yazdanikhah S, Modarresi T, Totonchi M, Sadighi Gilani MA, Sabbaghian M. Correlation between sperm DNA fragmentation index and CMA3 positive spermatozoa in globozoospermic patients. Andrology 2015; 3:526-31. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2014] [Revised: 02/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- H. Hosseinifar
- Department of Andrology at Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center; Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine; ACECR; Tehran Iran
| | - S. Yazdanikhah
- Department of Andrology at Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center; Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine; ACECR; Tehran Iran
| | - T. Modarresi
- Department of Andrology at Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center; Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine; ACECR; Tehran Iran
| | - M. Totonchi
- Department of Genetics at Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center; Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine; ACECR; Tehran Iran
| | - M. A. Sadighi Gilani
- Department of Andrology at Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center; Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine; ACECR; Tehran Iran
- Department of Urology; Shariati Hospital; Tehran University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - M. Sabbaghian
- Department of Andrology at Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center; Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine; ACECR; Tehran Iran
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20
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Muratori M, Tamburrino L, Marchiani S, Cambi M, Olivito B, Azzari C, Forti G, Baldi E. Investigation on the Origin of Sperm DNA Fragmentation: Role of Apoptosis, Immaturity and Oxidative Stress. Mol Med 2015; 21:109-22. [PMID: 25786204 PMCID: PMC4461587 DOI: 10.2119/molmed.2014.00158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 159] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2014] [Accepted: 01/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm DNA fragmentation (sDF) represents a threat to male fertility, human reproduction and the health of the offspring. The causes of sDF are still unclear, even if apoptosis, oxidative assault and defects in chromatin maturation are hypothesized. Using multicolor flow cytometry and sperm sorting, we challenged the three hypothesized mechanisms by simultaneously evaluating sDF and signs of oxidative damage (8-hydroxy, 2'-deoxyguanosine [8-OHdG] and malondialdehyde [MDA]), apoptosis (caspase activity and cleaved poly[ADP-ribose] polymerase [cPARP]) and sperm immaturity (creatine phosphokinase [CK] and excess of residual histones). Active caspases and c-PARP were concomitant with sDF in a high percentage of spermatozoa (82.6% ± 9.1% and 53.5% ± 16.4%, respectively). Excess of residual histones was significantly higher in DNA-fragmented sperm versus sperm without DNA fragmentation (74.8% ± 17.5% and 37.3% ± 16.6%, respectively, p < 0.005), and largely concomitant with active caspases. Conversely, oxidative damage was scarcely concomitant with sDF in the total sperm population, at variance with live sperm, where 8-OHdG and MDA were clearly associated to sDF. In addition, most live cells with active caspase also showed 8-OHdG, suggesting activation of apoptotic pathways in oxidative-injured live cells. This is the first investigation on the origin of sDF directly evaluating the simultaneous presence of the signs of the hypothesized mechanisms with DNA breaks at the single cell level. The results indicate that the main pathway leading to sperm DNA breaks is a process of apoptosis, likely triggered by an impairment of chromatin maturation in the testis and by oxidative stress during the transit in the male genital tract. These findings are highly relevant for clinical studies on the effects of drugs on sDF and oxidative stress in infertile men and for the development of new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Muratori
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Biomedical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Lara Tamburrino
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Biomedical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Sara Marchiani
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Biomedical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Marta Cambi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Biomedical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Biagio Olivito
- Pediatric Section, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence and Anna Meyer Children’s University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara Azzari
- Pediatric Section, Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence and Anna Meyer Children’s University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Gianni Forti
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Biomedical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Baldi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental and Biomedical Sciences, Center of Excellence DeNothe, University of Florence, Italy
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Coughlan C, Ledger W, Wang Q, Liu F, Demirol A, Gurgan T, Cutting R, Ong K, Sallam H, Li T. Recurrent implantation failure: definition and management. Reprod Biomed Online 2014; 28:14-38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2013.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 331] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2012] [Revised: 05/05/2013] [Accepted: 08/06/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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22
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Clinical guidelines for sperm cryopreservation in cancer patients. Fertil Steril 2013; 100:1203-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.08.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2013] [Revised: 08/18/2013] [Accepted: 08/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Deane L, Sharir S, Jarvi K, Zini A. High Levels of Sperm DNA Denaturation as the Sole Semen Abnormality in a Patient After Chemotherapy for Testis Cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 25:23-4. [PMID: 14662782 DOI: 10.1002/j.1939-4640.2004.tb02754.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Leslie Deane
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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24
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González-Marín C, Gosálvez J, Roy R. Types, causes, detection and repair of DNA fragmentation in animal and human sperm cells. Int J Mol Sci 2012; 13:14026-52. [PMID: 23203048 PMCID: PMC3509564 DOI: 10.3390/ijms131114026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 211] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2012] [Revised: 10/16/2012] [Accepted: 10/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Concentration, motility and morphology are parameters commonly used to determine the fertilization potential of an ejaculate. These parameters give a general view on the quality of sperm but do not provide information about one of the most important components of the reproductive outcome: DNA. Either single or double DNA strand breaks can set the difference between fertile and infertile males. Sperm DNA fragmentation can be caused by intrinsic factors like abortive apoptosis, deficiencies in recombination, protamine imbalances or oxidative stress. Damage can also occur due to extrinsic factors such as storage temperatures, extenders, handling conditions, time after ejaculation, infections and reaction to medicines or post-testicular oxidative stress, among others. Two singular characteristics differentiate sperm from somatic cells: Protamination and absence of DNA repair. DNA repair in sperm is terminated as transcription and translation stops post-spermiogenesis, so these cells have no mechanism to repair the damage occurred during their transit through the epididymis and post-ejaculation. Oocytes and early embryos have been shown to repair sperm DNA damage, so the effect of sperm DNA fragmentation depends on the combined effects of sperm chromatin damage and the capacity of the oocyte to repair it. In this contribution we review some of these issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara González-Marín
- Sexing Technologies, 22575 State Highway 6 South, Navasota, TX 77868, USA; E-Mail:
| | - Jaime Gosálvez
- Biology Department, Universidad Autonoma of Madrid, C/ Darwin nº 2. 28049 Madrid, Spain; E-Mail:
| | - Rosa Roy
- Biology Department, Universidad Autonoma of Madrid, C/ Darwin nº 2. 28049 Madrid, Spain; E-Mail:
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Abstract
Sperm DNA can be damaged due to a multitude of different noxae, which include disease, and occupational and environmental factors. Depending on the magnitude of the damage, such lesions may be repaired by the oocyte or the embryo. If this is not possible, a permanent damage can be manifested leading to mutations of the male genome. In cases where the oocyte or the embryo does not counter these damages to the male genome in terms of repair or an early abortion, sperm DNA damage and fragmentation can be a cause of numerous diseases including childhood cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf R. Henkel
- Department of Medical Biosciences, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Daniel R. Franken
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Stellenbosch, Tygerberg, South Africa
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27
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Zini A, Azhar R, Baazeem A, Gabriel MS. Effect of microsurgical varicocelectomy on human sperm chromatin and DNA integrity: a prospective trial. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 34:14-9. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2009.01048.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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28
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Trivedi P, Kushwaha S, Tripathi D, Jena G. Evaluation of male germ cell toxicity in rats: Correlation between sperm head morphology and sperm comet assay. MUTATION RESEARCH-GENETIC TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL MUTAGENESIS 2010; 703:115-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mrgentox.2010.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2010] [Revised: 07/07/2010] [Accepted: 08/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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29
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Smit M, van Casteren NJ, Wildhagen MF, Romijn JC, Dohle GR. Sperm DNA integrity in cancer patients before and after cytotoxic treatment. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:1877-83. [PMID: 20551071 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deq104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We assessed sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI) in cancer patients before and after treatment to evaluate if sperm DNA integrity is compromised by cancer itself or its treatment. METHODS In a prospective study, DFI was assessed in 127 patients diagnosed with testicular germ cell tumours (TGCT), Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL), non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) and various malignancies. The severity of cancer and tumour markers at diagnosis was recorded. Follow-up DFI after treatment was available in 52 patients who were mostly less severely affected. RESULTS In patients diagnosed with TGCT, HL and various malignancies, pretreatment DFI levels were not significantly different from that of proven fertile controls, but in patients with NHL an increased DFI was found. An overall significant decrease in post-treatment DFI (13.2% range 5.0-70.5) compared with pretreatment values (17.1% range 5.1-66.6) was found (P = 0.040). In TGCT patients, post-treatment DFI was significantly higher in patients who were treated with radiotherapy (16.9% range 11.5-39.9) compared with that in patients treated with chemotherapy (CT) alone (10.9% range 5.5-39.9) (P = 0.037). In HL patients, the type of treatment or number of CT cycles was not associated with DFI. Overall, post-treatment DFI in cancer patients was not significantly different from that of proven fertile controls. CONCLUSIONS In this study, the presence of cancer does not seem to negatively affect the sperm DNA integrity in TGCT and HL patients; only NHL patients showed increased DFI at the time of diagnosis compared with healthy controls. Our results confirm previous reports that DFI decreases significantly following various anti-cancer treatments. In contrast, radiotherapy in TGCT patients is associated with an increase in DFI compared with CT treatment alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Smit
- Andrology Unit of the Department of Urology, Erasmus MC, 3000 CA Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Barratt CLR, Aitken RJ, Björndahl L, Carrell DT, de Boer P, Kvist U, Lewis SEM, Perreault SD, Perry MJ, Ramos L, Robaire B, Ward S, Zini A. Sperm DNA: organization, protection and vulnerability: from basic science to clinical applications--a position report. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:824-38. [PMID: 20139429 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dep465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 192] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
This article reports the results of the most recent in a series of EHSRE workshops designed to synthesize the current state of the field in Andrology and provide recommendations for future work (for details see Appendix). Its focus is on methods for detecting sperm DNA damage and potential application of new knowledge about sperm chromatin organization, vulnerability and repair to improve the diagnosis and treatment of clinical infertility associated with that damage. Equally important is the use and reliability of these tests to identify the extent to which environmental contaminants or pharmaceutical agents may contribute to the incidence of sperm DNA damage and male fertility problems. A working group (for workshop details, see Appendix) under the auspices of ESHRE met in May 2009 to assess the current knowledgebase and suggest future basic and clinical research directions. This document presents a synthesis of the working group's understanding of the recent literature and collective discussions on the current state of knowledge of sperm chromatin structure and function during fertilization. It highlights the biological, assay and clinical uncertainties that require further research and ends with a series of 5 key recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher L R Barratt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Maternal and Child Health Science Laboratories, Centre for Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK.
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Sperm DNA fragmentation: mechanisms of origin, impact on reproductive outcome, and analysis. Fertil Steril 2010; 93:1027-36. [PMID: 20080235 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.10.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 423] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2009] [Accepted: 10/27/2009] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the mechanisms responsible for DNA fragmentation in human sperm, including those occurring during spermatogenesis and transport through the reproductive tract. The mechanisms examined include: apoptosis in the seminiferous tubule epithelium, defects in chromatin remodeling during the process of spermiogenesis, oxygen radical-induced DNA damage during sperm migration from the seminiferous tubules to the epididymis, the activation of sperm caspases and endonucleases, damage induced by chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and the effect of environmental toxicants. The different tests currently used for sperm DNA fragmentation analysis and the factors that determine the predictive value of sperm DNA fragmentation testing and their implications in the diagnosis and treatment of infertility are also discussed. Finally, we also scrutinize how the presence in the embryonic genome of DNA strand breaks or modifications of DNA nucleotides inherited from the paternal genome could impact the embryo and offspring. In particular we discuss how abnormal sperm could be dealt with by the oocyte and how sperm DNA abnormalities, which have not been satisfactorily repaired by the oocyte after fertilization, may interfere with normal embryo and fetal development. CONCLUSION(S) Sperm DNA can be modified through various mechanisms. The integrity of the paternal genome is therefore of paramount importance in the initiation and maintenance of a viable pregnancy both in a natural conception and in assisted reproduction. The need to diagnose sperm at a nuclear level is an area that needs further understanding so that we can improve treatment of the infertile couple.
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Environmental Influences on Male Reproductive Health. Andrology 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-540-78355-8_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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33
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Sperm DNA damage in male infertility: etiologies, assays, and outcomes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2009; 27:3-12. [PMID: 20012685 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-009-9359-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2009] [Accepted: 10/09/2009] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Male factor infertility is the sole cause of infertility in approximately 20% of infertile couples, with an additional 30% to 40% secondary to both male and female factors. Current means of evaluation of male factor infertility remains routine semen analysis including seminal volume, pH, sperm concentration, motility, and morphology. However, approximately 15% of patients with male factor infertility have a normal semen analysis and a definitive diagnosis of male infertility often cannot be made as a result of routine semen analysis. Attention has focused on the role of sperm nuclear DNA integrity in male factor infertility. Here we review the structure of human sperm chromatin, the etiology and mechanisms of sperm DNA damage, current tests available to assess sperm DNA integrity, and effect of sperm DNA integrity on reproductive outcomes.
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Said TM, Tellez S, Evenson DP, Del Valle AP. Assessment of sperm quality, DNA integrity and cryopreservation protocols in men diagnosed with testicular and systemic malignancies. Andrologia 2009; 41:377-82. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2009.00941.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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Ribeiro TM, Bertolla RP, Spaine DM, Fraietta R, Ortiz V, Cedenho AP. Sperm nuclear apoptotic DNA fragmentation in men with testicular cancer. Fertil Steril 2008; 90:1782-6. [PMID: 18068165 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2007] [Revised: 08/06/2007] [Accepted: 08/06/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To verify whether sperm from patients with a seminoma and patients with a non-seminoma present with an increased rate of apoptotic DNA fragmentation, when compared with men without testicular cancer and who had fathered a child in the 2 years preceding the study. DESIGN Controlled prospective study. SETTING Patients referred to a sperm bank in an academic research environment. PATIENT(S) Men with a diagnosed seminoma, men with a diagnosed non-seminoma, both after orchiectomy and before adjuvant therapy, and men with proven paternity in the 2 previous years. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Rate of nuclear apoptotic sperm DNA fragmentation as assessed by TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling) assay, classified as positive (with DNA fragmentation) or negative (without DNA fragmentation). RESULT(S) Of the 48 men with testicular cancer included in the study, 29 (60.4%) presented a non-seminoma and 19 (39.6%) a seminoma. Patients with non-seminoma presented with lower progressive sperm motility than the control group (57.4% and 66.3%, respectively), but both were still within normal ranges. Sperm concentration was lower in seminoma (31.2 x 10(6)/mL) and in non-seminoma (20.6 x 10(6)/mL) when compared with the control group (78.1 x 10(6)/mL), but values did not differ between the two testicular cancer groups. Sperm morphology was lower in patients with non-seminoma than in the control group (10% and 13.1%, respectively). Results for sperm nuclear apoptotic DNA fragmentation (mean; standard deviation) were 12.6%; 4.5% for the control group, 12.2%; 5.5% for the non-seminoma group, and 12.5%; 6.4% for the seminoma group. No differences were found between the three groups. CONCLUSION(S) Our results demonstrate that the presence of a seminoma or a non-seminoma is not associated with an increase in sperm apoptotic DNA fragmentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taísa Michelucci Ribeiro
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Human Reproduction Section, São Paulo Federal University, São Paulo, Brazil
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36
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Ji G, Gu A, Xia Y, Lu C, Liang J, Wang S, Ma J, Peng Y, Wang X. ERCC1 and ERCC2 polymorphisms and risk of idiopathic azoospermia in a Chinese population. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 17:36-41. [PMID: 18616887 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60290-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Baumgartner A, Cemeli E, Anderson D. The comet assay in male reproductive toxicology. Cell Biol Toxicol 2007; 25:81-98. [PMID: 17972149 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-007-9041-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2007] [Accepted: 10/03/2007] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Due to our lifestyle and the environment we live in, we are constantly confronted with genotoxic or potentially genotoxic compounds. These toxins can cause DNA damage to our cells, leading to an increase in mutations. Sometimes such mutations could give rise to cancer in somatic cells. However, when germ cells are affected, then the damage could also have an effect on the next and successive generations. A rapid, sensitive and reliable method to detect DNA damage and assess the integrity of the genome within single cells is that of the comet or single-cell gel electrophoresis assay. The present communication gives an overview of the use of the comet assay utilising sperm or testicular cells in reproductive toxicology. This includes consideration of damage assessed by protocol modification, cryopreservation vs the use of fresh sperm, viability and statistics. It further focuses on in vivo and in vitro comet assay studies with sperm and a comparison of this assay with other assays measuring germ cell genotoxicity. As most of the de novo structural aberrations occur in sperm and spermatogenesis is functional from puberty to old age, whereas female germ cells are more complicated to obtain, the examination of male germ cells seems to be an easier and logical choice for research and testing in reproductive toxicology. In addition, the importance of such an assay for the paternal impact of genetic damage in offspring is undisputed. As there is a growing interest in the evaluation of genotoxins in male germ cells, the comet assay allows in vitro and in vivo assessments of various environmental and lifestyle genotoxins to be reliably determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Baumgartner
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, University of Bradford, Richmond Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire BD7 1DP, UK
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38
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Angelopoulou R, Plastira K, Msaouel P. Spermatozoal sensitive biomarkers to defective protaminosis and fragmented DNA. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2007; 5:36. [PMID: 17760963 PMCID: PMC2000879 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-5-36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2007] [Accepted: 08/30/2007] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Human sperm DNA damage may have adverse effects on reproductive outcome. Infertile men possess substantially more spermatozoa with damaged DNA compared to fertile donors. Although the extent of this abnormality is closely related to sperm function, the underlying etiology of ensuing male infertility is still largely controversial. Both intra-testicular and post-testicular events have been postulated and different mechanisms have been proposed to explain the presence of damaged DNA in human spermatozoa. Three among them, i.e. abnormal chromatin packaging, oxidative stress and apoptosis, are the most studied and discussed in the present review. Furthermore, results from numerous investigations are presented, including our own findings on these pathological conditions, as well as the techniques applied for their evaluation. The crucial points of each methodology on the successful detection of DNA damage and their validity on the appraisal of infertile patients are also discussed. Along with the conventional parameters examined in the standard semen analysis, evaluation of damaged sperm DNA seems to complement the investigation of factors affecting male fertility and may prove an efficient diagnostic tool in the prediction of pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxani Angelopoulou
- Experimental Embryology Unit, Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantina Plastira
- Experimental Embryology Unit, Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
| | - Pavlos Msaouel
- Experimental Embryology Unit, Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
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Codrington AM, Hales BF, Robaire B. Exposure of male rats to cyclophosphamide alters the chromatin structure and basic proteome in spermatozoa. Hum Reprod 2007; 22:1431-42. [PMID: 17303633 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dem002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The formation of mature sperm involves the expression of numerous proteins during spermiogenesis and the replacement of histones with protamines to package the genome. Exposure to cyclophosphamide (CPA), an anticancer alkylating agent, during spermiogenesis may disrupt chromatin condensation with adverse consequences to the offspring. METHODS Adult male rats were given CPA in one of two schedules: (i) subchronic, 4 days - day 1 (100 mg kg(-1)) and days 2-4 (50 mg kg(-1) per day) or (ii) chronic - daily (6.0 mg kg(-1) per day). Animals were euthanized on days 14, 21 or 28. RESULTS The effects of CPA on epididymal sperm chromatin structure were germ-cell-phase specific; mid-spermiogenic spermatids were most sensitive. The acridine orange DNA denaturation assay showed significant increases in susceptibility to denaturation (P < 0.01). Chromatin packaging assessment revealed 1,4-dithiothreitol-dependent chromomycin A3 DNA binding and less condensed, protamine-deficient sperm; the total thiol (P < 0.001) and protamine contents (P < 0.01), measured using monobromobimane and the HUP1N protamine 1 antibody, respectively, were reduced. The sperm basic proteome was also altered; proteins that were identified are involved in events during spermiogenesis and fertilization. CONCLUSIONS Paternal exposure to CPA alters sperm chromatin structure, as well as the composition of sperm head basic proteins. We speculate that these changes underlie effects on fertilization and embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Codrington
- Department of Pharmacology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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41
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW With the proliferation of assisted reproductive technologies, there is an increasing awareness of the importance of sperm DNA damage. With the recent advent of in-vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection, we are bypassing the normal natural selection barriers and potentially introducing sperm with damaged DNA. To date, these consequences are still largely unknown. RECENT FINDINGS Infertile men possess substantially more DNA-damaged sperm than fertile men, and this DNA damage may adversely affect reproductive outcomes. There may be a threshold level of DNA damage beyond which embryo development and subsequent pregnancy are impaired. Protamine deficiency and the effect of reactive oxygen species have been implicated in the etiology of sperm DNA damage. Assays of DNA damage are being used clinically to quantify objectively the degree of DNA damage in the sperm of infertile men in the hope of identifying more accurate ways of gauging fertility potential. SUMMARY There now exists clinical evidence to show that sperm DNA damage is detrimental to reproductive outcomes. Tests for DNA damage may provide better prognostic information and may allow for better decision-making than standard semen parameters when evaluating the infertile couple. The etiology of the DNA damage and the full extent of the damage on reproductive outcomes need further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armand Zini
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, McGill University, and St. Mary's Hospital, 3830 Lacombe Avenue, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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42
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Schmid TE, Eskenazi B, Baumgartner A, Marchetti F, Young S, Weldon R, Anderson D, Wyrobek AJ. The effects of male age on sperm DNA damage in healthy non-smokers. Hum Reprod 2006; 22:180-7. [PMID: 17053003 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/del338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 169] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The trend for men to have children at older age raises concerns that advancing age may increase the production of genetically defective sperm, increasing the risks of transmitting germ-line mutations. METHODS We investigated the associations between male age and sperm DNA damage and the influence of several lifestyle factors in a healthy non-clinical group of 80 non-smokers (mean age: 46.4 years, range: 22-80 years) with no known fertility problems using the sperm Comet analyses. RESULTS The average percentage of DNA that migrated out of the sperm nucleus under alkaline electrophoresis increased with age (0.18% per year, P = 0.006), but there was no age association for damage measured under neutral conditions (P = 0.7). Men who consumed >3 cups coffee per day had approximately 20% higher percentage tail DNA under neutral but not alkaline conditions compared with men who consumed no caffeine (P = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS Our findings indicate that (i) older men have increased sperm DNA damage associated with alkali-labile sites or single-strand DNA breaks and (ii) independent of age, men with substantial daily caffeine consumption have increased sperm DNA damage associated with double-strand DNA breaks. DNA damage in sperm can be converted to chromosomal aberrations and gene mutations after fertilization, increasing the risks of developmental defects and genetic diseases among offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- T E Schmid
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA, USA
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43
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Gandini L, Sgrò P, Lombardo F, Paoli D, Culasso F, Toselli L, Tsamatropoulos P, Lenzi A. Effect of chemo- or radiotherapy on sperm parameters of testicular cancer patients. Hum Reprod 2006; 21:2882-9. [PMID: 16997940 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/del167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aims of our study were to investigate the short- and long-term effects of chemo- or radiotherapy on spermatogenesis in patients with testicular cancer and to establish any correlation between pre-therapy sperm parameters, histotype and treatment type/intensity and the progress of spermatogenesis during the post-therapy period. METHODS We evaluated 166 patients affected by testicular cancer, who cryobanked about 1 month after the removal of the cancerous testis and before beginning chemo- (CH group; n = 71) or radiotherapy (RT group; n = 95). RESULTS For the CH group, there was a statistically significant decrease in sperm parameters, which was most significant 3 months after the end of chemotherapy. For the RT group, this decrease was most relevant 6 months after the end of radiotherapy. Two years after therapy, 3% of the CH group and 6% of the RT group remained azoospermic. To evaluate whether spermatogenesis recovery is a function of baseline semen quality, we divided each group into two subgroups by pre-therapy total sperm count (A, <40 x 10(6)/ejaculate; B, >or=40 x 10(6)/ejaculate). At t(24), subgroup A of both the CH and RT groups showed improved sperm parameters over the baseline, whereas subgroup B for both CH and RT groups showed a return of sperm parameters to those of baseline values. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, the recovery of spermatogenesis after chemo- or radiotherapy in our group of testicular cancer patients was not a function of pre-therapy sperm parameter quality. Cryopreservation of sperm before performing such therapy is therefore imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana Gandini
- Laboratory of Seminology and Immunology of Human Reproduction, Department of Medical Pathophysiology, Policlinico Umberto I, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy.
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Zini A, Libman J. Sperm DNA damage: clinical significance in the era of assisted reproduction. CMAJ 2006; 175:495-500. [PMID: 16940270 PMCID: PMC1550758 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.060218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence suggests that damage to human sperm DNA might adversely affect reproductive outcomes and that the spermatozoa of infertile men possess substantially more sperm DNA damage than do the spermatozoa of fertile men. This is particularly relevant in an era where advanced forms of assisted reproductive technologies are commonly used (technologies that often bypass the barriers to natural selection), because there is some uncertainty regarding the safety of using DNA-damaged spermatozoa. In this review, we outline our current understanding of how sperm DNA is organized, what causes sperm DNA damage, what impact this damage may have on reproductive capacity and whether tests of sperm DNA damage are clinically useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armand Zini
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montréal, Qué.
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45
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Ståhl O, Eberhard J, Jepson K, Spano M, Cwikiel M, Cavallin-Ståhl E, Giwercman A. Sperm DNA integrity in testicular cancer patients. Hum Reprod 2006; 21:3199-205. [PMID: 16931803 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/del292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We evaluated the impact of testicular germ cell cancer (TGCC), its treatment and length of follow-up on sperm DNA integrity. METHODS In 96 TGCC patients, semen was collected at specific intervals until 5 years after treatment. Sperm DNA integrity was assessed by the sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA, n = 193) and by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labelling (TUNEL, n = 159) assay. Results were expressed as DNA fragmentation index (DFI). Controls comprised of 278 military conscripts. RESULTS Post-surgery testicular cancer (TC) patients did not differ from controls. Compared with pretreatment values, radiotherapy induced a transient increase in SCSA(DFI) (medians: 12 versus 19%; P = 0.03), normalizing after 3-5 years. One year or more after therapy, 5/13 (38%) of normozoospermic, irradiated patients had SCSA(DFI) >27% compared with 7% of normozoospermic controls (P = 0.002). More than two cycles of chemotherapy decreased DFI 3-5 years post-therapy (median SCSA(DFI): 12 versus 9.1%, P = 0.02; median TUNEL(DFI): 11 versus 7.5%, P = 0.03). CONCLUSION Irradiation increases sperm DNA damage 1-2 years after treatment, and 38% of irradiated patients with normozoospermia had high (>27%) DNA damage, which may affect the sperm-fertilizing ability. TC per se is not associated with an increase of DFI, and DFI is reduced by three or more cycles of chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Ståhl
- Department of Oncology, Lund University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.
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Haslberger A, Varga F, Karlic H. Recursive causality in evolution: a model for epigenetic mechanisms in cancer development. Med Hypotheses 2006; 67:1448-54. [PMID: 16844314 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2006.05.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2006] [Revised: 05/23/2006] [Accepted: 05/23/2006] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Interactions between adaptative and selective processes are illustrated in the model of recursive causality as defined in Rupert Riedl's systems theory of evolution. One of the main features of this theory also termed as theory of evolving complexity is the centrality of the notion of 'recursive' or 'feedback' causality - 'the idea that every biological effect in living systems, in some way, feeds back to its own cause'. Our hypothesis is that "recursive" or "feedback" causality provides a model for explaining the consequences of interacting genetic and epigenetic mechanisms which are known to play a key role in development of cancer. Epigenetics includes any process that alters gene activity without changes of the DNA sequence. The most important epigenetic mechanisms are DNA-methylation and chromatin remodeling. Hypomethylation of so-called oncogenes and hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes appear to be critical determinants of cancer. Folic acid, vitamin B12 and other nutrients influence the function of enzymes that participate in various methylation processes by affecting the supply of methyl groups into a variety of molecules which may be directly or indirectly associated with cancerogenesis. We present an example from our own studies by showing that vitamin D3 has the potential to de-methylate the osteocalcin-promoter in MG63 osteosarcoma cells. Consequently, a stimulation of osteocalcin synthesis can be observed. The above mentioned enzymes also play a role in development and differentiation of cells and organisms and thus illustrate the close association between evolutionary and developmental mechanisms. This enabled new ways to understand the interaction between the genome and environment and may improve biomedical concepts including environmental health aspects where epigenetic and genetic modifications are closely associated. Recent observations showed that methylated nucleotides in the gene promoter may serve as a target for solar UV-induced mutations of the p53 tumor suppressor gene. This illustrates the close interaction of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms in cancerogenesis resulting from changes in transcriptional regulation and its contribution to a phenotype at the micro- or macroevolutionary level. Above-mentioned interactions of genetic and epigenetic mechanisms in oncogenesis defy explanation by plain linear causality, things like the continuing adaptability of complex systems. They can be explained by the concept of recursive causality and has introduced molecular biology into the realm of cognition science and systems theory: based on the notion of so-called feedback- or recursive causality a model for epigenetic mechanisms with relevance for oncology and biomedicine is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Haslberger
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Leukemia Research and Hematology, Hanusch Hospital, Heinrich Collinstrasse 30, and Vienna Ecology Center, University of Vienna, Austria
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Abstract
Several techniques have been developed to measure the amount of sperm DNA damage in an effort to identify more objective parameters for evaluation of infertile men. The integrity of sperm DNA influences a couple's fertility and helps predict the chances of pregnancy and its successful outcome. The available tests of sperm DNA damage require additional large-scale clinical trails before their integration into routine clinical practice. The physiological/molecular integrity of sperm DNA is a novel parameter of semen quality and a potential fertility predictor. Although DNA integrity assessment appears to be a logical biomarker of sperm quality, it is not being assessed as a routine part of semen analysis by clinical andrologists. Extensive investigation has been conducted for the comparative evolution of these techniques. However, some of these techniques require expensive instrumentation for optimal and unbiased analysis, are labor intensive, or require the use of enzymes whose activity and accessibility to DNA breaks may be irregular. Thus, these techniques are recommended for basic research rather than for routine andrology laboratories. Sperm chromatin structure evaluation is applied to detect male factors that may affect the chance of success with IVF as well as natural fertility. Further research is needed to define the optimal test of sperm chromatin structure. The clinical application of this test will evolve as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Shafik
- Department of Surgery and Experimental Research, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
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48
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Gandini L, Lombardo F, Lenzi A, Spanò M, Dondero F. Cryopreservation and Sperm DNA Integrity. Cell Tissue Bank 2006; 7:91-8. [PMID: 16732411 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-005-0275-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2004] [Accepted: 01/06/2005] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Cryopreservation of sperm is an extremely important issue in the field of male infertility as freezing can have detrimental effects on a variety of sperm functions, some of them not accessible to the traditional semen quality analysis. In this study, chromatin structure variations in human spermatozoa in semen were studied with the sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA), both before and after cryopreservation. Samples were divided into two aliquots: the first was analysed without further treatment, while the second was stored in liquid nitrogen at -196 degrees C using standard cryopreservation techniques. The fresh and thawed aliquots were also assessed by light and fluorescence microscopy (after Acridine Orange staining, AO), and computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) of motility. Overall sperm quality was found to deteriorate after cryopreservation. When thawed spermatozoa were subjected to an extra swim-up round, a general improvement in nuclear maturity was seen in post-rise spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Gandini
- Laboratory of Seminology and Reproductive Immunology, Department of Medical Pathophysiology, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00100, Rome, Italy
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49
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Schlegel PN, Paduch DA. Yet another test of sperm chromatin structure. Fertil Steril 2005; 84:854-9. [PMID: 16213834 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.04.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2005] [Revised: 04/10/2005] [Accepted: 04/10/2005] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Sperm chromatin can affect reproductive performance, and it may be analyzed by measuring susceptibility of DNA to breakage using assays such as the sperm chromatin structure assay, comet assay, TUNEL, and DNA ladders. The newly proposed test, Halosperm, may not provide additional information beyond that obtained with existent evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter N Schlegel
- Department of Urology, Weill Medical College, Cornell University, New York, New York 10021, USA.
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O'Brien J, Zini A. Sperm DNA integrity and male infertility. Urology 2005; 65:16-22. [PMID: 15667855 DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2004.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2004] [Accepted: 07/13/2004] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jeanne O'Brien
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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