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Pequeño B, Castaño C, Alvarez-Rodriguez M, Bóveda P, Millán de la Blanca MG, Toledano-Díaz A, Galarza DA, Rodriguez-Martinez H, Martínez-Madrid B, Santiago-Moreno J. Variation of existence and location of aquaporin 3 in relation to cryoresistance of ram spermatozoa. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1167832. [PMID: 37056227 PMCID: PMC10086261 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1167832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction and objectiveOsmotic changes during the process of freeze-thawing involve changes in the location of aquaporins (AQPs) in membrane domains of spermatozoa. Some AQPs, like aquaporin 3 (AQP3), are linked to sperm cryotolerance in the porcine species. Conspicuous individual variability exists between rams and their ejaculates, which may be classified as displaying good freezability (GFE) or poor freezability (PFE), depending on several endogenous and environmental factors. The present work aimed to examine whether differences in freezability could even involve changes in location and expression of AQP3 in ram spermatozoa.MethodsThirty ejaculates from 10 rams (three of each) were evaluated and subsequently classified as GFE (n = 13) or PFE (n = 17) through a principal component analysis (PCA) and k-means cluster analysis. Spermatozoa were examined for the presence, abundance and distribution of AQP3 by western blot and immunocytochemistry, employing a commercial rabbit polyclonal antibody (AQP3 - ab125219).Results and discussionAlthough AQP3 was found in the sperm acrosome, midpiece, principal and end piece of the tail in both fresh and after frozen-thawed samples, its highest immunolabeling was found in the mid- and principal piece. In the GFE group, the expression of AQP3 in the mid- and principal piece was greater (P < 0.05) in frozen-thawed samples than in fresh specimens while such differences were not detected in the PFE group. Sperm cryotolerance relates to changes in AQP3 expression and thus AQP3 could be used as a biomarker for cryotolerance.ConclusionA greater capacity of AQP3 localization in mid- and principal piece of the spermatozoa could be linked to an increase the osmo-adaptative capacity of ejaculates with better capacity to withstand freeze-thawing processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belén Pequeño
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology, Spanish National Research Council (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cristina Castaño
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology, Spanish National Research Council (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Alvarez-Rodriguez
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology, Spanish National Research Council (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Paula Bóveda
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology, Spanish National Research Council (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - María Gemma Millán de la Blanca
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de Cuenca, Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Adolfo Toledano-Díaz
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology, Spanish National Research Council (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Diego Andres Galarza
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de Cuenca, Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Heriberto Rodriguez-Martinez
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences (BKV), Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Belén Martínez-Madrid
- Departamento de Medicina y Cirugía Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Julián Santiago-Moreno
- Department of Animal Reproduction, National Institute for Agriculture and Food Research and Technology, Spanish National Research Council (INIA-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Julián Santiago-Moreno
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Molecular Markers: A New Paradigm in the Prediction of Sperm Freezability. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043379. [PMID: 36834790 PMCID: PMC9960060 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
For decades now, sperm cryopreservation has been a pillar of assisted reproduction in animals as well as humans. Nevertheless, the success of cryopreservation varies across species, seasons, and latitudes and even within the same individual. With the dawn of progressive analytical techniques in the field of genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, new options for a more accurate semen quality assessment have become available. This review summarizes currently available information on specific molecular characteristics of spermatozoa that could predict their cryotolerance before the freezing process. Understanding the changes in sperm biology as a result of their exposure to low temperatures may contribute to the development and implementation of appropriate measures to assure high post-thaw sperm quality. Furthermore, an early prediction of cryotolerance or cryosensitivity may lead to the establishment of customized protocols interconnecting adequate sperm processing procedures, freezing techniques, and cryosupplements that are most feasible for the individual needs of the ejaculate.
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Zhang H, Yang B. Aquaporins in Reproductive System. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1398:179-194. [PMID: 36717494 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-7415-1_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
AQP0-12, a total of 13 aquaporins are expressed in the mammalian reproductive system. These aquaporins mediate the transport of water and small solutes across biofilms for maintaining reproductive tract water balance and germ cell water homeostasis. These aquaporins play important roles in the regulation of sperm and egg cell production, maturation, and fertilization processes. Impaired AQP function may lead to diminished male and female fertility. This review focuses on the distribution, function, and regulation of AQPs throughout the male and female reproductive organs and tracts. Their correlation with reproductive success, revealing recent advances in the physiological and pathophysiological roles of aquaporins in the reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Baoxue Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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O'Brien E, Malo C, Castaño C, García-Casado P, Toledano-Díaz A, Martínez-Madrid B, Rodriguez-Martinez H, Álvarez-Rodríguez M, Santiago-Moreno J. Sperm freezability is neither associated with the expression of aquaporin 3 nor sperm head dimensions in dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius). Theriogenology 2022; 189:230-236. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.06.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Relevance of Aquaporins for Gamete Function and Cryopreservation. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12050573. [PMID: 35268142 PMCID: PMC8909058 DOI: 10.3390/ani12050573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The interaction between cells and the extracellular medium is of great importance; changes in medium composition can drive water movement across plasma membranes. Aquaporins (AQPs) are membrane channels involved in the transport of water and some solutes across membranes. When sperm enter the female reproductive tract after ejaculation, they encounter a drastic change in extracellular composition, which leads to water flowing across the plasma membrane. This triggers a series of events that are crucial to allowing fertilization to take place, such as regulation of sperm motility. In the context of assisted reproduction techniques (ART), long-term storage of gametes is sometimes required, and, during cryopreservation, these cells undergo drastic changes in extracellular medium composition. As a result, AQPs are crucial in both sperm and oocytes during this process. Cryopreservation is of considerable importance for fertility preservation in livestock, endangered species and for individuals undergoing certain medical treatments that compromise their fertility. Further research to fully elucidate the roles and underlying mechanisms of AQPs in mammalian sperm is therefore warranted. Abstract The interaction between cells and the extracellular medium is of great importance, and drastic changes in extracellular solute concentrations drive water movement across the plasma membrane. Aquaporins (AQPs) are a family of transmembrane channels that allow the transport of water and small solutes across cell membranes. Different members of this family have been identified in gametes. In sperm, they are relevant to osmoadaptation after entering the female reproductive tract, which is crucial for sperm motility activation and capacitation and, thus, for their fertilizing ability. In addition, they are relevant during the cryopreservation process, since some members of this family are also permeable to glycerol, one of the most frequently used cryoprotective agents in livestock. Regarding oocytes, AQPs are very important in their maturation but also during cryopreservation. Further research to define the exact sets of AQPs that are present in oocytes from different species is needed, since the available literature envisages certain AQPs and their roles but does not provide complete information on the whole set of AQPs. This is of considerable importance because, in sperm, specific AQPs are known to compensate the role of non-functional members.
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Delgado-Bermúdez A, Recuero S, Llavanera M, Mateo-Otero Y, Sandu A, Barranco I, Ribas-Maynou J, Yeste M. Aquaporins Are Essential to Maintain Motility and Membrane Lipid Architecture During Mammalian Sperm Capacitation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:656438. [PMID: 34540822 PMCID: PMC8440886 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.656438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Aquaporins are a family of ubiquitous transmembrane proteins that allow the transport of water and small molecules across the cell plasma membrane. The different members of this family present a characteristic distribution across different cell types, which is species-specific. In mammalian sperm, different AQPs, including AQP3, AQP7, and AQP11, have been identified; their main roles are related to osmoadaptation and sperm motility activation after ejaculation. Capacitation, which is a post-ejaculatory process that sperm must undergo to achieve fertilizing ability, is triggered by pH changes and different extracellular ions that are present in the female reproductive tract. Considering the function of AQPs and their influence on pH through the regulation of water flow, this study aimed to elucidate the potential role of different AQPs during in vitro sperm capacitation using three different transition metal compounds as AQP inhibitors. Cooper sulfate, a specific inhibitor of AQP3, caused a drastic increase in peroxide intracellular levels compared to the control. Mercury chloride, an unspecific inhibitor of all AQPs except AQP7 produced an increase in membrane lipid disorder and led to a decrease in sperm motility and kinetics parameters. Finally, the addition of silver sulfadiazine, an unspecific inhibitor of all AQPs, generated the same effects than mercury chloride, decreased the intracellular pH and altered tyrosine phosphorylation levels after the induction of the acrosome reaction. In the light of the aforementioned, (a) the permeability of AQP3 to peroxides does not seem to be crucial for sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction; (b) AQPs have a key role in preserving sperm motility during that process; and (c) AQPs as a whole seem to contribute to the maintenance of lipid membrane architecture during capacitation and may be related to the intracellular signaling pathways involved in the acrosome reaction. Hence, further research aimed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the involvement of AQPs in mammalian sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariadna Delgado-Bermúdez
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Sandra Recuero
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Marc Llavanera
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Yentel Mateo-Otero
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Andra Sandu
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Isabel Barranco
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Jordi Ribas-Maynou
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain.,Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
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Pellavio G, Laforenza U. Human sperm functioning is related to the aquaporin-mediated water and hydrogen peroxide transport regulation. Biochimie 2021; 188:45-51. [PMID: 34087390 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Aquaporins (AQPs) are transmembrane water channels and some of them are permeable in addition to water to other small solutes including hydrogen peroxide. The sperm cells of mammals and fishes express different AQPs, although there is no agreement in the literature on their localization. In humans, AQP3 and AQP11 are expressed mainly in the tail, AQP7 in the head and AQP8 in the midpiece. Thanks to the results of experiments with KO mice and to data obtained by comparing sub-fertile patients with normospermic subjects, the importance of AQPs for the normal functioning of sperms to ensure normal fertility emerged. AQP3, AQP7 and AQP11 appeared involved in the sperm volume regulation, a key role for fertility because osmoadaptation protect the sperm against a swelling and tail bending that could affect sperm motility. AQP8 seems to have a fundamental role in regulating the elimination of hydrogen peroxide, the most abundant reactive oxygen species (ROS), and therefore in the response to oxidative stress. In this review, the human AQPs expression, their localization and functions, as well as their relevance in normal fertility are discussed. To understand better the AQPs role in human sperm functionality, the results of studies obtained in other animal species were also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Pellavio
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Human Physiology Unit, University of Pavia, Pavia, I-27100, Italy
| | - Umberto Laforenza
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Human Physiology Unit, University of Pavia, Pavia, I-27100, Italy.
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The Presence of Seminal Plasma during Liquid Storage of Pig Spermatozoa at 17 °C Modulates Their Ability to Elicit In Vitro Capacitation and Trigger Acrosomal Exocytosis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124520. [PMID: 32630462 PMCID: PMC7350249 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Although seminal plasma is essential to maintain sperm integrity and function, it is diluted/removed prior to liquid storage and cryopreservation in most mammalian species. This study sought to evaluate, using the pig as a model, whether storing semen in the presence of seminal plasma affects the sperm ability to elicit in vitro capacitation and acrosomal exocytosis. Upon collection, seminal plasma was separated from sperm samples, which were diluted in a commercial extender, added with seminal plasma (15% or 30%), and stored at 17 °C for 48 or 72 h. Sperm cells were subsequently exposed to capacitating medium for 4 h, and then added with progesterone to induce acrosomal exocytosis. Sperm motility, acrosome integrity, membrane lipid disorder, intracellular Ca2+ levels, mitochondrial activity, and tyrosine phosphorylation levels of glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK3)α/β were determined after 0, 2, and 4 h of incubation, and after 5, 30, and 60 min of progesterone addition. Results showed that storing sperm at 17 °C with 15% or 30% seminal plasma led to reduced percentages of viable spermatozoa exhibiting an exocytosed acrosome, mitochondrial membrane potential, intracellular Ca2+ levels stained by Fluo3, and tyrosine phosphorylation levels of GSK3α/β after in vitro capacitation and progesterone-induced acrosomal exocytosis. Therefore, the direct contact between spermatozoa and seminal plasma during liquid storage at 17 °C modulated their ability to elicit in vitro capacitation and undergo acrosomal exocytosis, via signal transduction pathways involving Ca2+ and Tyr phosphorylation of GSK3α/β. Further research is required to address whether such a modulating effect has any impact upon sperm fertilizing ability.
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9
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Effect of AQP Inhibition on Boar Sperm Cryotolerance Depends on the Intrinsic Freezability of the Ejaculate. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20246255. [PMID: 31835821 PMCID: PMC6940875 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20246255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Aquaporins (AQPs) are transmembrane channels with permeability to water and small solutes that can be classified according to their structure and permeability into orthodox AQPs, aquaglyceroporins (GLPs), and superAQPs. In boar spermatozoa, AQPs are related to osmoregulation and play a critical role in maturation and motility activation. In addition, their levels differ between ejaculates with good and poor cryotolerance (GFE and PFE, respectively). The aim of this work was to elucidate whether the involvement of AQPs in the sperm response to cryopreservation relies on the intrinsic freezability of the ejaculate. With this purpose, two different molecules: phloretin (PHL) and 1,3-propanediol (PDO), were used to inhibit sperm AQPs in GFE and PFE. Boar sperm samples were treated with three different concentrations of each inhibitor prior to cryopreservation, and sperm quality and functionality parameters were evaluated in fresh samples and after 30 and 240 min of thawing. Ejaculates were classified as GFE or PFE, according to their post-thaw sperm viability and motility. While the presence of PHL caused a decrease in sperm quality and function compared to the control, samples treated with PDO exhibited better quality and function parameters than the control. In addition, the effects of both inhibitors were more apparent in GFE than in PFE. In conclusion, AQP inhibition has more notable consequences in GFE than in PFE, which can be related to the difference in relative levels of AQPs between these two groups of samples.
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Delgado-Bermúdez A, Noto F, Bonilla-Correal S, Garcia-Bonavila E, Catalán J, Papas M, Bonet S, Miró J, Yeste M. Cryotolerance of Stallion Spermatozoa Relies on Aquaglyceroporins rather than Orthodox Aquaporins. BIOLOGY 2019; 8:biology8040085. [PMID: 31726707 PMCID: PMC6955868 DOI: 10.3390/biology8040085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Aquaporins (AQPs), a family of ubiquitous water channels divided into orthodox AQPs, aquaglyceroporins (GLPs), and superAQPs, are present in stallion spermatozoa. The aim of this study was to elucidate the functional relevance of each group of AQPs during stallion sperm cryopreservation through the use of three different inhibitors: acetazolamide (AC), phloretin (PHL) and propanediol (PDO). Sperm quality and function parameters were evaluated in the presence or absence of each inhibitor in fresh and frozen–thawed samples. In the presence of AC, different parameters were altered (p < 0.05), but not in a concentration- or time-depending manner. PHL was found to decrease sperm motility, viability, acrosome integrity, and the percentages of spermatozoa with low membrane lipid disorder, high mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and high intracellular levels of calcium and superoxides (p < 0.05). Finally, the sperm motility, viability, acrosome integrity, the percentages of spermatozoa with low membrane lipid disorder, high MMP and high intracellular calcium levels were higher (p < 0.05) in PDO treatments than in the control. The sperm response to AC, PHL and PDO indicates that GLPs, rather than orthodox AQPs, play a crucial role during stallion sperm cryopreservation. Furthermore, post-thaw sperm quality was higher in PDO treatments than in the control, suggesting that this molecule is a potential permeable cryoprotectant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariadna Delgado-Bermúdez
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain; (A.D.-B.); (F.N.); (E.G.-B.); (S.B.)
| | - Federico Noto
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain; (A.D.-B.); (F.N.); (E.G.-B.); (S.B.)
| | - Sebastián Bonilla-Correal
- Equine Reproduction Service, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Spain; (S.B.-C.); (J.C.); (M.P.); (J.M.)
| | - Estela Garcia-Bonavila
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain; (A.D.-B.); (F.N.); (E.G.-B.); (S.B.)
| | - Jaime Catalán
- Equine Reproduction Service, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Spain; (S.B.-C.); (J.C.); (M.P.); (J.M.)
| | - Marion Papas
- Equine Reproduction Service, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Spain; (S.B.-C.); (J.C.); (M.P.); (J.M.)
| | - Sergi Bonet
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain; (A.D.-B.); (F.N.); (E.G.-B.); (S.B.)
| | - Jordi Miró
- Equine Reproduction Service, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès), Spain; (S.B.-C.); (J.C.); (M.P.); (J.M.)
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, 17003 Girona, Spain; (A.D.-B.); (F.N.); (E.G.-B.); (S.B.)
- Correspondence:
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Delgado-Bermúdez A, Llavanera M, Fernández-Bastit L, Recuero S, Mateo-Otero Y, Bonet S, Barranco I, Fernández-Fuertes B, Yeste M. Aquaglyceroporins but not orthodox aquaporins are involved in the cryotolerance of pig spermatozoa. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2019; 10:77. [PMID: 31636902 PMCID: PMC6791021 DOI: 10.1186/s40104-019-0388-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Aquaporins (AQPs) are a family of transmembrane water channels that includes orthodox AQPs, aquaglyceroporins (GLPs) and superAQPs. AQP3, AQP7, AQP9 and AQP11 have been identified in boar sperm, and they are crucial for sperm maturation and osmoregulation. Water exchange is an important event in cryopreservation, which is the most efficient method for long-term storage of sperm. However, the freeze-thaw process leads to sperm damage and a loss of fertilizing potential. Assuming that the quality of frozen-thawed sperm partially depends on the regulation of osmolality variations during this process, AQPs might play a crucial role in boar semen freezability. In this context, the aim of this study was to unravel the functional relevance of the different groups of AQPs for boar sperm cryotolerance through three different inhibitors. Results Inhibition of different groups of AQPs was found to have different effects on boar sperm cryotolerance. Whereas the use of 1,3-propanediol (PDO), an inhibitor of orthodox AQPs and GLPs, decreased total motility (P < 0.05), it increased post-thaw sperm viability, lowered membrane lipid disorder and increased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) (P < 0.05). When acetazolamide (AC) was used as an inhibitor of orthodox AQPs, the effects on post-thaw sperm quality were restricted to a mild increase in MMP in the presence of the intermediate concentration at 30 min post-thaw and an increase in superoxide levels (P < 0.05). Finally, the addition of phloretin (PHL), a GLP inhibitor, had detrimental effects on post-thaw total and progressive sperm motilities, viability and lipid membrane disorder (P < 0.05). Conclusions The effects of the different inhibitors suggest that GLPs rather than orthodox AQPs are relevant for boar sperm freezability. Moreover, the positive effect of PDO on sperm quality suggests a cryoprotective role for this molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariadna Delgado-Bermúdez
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Campany, 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Marc Llavanera
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Campany, 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Leira Fernández-Bastit
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Campany, 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Sandra Recuero
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Campany, 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Yentel Mateo-Otero
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Campany, 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Sergi Bonet
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Campany, 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Isabel Barranco
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Campany, 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Beatriz Fernández-Fuertes
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Campany, 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Campany, 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17003 Girona, Spain
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12
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Morató R, Prieto-Martínez N, Muiño R, Hidalgo CO, Rodríguez-Gil JE, Bonet S, Yeste M. Aquaporin 11 is related to cryotolerance and fertilising ability of frozen-thawed bull spermatozoa. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 30:1099-1108. [PMID: 29365310 DOI: 10.1071/rd17340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aquaporins (AQPs) are channel proteins involved in the transport of water and solutes across biological membranes. In the present study we identified and localised aquaporin 11 (AQP11) in bull spermatozoa and investigated the relationship between the relative AQP11 content, sperm cryotolerance and the fertilising ability of frozen-thawed semen. Bull ejaculates were classified into two groups of good and poor freezability and assessed through immunofluorescence and immunoblotting analyses before and after cryopreservation. AQP11 was localised throughout the entire tail and along the sperm head. These findings were confirmed through immunoblotting, which showed a specific band of approximately 50 kDa corresponding to AQP11. The relative amount of AQP11 was significantly (P<0.05) higher in both fresh and frozen-thawed spermatozoa from bull ejaculates with good freezability compared with those with poorer freezability. In addition, in vitro oocyte penetration rates and non-return rates 56 days after AI were correlated with the relative AQP11 content in fresh spermatozoa. In conclusion, AQP11 is present in the head and tail of bull spermatozoa and its relative amount in fresh and frozen-thawed spermatozoa is related to the resilience of the spermatozoa to withstand cryopreservation and the fertilising ability of frozen-thawed spermatozoa. Further research is needed to elucidate the actual role of sperm AQP11 in bovine fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roser Morató
- Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Campany 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17071 Girona, Spain
| | - Noelia Prieto-Martínez
- Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Campany 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17071 Girona, Spain
| | - Rodrigo Muiño
- Department of Animal Pathology, Avda. Carballo Calero s/n, University of Santiago de Compostela, E-15705 Lugo, Spain
| | - Carlos O Hidalgo
- Department of Animal Selection and Reproduction, The Regional Agri-Food Research and Development Service of Asturias (SERIDA), Camino de Rioseco 1225, La Olla, Deva, E-33394 Gijón, Spain
| | - Joan E Rodríguez-Gil
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Building V, Campus Bellaterra s/n, E-08193 Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain
| | - Sergi Bonet
- Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Campany 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17071 Girona, Spain
| | - Marc Yeste
- Department of Biology, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, C/Maria Aurèlia Campany 69, Campus Montilivi, E-17071 Girona, Spain
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13
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Fujii T, Hirayama H, Fukuda S, Kageyama S, Naito A, Yoshino H, Moriyasu S, Yamazaki T, Sakamoto K, Hayakawa H, Takahashi K, Takahashi Y, Sawai K. Expression and localization of aquaporins 3 and 7 in bull spermatozoa and their relevance to sperm motility after cryopreservation. J Reprod Dev 2018; 64:327-335. [PMID: 29798965 PMCID: PMC6105742 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2017-166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial insemination with cryopreserved semen is a well-developed technique commonly used for controlled reproduction in cattle. However, despite current technical advances,
cryopreservation continues to damage bull spermatozoa, resulting in a loss of approximately 30 to 50% of viable spermatozoa post thawing. To further improve the efficiency of
cryopreservation of bull spermatozoa, understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the cryobiological properties that affect cryoinjuries during cryopreservation process of bull
spermatozoa is required. In this study, we examined the expression and localization of aquaporin (AQP) 3 and AQP7 in fresh, cooled, and frozen-thawed bull spermatozoa. Furthermore, we
investigated the relevance of AQP3 and AQP7 to motility and to membrane integrity in frozen-thawed bull spermatozoa. Western blotting against AQP3 and AQP7 in bull spermatozoa revealed bands
with molecular weights of approximately 42 kDa and 53 kDa, respectively. In immunocytochemistry analyses, immunostaining of AQP3 was clearly observed in the principal piece of the sperm
tail. Two immunostaining patterns were observed for AQP7 ―pattern 1: diffuse staining in head and entire tail, and pattern 2: diffuse staining in head and clear staining in mid-piece.
Cooling and freeze-thawing did not affect the localization pattern of AQP7 and the relative abundances of AQP3 and AQP7 evaluated by Western blotting. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the
relative abundances of AQP3 and AQP7 varied among ejaculates, and they were positively related to sperm motility, particularly sperm velocity, post freeze-thawing. Our findings suggest that
AQP3 and AQP7 are possibly involved in the tolerance to freeze-thawing in bull spermatozoa, particularly in the sperm’s tail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Fujii
- Animal Biotechnology Group, Animal Research Center, Hokkaido Research Organization, Hokkaido 081-0038, Japan.,United Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Iwate University, Iwate 020-8550, Japan
| | - Hiroki Hirayama
- Animal Biotechnology Group, Animal Research Center, Hokkaido Research Organization, Hokkaido 081-0038, Japan.,Department of Bioproduction, Faculty of Bioindustry, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Hokkaido 099-2493, Japan
| | - Shigeo Fukuda
- Animal Biotechnology Group, Animal Research Center, Hokkaido Research Organization, Hokkaido 081-0038, Japan
| | - Soichi Kageyama
- Animal Biotechnology Group, Animal Research Center, Hokkaido Research Organization, Hokkaido 081-0038, Japan
| | - Akira Naito
- Animal Biotechnology Group, Animal Research Center, Hokkaido Research Organization, Hokkaido 081-0038, Japan
| | - Hitomi Yoshino
- Animal Biotechnology Group, Animal Research Center, Hokkaido Research Organization, Hokkaido 081-0038, Japan
| | - Satoru Moriyasu
- Animal Biotechnology Group, Animal Research Center, Hokkaido Research Organization, Hokkaido 081-0038, Japan
| | | | - Kozo Sakamoto
- Genetics Hokkaido Association, Hokkaido 089-0103, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Ken Sawai
- United Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Iwate University, Iwate 020-8550, Japan
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14
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Feugang JM, Liao SF, Willard ST, Ryan PL. In-depth proteomic analysis of boar spermatozoa through shotgun and gel-based methods. BMC Genomics 2018; 19:62. [PMID: 29347914 PMCID: PMC5774113 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-018-4442-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mature spermatozoa contain numerous epididymal and seminal plasma proteins, which full identification through high-throughput technologies may allow for a better understanding of the sperm biology. Therefore, we conducted a global proteomic analysis of boar spermatozoa through shotgun and gel-based methodologies. Results The total proteins were extracted from mature spermatozoa and subjecsted to proteome analyses. Functional analyses of gene ontology representations and pathway enrichments were conducted on the shotgun dataset, followed by immunology and gene expression validations. Shotgun and gel-based approaches allowed the detection of 2728 proteins and 2123 spots, respectively. Approximately 38% and 59% of total proteins were respectively fully and partially annotated, and 3% were unknown. Gene ontology analysis indicated high proportions of proteins associated with intracellular and cytoplasm localizations, protein and nucleic acid binding, hydrolase and transferase activities, and cellular, metabolic, and regulation of biological processes. Proteins associated with phosphorylation processes and mitochondrial membranes, nucleic acid binding, and phosphate and phosphorous metabolics represented 77% of the dataset. Pathways associated with oxidative phosphorylation, citrate cycle, and extra-cellular matrix-receptor interaction were significantly enriched. Protein complex, intracellular organelle, cytoskeletal parts, fertilization and reproduction, and gap junction pathway were significantly enriched within the top 116 highly abundant proteins. Nine randomly selected protein candidates were confirmed with gel-based identification, immunofluorescence detection, and mRNA expression. Conclusions This study offers an in-depth proteomic mapping of mature boar spermatozoa that will enable comparative and discovery research for the improvement of male fertility. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-018-4442-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean M Feugang
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA.
| | - Shengfa F Liao
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA
| | - Scott T Willard
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA.,Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Entomology and Plant Pathology, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA
| | - Peter L Ryan
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA.,Department of Pathobiology and Population Medicine, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA
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15
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Yeste M, Morató R, Rodríguez-Gil JE, Bonet S, Prieto-Martínez N. Aquaporins in the male reproductive tract and sperm: Functional implications and cryobiology. Reprod Domest Anim 2017; 52 Suppl 4:12-27. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.13082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Unit of Cell Biology; Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; Faculty of Sciences; University of Girona; Girona Spain
| | - R Morató
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Unit of Cell Biology; Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; Faculty of Sciences; University of Girona; Girona Spain
- Unit of Animal Reproduction; Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Autonomous University of Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
| | - JE Rodríguez-Gil
- Unit of Animal Reproduction; Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Autonomous University of Barcelona; Bellaterra (Cerdanyola del Vallès) Barcelona Spain
| | - S Bonet
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Unit of Cell Biology; Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; Faculty of Sciences; University of Girona; Girona Spain
| | - N Prieto-Martínez
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Unit of Cell Biology; Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; Faculty of Sciences; University of Girona; Girona Spain
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16
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Prieto-Martínez N, Vilagran I, Morató R, Rivera del Álamo MM, Rodríguez-Gil JE, Bonet S, Yeste M. Relationship of aquaporins 3 (AQP3), 7 (AQP7), and 11 (AQP11) with boar sperm resilience to withstand freeze-thawing procedures. Andrology 2017; 5:1153-1164. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Revised: 05/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- N. Prieto-Martínez
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; University of Girona; Girona Spain
| | - I. Vilagran
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; University of Girona; Girona Spain
| | - R. Morató
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; University of Girona; Girona Spain
| | - M. M. Rivera del Álamo
- Unit of Animal Reproduction; Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Autonomous University of Barcelona; Bellaterra (Barcelona) Spain
| | - J. E. Rodríguez-Gil
- Unit of Animal Reproduction; Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Autonomous University of Barcelona; Bellaterra (Barcelona) Spain
| | - S. Bonet
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; University of Girona; Girona Spain
| | - M. Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm); Department of Biology; Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology; University of Girona; Girona Spain
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