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Sutovsky P, Hamilton LE, Zigo M, Ortiz D’Avila Assumpção ME, Jones A, Tirpak F, Agca Y, Kerns K, Sutovsky M. Biomarker-based human and animal sperm phenotyping: the good, the bad and the ugly†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:1135-1156. [PMID: 38640912 PMCID: PMC11180624 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Conventional, brightfield-microscopic semen analysis provides important baseline information about sperm quality of an individual; however, it falls short of identifying subtle subcellular and molecular defects in cohorts of "bad," defective human and animal spermatozoa with seemingly normal phenotypes. To bridge this gap, it is desirable to increase the precision of andrological evaluation in humans and livestock animals by pursuing advanced biomarker-based imaging methods. This review, spiced up with occasional classic movie references but seriously scholastic at the same time, focuses mainly on the biomarkers of altered male germ cell proteostasis resulting in post-testicular carryovers of proteins associated with ubiquitin-proteasome system. Also addressed are sperm redox homeostasis, epididymal sperm maturation, sperm-seminal plasma interactions, and sperm surface glycosylation. Zinc ion homeostasis-associated biomarkers and sperm-borne components, including the elements of neurodegenerative pathways such as Huntington and Alzheimer disease, are discussed. Such spectrum of biomarkers, imaged by highly specific vital fluorescent molecular probes, lectins, and antibodies, reveals both obvious and subtle defects of sperm chromatin, deoxyribonucleic acid, and accessory structures of the sperm head and tail. Introduction of next-generation image-based flow cytometry into research and clinical andrology will soon enable the incorporation of machine and deep learning algorithms with the end point of developing simple, label-free methods for clinical diagnostics and high-throughput phenotyping of spermatozoa in humans and economically important livestock animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
| | - Lauren E Hamilton
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
| | - Michal Zigo
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
| | - Mayra E Ortiz D’Avila Assumpção
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Alexis Jones
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
| | - Filip Tirpak
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
| | - Yuksel Agca
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Karl Kerns
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Miriam Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia MO, USA
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2
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Zhuang J, Li X, Yao J, Sun X, Liu J, Nie H, Hu Y, Tu X, Liu H, Qin W, Xie Y. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals the local cell landscape in mouse epididymal initial segment during aging. Immun Ageing 2023; 20:21. [PMID: 37170325 PMCID: PMC10173474 DOI: 10.1186/s12979-023-00345-9] [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: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Morphological and functional alterations in aging reproductive organs result in decreased male fertility. The epididymis functions as the transition region for post-testicular sperm maturation. And we have previously demonstrated that the epididymal initial segment (IS), a region of the reproductive tract essential for sperm maturation and capacitation, undergoes considerable histological changes and chronic immune activation in mice during aging. However, the local aging-associated cellular and molecular changes in the aged epididymal IS are poorly understood. RESULTS We conducted single-cell RNA sequencing analysis on the epididymal IS of young (3-month-old) and old (21-month-old) mice. In total, 10,027 cells from the epididymal IS tissues of young and old mice were obtained and annotated. The cell composition, including the expansion of a principal cell subtype and Ms4a4bHiMs4a6bHi T cells, changed with age. Aged principal cells displayed multiple functional gene expression changes associated with acrosome reaction and sperm maturation, suggesting an asynchronous process of sperm activation and maturation during epididymal transit. Meanwhile, aging-related altered pathways in immune cells, especially the "cell chemotaxis" in Cx3cr1Hi epididymal dendritic cells (eDCs), were identified. The monocyte-specific expression of chemokine Ccl8 increased with age in eDCs. And the aged epididymal IS showed increased inflammatory cell infiltration and cytokine secretion. Furthermore, cell-cell communication analysis indicated that age increased inflammatory signaling in the epididymal IS. CONCLUSION Contrary to the general pattern of lower immune responses in the male proximal genital tract, we revealed an inflammaging status in mouse epididymal initial segment. These findings will allow future studies to enable the delay of male reproductive aging via immune regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jintao Zhuang
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Xiangping Li
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Jiahui Yao
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Xiangzhou Sun
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Jiumin Liu
- Department of Urology, Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Hua Nie
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute, Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital, Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510600, China
| | - Yang Hu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute, Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital, Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510600, China
| | - Xiangan Tu
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Huang Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute, Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital, Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510600, China.
| | - Weibing Qin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Male Reproduction and Genetics, Guangdong Provincial Reproductive Science Institute, Guangdong Provincial Fertility Hospital, Human Sperm Bank of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, 510600, China.
| | - Yun Xie
- Department of Urology and Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510080, China.
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3
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Nagdas SK, Wallace S, Eaford D, Baker R, Carr K, Raychoudhuri SS. Fibrinogen-related protein, FGL2, of hamster cauda epididymal fluid: Purification, kinetic analysis of its prothrombinase activity, and its role in segregation of nonviable spermatozoa. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:1206-1218. [PMID: 33216420 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Although the epididymal environment promotes the maturation and survival of spermatozoa, not all spermatozoa remain viable during passage through the epididymis. Does the epididymis has a protective mechanism(s) to segregate the viable sperm from defective spermatozoa? Previously, we identified 260/280 kDa oligomers (termed eFGL-Epididymal Fibrinogen-Like oligomer) are composed of two disulfide-linked subunits: a 64 kDa polypeptide identified as fibrinogen-like protein-2 (FGL2) and a 33 kDa polypeptide identified as fibrinogen-like protein-1 (FGL1). Our morphological studies demonstrated that the eFGL, secreted from the principal cells of the cauda epididymis, is polymerized into a death cocoon-like complex (DCF), masking defective luminal spermatozoa but, not the viable sperm population. In the present study, we purified FGL2 from hamster cauda epididymal fluid toward homogeneity and its prothrombinase catalytic activity was examined. Time-course conversion studies revealed that all prothrombin was converted to thrombin by purified hamster FGL2. Our biochemical studies demonstrate that FGL2 is a lipid-activated serine protease and functions as a lectin by binding specific carbohydrate residues. Co-immunoprecipitation analysis demonstrated that FGL2 of cauda epididymal fluid is ubiquitinated but not the FGL1. We propose that FGL2/FGL1 oligomers represent a novel and unique mechanism to shield the viable sperm population from degenerating spermatozoa contained within the tubule lumen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subir K Nagdas
- Department of Chemistry, Physics & Materials Science, Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville, North Carolina, USA
| | - Shamar Wallace
- Department of Chemistry, Physics & Materials Science, Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville, North Carolina, USA
| | - Don Eaford
- Department of Chemistry, Physics & Materials Science, Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rashad Baker
- Department of Chemistry, Physics & Materials Science, Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ky'ara Carr
- Department of Chemistry, Physics & Materials Science, Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville, North Carolina, USA
| | - Samir S Raychoudhuri
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Health Science, Benedict College, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
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4
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Faisal K, Akbarsha MA. Role of aposomes and epididymosomes in sperm quality control: A light and transmission electron microscopic study in an experimental rat model. Andrologia 2020; 53:e13862. [PMID: 33108830 DOI: 10.1111/and.13862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The epididymis responds to adverse conditions of misshapen spermatozoa resulting from pathological changes or toxic insults by secretion of a dense matrix that segregates the latter for complete disintegration and dissolution. The objective of this study was to find the source of this matrix and the role-player of disintegration and dissolution of misshapen spermatozoa. We chose Wistar strain male rat model to tackle this issue, and the rats were administered with aflatoxin B1 for 55 days so as to increase the incidence of misshapen spermatozoa. At the end of the treatment, different segments of epididymis were processed for microscopic observations. We found that parallel with abundant misshapen spermatozoa in the epididymis the principal cells of the initial segment secrete enormous membrane-bound apical blebs called aposomes, which contain epididymosomes. The aposomes were found to coalesce so as for the content to merge and form a dense matrix that entangles the misshapen spermatozoa and segregates them from viable spermatozoa. The epididymosomes associate with the misshapen spermatozoa, and the latter is processed to disintegration and total dissolution. Therefore, we assign the role of segregation of misshapen spermatozoa from viable ones to the dense matrix of aposomes and their disintegration and dissolution to the epididymosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunnathodi Faisal
- Department of Animal Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, India
| | - Mohammad Abdulkader Akbarsha
- Department of Animal Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, India.,Department of Biotechnology, National College (Autonomous), Tiruchirappalli, India
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5
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Tamessar CT, Trigg NA, Nixon B, Skerrett-Byrne DA, Sharkey DJ, Robertson SA, Bromfield EG, Schjenken JE. Roles of male reproductive tract extracellular vesicles in reproduction. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 85:e13338. [PMID: 32885533 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are secreted cell-derived membrane structures present in all organisms across animal, bacterial, and plant phyla. These vesicles play important roles in cell-cell communication in many processes integral to health and disease. Recent studies demonstrate that EVs and their cargo have influential and conserved roles in male reproduction. While EVs have been isolated from virtually all specialized tissues comprising the male reproductive tract, they are best characterized in the epididymis (epididymosomes) and seminal fluid (seminal fluid extracellular vesicles or prostasomes). Broadly speaking, EVs promote reproductive success through supporting sperm development and function, as well as influencing the physiology of female reproductive tract cells after mating. In this review, we present current knowledge on the composition and function of male reproductive tract EV populations in both normal physiology and pathology, and argue that their functions identify them as critical regulators of fertility and fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cottrell T Tamessar
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Natalie A Trigg
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - David A Skerrett-Byrne
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - David J Sharkey
- The Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- The Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.,Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - John E Schjenken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, The University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, NSW, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia.,The Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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6
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Elesawy FM, Abdel Hafeez NA, Abdelsalam OH, Akl EM. Soluble Fibrinogen-like protein 2 plays a role in varicocele induced male infertility. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13626. [PMID: 32350910 DOI: 10.1111/and.13626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Varicocele is the most common cause of male infertility. Several theories have been proposed to explain how varicocele induces infertility. The role of epididymis in male infertility is not fully well established. Fibrinogen-like protein 2 is one of serine proteases and is a potent coagulant in membranous form and immune-modulator in soluble form (sFGL-2) and expressed in the epididymis. There are no previous reports about its possible role in varicocele. This case-controlled study aimed to evaluate the seminal level of sFGL-2 in infertile men with varicocele and in men with idiopathic infertility. This study included 85 participants divided into three groups; 25 normal fertile men, 30 infertile men with varicocele and 30 infertile men of idiopathic cause. Clinical examination, Doppler ultrasound, semen analysis and measurement of seminal level of sFGL-2 were done to all participants. Seminal level of sFGL-2 was significantly elevated in infertile than normal fertile men. Seminal level of sFGL-2 showed negative correlations with sperm concentration, motility and normal morphology. Seminal level of sFGL-2 had a positive correlation with seminal liquefaction time. This study concluded that seminal level of sFGL-2 is increased in infertile men with idiopathic cause and with varicocele induced infertility and affects seminal liquefaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma M Elesawy
- Department of Dermatology & Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Neveen A Abdel Hafeez
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Osama H Abdelsalam
- Department of Dermatology & Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
| | - Essam M Akl
- Department of Dermatology & Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University, Benha, Egypt
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7
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Liu XG, Liu Y, Chen F. Soluble fibrinogen like protein 2 (sFGL2), the novel effector molecule for immunoregulation. Oncotarget 2018; 8:3711-3723. [PMID: 27732962 PMCID: PMC5356913 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.12533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 09/29/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Soluble fibrinogen-like protein 2 (sFGL2) is the soluble form of fibrinogen-like protein 2 belonging to the fibrinogen-related protein superfamily. It is now well characterized that sFGL2 is mainly secreted by regulatory T cell (Treg) populations, and exerts potently immunosuppressive activities. By repressing not only the differentiation and proliferation of T cells but also the maturation of dendritic cells (DCs), sFGL2 acts largely as an immunosuppressant. Moreover, sFGL2 also induces apoptosis of B cells, tubular epithelial cells (TECs), sinusoidal endothelial cells (SECs), and hepatocytes. This mini-review focuses primarily on the recent literature with respect to the signaling mechanism of sFGL2 in immunomodulation, and discusses the clinical implications of sFGL2 in transplantation, hepatitis, autoimmunity, and tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Guang Liu
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, P. R. China
| | - Yu Liu
- School of Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Qilu University of Technology, Jinan, P. R. China
| | - Feng Chen
- Department of Hematology, Qilu Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, P. R. China.,Capital Medical University Cancer Center, Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Beijing Key Laboratory for Therapeutic Cancer Vaccines, Beijing, China
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8
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Nagdas SK, Winfrey VP, Olson GE. Two fibrinogen-like proteins, FGL1 and FGL2 are disulfide-linked subunits of oligomers that specifically bind nonviable spermatozoa. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2016; 80:163-172. [PMID: 27732889 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2016.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 10/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Nevertheless, a nonviable sperm population is present in the cauda epididymidis of many species. Degenerating spermatozoa release enzymes that could have detrimental effects on the viability of neighboring cells, and they are source of autoantigens that induce an autoimmune response if they escape the blood-epididymis barrier. Does the epididymis have specialized protective mechanism(s) to segregate the viable sperm population from defective spermatozoa? Previously, we identified a fibrinogen-like protein-2 (fgl2) that specifically binds to and polymerizes into a cocoon-like complex coating defective spermatozoa and sperm fragments. The objective of the present study is to identify the subunit composition of the fgl2-containing oligomers both in the soluble and cocoon-like complex. Our proteomic studies indicate that the 260/280kDa oligomers (termed eFGL) contain two distinct disulfide-linked subunits; 64kDa fgl2 and 33kDa fgl1. Utilizing a PCR-based cloning strategy, the 33kDa polypeptide has been identified as fibrinogen-like protein-1 (fgl1). Immunocytochemical studies revealed that fgl1 selectively binds to defective spermatozoa in the cauda epididymidis. Northern blot analysis and in situ hybridization demonstrated the high expression of fgl1 in the principal cells of the proximal cauda epididymidis. Co-immunoprecipitation analyses of cauda epididymal fluid, using anti-fgl2, demonstrate that both fgl1 and fgl2 are present in the soluble eFGL. Our study is the first to show an association of fgl1 and fgl2 both in the soluble and in the sperm-associated eFGL. We conclude that our results provide new insights into the mechanisms by which the potentially unique epididymal protein functions in the recognition and elimination of defective spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subir K Nagdas
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville, NC, 28301, United States; Department of Cell Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States.
| | - Virginia P Winfrey
- Department of Cell Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Gary E Olson
- Department of Cell Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, United States
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Sutovsky P. New Approaches to Boar Semen Evaluation, Processing and Improvement. Reprod Domest Anim 2016; 50 Suppl 2:11-9. [PMID: 26174914 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Accepted: 05/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The improvement of boar reproductive performance may be the next frontier in reproductive management of swine herd in Unites States, facilitated by better understanding of boar sperm function and by the introduction of new advanced instrumentation in the andrology field. Objective single ejaculate evaluation and individual boar fertility prediction may be possible by introducing automated flow cytometric semen analysis with vital stains (e.g. acrosomal integrity and mito-potential), DNA fragmentation analysis and biomarkers (ubiquitin, PAWP, ALOX15, aggresome) associated with normal or defective sperm phenotypes. Measurement of sperm-produced reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a helpful indicator of normal semen sample. Semen ROS levels could be managed by the addition of ROS-scavenging antioxidants. Alternative energy regeneration substrates and sperm stimulants such as inorganic pyrophosphate and caffeine could increase sperm lifespan in extended semen and within the female reproductive system. Such technology could be combined with timed sperm release in the female reproductive system after artificial insemination. Sperm phenotype analysis by the image-based flow cytometry will go hand in hand with the advancement of swine genomics, linking aberrant sperm phenotype to the fertility influencing gene polymorphisms. Finally, poor-quality ejaculates could be rescued and acceptable ejaculates improved by semen purification methods such as the nanoparticle-based semen purification and magnetic-activated sperm sorting. Altogether, these scientific and technological advances could benefit swine industry, provided that the challenges of new technology adoption, dissemination and cost reduction are met.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Sutovsky
- Division of Animal Science, Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
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10
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D'Amours O, Frenette G, Caron P, Belleannée C, Guillemette C, Sullivan R. Evidences of Biological Functions of Biliverdin Reductase A in the Bovine Epididymis. J Cell Physiol 2015; 231:1077-89. [PMID: 26395865 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.25200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2015] [Accepted: 09/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Epididymal sperm binding protein 1 (ELSPBP1) is secreted by the epididymal epithelium via epididymosomes and is specifically transferred to dead spermatozoa during epididymal transit. We identified biliverdin reductase A (BLVRA) as a partner of ELSPBP1 by immunoprecipitation followed by tandem mass spectrometry. Pull down assays showed that these two proteins interact in the presence of zinc ions. The BLVRA enzyme is known to convert biliverdin to bilirubin, both of which possess antioxidant activity. Assessment by real-time RT-PCR showed that BLVRA is highly expressed in the caput and the corpus epididymis, but is expressed at lower levels in the testis and the cauda epididymis. It is primarily found in the soluble fraction of the caput epididymal fluid, is barely detectable in the cauda fluid, and is detectable to a lesser extent in the epididymosome fraction of both caput and cauda fluids. Immunocytometry on epididymal sperm showed that BLVRA is found on all sperm recovered from the caput region, whereas it is undetectable on cauda sperm. Biliverdin and bilirubin are found in higher concentrations in the caput epididymal fluid, as measured by mass spectrometry. Lipid peroxidation was limited by 1 μM of biliverdin, but not bilirubin when caput spermatozoa were challenged with 500 μM H2O2. Since immature spermatozoa are a source of reactive oxygen species, BLVRA may be involved in the protection of maturing spermatozoa. It is also plausible that BLVRA is implicated in haemic protein catabolism in the epididymal luminal environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier D'Amours
- Département d'obstétrique, gynécologie et reproduction, Faculté de Médecine, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Gilles Frenette
- Département d'obstétrique, gynécologie et reproduction, Faculté de Médecine, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Patrick Caron
- Laboratoire de pharmacogénomique, Faculté de Pharmacie, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Clémence Belleannée
- Département d'obstétrique, gynécologie et reproduction, Faculté de Médecine, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Chantal Guillemette
- Laboratoire de pharmacogénomique, Faculté de Pharmacie, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Robert Sullivan
- Département d'obstétrique, gynécologie et reproduction, Faculté de Médecine, Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
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Chruscinski A, Sadozai H, Rojas-Luengas V, Bartczak A, Khattar R, Selzner N, Levy GA. Role of Regulatory T Cells (Treg) and the Treg Effector Molecule Fibrinogen-like Protein 2 in Alloimmunity and Autoimmunity. Rambam Maimonides Med J 2015; 6:RMMJ.10209. [PMID: 26241231 PMCID: PMC4524397 DOI: 10.5041/rmmj.10209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) regulatory T cells (Treg) are critical to the maintenance of immune tolerance. Treg are known to utilize a number of molecular pathways to control immune responses and maintain immune homeostasis. Fibrinogen-like protein 2 (FGL2) has been identified by a number of investigators as an important immunosuppressive effector of Treg, which exerts its immunoregulatory activity by binding to inhibitory FcγRIIB receptors expressed on antigen-presenting cells including dendritic cells, endothelial cells, and B cells. More recently, it has been suggested that FGL2 accounts for the immunosuppressive activity of a highly suppressive subset of Treg that express T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains (TIGIT). Here we discuss the important role of Treg and FGL2 in preventing alloimmune and autoimmune disease. The FGL2-FcγRIIB pathway is also known to be utilized by viruses and tumor cells to evade immune surveillance. Moving forward, therapies based on modulation of the FGL2-FcγRIIB pathway hold promise for the treatment of a wide variety of conditions ranging from autoimmunity to cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Gary A. Levy
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
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12
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Odhiambo JF, DeJarnette J, Geary TW, Kennedy CE, Suarez SS, Sutovsky M, Sutovsky P. Increased Conception Rates in Beef Cattle Inseminated with Nanopurified Bull Semen1. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:97. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.121897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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The role of soluble fibrinogen-like protein 2 in transplantation: protection or damage. Transplantation 2014; 97:1201-6. [PMID: 24717224 DOI: 10.1097/tp.0000000000000116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Soluble fibrinogen-like protein 2 (sFGL2) is the soluble form of fibrinogen like protein 2. As a novel immunoregulatory molecule, sFGL2 is secreted mainly by T cells, especially regulatory T cells, and exerts an immunoregulatory property rather than a prothrombinase function in the immune system. sFGL2 changes not only the proliferation and differentiation of T cells but also the maturation of antigen presenting cells. Besides its innate and adaptive immunoregulatory functions, sFGL2 also induces apoptosis in cells including renal tubular epithelial cells through Fcγ receptors (FcγRs). It may affect transplantation via regulation of immunity and induction of apoptosis of different cells in a spatiotemporal manner. Here, we review the research progresses on sFGL2 including its structure, functions, and molecular mechanisms via which sFGL2 might affect organ transplantation, as well as discuss its characteristics and potential of becoming a therapeutic target in patients with rejection.
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Yang G, Hooper WC. Physiological functions and clinical implications of fibrinogen-like 2: A review. World J Clin Infect Dis 2013; 3:37-46. [PMID: 26161303 PMCID: PMC4495006 DOI: 10.5495/wjcid.v3.i3.37] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2013] [Revised: 07/23/2013] [Accepted: 08/17/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibrinogen-like 2 (FGL2) encompasses a transmembrane (mFGL2) and a soluble (sFGL2) form with differential tertiary structure and biological activities. Typically, mFGL2 functions as prothrombinase that is capable of initiating coagulation in tissue without activation of the blood clotting cascade, whereas sFGL2 largely acts as an immunosuppressor that can repress proliferation of alloreactive T lymphocytes and maturation of bone marrow dendritic cells. Protein sequences of FGL2 exhibit evolutionary conservation across wide variety of species, especially at the carboxyl terminus that contains fibrinogen related domain (FRED). The FRED of FGL2 confers specificity and complexity in the action of FGL2, including receptor recognition, calcium affiliation, and substrate binding. Constitutive expression of FGL2 during embryogenesis and in mature tissues suggests FGL2 might be physiologically important. However, excessive induction of FGL2 under certain medical conditions (e.g., pathogen invasion) could trigger complement activation, inflammatory response, cellular apoptosis, and immune dysfunctions. On the other hand, complete absence of FGL2 is also detrimental as lack of FGL2 can cause autoimmune glomerulonephritis and acute cellular rejection of xenografts. All these roles involve mFGL2, sFGL2, or their combination. Although it is not clear how mFGL2 is cleaved off its host cells and secreted into the blood, circulating sFGL2 has been found correlated with disease severity and viral loading among patients with human hepatitis B virus or hepatitis C virus infection. Further studies are warranted to understand how FGL2 expression is regulated under physiological and pathological conditions. Even more interesting is to determine whether mFGL2 can fulfill an immunoregulatory role through its FRED at carboxyl end of the molecule and, and vice versa, whether sFGL2 is procoagulant upon binding to a target cell. Knowledge in this area should shed light on development of sFGL2 as an alternative immunosuppressive agent for organ transplantation or as a biomarker for predicting disease progression, monitoring therapeutic effects, and targeting FGL2 for repression in ameliorating fulminant viral hepatitis.
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Characterization of fibrinogen-like protein 2 (FGL2): monomeric FGL2 has enhanced immunosuppressive activity in comparison to oligomeric FGL2. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2012; 45:408-18. [PMID: 23127799 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2012.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2012] [Revised: 10/17/2012] [Accepted: 10/25/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Fibrinogen-like protein 2 (FGL2), a novel effector molecule of CD4(+)CD25(+)Foxp3(+) regulatory T cells (Treg), mediates its suppressive activity through binding to low affinity Fcγ receptors expressed on antigen presenting cells (APCs). FGL2 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of viral hepatitis, xeno- and allotransplant rejection, and rheumatoid arthritis. Here we fully analyzed the structure-function relationships of recombinant murine FGL2 generated in COS-7 cells and identified the receptor binding domains. Native FGL2 exists as an oligomer with a molecular weight of approximately 260 kDa, while under reducing conditions, FGL2 has a molecular weight of 65 kDa suggesting that native FGL2 is composed of four monomers. By site-directed mutation, cysteines at positions 94, 97, 184 and 187, found in the coiled-coil domain were shown to be crucial for FGL2 oligomerization. Monomeric FGL2 had a lower affinity binding to APCs, but increased immunosuppressive activity compared to oligomeric FGL2. Deglycosylation demonstrated that sugar moieties are critical for maintaining solubility of FGL2. SWISS-MODEL analysis suggested that FGL2 has a similar tertiary structure with other members of the fibrinogen family such as fibrinogen and tachylectin. Mutational analysis of cysteine residues and Western blots suggested an asymmetric bouquet-shaped quaternary structure for oligomeric FGL2, resembling many pattern-recognition molecules in the lectin pathway of innate immunity. The functional motifs of FGL2 were mapped to the C terminal globular domain, using a peptide blockade assay. These results collectively define the biochemical and immunological determinants of FGL2, an important immunosuppressive molecule of Treg providing important insights for designing FGL2-related therapeutics.
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16
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D'Amours O, Frenette G, Bordeleau LJ, Allard N, Leclerc P, Blondin P, Sullivan R. Epididymosomes transfer epididymal sperm binding protein 1 (ELSPBP1) to dead spermatozoa during epididymal transit in bovine. Biol Reprod 2012; 87:94. [PMID: 22875906 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.100990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously, we showed that epididymal sperm binding protein 1 (ELSPBP1) characterizes spermatozoa already dead before ejaculation in bovine. In this study, we investigated the presence of ELSPBP1 in bull genital tract as well as its acquisition by spermatozoa during epididymal transit. As assessed by real-time RT-PCR, ELSPBP1 was highly expressed in the caput and the corpus epididymis but was present in lower expression levels in the testis and the cauda epididymis. Immunohistochemistry revealed the same expression pattern. However, Western blot on tissue homogenates showed some discrepancies, as ELSPBP1 was found in a comparable concentration all along the epididymis. This difference was due to the presence of ELSPBP1 in the epididymal fluid. In both caput and cauda epididymal fluid, ELSPBP1 was associated with the epididymosomes, small membranous vesicles secreted by epithelial cells of the epididymis and implicated in the transfer of proteins to spermatozoa. As assessed by immunocytometry, ELSPBP1 was found on a subset of dead spermatozoa in caput epididymis but was found on all dead spermatozoa in cauda epididymis. To assess ELSPBP1 acquisition by spermatozoa, caput epididymal spermatozoa were incubated with cauda epididymosomes under various conditions. ELSPBP1 detection by immunocytometry assay revealed that only spermatozoa already dead before incubation were receptive to ELSPBP1 transfer by epididymosomes. This receptivity was enhanced by the presence of zinc in the incubation medium. This specificity for a sperm subpopulation suggests that an underlying mechanism is involved and that ELSPBP1 could be a tag for the recognition of dead spermatozoa during epididymal transit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier D'Amours
- Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université Laval, Ste Foy, Québec, Canada
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17
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Parent AD, Cornwall GA, Liu LY, Smith CE, Hermo L. Alterations in the testis and epididymis associated with loss of function of the cystatin-related epididymal spermatogenic (CRES) protein. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 32:444-63. [PMID: 21051588 DOI: 10.2164/jandrol.110.010694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Cystatin-related epididymal spermatogenic protein (CRES) or cystatin 8 (Cst8 gene) is a member of the cystatin superfamily of cysteine protease inhibitors. It differs from typical cystatins because it lacks consensus sites for cysteine protease inhibition and exhibits reproductive-specific expression. In the present study, we examined CRES expression within the testes, efferent ducts, and epididymides of normal mice by light microscope immunolocalization. Alterations to these tissues in male mice lacking the Cst8 gene (Cst8(-/-2)) were also characterized by histomorphometry and electron microscopy. In the normal testis, CRES was localized exclusively in mid and late elongating spermatids. In the efferent ducts, CRES was localized to the apical region of the epithelial cells suggestive of localization in the endosomes. In the initial segment of the epididymis, principal cells showed supranuclear and luminal reactions. In the cauda region, CRES was present exclusively as aggregates in the lumen and was detected in clear cells. Compared with wild-type mice (Cst8(+/+)), older (10-12 months) Cst8(-/-) mice had modest but statistically significant reductions in tubular, epithelial, and/or luminal profile areas in the testis and epididymis. By electron microscopy, some Cst8(-/-) tubules in the testis were normal in appearance, but others showed a vacuolated seminiferous epithelium, degenerating germ cells, and alterations to ectoplasmic specializations. In the epididymal lumen, abnormally shaped sperm heads and tails were noted along with immature germ cells. In addition, principal cells contained numerous large irregularly shaped lysosomes suggestive of disrupted lysosomal functions. In both the testis and epididymis, however, these abnormalities were not apparent in younger mice (4 months), only in the older (10-12 months) Cst8(-/-) mice. These findings suggest that the altered testicular and epididymal histology reflects a cumulative effect of the loss of CRES and support a role for CRES in maintaining the normal integrity and function of the testis and epididymis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam D Parent
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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18
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Yamauchi Y, Riel JM, Stoytcheva Z, Burgoyne PS, Ward MA. Deficiency in mouse Y chromosome long arm gene complement is associated with sperm DNA damage. Genome Biol 2010; 11:R66. [PMID: 20573212 PMCID: PMC2911114 DOI: 10.1186/gb-2010-11-6-r66] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2010] [Revised: 06/11/2010] [Accepted: 06/23/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mice with severe non-PAR Y chromosome long arm (NPYq) deficiencies are infertile in vivo and in vitro. We have previously shown that sperm from these males, although having grossly malformed heads, were able to fertilize oocytes via intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and yield live offspring. However, in continuing ICSI trials we noted a reduced efficiency when cryopreserved sperm were used and with epididymal sperm as compared to testicular sperm. In the present study we tested if NPYq deficiency is associated with sperm DNA damage - a known cause of poor ICSI success. Results We observed that epididymal sperm from mice with severe NPYq deficiency (that is, deletion of nine-tenths or the entire NPYq gene complement) are impaired in oocyte activation ability following ICSI and there is an increased incidence of oocyte arrest and paternal chromosome breaks. Comet assays revealed increased DNA damage in both epididymal and testicular sperm from these mice, with epididymal sperm more severely affected. In all mice the level of DNA damage was increased by freezing. Epididymal sperm from mice with severe NPYq deficiencies also suffered from impaired membrane integrity and abnormal chromatin condensation and suboptimal chromatin protamination. It is therefore likely that the increased DNA damage associated with NPYq deficiency is a consequence of disturbed chromatin remodeling. Conclusions This study provides the first evidence of DNA damage in sperm from mice with NPYq deficiencies and indicates that NPYq-encoded gene/s may play a role in processes regulating chromatin remodeling and thus in maintaining DNA integrity in sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Yamauchi
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, 1960 East-West Rd, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
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Glucose-regulated protein precursor (GRP78) and tumor rejection antigen (GP96) are unique to hamster caput epididymal spermatozoa. Asian J Androl 2010; 12:344-55. [PMID: 20400973 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2010.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The immotile testicular mammalian spermatozoon gets transformed into a motile spermatozoon during 'epididymal maturation'. During this process, the spermatozoa transit from the caput to the cauda epididymis and undergo a number of distinct morphological, biophysical and biochemical changes, including changes in protein composition and protein modifications, which may be relevant to the acquisition of motility potential. The present proteome-based study of the hamster epididymal spermatozoa of caput and cauda led to the identification of 113 proteins spots using Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization tandem mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS/MS) analysis. Comparison of these 113 protein spots indicated that 30 protein spots (corresponding to 20 proteins) were significantly changed in intensity. Five proteins were increased and eleven were decreased in intensity in the cauda epididymal spermatozoa. In addition, two proteins, glucose-regulated protein precursor (GRP78) and tumor rejection antigen (GP96), were unique to the caput epididymal spermatozoa, while one protein, fibrinogen-like protein 1, was unique to cauda epididymal spermatozoa. A few of the five proteins, which increased in intensity, were related to sperm metabolism and ATP production during epididymal maturation. The changes in intensity of a few proteins such as ERp57, GRP78, GP96, Hsp60, Hsp70, and dihydrolipoamide S-acetyltransferase were validated by immunoblotting. The present study provides a global picture of the changes in protein composition occurring during hamster sperm epididymal maturation, besides being the first ever report on the proteome of hamster spermatozoa.
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Lloyd RE, Elliott RMA, Fazeli A, Watson PF, Holt WV. Effects of oviductal proteins, including heat shock 70 kDa protein 8, on survival of ram spermatozoa over 48 h in vitro. Reprod Fertil Dev 2009; 21:408-18. [PMID: 19261218 DOI: 10.1071/rd08204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2008] [Accepted: 10/20/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Following insemination, ram spermatozoa are transported to the isthmus region of the oviduct where they bind to the oviductal epithelial cells (OEC), remaining viable for several hours. The aim of the present study was to begin to decipher which component(s) of the ewe oviduct actively participates in maintaining the viability of ram spermatozoa. A series of experiments was conducted to investigate whether: (1) soluble OEC apical plasma membrane proteins (sAPM) isolated from ewes prolong survival of ram spermatozoa over an extended (48 h) coincubation period at 39 degrees C; (2) a recombinant form of one of these oviductal proteins, namely heat shock 70 kDa protein 8 (HSPA8), prolongs survival of ram spermatozoa; and (3) pretreatment with HSPA8 antibody compromises the ability of sAPM to prolong the survival of ram spermatozoa. Both sAPM and recombinant HSPA8 had a beneficial effect on the viability of ram spermatozoa during coincubation, although both these effects were dose dependent. In contrast, pretreatment with HSPA8 antibody significantly negated the ability of sAPM to maintain the viability of ram spermatozoa. These findings suggest that HSPA8 is an active component of the ewe oviduct that participates in maintaining the viability of ram spermatozoa. This is a potentially valuable observation given that there is a great deal of room for improving existing diluents for storing fresh ram semen.
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Affiliation(s)
- R E Lloyd
- Institute of Zoology, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK.
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21
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Liu H, Shalev I, Manuel J, He W, Leung E, Crookshank J, Liu MF, Diao J, Cattral M, Clark DA, Isenman DE, Gorczynski RM, Grant DR, Zhang L, Phillips MJ, Cybulsky MI, Levy GA. The FGL2-FcgammaRIIB pathway: a novel mechanism leading to immunosuppression. Eur J Immunol 2009; 38:3114-26. [PMID: 18991288 DOI: 10.1002/eji.200838338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Fibrinogen-like protein 2 (FGL2) is a multifunctional protein, which has been implicated in the pathogenesis of allograft and xenograft rejection. Previously, FGL2 was shown to inhibit maturation of BM-derived DC and T-cell proliferation. The mechanism of the immunosuppressive activity of FGL2 remains poorly elucidated. Here, we focus on identification of FGL2-specific receptor(s) and their ability to modulate APC activity and allograft survival. Using flow cytometry and surface plasmon resonance analysis, we show that FGL2 binds specifically to Fc gamma receptor (FcgammaR)IIB and FcgammaRIII receptors, which are expressed on the surface of APC, including B lymphocytes, macrophages and DC. Antibody to FcgammaRIIB and FcgammaRIII, or deficiency of these receptors, abrogated FGL2 binding. FGL2 inhibited the maturation of BMDC from FcgammaRIIB+/+ mice but not from FcgammaRIIB(-/-) mice and induced apoptosis in the FcgammaRIIB+ mouse B-cell line (A20) but not the A20IIA1.6 cell line that does not express FcgammaRIIB. Recombinant FGL2 infused into FcgammaRIIB+/+ (C57BL/6J, H-2b) mice but not FcgammaRIIB(-/-) mice inhibited rejection of fully mismatched BALB/cJ (H-2d) skin allografts. The identification of specific receptor binding has important implications for the pathogenesis of immune-mediated disease and suggests a potential for targeted FGL2 therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Liu
- Multi-organ Transplant Program, Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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22
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Boaz SM, Dominguez K, Shaman JA, Ward WS. Mouse spermatozoa contain a nuclease that is activated by pretreatment with EGTA and subsequent calcium incubation. J Cell Biochem 2008; 103:1636-45. [PMID: 17879959 PMCID: PMC2679532 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.21549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
We demonstrated that mouse spermatozoa cleave their DNA into approximately 50 kb loop-sized fragments with topoisomerase IIB when treated with MnCl(2) and CaCl(2) in a process we term sperm chromatin fragmentation (SCF). SCF can be reversed by EDTA. A nuclease then further degrades the DNA in a process we term sperm DNA degradation (SDD). MnCl(2) alone could elicit this activity, but CaCl(2) had no effect. Here, we demonstrate the existence of a nuclease in the vas deferens that can be activated by ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid (EGTA) to digest the sperm DNA by SDD. Spermatozoa were extracted with salt and dithiothreitol to remove protamines and then incubated with EGTA. Next, the EGTA was removed and divalent cations were added. We found that Mn(2+), Ca(2+), or Zn(2+) could each activate SDD in spermatozoa but Mg(2+) could not. When the reaction was slowed by incubation on ice, EGTA pretreatment followed by incubation in Ca(2+) elicited the reversible fragmentation of sperm DNA evident in SCF. When the reactions were then incubated at 37 degrees C they progressed to the more complete degradation of DNA by SDD. EDTA could also be used to activate the nuclease, but required a higher concentration than EGTA. This EGTA-activatable nuclease activity was found in each fraction of the vas deferens plasma: in the spermatozoa, in the surrounding fluid, and in the insoluble components in the fluid. These results suggest that this sperm nuclease is regulated by a mechanism that is sensitive to EGTA, possibly by removing inhibition of a calcium binding protein.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - W. Steven Ward
- Address correspondence to: W. Steven Ward, Ph.D., Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, 1960 East-West Road, Honolulu, HI 96822, Tel. 808 956-5189, Fax. 808 956-7316, E-Mail:
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Baska KM, Manandhar G, Feng D, Agca Y, Tengowski MW, Sutovsky M, Yi YJ, Sutovsky P. Mechanism of extracellular ubiquitination in the mammalian epididymis. J Cell Physiol 2008; 215:684-96. [PMID: 18064599 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.21349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Posttranslational modification by ubiquitination marks defective or outlived intracellular proteins for proteolytic degradation by the 26S proteasome. The ATP-dependent, covalent ligation and formation of polyubiquitin chains on substrate proteins requires the presence and activity of a set of ubiquitin activating and conjugating enzymes. While protein ubiquitination typically occurs in the cell cytosol or nucleus, defective mammalian spermatozoa become ubiquitinated on their surface during post-testicular sperm maturation in the epididymis, suggesting an active molecular mechanism for sperm quality control. Consequently, we hypothesized that the bioactive constituents of ubiquitin-proteasome pathway were secreted in the mammalian epididymal fluid (EF) and capable of ubiquitinating extrinsic substrates. Western blotting indeed detected the presence of the ubiquitin-activating enzyme E1 and presumed E1-ubiquitin thiol-ester intermediates, ubiquitin-carrier enzyme E2 and presumed E2-ubiquitin thiol-ester intermediates and the ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase PGP 9.5/UCHL1 in the isolated bovine EF. Thiol-ester assays utilizing recombinant ubiquitin-activating and ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes, biotinylated substrates, and isolated bovine EF confirmed the activity of the ubiquitin activating and conjugating enzymes within EF. Ubiquitinated proteins were found to be enriched in the defective bull sperm fraction and appropriate proteasomal deubiquitinating and proteolytic activities were measured in the isolated EF by specific fluorescent substrates. The apocrine secretion of cytosolic proteins was visualized in transgenic mice and rats expressing the enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) under the direction of ubiquitin-C promoter. Accumulation of eGFP, ubiquitin and proteasomes was detected in the apical blebs, the apocrine secretion sites of the caput epididymal epithelia of both the rat and mouse epididymal epithelium, although region-specific differences exist. Secretion of eGFP and proteasomes continued during the prolonged culture of the isolated rat epididymal epithelial cells in vitro. This study provides evidence that the activity of the ubiquitin system is not limited to the intracellular environment, contributing to a greater understanding of the sperm maturation process during epididymal passage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen M Baska
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri, USA
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24
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Marengo SR. Maturing the sperm: Unique mechanisms for modifying integral proteins in the sperm plasma membrane. Anim Reprod Sci 2008; 105:52-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2007.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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25
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Georgiou AS, Snijders APL, Sostaric E, Aflatoonian R, Vazquez JL, Vazquez JM, Roca J, Martinez EA, Wright PC, Fazeli A. Modulation of The Oviductal Environment by Gametes. J Proteome Res 2007; 6:4656-66. [DOI: 10.1021/pr070349m] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Stephen Georgiou
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, United Kingdom, Biological and Environmental Systems Group, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Sheffield, Mappin Street, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom, and Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30.071 Murcia, Spain
| | - Ambrosius P. L. Snijders
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, United Kingdom, Biological and Environmental Systems Group, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Sheffield, Mappin Street, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom, and Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30.071 Murcia, Spain
| | - Edita Sostaric
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, United Kingdom, Biological and Environmental Systems Group, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Sheffield, Mappin Street, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom, and Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30.071 Murcia, Spain
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, United Kingdom, Biological and Environmental Systems Group, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Sheffield, Mappin Street, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom, and Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30.071 Murcia, Spain
| | - Jose L. Vazquez
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, United Kingdom, Biological and Environmental Systems Group, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Sheffield, Mappin Street, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom, and Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30.071 Murcia, Spain
| | - Juan M. Vazquez
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, United Kingdom, Biological and Environmental Systems Group, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Sheffield, Mappin Street, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom, and Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30.071 Murcia, Spain
| | - Jordi Roca
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, United Kingdom, Biological and Environmental Systems Group, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Sheffield, Mappin Street, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom, and Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30.071 Murcia, Spain
| | - Emilio A. Martinez
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, United Kingdom, Biological and Environmental Systems Group, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Sheffield, Mappin Street, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom, and Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30.071 Murcia, Spain
| | - Phillip C. Wright
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, United Kingdom, Biological and Environmental Systems Group, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Sheffield, Mappin Street, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom, and Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30.071 Murcia, Spain
| | - Alireza Fazeli
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Level 4, The Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, United Kingdom, Biological and Environmental Systems Group, Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, University of Sheffield, Mappin Street, Sheffield S1 3JD, United Kingdom, and Department of Medicine and Animal Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, 30.071 Murcia, Spain
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Olson GE, Winfrey VP, Nagdas SK, Hill KE, Burk RF. Apolipoprotein E Receptor-2 (ApoER2) Mediates Selenium Uptake from Selenoprotein P by the Mouse Testis. J Biol Chem 2007; 282:12290-7. [PMID: 17314095 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m611403200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Selenium is a micronutrient that is essential for the production of normal spermatozoa. The selenium-rich plasma protein selenoprotein P (Sepp1) is required for maintenance of testis selenium and for fertility of the male mouse. Sepp1 trafficking in the seminiferous epithelium was studied using conventional methods and mice with gene deletions. Immunocytochemistry demonstrated that Sepp1 is present in vesicle-like structures in the basal region of Sertoli cells, suggesting that the protein is taken up intact. Sepp1 affinity chromatography of a testicular extract followed by mass spectrometry-based identification of bound proteins identified apolipoprotein E receptor 2 (ApoER2) as a candidate testis Sepp1 receptor. In situ hybridization analysis identified Sertoli cells as the only cell type in the seminiferous epithelium with detectable ApoER2 expression. Testis selenium levels in apoER2(-/-) males were sharply reduced from those in apoER2(+/+) males and were comparable with the depressed levels found in Sepp1(-/-) males. However, liver selenium levels were unchanged by deletion of apoER2. Immunocytochemistry did not detect Sepp1 in the Sertoli cells of apoER2(-/-) males, consistent with a defect in the receptor-mediated Sepp1 uptake pathway. Phase contrast microscopy revealed identical sperm defects in apoER2(-/-) and Sepp1(-/-) mice. Co-immunoprecipitation analysis demonstrated an interaction of testis ApoER2 with Sepp1. These data demonstrate that Sertoli cell ApoER2 is a Sepp1 receptor and a component of the selenium delivery pathway to spermatogenic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary E Olson
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, USA.
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Tengowski MW, Feng D, Sutovsky M, Sutovsky P. Differential Expression of Genes Encoding Constitutive and Inducible 20S Proteasomal Core Subunits in the Testis and Epididymis of Theophylline- or 1,3-Dinitrobenzene-Exposed Rats1. Biol Reprod 2007; 76:149-63. [PMID: 16988215 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.106.053173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Theophylline (THP) and 1,3-dinitrobenzene (DNB) are thought to induce infertility by incapacitating the nurturing Sertoli cells and causing germ cell apoptosis in the testicular seminiferous epithelium, respectively. We hypothesized that THP and DNB exposure would alter the expression of the genes within the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway (UPP), implicated in spermatogenesis and epididymal sperm quality control. Rats were fed 0 or 8000 ppm of THP and necropsied on Days 18, 30, and 42 or administered 0, 2, or 6 mg/kg DNB via oral gavage and necropsied on Day 7. Tissues were collected from the testis and the caput, corpus, and cauda regions of the epididymis for transcriptional profiling by semiquantitative RT-PCR, real-time RT-PCR, and histopathology. Target UPP genes included those encoding for constitutive the 20S proteasomal core subunits Psmb1 (beta1), Psmb2 (beta2), and Psmb5 (beta5); the inducible 20S core subunits Psmb9 (LMP2), Psmb8 (LMP7), and Psmb10 (LMP10); and Ube1 (ubiquitin-activating enzyme E1), Ube2d3 (ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2), and Uchl1 (ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase PGP9.5). Spermatozoa were collected from the cauda epididymis for analysis by light microscopy and flow cytometric evaluation of sperm surface ubiquitin. These data show that reprotoxic exposure alters the tissue-specific expression of UPP genes in the testis and epididymis, which may contribute to the aberrant spermatogenesis and epididymal processing of both normal and defective spermatozoa. Transcriptional profiling and flow cytometric analysis of the UPP thus captures the prodromal effects of reproductive toxicity not captured by conventional histology and functional cytology. Complementing seminal analysis with these measures may be useful in screening drug-induced toxicity or environmental infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark W Tengowski
- Pfizer Global Research and Development, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105, USA.
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Shaman JA, Prisztoka R, Ward WS. Topoisomerase IIB and an Extracellular Nuclease Interact to Digest Sperm DNA in an Apoptotic-Like Manner1. Biol Reprod 2006; 75:741-8. [PMID: 16914690 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.106.055178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously demonstrated that mammalian spermatozoa contain a nuclease activity that cleaves DNA into loop-sized fragments. We show here that this activity is mediated by a nuclear matrix-associated topoisomerase IIB (TOP2B) interacting with an extracellular Mn2+/Ca2+-dependent nuclease. Together, these enzymes cleave all of the DNA into fragments of 50 kb, and this cleavage can be reversed by EDTA. If dithiothreitol is included, the nuclease digests the DNA, and if the protamines are removed the DNA is completely digested. A similar, TOP2B-mediated, chromatin fragmentation, which is reversible, followed by digestion of the DNA by an intracellular nuclease occurs in somatic cells during apoptosis. The extracellular location of the sperm nuclease made it possible to reconstitute the fragmentation activity in isolated spermatozoa, thus allowing us to identify two novel aspects of the mechanism. First, the fragmentation of all of the DNA to 50 kb by TOP2B required the addition of the extracellular nuclease or factor. Second, the subsequent, complete digestion of the DNA by the nuclease could be inhibited by etoposide, suggesting that the nuclease digestion requires TOP2B religation of the cleaved DNA. These data are the first demonstration of an active TOP2B in spermatozoa, suggesting this inert chromatin may be more active than previously thought. They also show that the unique chromatin structure of spermatozoa may provide an important model to study the regulated degradation of chromatin by TOP2B and associated nucleases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A Shaman
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, Hawaii 96822, USA
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