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Li X, Luan T, Zhao C, Ling X. Effect of paternal body mass index on maternal and child-health outcomes of singletons after frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles: a retrospective study. HUM FERTIL 2024; 27:2285343. [PMID: 38205607 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2023.2285343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The objective was to analyze the effect of paternal body mass index (BMI) on maternal and child-health outcomes of singletons after frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles. A retrospective cohort study was conducted between January 2019 and December 2021. Pregnancy, perinatal complications and neonatal outcomes were compared among different paternal BMI. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to evaluate the relationship between different paternal BMI and pregnancy, obstetric and neonatal outcomes. The paternal normal group was more likely to suffer from gestational hypertension than the paternal obesity group (3.59% vs. 2.42%), and paternal underweight group was more likely to suffer from preeclampsia than the other three groups (11.63% vs. 4.43%, 7.57%, 4.03%). Birthweight among infants in the paternal overweight categories was significantly higher than infants in the paternal normal weight categories. The rate of foetal macrosomia was higher among infants in the paternal overweight (12.36%) category, while lower among infants in the paternal underweight categories (2.33%). The incidence of macrosomia in the paternal overweight categories (aOR 1.527, 95% CI 1.078-2.163) was significantly higher than those normal controls after adjustment for known confounding factors. The rates of LGA babies were higher in the paternal overweight category (aOR 1.260, 95% CI 1.001-1.587) compared with those in the paternal normal weight category, before and after adjustment. The results suggest that parental pre-pregnancy overweight or obesity has an adverse effect on the perinatal complications and neonatal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Ting Luan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Chun Zhao
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiufeng Ling
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Women's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Nanjing, China
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2
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Khatib H, Townsend J, Konkel MA, Conidi G, Hasselkus JA. Calling the question: what is mammalian transgenerational epigenetic inheritance? Epigenetics 2024; 19:2333586. [PMID: 38525788 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2024.2333586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
While transgenerational epigenetic inheritance has been extensively documented in plants, nematodes, and fruit flies, its existence in mammals remains controversial. Several factors have contributed to this debate, including the lack of a clear distinction between intergenerational and transgenerational epigenetic inheritance (TEI), the inconsistency of some studies, the potential confounding effects of in-utero vs. epigenetic factors, and, most importantly, the biological challenge of epigenetic reprogramming. Two waves of epigenetic reprogramming occur: in the primordial germ cells and the developing embryo after fertilization, characterized by global erasure of DNA methylation and remodelling of histone modifications. Consequently, TEI can only occur if specific genetic regions evade this reprogramming and persist through embryonic development. These challenges have revived the long-standing debate about the possibility of inheriting acquired traits, which has been strongly contested since the Lamarckian and Darwinian eras. As a result, coupled with the absence of universally accepted criteria for transgenerational epigenetic studies, a vast body of literature has emerged claiming evidence of TEI. Therefore, the goal of this study is to advocate for establishing fundamental criteria that must be met for a study to qualify as evidence of TEI. We identified five criteria based on the consensus of studies that critically evaluated TEI. To assess whether published original research papers adhere to these criteria, we examined 80 studies that either claimed or were cited as supporting TEI. The findings of this analysis underscore the widespread confusion in this field and highlight the urgent need for a unified scientific consensus on TEI requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Khatib
- The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, The University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jessica Townsend
- The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, The University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Melissa A Konkel
- The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, The University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Gabi Conidi
- The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, The University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Julia A Hasselkus
- The Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, The University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
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3
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Tahiri I, Llana SR, Fos-Domènech J, Milà-Guash M, Toledo M, Haddad-Tóvolli R, Claret M, Obri A. Paternal obesity induces changes in sperm chromatin accessibility and has a mild effect on offspring metabolic health. Heliyon 2024; 10:e34043. [PMID: 39100496 PMCID: PMC11296027 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The increasing global burden of metabolic disorders including obesity and diabetes necessitates a comprehensive understanding of their etiology, which not only encompasses genetic and environmental factors but also parental influence. Recent evidence has unveiled paternal obesity as a contributing factor to offspring's metabolic health via sperm epigenetic modifications. In this study, we investigated the impact of a Western diet-induced obesity in C57BL/6 male mice on sperm chromatin accessibility and the subsequent metabolic health of their progeny. Utilizing Assay for Transposase-Accessible Chromatin with sequencing, we discovered 450 regions with differential accessibility in sperm from obese fathers, implicating key developmental and metabolic pathways. Contrary to expectations, these epigenetic alterations in sperm were not predictive of long-term metabolic disorders in offspring, who exhibited only mild transient metabolic changes early in life. Both male and female F1 progeny showed no enduring predisposition to obesity or diabetes. These results underscore the biological resilience of offspring to paternal epigenetic inheritance, suggesting a complex interplay between inherited epigenetic modifications and the offspring's own developmental compensatory mechanisms. This study calls for further research into the biological processes that confer this resilience, which could inform interventional strategies to combat the heritability of metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iasim Tahiri
- Neuronal Control of Metabolism Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sergio R. Llana
- Neuronal Control of Metabolism Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Júlia Fos-Domènech
- Neuronal Control of Metabolism Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Milà-Guash
- Neuronal Control of Metabolism Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miriam Toledo
- Neuronal Control of Metabolism Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roberta Haddad-Tóvolli
- Neuronal Control of Metabolism Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marc Claret
- Neuronal Control of Metabolism Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Barcelona, Spain
- School of Medicine, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Arnaud Obri
- Neuronal Control of Metabolism Laboratory, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain
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4
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Kimmins S, Anderson RA, Barratt CLR, Behre HM, Catford SR, De Jonge CJ, Delbes G, Eisenberg ML, Garrido N, Houston BJ, Jørgensen N, Krausz C, Lismer A, McLachlan RI, Minhas S, Moss T, Pacey A, Priskorn L, Schlatt S, Trasler J, Trasande L, Tüttelmann F, Vazquez-Levin MH, Veltman JA, Zhang F, O'Bryan MK. Frequency, morbidity and equity - the case for increased research on male fertility. Nat Rev Urol 2024; 21:102-124. [PMID: 37828407 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00820-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
Currently, most men with infertility cannot be given an aetiology, which reflects a lack of knowledge around gamete production and how it is affected by genetics and the environment. A failure to recognize the burden of male infertility and its potential as a biomarker for systemic illness exists. The absence of such knowledge results in patients generally being treated as a uniform group, for whom the strategy is to bypass the causality using medically assisted reproduction (MAR) techniques. In doing so, opportunities to prevent co-morbidity are missed and the burden of MAR is shifted to the woman. To advance understanding of men's reproductive health, longitudinal and multi-national centres for data and sample collection are essential. Such programmes must enable an integrated view of the consequences of genetics, epigenetics and environmental factors on fertility and offspring health. Definition and possible amelioration of the consequences of MAR for conceived children are needed. Inherent in this statement is the necessity to promote fertility restoration and/or use the least invasive MAR strategy available. To achieve this aim, protocols must be rigorously tested and the move towards personalized medicine encouraged. Equally, education of the public, governments and clinicians on the frequency and consequences of infertility is needed. Health options, including male contraceptives, must be expanded, and the opportunities encompassed in such investment understood. The pressing questions related to male reproductive health, spanning the spectrum of andrology are identified in the Expert Recommendation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kimmins
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- The Centre de Recherche du Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- The Département de Pathologie et Biologie Cellulaire, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Richard A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Division of Systems Medicine, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Hermann M Behre
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Hospital, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| | - Sarah R Catford
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Geraldine Delbes
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Centre Armand-Frappier Sante Biotechnologie, Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | - Michael L Eisenberg
- Department of Urology and Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nicolas Garrido
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Brendan J Houston
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Csilla Krausz
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, University Hospital of Careggi Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Ariane Lismer
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Robert I McLachlan
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash IVF Group, Richmond, Victoria, Australia
| | - Suks Minhas
- Department of Surgery and Cancer Imperial, London, UK
| | - Tim Moss
- Healthy Male and the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Allan Pacey
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Lærke Priskorn
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Jacquetta Trasler
- Departments of Paediatrics, Human Genetics and Pharmacology & Therapeutics, McGill University and Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Leonardo Trasande
- Center for the Investigation of Environmental Hazards, Department of Paediatrics, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Frank Tüttelmann
- Institute of Reproductive Genetics, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Mónica Hebe Vazquez-Levin
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas de Argentina, Fundación IBYME, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Joris A Veltman
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Feng Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Moira K O'Bryan
- School of BioSciences and Bio21 Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia.
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5
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Mouzaki M, Woo JG, Divanovic S. Gestational and Developmental Contributors of Pediatric MASLD. Semin Liver Dis 2024; 44:43-53. [PMID: 38423068 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1782210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Pediatric metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is common and can be seen as early as in utero. A growing body of literature suggests that gestational and early life exposures modify the risk of MASLD development in children. These include maternal risk factors, such as poor cardiometabolic health (e.g., obesity, gestational diabetes, rapid weight gain during pregnancy, and MASLD), as well as periconceptional dietary exposures, degree of physical activity, intestinal microbiome, and smoking. Paternal factors, such as diet and obesity, also appear to play a role. Beyond gestation, early life dietary exposures, as well as the rate of infant weight gain, may further modify the risk of future MASLD development. The mechanisms linking parental health and environmental exposures to pediatric MASLD are complex and not entirely understood. In conclusion, investigating gestational and developmental contributors to MASLD is critical and may identify future interventional targets for disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marialena Mouzaki
- Divisions of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Jessica G Woo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Senad Divanovic
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
- Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
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6
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Meng B, He J, Cao W, Zhang Y, Qi J, Luo S, Shen C, Zhao J, Xue Y, Qu P, Liu E. Paternal high-fat diet altered H3K36me3 pattern of pre-implantation embryos. ZYGOTE 2024; 32:1-6. [PMID: 38018398 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199423000448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
The global transition towards diets high in calories has contributed to 2.1 billion people becoming overweight, or obese, which damages male reproduction and harms offspring. Recently, more and more studies have shown that paternal exposure to stress closely affects the health of offspring in an intergenerational and transgenerational way. SET Domain Containing 2 (SETD2), a key epigenetic gene, is highly conserved among species, is a crucial methyltransferase for converting histone 3 lysine 36 dimethylation (H3K36me2) into histone 3 lysine 36 trimethylation (H3K36me3), and plays an important regulator in the response to stress. In this study, we compared patterns of SETD2 expression and the H3K36me3 pattern in pre-implantation embryos derived from normal or obese mice induced by high diet. The results showed that SETD2 mRNA was significantly higher in the high-fat diet (HFD) group than the control diet (CD) group at the 2-cell, 4-cell, 8-cell, and 16-cell stages, and at the morula and blastocyst stages. The relative levels of H3K36me3 in the HFD group at the 2-cell, 4-cell, 8-cell, 16-cell, morula stage, and blastocyst stage were significantly higher than in the CD group. These results indicated that dietary changes in parental generation (F0) male mice fed a HFD were traceable in SETD2/H3K36me3 in embryos, and that a paternal high-fat diet brings about adverse effects for offspring that might be related to SETD2/H3K36me3, which throws new light on the effect of paternal obesity on offspring from an epigenetic perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Meng
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- The Assisted Reproduction Center, Northwest Women's and Children's Hospital, Xi'an, China
| | - Jiahui He
- Cancer Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
| | - Wenbin Cao
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education of China, Xi'an, China
| | - Yanru Zhang
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education of China, Xi'an, China
| | - Jia Qi
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education of China, Xi'an, China
| | - Shiwei Luo
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Chong Shen
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Juan Zhao
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ying Xue
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Pengxiang Qu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education of China, Xi'an, China
| | - Enqi Liu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Centre, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
- Key Laboratory of Environment and Genes Related to Diseases, Ministry of Education of China, Xi'an, China
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7
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Zhang X, Reichetzeder C, Liu Y, Hocher JG, Hasan AA, Lin G, Kleuser B, Hu L, Hocher B. Parental sex-dependent effects of either maternal or paternal eNOS deficiency on the offspring's phenotype without transmission of the parental eNOS deficiency to the offspring. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1306178. [PMID: 38169827 PMCID: PMC10758467 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1306178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Preclinical animal studies and clinical studies indicate that both maternal as well as paternal genetic alterations/gene defects might affect the phenotype of the next-generation without transmissions of the affected gene. Currently, the question of whether the same genetic defect present in the mother or father leads to a similar phenotype in the offspring remains insufficiently elucidated. Methods: In this head-to-head study, we crossbred female and male mice with heterozygous endothelial eNOS knockout (eNOS+/-) with male and female wild-type (wt) mice, respectively. Subsequently, we compared the phenotype of the resulting wt offspring with that of wt offspring born to parents with no eNOS deficiency. Results: Wt female offspring of mothers with heterozygous eNOS showed elevated liver fat accumulation, while wt male offspring of fathers with heterozygous eNOS exhibited increased fasting insulin, heightened insulin levels after a glucose load, and elevated liver glycogen content. By quantitative mass-spectrometry it was shown that concentrations of six serum metabolites (lysoPhosphatidylcholine acyl C20:3, phosphatidylcholine diacyl C36:2, phosphatidylcholine diacyl C38:1, phosphatidylcholine acyl-alkyl C34:1, phosphatidylcholine acyl-alkyl C36:3, and phosphatidylcholine acyl-alkyl C42:5 (PC ae C42:5) as well as four liver carbon metabolites (fructose 6-phosphate, fructose 1,6-bisphosphate, glucose 6-phosphate and fumarate) were different between wt offspring with eNOS+/- mothers and wt offspring with eNOS+/- fathers. Importantly, fumarate was inversely correlated with the liver fat accumulation in female offspring with eNOS+/- mothers and increased liver glycogen in offspring of both sexes with eNOS+/- fathers. The qRT-PCR results revealed that the gene expression patterns were different between wt offspring with eNOS+/- mothers and those offspring with eNOS+/- fathers. Different gene expression patterns were correlated with different observed phenotypic changes in male/female offspring born to mothers or fathers with a heterozygous eNOS genotype. Conclusion: The identical parental genetic alteration (heterozygous eNOS deficiency), without being passed on to the offspring, results in distinct metabolic, liver phenotype, and gene expression pattern variations depending on whether the genetic alteration originated from the father or the mother.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Zhang
- Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Fifth Department of Medicine (Nephrology/Endocrinology/Rheumatology), University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Yvonne Liu
- Fifth Department of Medicine (Nephrology/Endocrinology/Rheumatology), University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Medical Faculty of Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Johann-Georg Hocher
- Fifth Department of Medicine (Nephrology/Endocrinology/Rheumatology), University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Second Medical Faculty, Charles University Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Ahmed A. Hasan
- Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Fifth Department of Medicine (Nephrology/Endocrinology/Rheumatology), University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ge Lin
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Burkhard Kleuser
- Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Liang Hu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Berthold Hocher
- Fifth Department of Medicine (Nephrology/Endocrinology/Rheumatology), University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- IMD Berlin, Institute of Medical Diagnostics, Berlin, Germany
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8
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Golding MC. Teratogenesis and the epigenetic programming of congenital defects: Why paternal exposures matter. Birth Defects Res 2023; 115:1825-1834. [PMID: 37424262 PMCID: PMC10774456 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Until recently, clinicians and researchers did not realize paternal exposures could impact child developmental outcomes. Indeed, although there is growing recognition that sperm carry a large amount of non-genomic information and that paternal stressors influence the health of the next generation, toxicologists are only now beginning to explore the role paternal exposures have in dysgenesis and the incidence of congenital malformations. In this commentary, I will briefly summarize the few studies describing congenital malformations resulting from preconception paternal stressors, argue for the theoretical expansion of teratogenic perspectives into the male preconception period, and discuss some of the challenges in this newly emerging branch of toxicology. I argue that we must consider gametes the same as any other malleable precursor cell type and recognize that environmentally-induced epigenetic changes acquired during the formation of the sperm and oocyte hold equal teratogenic potential as exposures during early development. Here, I propose the term epiteratogen to reference agents acting outside of pregnancy that, through epigenetic mechanisms, induce congenital malformations. Understanding the interactions between the environment, the essential epigenetic processes intrinsic to spermatogenesis, and their cumulative influences on embryo patterning is essential to addressing a significant blind spot in the field of developmental toxicology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael C. Golding
- Department of Veterinary Physiology & Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA, 77843
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9
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Peel A, Saini A, Deluao JC, McPherson NO. Sperm DNA damage: The possible link between obesity and male infertility, an update of the current literature. Andrology 2023; 11:1635-1652. [PMID: 36789664 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Obesity prevalence worldwide is increasing significantly. Whilst maternal obesity has clear detrimental impacts on fertility, pregnancy and foetal outcomes, more recently there has been an increasing focus on the role of paternal obesity in human fertility. Recent meta-analyses have indicated that obesity in men negatively affects basic sperm parameters such as sperm count, concentration and motility, increases the incidence of infertility and reduces the chances of conception. Sperm DNA damage, typically characterised by DNA strand breaks and oxidation of DNA nucleotides, is a specialised marker of sperm quality that has been independently associated with recurrent miscarriage, reduced assisted reproduction success and increased mutational loads in subsequent offspring. Whilst, there are still conflicting data in humans as to the association of obesity in men with sperm DNA damage, evidence from rodent models is clear, indicating that male obesity increases sperm DNA damage. Human data are often conflicting because of the large heterogeneity amongst studies, the use of body mass index as the indicator of obesity and the methods used for detection of sperm DNA damage. Furthermore, comorbidities of obesity (i.e., heat stress, adipokines, insulin resistance, changes in lipids, hypogonadism and obstructive sleep apnoea) are also independently associated with increased sperm DNA damage that is not always modified in men with obesity, and as such may provide a causative link to the discrepancies amongst human studies. In this review, we provide an update on the literature regarding the associations between obesity in men and fertility, basic sperm parameters and sperm DNA damage. We further discuss potential reasons for the discrepancies in the literature and outline possible direct and indirect mechanisms of increased sperm DNA damage resulting from obesity. Finally, we summarise intergenerational obesity through the paternal linage and how sperm DNA damage may contribute to the transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Peel
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Adelaide Health and Medical School, School of Biomedicine, Discipline of Reproduction and Development, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Anmol Saini
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Adelaide Health and Medical School, School of Biomedicine, Discipline of Reproduction and Development, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Joshua C Deluao
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Adelaide Health and Medical School, School of Biomedicine, Discipline of Reproduction and Development, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nicole O McPherson
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Adelaide Health and Medical School, School of Biomedicine, Discipline of Reproduction and Development, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Repromed IVF Adelaide, Dulwich, South Australia, Australia
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10
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Li D, Liu Y, Zhou J, Chen Y, Yang C, Liu H, Li W, You J. m6A Regulator-mediated RNA Methylation Modulates Immune Microenvironment of Hepatitis B Virus-related Acute Liver Failure. Inflammation 2023; 46:1777-1795. [PMID: 37256461 DOI: 10.1007/s10753-023-01841-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Acute liver failure (ALF) is a rare and complicated disease with a high mortality rate. Emergency liver transplantation is the only treatment method that can improve the ALF prognosis. However, its clinical application remains limited owing to the aggressive nature of liver transplantation, limited donors, and high postoperative mortality. The study investigated the effect of m6A on the immune microenvironment of hepatitis B virus-related ALF (HBV-ALF). In this study, the gene expression data of 47 normal people and 42 HBV-ALF patients were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibu (GEO) database. The known 23 m6A regulators which mediated RNA modification patterns were compared and analyzed in these two groups, and the gene diagnosis model of HBV-ALF patients was established based on the analysis results. In addition, we used unsupervised clustering to identify different m6A RNA methylation modification patterns in HBV-ALF based on m6A regulators, and evaluated the immune infiltration and biological differences in these subtypes. In addition, the relationship between m6A genes and immune cell activation in HBV-ACLF patients was explored by immune infiltration analysis. Nineteen m6A regulators mediated RNA methylation (m6A regulators for short) were differentially expressed in HBV-ALF and control groups. m6A regulators could well distinguish control samples from HBV-ALF samples, and m6A regulators might be used as a basis for diagnosing HBV-ALF patients. Immune cells such as activated CD8 T cells, activated B cells, and activated CD4 T cells might play important roles in HBV-ALF, and m6A regulators were closely associated with immune cell infiltration. ALKBH15, CBLL1, IGF2BP2, IGF2BP3, and ZC3H13 were significantly associated with immune cells. Considering 23 m6A regulators, HBV-ALF patients could be classified into two subtypes (cluster 1 and cluster 2) based on different immune cell infiltration. m6A regulators of the IGFBP and YHDF families have extremely different levels in these two subtypes. Differential immune cell infiltration among these subtypes was observed, a total of 913 differentially expressed genes among different m6A modification patterns was identified, and their biological functions were explored. m6A modification might play a crucial role in the diverse and complex immune microenvironment of HBV-ALF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingchun Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, China
| | - Ye Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, China
| | - Ju Zhou
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, China
| | - Yihui Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, China
| | - Chunxia Yang
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, China
| | - Huaie Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, China
| | - Wu Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, China.
| | - Jing You
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Kunming Medical University, No. 295 Xichang Road, Kunming, 650032, China.
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11
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Wei S, Luo S, Zhang H, Li Y, Zhao J. Paternal high-fat diet altered SETD2 gene methylation in sperm of F0 and F1 mice. GENES & NUTRITION 2023; 18:12. [PMID: 37598138 PMCID: PMC10439541 DOI: 10.1186/s12263-023-00731-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/21/2023]
Abstract
Paternal high-fat diet (HFD) can alter the epigenetics of sperm DNA, resulting in the transmission of obesity-related traits to the offspring. Previous studies have mainly focused on the HFD-induced changes in DNA methylation of imprinted genes, overlooking the potential involvement of non-imprinted genes in this process. SETD2, an important epigenetically-regulated gene known for its response to environmental stress, remains poorly understood in the context of high-fat diet-induced epigenetic changes. Here we examined the effect of obesity from a HFD on paternal SETD2 expression and methylation in sperm, and embryos at the blastocyst stage and during subsequent development, to determine the alteration of SETD2 in paternal intergenerational and transgenerational inheritance. The result showed that mice fed with HFD for two months had significantly increased SETD2 expression in testis and sperm. The paternal HFD significantly altered the DNA methylation level with 20 of the 26 CpG sites being changed in sperm from F0 mice. Paternal high-fat diet increased apoptotic index and decreased total cell number of blastocysts, which were closely correlated with DNA methylation level of sperm. Out of the 26 CpG sites, we also found three CpG sites that were significantly changed in the sperm from F1 mice, which meant that the methylation changes at these three CpG sites were maintained.In conclusion, we found that paternal exposure to an HFD disrupted the methylation pattern of SETD2 in the sperm of F0 mice and resulted in perturbed SETD2 expression. Furthermore, the paternal high-fat diet influenced embryo apoptosis and development, possibly through the SETD2 pathway. The altered methylation of SETD2 in sperm induced by paternal HFD partially persisted in the sperm of the F1 generation, highlighting the role of SETD2 as an epigenetic carrier for paternal intergenerational and transgenerational inheritance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suhua Wei
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shiwei Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haifeng Zhang
- Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yandong Li
- Xi'an International Medical Center Hospital, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Juan Zhao
- Department of Hematology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
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12
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Shi Q, Qi K. Developmental origins of health and disease: Impact of paternal nutrition and lifestyle. Pediatr Investig 2023; 7:111-131. [PMID: 37324600 PMCID: PMC10262906 DOI: 10.1002/ped4.12367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Most epidemiological and experimental studies have focused on maternal influences on offspring's health. The impact of maternal undernutrition, overnutrition, hypoxia, and stress is linked to adverse offspring outcomes across a range of systems including cardiometabolic, respiratory, endocrine, and reproduction among others. During the past decade, it has become evident that paternal environmental factors are also linked to the development of diseases in offspring. In this article, we aim to outline the current understanding of the impact of male health and environmental exposure on offspring development, health, and disease and explore the mechanisms underlying the paternal programming of offspring health. The available evidence suggests that poor paternal pre-conceptional nutrition and lifestyle, and advanced age can increase the risk of negative outcomes in offspring, via both direct (genetic/epigenetic) and indirect (maternal uterine environment) effects. Beginning at preconception, and during utero and the early life after birth, cells acquire an epigenetic memory of the early exposure which can be influential across the entire lifespan and program a child's health. Potentially not only mothers but also fathers should be advised that maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle is important to improve offspring health as well as the parental health status. However, the evidence is mostly based on animal studies, and well-designed human studies are urgently needed to verify findings from animal data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoyu Shi
- Laboratory of Nutrition and Development, Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Ministry of Education, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, Beijing Children's HospitalCapital Medical University, National Center for Children's HealthBeijingChina
| | - Kemin Qi
- Laboratory of Nutrition and Development, Key Laboratory of Major Diseases in Children, Ministry of Education, Beijing Pediatric Research Institute, Beijing Children's HospitalCapital Medical University, National Center for Children's HealthBeijingChina
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13
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Lin Y, Chen Z, Qian Q, Wang Y, Xiu X, Ou P, Fang J, Li G. Effects of paternal obesity on maternal-neonatal outcomes and long-term prognosis in adolescents. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1114250. [PMID: 37082119 PMCID: PMC10111374 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1114250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
ObjectiveThis study evaluated whether paternal body mass index (BMI) before pregnancy was a risk factor for maternal-neonatal outcomes and long-term prognosis in offspring.MethodsThis study included 29,518 participants from eight cities in Fujian, China using a stratified cluster random sampling method from May to September 2019. They were divided into four groups based on paternal BMI. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to explore the relationship between paternal BMI groups, maternal-neonatal outcomes, and long-term prognosis in offspring. Further subgroup analysis was conducted to examine the stability of the risk. ResultsThe incidences of hypertensive disorder complicating pregnancy (HDCP), cesarean delivery, gestational weight gain (GWG) over guideline, and macrosomia were significantly higher in the paternal overweight and obesity group. Importantly, this study demonstrated that the incidence of asthma, hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD), anemia, dental caries, and obesity of adolescents in paternal obesity increased. Furthermore, logistic regression and subgroup analysis confirm paternal obesity is a risk factor for HDCP, cesarean delivery, and macrosomia. It caused poor long-term prognosis in adolescents, including asthma, dental caries, and HFMD.ConclusionsPaternal obesity is a risk factor for adverse maternal-neonatal outcomes and poor long-term prognosis in adolescents. In addition to focusing on maternal weight, expectant fathers should pay more attention to weight management since BMI is a modifiable risk factor. Preventing paternal obesity can lead to better maternal and child outcomes. It would provide new opportunities for chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingying Lin
- Department of Healthcare, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhiwei Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Qinfang Qian
- Department of Child Healthcare Centre, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yanxia Wang
- Department of Child Healthcare Centre, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Xiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Ping Ou
- Department of Healthcare, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Guobo Li, ; Jiaoning Fang, ; Ping Ou,
| | - Jiaoning Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Guobo Li, ; Jiaoning Fang, ; Ping Ou,
| | - Guobo Li
- Department of Child Healthcare Centre, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Guobo Li, ; Jiaoning Fang, ; Ping Ou,
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14
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Svanes C, Holloway JW, Krauss-Etschmann S. Preconception origins of asthma, allergies and lung function: The influence of previous generations on the respiratory health of our children. J Intern Med 2023; 293:531-549. [PMID: 36861185 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Emerging research suggests that exposures occurring years before conception are important determinants of the health of future offspring and subsequent generations. Environmental exposures of both the father and mother, or exposure to disease processes such as obesity or infections, may influence germline cells and thereby cause a cascade of health outcomes in multiple subsequent generations. There is now increasing evidence that respiratory health is influenced by parental exposures that occur long before conception. The strongest evidence relates adolescent tobacco smoking and overweight in future fathers to increased asthma and lower lung function in their offspring, supported by evidence on parental preconception occupational exposures and air pollution. Although this literature is still sparse, the epidemiological analyses reveal strong effects that are consistent across studies with different designs and methodologies. The results are strengthened by mechanistic research from animal models and (scarce) human studies that have identified molecular mechanisms that can explain the epidemiological findings, suggesting transfer of epigenetic signals through germline cells, with susceptibility windows in utero (both male and female line) and prepuberty (male line). The concept that our lifestyles and behaviours may influence the health of our future children represents a new paradigm. This raises concerns for future health in decades to come with respect to harmful exposures but may also open for radical rethinking of preventive strategies that may improve health in multiple generations, reverse the imprint of our parents and forefathers, and underpin strategies that can break the vicious circle of propagation of health inequalities across generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilie Svanes
- Centre for International Health, Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.,Department of Occupational Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - John W Holloway
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Susanne Krauss-Etschmann
- Division of Early Life Origins of Chronic Lung Diseases, Research Center Borstel, Airway Research Center North (ARCN), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Borstel, Germany.,Institute of Experimental Medicine, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, Kiel, Germany
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15
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Galvan-Martinez DH, Bosquez-Mendoza VM, Ruiz-Noa Y, Ibarra-Reynoso LDR, Barbosa-Sabanero G, Lazo-de-la-Vega-Monroy ML. Nutritional, pharmacological, and environmental programming of NAFLD in early life. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2023; 324:G99-G114. [PMID: 36472341 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00168.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the main liver disease worldwide, and its prevalence in children and adolescents has been increasing in the past years. It has been demonstrated that parental exposure to different conditions, both preconceptionally and during pregnancy, can lead to fetal programming of several metabolic diseases, including NAFLD. In this article, we review some of the maternal and paternal conditions that may be involved in early-life programing of adult NAFLD. First, we describe the maternal nutritional factors that have been suggested to increase the risk of NAFLD in the offspring, such as an obesogenic diet, overweight/obesity, and altered lipogenesis. Second, we review the association of certain vitamin supplementation and the use of some drugs during pregnancy, for instance, glucocorticoids, with a higher risk of NAFLD. Furthermore, we discuss the evidence showing that maternal-fetal pathologies, including gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), insulin resistance (IR), and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), as well as the exposure to environmental contaminants, and the impact of microbiome changes, are important factors in early-life programming of NAFLD. Finally, we review how paternal preconceptional conditions, such as exercise and diet (particularly obesogenic diets), may impact fetal growth and liver function. Altogether, the presented evidence supports the hypothesis that both in utero exposure and parental conditions may influence fetal outcomes, including the development of NAFLD in early life and adulthood. The study of these conditions is crucial to better understand the diverse mechanisms involved in NAFLD, as well as for defining new preventive strategies for this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Yeniley Ruiz-Noa
- Health Sciences Division, Medical Sciences Department, University of Guanajuato, Campus Leon, Mexico
| | | | - Gloria Barbosa-Sabanero
- Health Sciences Division, Medical Sciences Department, University of Guanajuato, Campus Leon, Mexico
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16
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Bhadsavle SS, Golding MC. Paternal epigenetic influences on placental health and their impacts on offspring development and disease. Front Genet 2022; 13:1068408. [PMID: 36468017 PMCID: PMC9716072 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.1068408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Our efforts to understand the developmental origins of birth defects and disease have primarily focused on maternal exposures and intrauterine stressors. Recently, research into non-genomic mechanisms of inheritance has led to the recognition that epigenetic factors carried in sperm also significantly impact the health of future generations. However, although researchers have described a range of potential epigenetic signals transmitted through sperm, we have yet to obtain a mechanistic understanding of how these paternally-inherited factors influence offspring development and modify life-long health. In this endeavor, the emerging influence of the paternal epigenetic program on placental development, patterning, and function may help explain how a diverse range of male exposures induce comparable intergenerational effects on offspring health. During pregnancy, the placenta serves as the dynamic interface between mother and fetus, regulating nutrient, oxygen, and waste exchange and coordinating fetal growth and maturation. Studies examining intrauterine maternal stressors routinely describe alterations in placental growth, histological organization, and glycogen content, which correlate with well-described influences on infant health and adult onset of disease. Significantly, the emergence of similar phenotypes in models examining preconception male exposures indicates that paternal stressors transmit an epigenetic memory to their offspring that also negatively impacts placental function. Like maternal models, paternally programmed placental dysfunction exerts life-long consequences on offspring health, particularly metabolic function. Here, focusing primarily on rodent models, we review the literature and discuss the influences of preconception male health and exposure history on placental growth and patterning. We emphasize the emergence of common placental phenotypes shared between models examining preconception male and intrauterine stressors but note that the direction of change frequently differs between maternal and paternal exposures. We posit that alterations in placental growth, histological organization, and glycogen content broadly serve as reliable markers of altered paternal developmental programming, predicting the emergence of structural and metabolic defects in the offspring. Finally, we suggest the existence of an unrecognized developmental axis between the male germline and the extraembryonic lineages that may have evolved to enhance fetal adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael C. Golding
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
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17
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Comas-Armangue G, Makharadze L, Gomez-Velazquez M, Teperino R. The Legacy of Parental Obesity: Mechanisms of Non-Genetic Transmission and Reversibility. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102461. [PMID: 36289722 PMCID: PMC9599218 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
While a dramatic increase in obesity and related comorbidities is being witnessed, the underlying mechanisms of their spread remain unresolved. Epigenetic and other non-genetic mechanisms tend to be prominent candidates involved in the establishment and transmission of obesity and associated metabolic disorders to offspring. Here, we review recent findings addressing those candidates, in the context of maternal and paternal influences, and discuss the effectiveness of preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma Comas-Armangue
- German Research Center for Environmental Health Neuherberg, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD) Neuherberg, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Lela Makharadze
- German Research Center for Environmental Health Neuherberg, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD) Neuherberg, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Melisa Gomez-Velazquez
- German Research Center for Environmental Health Neuherberg, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD) Neuherberg, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- Correspondence: (M.G.-V.); (R.T.)
| | - Raffaele Teperino
- German Research Center for Environmental Health Neuherberg, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD) Neuherberg, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
- Correspondence: (M.G.-V.); (R.T.)
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18
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Aizawa S, Tochihara A, Yamamuro Y. Paternal high-fat diet alters triglyceride metabolism-related gene expression in liver and white adipose tissue of male mouse offspring. Biochem Biophys Rep 2022; 31:101330. [PMID: 35990577 PMCID: PMC9388883 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrep.2022.101330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a major public health problem, and its prevalence is progressively increasing worldwide. In addition, accumulating evidence suggests that diverse nutritional and metabolic disturbances including obesity can be transmitted from parents to offspring via transgenerational epigenetic inheritance. The previous reports have shown that paternal obesity has profound impacts on the development and metabolic health of their progeny. However, little information is available concerning the effects of paternal high-fat diet (HFD) exposure on triglyceride metabolism in the offspring. Therefore, we investigated the effects of paternal HFD on triglyceride metabolism and related gene expression in male mouse offspring. We found that paternal HFD exposure significantly increased the body weight, liver and epididymal white adipose tissue (eWAT) weights, and liver triglyceride content in male offspring, despite consuming control diet. In addition, paternal HFD exposure had induced changes in the mRNA expression of genes involved in lipid and triglyceride metabolism in the liver and eWAT. These findings indicate transgenerational inheritance from the paternal metabolic disturbance of triglyceride and support the effects of paternal lifestyle choices on offspring development and health later in life. Paternal HFD exposure increased body weight, liver, and eWAT weights in male offspring. Paternal HFD exposure induced triglyceride metabolism disturbance in male offspring. Triglyceride metabolism-related gene expression in the offspring liver and eWAT was altered by paternal HFD exposure.
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19
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Bibi R, Jahan S, Afsar T, Almajwal A, Hammadeh ME, Alruwaili NW, Razak S, Amor H. The influence of paternal overweight on sperm chromatin integrity, fertilization rate and pregnancy outcome among males attending fertility clinic for IVF/ICSI treatment. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:620. [PMID: 35931982 PMCID: PMC9354411 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04953-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Low and middle-income countries are facing a rapid increase in obesity and overweight burden, particularly in urban settings. Being overweight in men is associated with infertility and a higher risk to have a low sperm count or no sperm in their ejaculate. Despite potential limitations, this is one of few studies conducted to determine the potential risk of paternal overweight on sperm standard parameters, sperm chromatin integrity and assisted conception outcome including fertilization, embryo quality, cleavage rate, reduce blastocyst development, implantation, and cumulative live birth rate (CLBR). Methods A cross-sectional study of 750 infertile couples undergoing assisted reproduction technique at a single reproductive medicine center of Salma Kafeel Medical Centre Islamabad. Sperm from men undergoing ART were analyzed for chromatin integrity using sperm chromatin dispersion assay (SCD), Chromomycin A3 staining (CMA3), and toluidine blue (TB) staining, while other semen parameters were assessed on same day includes; standard semen parameters, reactive oxygen species (ROS), sperm deformity index (SDI), teratozoospermic index (TZI), and hypo-osmatic swelling test (HOST). Paternal body mass index (BMI) < 24.5–20 kg/m2 served as the reference group, while the male patients with BMI > 24.5-30 kg/m2 were considered to be overweight. Results In the analysis of the percentage of spermatozoa with chromatin maturity (CMA3) and chromatin integrity (TB) was reduced significantly in overweight men (p < 0.01) compared with a reference group. Increase in paternal BMI correlate with the increase in sperm chromatin damage (SCD r = 0.282, TB r = 0.144, p < 0.05), immaturity (CMA3, r = 0.79, p < 0.05) and oxidative stress (ROS) (r = 0.282, p < 0.001). Peri-fertilization effects were increased in oocytes fertilization in couples with overweight men (FR = 67%) compared with normal-weight men (FR = 74.8%), similarly, after univariant regression paternal weight remain predictor of sperm chromatin maturity, successful fertilization and CLBR. In the embryo, developmental stage number of the embryo in cleavage was higher in normal weight men, while day 3 (D3) embryos, percent good quality embryo D3, and blastocyst formation rate were compared able between the groups. The paternal overweight group had significant (p < 0.001) increased neonatal birth weight (2952.14 ± 53.64gm; within normal range) when compared with the reference group (2577.24 ± 30.94gm) following assisted reproductive technology (ART). CLBR was higher (p < 0.05) in normal weight men compared to couples with overweight male partners. CLBR per embryo transfer and per 2PN was a statistically significant (p < 0.05) difference between the two groups. An inverse association was observed in the linear regression model between paternal BMI with fertilization rate and CLBR. Conclusion The present study demonstrated the impact of paternal overweight on male reproductive health, as these patients had a higher percentage of immature sperm (CMA3) with impaired chromatin integrity (SCD, TB) in their semen and had decreased fertilization rate, CLBR following assisted reproductive treatments. The present study supports that paternal overweight should be regarded as one of the predictors for fertilization, CLBR and useful for counseling, to consider body mass index not only in women but also for men, in those couples opting for ART treatment, and warrant a poor reproductive outcome in overweight men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riffat Bibi
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-I-Azam University Islamabad, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Sarwat Jahan
- Department of Animal Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Quaid-I-Azam University Islamabad, Islamabad, 45320, Pakistan
| | - Tayyaba Afsar
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Almajwal
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Eid Hammadeh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Saarland University Clinic, Homburg, Germany
| | - Nawaf W Alruwaili
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Suhail Razak
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Houda Amor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Saarland University Clinic, Homburg, Germany
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20
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Hocher B, Lu YP, Reichetzeder C, Zhang X, Tsuprykov O, Rahnenführer J, Xie L, Li J, Hu L, Krämer BK, Hasan AA. Paternal eNOS deficiency in mice affects glucose homeostasis and liver glycogen in male offspring without inheritance of eNOS deficiency itself. Diabetologia 2022; 65:1222-1236. [PMID: 35488925 PMCID: PMC9174141 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-022-05700-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS It was shown that maternal endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) deficiency causes fatty liver disease and numerically lower fasting glucose in female wild-type offspring, suggesting that parental genetic variants may influence the offspring's phenotype via epigenetic modifications in the offspring despite the absence of a primary genetic defect. The aim of the current study was to analyse whether paternal eNOS deficiency may cause the same phenotype as seen with maternal eNOS deficiency. METHODS Heterozygous (+/-) male eNOS (Nos3) knockout mice or wild-type male mice were bred with female wild-type mice. The phenotype of wild-type offspring of heterozygous male eNOS knockout mice was compared with offspring from wild-type parents. RESULTS Global sperm DNA methylation decreased and sperm microRNA pattern altered substantially. Fasting glucose and liver glycogen storage were increased when analysing wild-type male and female offspring of +/- eNOS fathers. Wild-type male but not female offspring of +/- eNOS fathers had increased fasting insulin and increased insulin after glucose load. Analysing candidate genes for liver fat and carbohydrate metabolism revealed that the expression of genes encoding glucocorticoid receptor (Gr; also known as Nr3c1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (Pgc1a; also known as Ppargc1a) was increased while DNA methylation of Gr exon 1A and Pgc1a promoter was decreased in the liver of male wild-type offspring of +/- eNOS fathers. The endocrine pancreas in wild-type offspring was not affected. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION Our study suggests that paternal genetic defects such as eNOS deficiency may alter the epigenome of the sperm without transmission of the paternal genetic defect itself. In later life wild-type male offspring of +/- eNOS fathers developed increased fasting insulin and increased insulin after glucose load. These effects are associated with increased Gr and Pgc1a gene expression due to altered methylation of these genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berthold Hocher
- Fifth Department of Medicine (Nephrology/Endocrinology/Rheumatology), University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China.
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha, China.
- Institute of Medical Diagnostics, IMD Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Yong-Ping Lu
- Fifth Department of Medicine (Nephrology/Endocrinology/Rheumatology), University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Nephrology, Center of Kidney and Urology, The Seventh Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China
| | | | - Xiaoli Zhang
- Fifth Department of Medicine (Nephrology/Endocrinology/Rheumatology), University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
- Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Oleg Tsuprykov
- Fifth Department of Medicine (Nephrology/Endocrinology/Rheumatology), University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jan Rahnenführer
- Fifth Department of Medicine (Nephrology/Endocrinology/Rheumatology), University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Li Xie
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Jian Li
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Liang Hu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Bernhard K Krämer
- Fifth Department of Medicine (Nephrology/Endocrinology/Rheumatology), University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ahmed A Hasan
- Fifth Department of Medicine (Nephrology/Endocrinology/Rheumatology), University Medical Centre Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
- Institute of Pharmacy, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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21
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Human Sperm Morphology as a Marker of Its Nuclear Quality and Epigenetic Pattern. Cells 2022; 11:cells11111788. [PMID: 35681482 PMCID: PMC9180039 DOI: 10.3390/cells11111788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Human sperm chromatin condensation is a sum of epigenetic events that allows for the near-complete replacement of histones with protamines. Under high-magnification microscopy, nuclear vacuoles have been described as thumbprints with poor chromatin condensation. The objective of this study is to examine whether vacuolated spermatozoa carry specific epigenetic marks, which may influence embryo development. Methods: The presence and three-dimensional distribution of ten epigenetic marks (protamine-P2, histone-H3, H3K4me1/me2/me3, H3K9me1/me2/me3, H3K27me3, H4k20me2) were evaluated and compared in morphometrically normal spermatozoa according to the presence or absence of a large vacuole occupying more than 15% of the head surface (n = 4193). Results: Vacuolated spermatozoa were significantly more frequently labelled with H3 and H3K4me3 than normal spermatozoa (88.1% ± 2.7 and 78.5% ± 5.2 vs. 74.8% ± 4.8 and 49.1% ± 7.4, respectively; p = 0.009 and p < 0.001) and significantly less marked by P2 and H3K27me3 (50.2% ± 6.2 and 63.9% ± 6.3 vs. 82.1% ± 4.4 and 73.6% ± 5.1, respectively; p < 0.001 and p = 0.028). In three dimensions, vacuoles are nuclear concavities filled with DNA carrying the H3K4me3 marker. Conclusion: High-magnification microscopy is a simple tool to estimate in real time the sperm epigenetic profile. The selection of normal spermatozoa without vacuoles and the deselection of spermatozoa with vacuoles appear to be epigenetically favorable to embryo development and safe offspring.
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22
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Billah MM, Khatiwada S, Morris MJ, Maloney CA. Effects of paternal overnutrition and interventions on future generations. Int J Obes (Lond) 2022; 46:901-917. [PMID: 35022547 PMCID: PMC9050512 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-021-01042-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In the last two decades, evidence from human and animal studies suggests that paternal obesity around the time of conception can have adverse effects on offspring health through developmental programming. This may make significant contributions to the current epidemic of obesity and related metabolic and reproductive complications like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and subfertility/infertility. To date, changes in seminal fluid composition, sperm DNA methylation, histone composition, small non-coding RNAs, and sperm DNA damage have been proposed as potential underpinning mechanism to program offspring health. In this review, we discuss current human and rodent evidence on the impact of paternal obesity/overnutrition on offspring health, followed by the proposed mechanisms, with a focus on sperm DNA damage underpinning paternal programming. We also summarize the different intervention strategies implemented to minimize effects of paternal obesity. Upon critical review of literature, we find that obesity-induced altered sperm quality in father is linked with compromised offspring health. Paternal exercise intervention before conception has been shown to improve metabolic health. Further work to explore the mechanisms underlying benefits of paternal exercise on offspring are warranted. Conversion to healthy diets and micronutrient supplementation during pre-conception have shown some positive impacts towards minimizing the impact of paternal obesity on offspring. Pharmacological approaches e.g., metformin are also being applied. Thus, interventions in the obese father may ameliorate the potential detrimental impacts of paternal obesity on offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Saroj Khatiwada
- School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Margaret J Morris
- School of Medical Sciences, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
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23
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Abdelrahman M, Wang W, Shaukat A, Kulyar MFEA, Lv H, Abulaiti A, Yao Z, Ahmad MJ, Liang A, Yang L. Nutritional Modulation, Gut, and Omics Crosstalk in Ruminants. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12080997. [PMID: 35454245 PMCID: PMC9029867 DOI: 10.3390/ani12080997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Over the last decade, animal nutrition science has been significantly developed, supported by the great advancements in molecular technologies. For scientists, the present "feedomics and nutrigenomics" era continues to evolve and shape how research is designed, performed, and understood. The new omics interpretations have established a new point of view for the nutrition–gene interaction, integrating more comprehensive findings from animal physiology, molecular genetics, and biochemistry. In the ruminant model, this modern approach addresses rumen microbes as a critical intermediate that can deepen the studies of diet–gut interaction with host genomics. The present review discusses nutrigenomics’ and feedomics’ potential contribution to diminishing the knowledge gap about the DNA cellular activities of different nutrients. It also presents how nutritional management can influence the epigenetic pathway, considering the production type, life stage, and species for more sustainable ruminant nutrition strategies. Abstract Ruminant nutrition has significantly revolutionized a new and prodigious molecular approach in livestock sciences over the last decade. Wide-spectrum advances in DNA and RNA technologies and analysis have produced a wealth of data that have shifted the research threshold scheme to a more affluent level. Recently, the published literature has pointed out the nutrient roles in different cellular genomic alterations among different ruminant species, besides the interactions with other factors, such as age, type, and breed. Additionally, it has addressed rumen microbes within the gut health and productivity context, which has made interpreting homogenous evidence more complicated. As a more systematic approach, nutrigenomics can identify how genomics interacts with nutrition and other variables linked to animal performance. Such findings should contribute to crystallizing powerful interpretations correlating feeding management with ruminant production and health through genomics. This review will present a road-mapping discussion of promising trends in ruminant nutrigenomics as a reference for phenotype expression through multi-level omics changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Abdelrahman
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agriculture University, Wuhan 430070, China; (M.A.); (W.W.); (A.S.); (H.L.); (A.A.); (Z.Y.); (M.J.A.); (A.L.)
- Animal Production Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Assuit University, Asyut 71515, Egypt
| | - Wei Wang
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agriculture University, Wuhan 430070, China; (M.A.); (W.W.); (A.S.); (H.L.); (A.A.); (Z.Y.); (M.J.A.); (A.L.)
| | - Aftab Shaukat
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agriculture University, Wuhan 430070, China; (M.A.); (W.W.); (A.S.); (H.L.); (A.A.); (Z.Y.); (M.J.A.); (A.L.)
| | | | - Haimiao Lv
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agriculture University, Wuhan 430070, China; (M.A.); (W.W.); (A.S.); (H.L.); (A.A.); (Z.Y.); (M.J.A.); (A.L.)
| | - Adili Abulaiti
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agriculture University, Wuhan 430070, China; (M.A.); (W.W.); (A.S.); (H.L.); (A.A.); (Z.Y.); (M.J.A.); (A.L.)
| | - Zhiqiu Yao
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agriculture University, Wuhan 430070, China; (M.A.); (W.W.); (A.S.); (H.L.); (A.A.); (Z.Y.); (M.J.A.); (A.L.)
| | - Muhammad Jamil Ahmad
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agriculture University, Wuhan 430070, China; (M.A.); (W.W.); (A.S.); (H.L.); (A.A.); (Z.Y.); (M.J.A.); (A.L.)
| | - Aixin Liang
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agriculture University, Wuhan 430070, China; (M.A.); (W.W.); (A.S.); (H.L.); (A.A.); (Z.Y.); (M.J.A.); (A.L.)
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (NCIRAGBR), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Liguo Yang
- Key Lab of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, Huazhong Agriculture University, Wuhan 430070, China; (M.A.); (W.W.); (A.S.); (H.L.); (A.A.); (Z.Y.); (M.J.A.); (A.L.)
- National Center for International Research on Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction (NCIRAGBR), Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-138-7105-6592
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24
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Ishihara T, Griffith OW, Suzuki S, Renfree MB. Presence of H3K4me3 on Paternally Expressed Genes of the Paternal Genome From Sperm to Implantation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:838684. [PMID: 35359448 PMCID: PMC8960379 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.838684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Genomic imprinting, parent-of-origin-specific gene expression, is controlled by differential epigenetic status of the parental chromosomes. While DNA methylation and suppressive histone modifications established during gametogenesis suppress imprinted genes on the inactive allele, how and when the expressed allele gains its active status is not clear. In this study, we asked whether the active histone-3 lysine-4 trimethylation (H3K4me3) marks remain at paternally expressed genes (PEGs) in sperm and embryos before and after fertilization using published data. Here we show that mouse sperm had the active H3K4me3 at more than half of known PEGs, and these genes were present even after fertilization. Using reciprocal cross data, we identified 13 new transient PEGs during zygotic genome activation. Next, we confirmed that the 12 out of the 13 new transient PEGs were associated with the paternal H3K4me3 in sperm. Nine out of the 12 genes were associated with the paternal H3K4me3 in zygotes. Our results show that paternal H3K4me3 marks escape inactivation during the histone-to-protamine transition that occurs during sperm maturation and are present in embryos from early zygotic stages up to implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teruhito Ishihara
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Oliver W. Griffith
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Shunsuke Suzuki
- Department of Agricultural and Life Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Shinshu University, Nagano, Japan
| | - Marilyn B. Renfree
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- *Correspondence: Marilyn B. Renfree,
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25
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Guo T, Yang Y, Jia J, Deng Y, Wang Y, Zhang Y, Zhang H, He Y, Zhao J, Peng Z, Wang Q, Shen H, Zhang Y, Yan D, Ma X. Preconception paternal/maternal BMI and risk of small/large for gestational age infant in over 4·7 million Chinese women aged 20-49 years: a population-based cohort study in China. Br J Nutr 2022; 129:1-11. [PMID: 35184774 DOI: 10.1017/s000711452200054x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Evidence of couples' BMI and its influence on birth weight is limited and contradictory. Therefore, this study aims to assess the association between couple's preconception BMI and the risk of small for gestational age (SGA)/large for gestational age (LGA) infant, among over 4·7 million couples in a retrospective cohort study based on the National Free Pre-pregnancy Checkups Project between 1 December 2013 and 30 November 2016 in China. Among the live births, 256 718 (5·44 %) SGA events and 506 495 (10·73 %) LGA events were documented, respectively. After adjusting for confounders, underweight men had significantly higher risk (OR 1·17 (95 % CI 1·15, 1·19)) of SGA infants compared with men with normal BMI, while a significant and increased risk of LGA infants was obtained for overweight and obese men (OR 1·08 (95 % CI 1·06, 1·09); OR 1·19 (95 % CI 1·17, 1·20)), respectively. The restricted cubic spline result revealed a non-linear decreasing dose-response relationship of paternal BMI (less than 22·64) with SGA. Meanwhile, a non-linear increasing dose-response relationship of paternal BMI (more than 22·92) with LGA infants was observed. Moreover, similar results about the association between maternal preconception BMI and SGA/LGA infants were obtained. Abnormal preconception BMI in either women or men were associated with increased risk of SGA/LGA infants, respectively. Overall, couple's abnormal weight before pregnancy may be an important preventable risk factor for SGA/LGA infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonglei Guo
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Human Genetic Resource Center, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Yang
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Human Genetic Resource Center, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Building 18, No. 9, Dongdan Santiao, Dongcheng District, 100730Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiajing Jia
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Human Genetic Resource Center, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Building 18, No. 9, Dongdan Santiao, Dongcheng District, 100730Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuzhi Deng
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Human Genetic Resource Center, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Building 18, No. 9, Dongdan Santiao, Dongcheng District, 100730Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanyuan Wang
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Human Genetic Resource Center, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ya Zhang
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Human Genetic Resource Center, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongguang Zhang
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Human Genetic Resource Center, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan He
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Human Genetic Resource Center, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Building 18, No. 9, Dongdan Santiao, Dongcheng District, 100730Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Zhao
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Human Genetic Resource Center, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zuoqi Peng
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Human Genetic Resource Center, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiaomei Wang
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, National Health Commission of the PRC, No. 1, Xizhimenwai South Road, Xicheng District, 100044Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Haiping Shen
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, National Health Commission of the PRC, No. 1, Xizhimenwai South Road, Xicheng District, 100044Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiping Zhang
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, National Health Commission of the PRC, No. 1, Xizhimenwai South Road, Xicheng District, 100044Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Donghai Yan
- Department of Maternal and Child Health, National Health Commission of the PRC, No. 1, Xizhimenwai South Road, Xicheng District, 100044Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xu Ma
- National Research Institute for Family Planning, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Human Genetic Resource Center, No. 12, Dahuisi Road, Haidian District, 100081Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Building 18, No. 9, Dongdan Santiao, Dongcheng District, 100730Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Qi X, Zhang M, Sun M, Luo D, Guan Q, Yu C. Restoring Impaired Fertility Through Diet: Observations of Switching From High-Fat Diet During Puberty to Normal Diet in Adulthood Among Obese Male Mice. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:839034. [PMID: 35518932 PMCID: PMC9063411 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.839034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obesity is associated with a decrease in testicular function, yet the effects and mechanisms relative to different stages of sexual development remain unclear. The aim of this study is to determine whether high-fat diet-induced obesity impairs male fertility during puberty and in adulthood, and to ascertain its underlying mechanisms. This study aims to further reveal whether restoring to a normal diet can improve impaired fertility. METHODS Male mice were divided into 6 groups: the group N and H exposed to a normal diet or high-fat diet during puberty. The group NN or NH were further maintained a normal diet or exposed to high-fat diet in adulthood, the group HH or HN were further maintained high-fat diet or switched to normal diet in adulthood. Metabolic parameters, fertility parameters, testicular function parameters, TUNEL staining and testicular function-related proteins were evaluated, respectively. RESULTS The fertility of the mice in the high-fat diet group was impaired, which validated by declines in pregnancy rates and litter weight loss. Further analysis demonstrated the increased level of oxidative stress, the increased number of spermatogenic cell apoptosis and decreased number of sperm and decreased acrosome integrity. The expression of steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) and spermatogenesis related proteins (WT-1) decreased. Fertility among the HN group recovered, accompanied by the recovery of metabolism, fertility and testicular function parameters, StAR and WT-1 expression. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that high-fat diet-induced obesity impairs male fertility during puberty and in adulthood. The loss of acrosome integrity, the increase of oxidative stress, the increase of cells apoptosis and the down-regulation of StAR and WT-1 may be the underlying mechanisms. Switching from high-fat diets during puberty to normal diets in adulthood can improve male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangyu Qi
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Meijie Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Jing’an District Center Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingqi Sun
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- General Practice, Jinan Forth People’s Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Dandan Luo
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Qingbo Guan
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Chunxiao Yu
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Endocrinology, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
- Shandong Clinical Research Center of Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Laboratory of Endocrinology and Lipid Metabolism, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- Shandong Prevention and Control Engineering Laboratory of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
- *Correspondence: Chunxiao Yu,
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McPherson NO, Vincent AD, Zander-Fox D, Grieger JA. Birthweight associations with parental obesity: retrospective analysis of 1,778 singleton term births following assisted reproductive treatment. F S Rep 2021; 2:405-412. [PMID: 34934980 PMCID: PMC8655430 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2021.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine the association of combined parental preconception overweight and obesity on infant birthweight. Design Retrospective study of fresh in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles (2009–2017). Setting Repromed, South Australia, assisted reproductive technology clinic. Patients Couples undergoing in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection insemination with their own gametes and transfer of a fresh single blastocyst (N = 1,778). Intervention(s) None. Main Outcome Measures Parental body mass index (BMI) was recorded prior to cycle initiation. Infant birthweight was recorded at delivery. The impact of parental obesity and their interaction on first singleton term (≥37 weeks’ gestation) birthweight was assessed using linear regressions assessing nonlinearity and a pairwise linear interactions. Results In the base model where parental BMI is assumed linear, there was strong evidence for higher birthweight with increasing maternal BMI (11.2 g per maternal kg/m2; 95% confidence interval, 7.2, 15.1) but not paternal BMI. The inclusion of a pairwise linear interaction indicated that paternal BMI attenuates the positive association between maternal BMI and infant birthweight (interaction −0.88; 95% confidence interval, −1.49, −0.27). The inclusion of nonlinear maternal BMI terms did not change the conclusions. Conclusions Increases in the mean infant birthweight associated with maternal obesity are attenuated when the father is obese. While maternal BMI contributed more to the mean infant birthweight than paternal BMI, a couple-centered approach to preconception health advice is recommended, given the documented relationships between parental obesity and childhood weight beyond infancy. Further studies in both assisted reproductive technology and general population cohorts assessing the parental BMI interaction on infant birthweight are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole O McPherson
- Freemasons Center for Male Health and Wellbeing, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Repromed, Dulwich, South Australia, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Andrew D Vincent
- Freemasons Center for Male Health and Wellbeing, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, South Australia, Australia
| | - Deirdre Zander-Fox
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Repromed, Dulwich, South Australia, Australia.,Monash IVF Group, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Faculty of Science, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, South Australia, Australia
| | - Jessica A Grieger
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Cheuquemán C, Maldonado R. Non-coding RNAs and chromatin: key epigenetic factors from spermatogenesis to transgenerational inheritance. Biol Res 2021; 54:41. [PMID: 34930477 PMCID: PMC8686607 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-021-00364-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Cellular fate and gene expression patterns are modulated by different epigenetic factors including non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and chromatin organization. Both factors are dynamic throughout male germ cell differentiation on the seminiferous tubule, despite the transcriptional inactivation in the last stages of spermatogenesis. Sperm maturation during the caput-to-cauda transit on the epididymis involves changes in chromatin organization and the soma-to-germ line transference of ncRNAs that are essential to obtain a functional sperm for fertilization and embryo development. Here, the male environment (diseases, drugs, mental stress) is crucial to modulate these epigenetic factors throughout sperm maturation, affecting the corresponding offspring. Paternal transgenerational inheritance has been directly related to sperm epigenetic changes, most of them associated with variations in the ncRNA content and chromatin marks. Our aim is to give an overview about how epigenetics, focused on ncRNAs and chromatin, is pivotal to understand spermatogenesis and sperm maturation, and how the male environment impacts the sperm epigenome modulating the offspring gene expression pattern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Cheuquemán
- Núcleo de Ciencias Biológicas, Dirección de Núcleos Transversales, Facultad de estudios Interdisciplinarios, Universidad Mayor, Temuco, Chile
| | - Rodrigo Maldonado
- Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.
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Mohajer N, Joloya EM, Seo J, Shioda T, Blumberg B. Epigenetic Transgenerational Inheritance of the Effects of Obesogen Exposure. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:787580. [PMID: 34975759 PMCID: PMC8716683 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.787580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity and metabolic disorders have become a worldwide pandemic affecting millions of people. Although obesity is a multifaceted disease, there is growing evidence supporting the obesogen hypothesis, which proposes that exposure to a subset of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), known as obesogens, promotes obesity. While these effects can be observed in vitro using cell models, in vivo and human epidemiological studies have strengthened this hypothesis. Evidence from animal models showed that the effects of obesogen exposure can be inherited transgenerationally through at least the F4 generation. Transgenerational effects of EDC exposure predispose future generations to undesirable phenotypic traits and diseases, including obesity and related metabolic disorders. The exact mechanisms through which phenotypic traits are passed from an exposed organism to their offspring, without altering the primary DNA sequence, remain largely unknown. Recent research has provided strong evidence suggesting that a variety of epigenetic mechanisms may underlie transgenerational inheritance. These include differential DNA methylation, histone methylation, histone retention, the expression and/or deposition of non-coding RNAs and large-scale alterations in chromatin structure and organization. This review highlights the most recent advances in the field of epigenetics with respect to the transgenerational effects of environmental obesogens. We highlight throughout the paper the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence for proposed mechanisms underlying transgenerational inheritance and why none of these is sufficient to fully explain the phenomenon. We propose that changes in higher order chromatin organization and structure may be a plausible explanation for how some disease predispositions are heritable through multiple generations, including those that were not exposed. A solid understanding of these possible mechanisms is essential to fully understanding how environmental exposures can lead to inherited susceptibility to diseases such as obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Mohajer
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Erika M. Joloya
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Jeongbin Seo
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Toshi Shioda
- Center for Cancer Research, Massachusetts General Hospital, Charlestown, MA, United States
| | - Bruce Blumberg
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Developmental and Cell Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
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Rato L, Sousa ACA. The Impact of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals in Male Fertility: Focus on the Action of Obesogens. J Xenobiot 2021; 11:163-196. [PMID: 34940512 PMCID: PMC8709303 DOI: 10.3390/jox11040012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The current scenario of male infertility is not yet fully elucidated; however, there is increasing evidence that it is associated with the widespread exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), and in particular to obesogens. These compounds interfere with hormones involved in the regulation of metabolism and are associated with weight gain, being also able to change the functioning of the male reproductive axis and, consequently, the testicular physiology and metabolism that are pivotal for spermatogenesis. The disruption of these tightly regulated metabolic pathways leads to adverse reproductive outcomes. The permanent exposure to obesogens has raised serious health concerns. Evidence suggests that obesogens are one of the leading causes of the marked decline of male fertility and key players in shaping the future health outcomes not only for those who are directly exposed but also for upcoming generations. In addition to the changes that lead to inefficient functioning of the male gametes, obesogens induce alterations that are “imprinted” on the genes of the male gametes, establishing a link between generations and contributing to the transmission of defects. Unveiling the molecular mechanisms by which obesogens induce toxicity that may end-up in epigenetic modifications is imperative. This review describes and discusses the suggested molecular targets and potential mechanisms for obesogenic–disrupting chemicals and the subsequent effects on male reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luís Rato
- Health School of the Polytechnic Institute of Guarda, 6300-035 Guarda, Portugal
- Correspondence: (L.R.); (A.C.A.S.)
| | - Ana C. A. Sousa
- Department of Biology, School of Science and Technology, University of Évora, 7006-554 Évora, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), University of Évora, 7000-671 Évora, Portugal
- Correspondence: (L.R.); (A.C.A.S.)
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31
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Kontsevaya GV, Gerlinskaya LA, Moshkin YM, Anisimova MV, Stanova AK, Babochkina TI, Moshkin MP. The Effects of Sperm and Seminal Fluid of Immunized Male Mice on In Vitro Fertilization and Surrogate Mother-Embryo Interaction. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910650. [PMID: 34638989 PMCID: PMC8508670 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The latest vaccination campaign has actualized the potential impact of antigenic stimuli on reproductive functions. To address this, we mimicked vaccination’s effects by administering keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH ) to CD1 male mice and used their sperm for in vitro fertilization (IVF). Two-cell embryos after IVF with spermatozoa from control (C) or KLH-treated (Im) male mice were transferred to surrogate mothers mated with vasectomized control (C) or KLH-treated (Im) male mice, resulting in four experimental groups: C–C, Im–C, C–Im, and Im–Im. The pre-implantation losses were significantly lower in the Im–C group than in the C–Im group. At the same time, the resorption rates reduced markedly in the C–Im compared to the Im–C group. Embryo and placenta weights were significantly higher in the Im–Im group. Although the GM-CSF levels were lower in the amniotic fluid of the gestating surrogate mothers in the Im–Im group, they were strongly correlated with embryo mass. The number–size trade-off was only significant in the Im–Im group. This suggests a positive, cooperative effect of spermatozoa and seminal fluid from immune-primed males on embryo growth and the optimal distribution of surrogate mother maternal resources despite the negative impact of males’ antigenic challenge on the IVF success rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galina Vladimirovna Kontsevaya
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of RAS, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (G.V.K.); (Y.M.M.); (M.V.A.); (A.K.S.); (M.P.M.)
| | - Ludmila Alekseevna Gerlinskaya
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of RAS, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (G.V.K.); (Y.M.M.); (M.V.A.); (A.K.S.); (M.P.M.)
- Correspondence: (L.A.G.); (T.I.B.)
| | - Yury Mikhailovich Moshkin
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of RAS, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (G.V.K.); (Y.M.M.); (M.V.A.); (A.K.S.); (M.P.M.)
| | - Margarita Vladimirovna Anisimova
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of RAS, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (G.V.K.); (Y.M.M.); (M.V.A.); (A.K.S.); (M.P.M.)
| | - Aliya Konstantinovna Stanova
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of RAS, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (G.V.K.); (Y.M.M.); (M.V.A.); (A.K.S.); (M.P.M.)
| | - Tatyana Ivanovna Babochkina
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of RAS, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (G.V.K.); (Y.M.M.); (M.V.A.); (A.K.S.); (M.P.M.)
- Correspondence: (L.A.G.); (T.I.B.)
| | - Mikhail Pavlovich Moshkin
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of RAS, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (G.V.K.); (Y.M.M.); (M.V.A.); (A.K.S.); (M.P.M.)
- Biological Institute at Tomsk State University, 634050 Tomsk, Russia
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32
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Consequences of Paternal Nutrition on Offspring Health and Disease. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13082818. [PMID: 34444978 PMCID: PMC8400857 DOI: 10.3390/nu13082818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
It is well established that the maternal diet during the periconceptional period affects the progeny’s health. A growing body of evidence suggests that the paternal diet also influences disease onset in offspring. For many years, sperm was considered only to contribute half of the progeny’s genome. It now appears that it also plays a crucial role in health and disease in offspring’s adult life. The nutritional status and environmental exposure of fathers during their childhood and/or the periconceptional period have significant transgenerational consequences. This review aims to describe the effects of various human and rodent paternal feeding patterns on progeny’s metabolism and health, including fasting or intermittent fasting, low-protein and folic acid deficient food, and overnutrition in high-fat and high-sugar diets. The impact on pregnancy outcome, metabolic pathways, and chronic disease onset will be described. The biological and epigenetic mechanisms underlying the transmission from fathers to their progeny will be discussed. All these data provide evidence of the impact of paternal nutrition on progeny health which could lead to preventive diet recommendations for future fathers.
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Preconceptional smoking alters spermatozoal miRNAs of murine fathers and affects offspring's body weight. Int J Obes (Lond) 2021; 45:1623-1627. [PMID: 34002034 PMCID: PMC8236406 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-021-00798-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Background Active smoking has been reported among 7% of teenagers worldwide, with ages ranging from 13 to 15 years. An epidemiological study suggested that preconceptional paternal smoking is associated with adolescent obesity in boys. We developed a murine adolescent smoking model before conception to investigate the paternal molecular causes of changes in offspring’s phenotype. Method Male and female C57BL/6J mice were exposed to increasing doses of mainstream cigarette smoke (CS) from onset of puberty for 6 weeks and mated with room air (RA) controls. Results Thirteen miRNAs were upregulated and 32 downregulated in the spermatozoa of CS-exposed fathers, while there were no significant differences in the count and morphological integrity of spermatozoa, as well as the proliferation of spermatogonia between CS- and RA-exposed fathers. Offspring from preconceptional CS-exposed mothers had lower body weights (p = 0.007). Moreover, data from offspring from CS-exposed fathers suggested a potential increase in body weight (p = 0.062). Conclusion We showed that preconceptional paternal CS exposure regulates spermatozoal miRNAs, and possibly influences the body weight of F1 progeny in early life. The regulated miRNAs may modulate transmittable epigenetic changes to offspring, thus influence the development of respiratory- and metabolic-related diseases such as obesity, a mechanism that warrants further studies for elaborate explanations.
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Raad G, Serra F, Martin L, Derieppe MA, Gilleron J, Costa VL, Pisani DF, Amri EZ, Trabucchi M, Grandjean V. Paternal multigenerational exposure to an obesogenic diet drives epigenetic predisposition to metabolic diseases in mice. eLife 2021; 10:61736. [PMID: 33783350 PMCID: PMC8051948 DOI: 10.7554/elife.61736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a growing societal scourge. Recent studies have uncovered that paternal excessive weight induced by an unbalanced diet affects the metabolic health of offspring. These reports mainly employed single-generation male exposure. However, the consequences of multigenerational unbalanced diet feeding on the metabolic health of progeny remain largely unknown. Here, we show that maintaining paternal Western diet feeding for five consecutive generations in mice induces an enhancement in fat mass and related metabolic diseases over generations. Strikingly, chow-diet-fed progenies from these multigenerational Western-diet-fed males develop a 'healthy' overweight phenotype characterized by normal glucose metabolism and without fatty liver that persists for four subsequent generations. Mechanistically, sperm RNA microinjection experiments into zygotes suggest that sperm RNAs are sufficient for establishment but not for long-term maintenance of epigenetic inheritance of metabolic pathologies. Progressive and permanent metabolic deregulation induced by successive paternal Western-diet-fed generations may contribute to the worldwide epidemic of metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georges Raad
- Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm, C3M, TeamControl of Gene Expression (10), Nice, France.,Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, iBV, Nice, France
| | - Fabrizio Serra
- Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm, C3M, TeamControl of Gene Expression (10), Nice, France
| | - Luc Martin
- Université Côte d'Azur, CNRS, Inserm, iBV, Nice, France
| | | | - Jérôme Gilleron
- Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm, C3M, Team Cellular and Molecular Pathophysiology of Obesity and Diabetes (7), Nice, France
| | - Vera L Costa
- Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm, C3M, TeamControl of Gene Expression (10), Nice, France
| | | | | | - Michele Trabucchi
- Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm, C3M, TeamControl of Gene Expression (10), Nice, France
| | - Valerie Grandjean
- Université Côte d'Azur, Inserm, C3M, TeamControl of Gene Expression (10), Nice, France
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35
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Pan MH, Zhu CC, Ju JQ, Xu Y, Luo SM, Sun SC, Ou XH. Single-cell transcriptome analysis reveals that maternal obesity affects DNA repair, histone methylation, and autophagy level in mouse embryos. J Cell Physiol 2020; 236:4944-4953. [PMID: 33368268 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Obesity causes many reproductive dysfunctions such as reduced conception, infertility, and early pregnancy loss, and this is largely due to the negative effects of obesity on oocyte and embryo quality. In the present study, we employed single-cell RNA transcriptome sequencing to investigate the potential causes for the maternal obesity effects on mouse embryos. Our results showed that the 4-cell and morula/blastocyst rates were all significantly decreased during embryo development in obese mice. Genome-wide analysis indicated that obesity altered the expression of more than 1100 genes in 2-cell embryos, including the genes which were related to the p53 signaling pathway and apoptosis. Further analysis showed that the expression of 47 genes related to DNA damage was changed, and a positive γH2A signal and the altered expression of Rad51 and Tex15 were observed in the obese embryos. Obesity also affected histone methylation, shown by the decrease of the H3K4-me2 level. Besides this, we observed the occurrence of autophagy and apoptosis in the embryos of obese mice. There were 42 genes that were related to autophagy/apoptosis that showed aberrant expression, and the positive LC3 signal and the decrease of Clec16a, Rraga, and Atg10 level were also observed. In summary, our study suggested that obesity affected early embryonic development by inducing DNA damage, aberrant histone methylation, and autophagy levels in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Hao Pan
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China.,College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Cheng-Cheng Zhu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jia-Qian Ju
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yi Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shi-Ming Luo
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shao-Chen Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiang-Hong Ou
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, China
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Zhang Z, Zhao Y, Zhang Y, Zhao R, He B. Paternal systemic inflammation induces offspring programming of growth and liver regeneration in association with Igf2 upregulation. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 518:111001. [PMID: 32882328 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.111001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies suggest that stress can lead to variations in offspring development. However, whether paternal systemic inflammation induces phenotypic changes in the offspring remains unclear. Here, we established an in vivo mouse model of systemic inflammation and investigated the long-term consequences on the offspring. Male, but not female offspring derived from inflammatory fathers (LPS-F1) grew faster than those derived from the control fathers (CON-F1). Moreover, the LPS-F1 males had higher capacity for liver regeneration after injury, as indicated by decreased hepatic fibrosis, apoptosis, and increased hepatocyte proliferation upon carbon tetrachloride challenge. Insulin-like growth factor 2 (Igf2), a key mitogen that drives growth and liver regeneration, was significantly upregulated in the livers of male, but not female offspring from fathers with inflammation. Taken together, paternal inflammation alters the hepatic Igf2 expression and reprograms growth and liver regeneration in male but not female offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhilong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, PR China
| | - Yuting Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, PR China
| | - Yanwen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, PR China
| | - Ruqian Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, PR China; MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health & Food Safety, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, PR China
| | - Bin He
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, PR China; MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health & Food Safety, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, PR China.
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37
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Rutkowska J, Lagisz M, Bonduriansky R, Nakagawa S. Mapping the past, present and future research landscape of paternal effects. BMC Biol 2020; 18:183. [PMID: 33246472 PMCID: PMC7694421 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-020-00892-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although in all sexually reproducing organisms an individual has a mother and a father, non-genetic inheritance has been predominantly studied in mothers. Paternal effects have been far less frequently studied, until recently. In the last 5 years, research on environmentally induced paternal effects has grown rapidly in the number of publications and diversity of topics. Here, we provide an overview of this field using synthesis of evidence (systematic map) and influence (bibliometric analyses). RESULTS We find that motivations for studies into paternal effects are diverse. For example, from the ecological and evolutionary perspective, paternal effects are of interest as facilitators of response to environmental change and mediators of extended heredity. Medical researchers track how paternal pre-fertilization exposures to factors, such as diet or trauma, influence offspring health. Toxicologists look at the effects of toxins. We compare how these three research guilds design experiments in relation to objects of their studies: fathers, mothers and offspring. We highlight examples of research gaps, which, in turn, lead to future avenues of research. CONCLUSIONS The literature on paternal effects is large and disparate. Our study helps in fostering connections between areas of knowledge that develop in parallel, but which could benefit from the lateral transfer of concepts and methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Rutkowska
- Institute of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, BEES, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Malgorzata Lagisz
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, BEES, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Russell Bonduriansky
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, BEES, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Shinichi Nakagawa
- Evolution & Ecology Research Centre, School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, BEES, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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Abstract
In recent years, a new focus of the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease hypothesis has emerged examining the potential role that paternal health may play in embryo development, fetal growth and long-term offspring health. While the association between male health and sperm quality has been studied in detail, our understanding of the long-term paternal effects on offspring health remains limited. As with studies aimed at understanding maternal programming, animal models are an essential tool with which to define the underlying mechanisms linking paternal health to post-fertilisation development and offspring well-being. Here, new insights into the genetic and epigenetic nature of the sperm, as well as the role seminal plasma plays in modulating the maternal reproductive environment, are demonstrating the significant role a father's wellbeing at the time of conception has for programming the health of his offspring. In this article we will outline the current understanding of the impact of male health on semen quality, reproductive fitness and post-fertilisation offspring development and explore the mechanisms underlying the paternal programming of offspring health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J Watkins
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK.
| | - Eleonora Rubini
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Elizabeth D Hosier
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Hannah L Morgan
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Queen's Medical Centre, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
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Wang F, Chen H, Chen Y, Cheng Y, Li J, Zheng L, Zeng X, Luo T. Diet-induced obesity is associated with altered expression of sperm motility-related genes and testicular post-translational modifications in a mouse model. Theriogenology 2020; 158:233-238. [PMID: 32980686 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Obesity is a metabolic disease and its relation with male subfertility has aroused a growing concern. However, it is unclear whether gene expression and post-translational modifications (PTMs), two vital molecular mechanisms regulating cellular functions, are associated with obesity-induced male reproductive dysfunction. In this study, male obesity with compromised sperm motility was induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) using a mouse model. The expression of motility related-genes, the level of histone modifications, and the global profiles of post-translational modifications (PTMs), were examined in testes of HFD and control mice by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot, respectively. Outer dense fiber protein 2, a major component of outer dense fibers in the sperm tail, is the most obviously down-regulated gene out of 11 evaluated genes, showing a reduction of about 50% RNA level in testes of obese male mice compared with that in control mice. Semi-quantitative analysis of the western blot demonstrated that ∼56% enrichment of di-methylated histone (H)3 lysine (K)36, ∼59% enrichment of 2-hydroxyisobutyrylated H4K8, ∼32% decrease of propionylated H3K23, ∼33% decrease of crotonylated H4K8, and ∼45% decrease of acetylated H3K122 and H4K8 were detected in testes of male HFD mice compared with that in control mice. In addition, male obesity up-regulated the testicular levels of ubiquitination by ∼18%, tyrosine nitration by ∼20%, lysine succinylation by ∼25%, lysine benzoylation by ∼28%, lysine malonylation by ∼32%, lysine glutarylation by ∼36%, lysine propionylation by ∼42%, lysine 2-hydroxyisobutyrylation by ∼45%, and SUMO1 modification by ∼59%, and down-regulated the testicular levels of O-GlcNAcylation by ∼12%, lysine crotonylation by ∼22%, and lysine acetylation by 35%. These findings indicate that altered gene expression and PTMs are associated with the obesity-induced male reproductive dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Wang
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, China
| | - Houyang Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center, Jiangxi Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330006, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Jiangxi Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, China
| | - Yimin Cheng
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, China
| | - Jia Li
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Jiangxi Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, China
| | - Liping Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Jiangxi Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, China
| | - Xuhui Zeng
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, China; Institute of Reproductive Medicine, School of Medicine, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu, 226000, PR China
| | - Tao Luo
- Institute of Life Science and School of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology in Jiangxi Province, Jiangxi Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330031, China.
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Nätt D, Öst A. Male reproductive health and intergenerational metabolic responses from a small RNA perspective. J Intern Med 2020; 288:305-320. [PMID: 32415866 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The world has recently experienced a decline in male reproductive (e.g. sperm counts and motility) and metabolic (e.g. obesity and diabetes) health. Accumulated evidence from animal models also shows that the metabolic health of the father may influence the metabolic health in his offspring. Vectors for such paternal intergenerational metabolic responses (IGMRs) involve small noncoding RNAs (sncRNAs) that often increase in spermatozoa during the last days of maturation in the epididymis. We and others have shown that the metabolic state - depending on factors such as diet, obesity and physical exercise - may affect sperm quality and sperm sncRNA. Together, this suggests that there are overlapping aetiologies between the male metabolic syndrome, male factor infertility and intergenerational responses. In this review, we present a theoretical framework for an overlap of these aetiologies by exploring the advances in our understanding of the roles of sncRNA in spermatogenesis and offspring development. A special focus will lie on novel findings about tRNA-derived small RNA (tsRNA), rRNA-derived small RNA (rsRNA) and small mitochondrial RNA (mitoRNA), and their emerging roles in intergenerational metabolic and reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Nätt
- From the, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linkoping, Sweden
| | - A Öst
- From the, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linkoping, Sweden
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41
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Thompson MD. Developmental Programming of NAFLD by Parental Obesity. Hepatol Commun 2020; 4:1392-1403. [PMID: 33024911 PMCID: PMC7527686 DOI: 10.1002/hep4.1578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The surge of obesity across generations has become an increasingly relevant issue, with consequences for associated comorbidities in offspring. Data from longitudinal birth cohort studies support an association between maternal obesity and offspring nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), suggesting that perinatal obesity or obesogenic diet exposure reprograms offspring liver and increases NAFLD susceptibility. In preclinical models, offspring exposed to maternal obesogenic diet have increased hepatic steatosis after diet-induced obesity; however, the implications for later NAFLD development and progression are still unclear. Although some models show increased NAFLD incidence and progression in offspring, development of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis with fibrosis may be model dependent. Multigenerational programming of NAFLD phenotypes occurs after maternal obesogenic diet exposure; however, the mechanisms for such programming remain poorly understood. Likewise, emerging data on the role of paternal obesity in offspring NAFLD development reveal incomplete mechanisms. This review will explore the impact of parental obesity and obesogenic diet exposure on offspring NAFLD and areas for further investigation, including the impact of parental diet on disease progression, and consider potential interventions in preclinical models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D. Thompson
- Division of Endocrinology and DiabetesDepartment of PediatricsWashington University School of MedicineSt. LouisMO
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Environmental Impact on Male (In)Fertility via Epigenetic Route. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9082520. [PMID: 32764255 PMCID: PMC7463911 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9082520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last 40 years, male reproductive health-which is very sensitive to both environmental exposure and metabolic status-has deteriorated and the poor sperm quality observed has been suggested to affect offspring development and its health in adult life. In this scenario, evidence now suggests that epigenetics shapes endocrine functions, linking genetics and environment. During fertilization, spermatozoa share with the oocyte their epigenome, along with their haploid genome, in order to orchestrate embryo development. The epigenetic signature of spermatozoa is the result of a dynamic modulation of the epigenetic marks occurring, firstly, in the testis-during germ cell progression-then, along the epididymis, where spermatozoa still receive molecules, conveyed by epididymosomes. Paternal lifestyle, including nutrition and exposure to hazardous substances, alters the phenotype of the next generations, through the remodeling of a sperm epigenetic blueprint that dynamically reacts to a wide range of environmental and lifestyle stressors. With that in mind, this review will summarize and discuss insights into germline epigenetic plasticity caused by environmental stimuli and diet and how spermatozoa may be carriers of induced epimutations across generations through a mechanism known as paternal transgenerational epigenetic inheritance.
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Galan C, Krykbaeva M, Rando OJ. Early life lessons: The lasting effects of germline epigenetic information on organismal development. Mol Metab 2020; 38:100924. [PMID: 31974037 PMCID: PMC7300385 DOI: 10.1016/j.molmet.2019.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An organism's metabolic phenotype is primarily affected by its genotype, its lifestyle, and the nutritional composition of its food supply. In addition, it is now clear from studies in many different species that ancestral environments can also modulate metabolism in at least one to two generations of offspring. SCOPE OF REVIEW We limit ourselves here to paternal effects in mammals, primarily focusing on studies performed in inbred rodent models. Although hundreds of studies link paternal diets and offspring metabolism, the mechanistic basis by which epigenetic information in sperm programs nutrient handling in the next generation remains mysterious. Our goal in this review is to provide a brief overview of paternal effect paradigms and the germline epigenome. We then pivot to exploring one key mystery in this literature: how do epigenetic changes in sperm, most of which are likely to act transiently in the early embryo, ultimately direct a long-lasting physiological response in offspring? MAJOR CONCLUSIONS Several potential mechanisms exist by which transient epigenetic modifications, such as small RNAs or methylation states erased shortly after fertilization, could be transferred to more durable heritable information. A detailed mechanistic understanding of this process will provide deep insights into early development, and could be of great relevance for human health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Galan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Marina Krykbaeva
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA
| | - Oliver J Rando
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, 01605, USA.
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Torres-Flores U, Hernández-Hernández A. The Interplay Between Replacement and Retention of Histones in the Sperm Genome. Front Genet 2020; 11:780. [PMID: 32765595 PMCID: PMC7378789 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The genome of eukaryotes is highly organized within the cell nucleus, this organization per se elicits gene regulation and favors other mechanisms like cell memory throughout histones and their post-translational modifications. In highly specialized cells, like sperm, the genome is mostly organized by protamines, yet a significant portion of it remains organized by histones. This protamine-histone-DNA organization, known as sperm epigenome, is established during spermiogenesis. Specific histones and their post-translational modifications are retained at specific genomic sites and during embryo development these sites recapitulate their histone profile that harbored in the sperm nucleus. It is known that histones are the conduit of epigenetic memory from cell to cell, hence histones in the sperm epigenome may have a role in transmitting epigenetic memory from the sperm to the embryo. However, the exact function and mechanism of histone retention remains elusive. During spermatogenesis, most of the histones that organize the genome are replaced by protamines and their retention at specific regions may be deeply intertwined with the eviction and replacement mechanism. In this review we will cover some relevant aspects of histone replacement that in turn may help us to contextualize histone retention. In the end, we focus on the architectonical protein CTCF that is, so far, the only factor that has been directly linked to the histone retention process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulises Torres-Flores
- Biología de Células Individuales (BIOCELIN), Laboratorio de Investigación en Patología Experimental, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Abrahan Hernández-Hernández
- Biología de Células Individuales (BIOCELIN), Laboratorio de Investigación en Patología Experimental, Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez, Mexico City, Mexico
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Ma M, Zhang W, Zhang J, Liang Z, Kuang Y, Wang Y. Effect of paternal body mass index on neonatal outcomes of singletons after frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles: analysis of 7,908 singleton newborns. Fertil Steril 2020; 113:1215-1223.e1. [PMID: 32402450 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.02.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of paternal body mass index (BMI) on neonatal outcomes of singletons after frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING Tertiary-care academic medical center. PATIENT(S) A total of 7,908 singleton newborns were divided into four categories based on their paternal BMI: 284 (3.6%) infants were in the paternal underweight category, 4,678 (59.2%) infants were in the paternal normal weight category, 2,585 (32.7%) infants were in the paternal overweight category, and 361 (4.6%) infants were in the paternal obesity category. In addition, we included only infants of women with normal BMI (18.5 kg/m2 ≤ BMI < 25 kg/m2). INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Neonatal outcomes. RESULT(S) The rates of large for gestational age (LGA) infants were significantly higher among those in the paternal overweight and obesity categories than those in the paternal underweight categories. The rates of very LGA were higher among infants in the paternal overweight categories and lower among infants in the paternal underweight categories than the rates in normal controls. The rates of fetal macrosomia were higher among infants in the paternal overweight categories than among infants in the paternal normal weight categories. Compared with normal controls, Z-scores (gestational age- and sex-adjusted birthweight) were significantly higher among the infants in the paternal overweight and paternal obesity categories and significantly lower among the infants in the paternal underweight categories. A positive association was observed in a multiple linear regression model between paternal BMI and newborn birthweights after adjustment for several potential confounders. CONCLUSION(S) Paternal BMI had an independent impact on the birthweight of singletons born after FET cycles. Paternal overweight and paternal obesity were independent risk factors for having LGA infants after FET cycles. Furthermore, paternal overweight was an independent risk factor for fathering infants with macrosomia or very LGA infants after FET cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Ma
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated with JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated with JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated with JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhou Liang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated with JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanping Kuang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated with JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital Affiliated with JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, People's Republic of China.
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Ponzi D, Flinn MV, Muehlenbein MP, Nepomnaschy PA. Hormones and human developmental plasticity. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 505:110721. [PMID: 32004677 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Natural selection favors the evolution of mechanisms that optimize the allocation of resources and time among competing traits. Hormones mediate developmental plasticity, the changes in the phenotype that occur during ontogeny. Despite their highly conserved functions, the flexibilities of human hormonal systems suggest a strong history of adaptation to variable environments. Physiological research on developmental plasticity has focused on the early programming effects of stress, the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPAA) and the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPGA) during critical periods, when the hormones produced have the strongest influence on the developing brain. Often this research emphasizes the maladaptive effects of early stressful experiences. Here we posit that the HPAA and HPAG systems in human developmental plasticity have evolved to be responsive to complex and dynamic problems associated with human sociality. The lengthy period of human offspring dependency, and its associated brain development and risks, is linked to the uniquely human combination of stable breeding bonds, extensive paternal effort in a multi-male group, extended bilateral kin recognition, grandparenting, and controlled exchange of mates among kin groups. We evaluate an evolutionary framework that integrates proximate physiological explanations with ontogeny, phylogeny, adaptive function, and comparative life history data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Ponzi
- Unit of Neuroscience, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Italy.
| | - Mark V Flinn
- Department of Anthropology, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
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Baxter FA, Drake AJ. Non-genetic inheritance via the male germline in mammals. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2020; 374:20180118. [PMID: 30966887 PMCID: PMC6460076 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2018.0118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Numerous studies in humans and in animal models have demonstrated that exposure to adverse environmental conditions in early life results in long-term structural and functional changes in an organism, increasing the risk of cardiometabolic, neurobehavioural and reproductive disorders in later life. Such effects are not limited to the first generation offspring but may be transmitted to a second or a number of subsequent generations, through non-genomic mechanisms. While the transmission of ‘programmed’ effects through the maternal line could occur as a consequence of multiple influences, for example, altered maternal physiology, the inheritance of effects through the male line is more difficult to explain and there is much interest in a potential role for transgenerational epigenetic inheritance. In this review, we will discuss the mechanisms by which induced effects may be transmitted through the paternal lineage, with a particular focus on the role of epigenetic inheritance. This article is part of the theme issue ‘Developing differences: early-life effects and evolutionary medicine’.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faye A Baxter
- 1 Royal Hospital for Sick Children , 9 Sciennes Road, Edinburgh EH9 1LF , UK
| | - Amanda J Drake
- 1 Royal Hospital for Sick Children , 9 Sciennes Road, Edinburgh EH9 1LF , UK.,2 University/British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh , 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ , UK
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Swanson GM, Estill M, Diamond MP, Legro RS, Coutifaris C, Barnhart KT, Huang H, Hansen KR, Trussell JC, Coward RM, Zhang H, Goodrich R, Krawetz SA. Human chromatin remodeler cofactor, RNA interactor, eraser and writer sperm RNAs responding to obesity. Epigenetics 2020; 15:32-46. [PMID: 31354029 PMCID: PMC6961666 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2019.1644880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In the United States almost 33% of adults are considered obese (BMI > 30 kg/m2). Both animal models and to a lesser extent human studies, have associated BMI, a measure of obesity, with alterations in sperm DNA methylation and RNAs. Sperm RNAs from the Assessment of Multiple Gestations from Ovarian Stimulation trial, were isolated and sequenced. A Generalized Linear Model identified 487 BMI associated human sperm RNA elements (short exon-sized sequences). They partitioned into four patterns; a continual increase with BMI, increase once obese (BMI>30 kg/m2); a steady decrease with BMI; and decrease once overweight (BMI 25 - 30 kg/m2). Gene Ontology revealed a unique relationship between BMI and transcripts associated with chromosome organization, adipogenesis, cellular stress and obesity-related inflammation. Coregulatory networks linked by Chromatin remodeler cofactors, RNA interactors, Erasers and Writers (CREWs) were uncovered to reveal a hierarchical epigenetic response pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace M. Swanson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, USA
| | - Molly Estill
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, USA
| | - Michael P. Diamond
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Augusta University, Augusta, USA
| | - Richard S. Legro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pennsylvania State University, Hershey, USA
| | - Christos Coutifaris
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Kurt T. Barnhart
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Hao Huang
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, USA
| | - Karl R. Hansen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oklahoma College of Medicine, Oklahoma City, USA
| | - J. C. Trussell
- Urology Department, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA
| | - R. Matthew Coward
- Department of Urology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Heping Zhang
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, USA
| | - Robert Goodrich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, USA
| | - Stephen A. Krawetz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, USA
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Noor N, Cardenas A, Rifas-Shiman SL, Pan H, Dreyfuss JM, Oken E, Hivert MF, James-Todd T, Patti ME, Isganaitis E. Association of Periconception Paternal Body Mass Index With Persistent Changes in DNA Methylation of Offspring in Childhood. JAMA Netw Open 2019; 2:e1916777. [PMID: 31880793 PMCID: PMC6991200 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2019.16777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE While prenatal nutrition and maternal obesity are recognized as important contributors to epigenetic changes and childhood obesity, the role of paternal obesity in the epigenome of offspring has not been well studied. OBJECTIVES To test whether periconception paternal body mass index (BMI) is associated with DNA methylation patterns in newborns, to examine associations between maternal and paternal BMI and the epigenome of offspring, and to examine persistence of epigenetic marks at ages 3 and 7 years. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Project Viva is a prebirth cohort study of mothers and children including 2128 live births that enrolled mothers from April 1999 to July 2002 and followed offspring to adolescence. This study analyzed the subset of participants with available data on paternal BMI and DNA methylation in offspring blood in the newborn period, at age 3 years, and at age 7 years. Data were analyzed from July 2017 to October 2019. EXPOSURES The primary exposure was paternal periconception BMI; associations were adjusted for maternal prepregnancy BMI and stratified according to maternal BMI above or below 25. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary outcome was genome-wide DNA methylation patterns in offspring blood collected at birth, age 3 years, and age 7 years. RESULTS A total of 429 father-mother-infant triads were included. The mean (SD) periconception paternal BMI was 26.4 (4.0) and mean maternal prepregnancy BMI was 24.5 (5.2); 268 fathers had BMI greater than or equal to 25 (mean [SD], 28.5 [3.3]) and 161 had BMI less than 25 (mean [SD], 22.8 [1.8]). Paternal BMI greater than or equal to 25 was associated with increased offspring birth weight compared with paternal BMI less than 25 (mean [SD] z score, 0.38 [0.91] vs 0.11 [0.96]; P = .004). Cord blood DNA methylation at 9 CpG sites was associated with paternal BMI independent of maternal BMI (q < .05). Methylation at cg04763273, between TFAP2C and BMP7, decreased by 5% in cord blood with every 1-unit increase in paternal BMI (P = 3.13 × 10-8); hypomethylation at this site persisted at ages 3 years and 7 years. Paternal BMI was associated with methylation at cg01029450 in the promoter region of the ARFGAP3 gene; methylation at this site was also associated with lower infant birth weight (β = -0.0003; SD = 0.0001; P = .03) and with higher BMI z score at age 3 years. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE In this study, paternal BMI was associated with DNA methylation, birth weight, and childhood BMI z score in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nudrat Noor
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Andres Cardenas
- Division of Chronic Disease Research Across the Lifecourse, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Division of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of California, Berkeley
| | - Sheryl L. Rifas-Shiman
- Division of Chronic Disease Research Across the Lifecourse, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Hui Pan
- Research Division, Joslin Diabetes Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Emily Oken
- Division of Chronic Disease Research Across the Lifecourse, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Marie-France Hivert
- Division of Chronic Disease Research Across the Lifecourse, Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Medical School and Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Tamarra James-Todd
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mary-Elizabeth Patti
- Research Division, Joslin Diabetes Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Elvira Isganaitis
- Research Division, Joslin Diabetes Center, Boston, Massachusetts
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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50
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Campbell JM, McPherson NO. Influence of increased paternal BMI on pregnancy and child health outcomes independent of maternal effects: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Obes Res Clin Pract 2019; 13:511-521. [DOI: 10.1016/j.orcp.2019.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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