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Kavoosi S, Picard M, Kaufman BA. TFAM mislocalization during spermatogenesis. Trends Genet 2024; 40:112-114. [PMID: 38036338 DOI: 10.1016/j.tig.2023.11.002] [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: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is inherited almost exclusively from the maternal lineage. Paternal destruction of either mtDNA or whole mitochondria has been the dominant model for mtDNA transmission. Recently, Lee et al. provided evidence for mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) import sequence regulation as a potential cause for mtDNA depletion in human sperm before fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sam Kavoosi
- Center for Metabolism and Mitochondrial Medicine, Vascular Medicine Institute, Division of Cardiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 200 Lothrop St. BST W1044, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Martin Picard
- Division of Behavioral Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, Houston Merritt Center, Columbia Translational Neuroscience Initiative, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA; Department of Neurology, H. Houston Merritt Center, Columbia Translational Neuroscience Initiative, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Brett A Kaufman
- Center for Metabolism and Mitochondrial Medicine, Vascular Medicine Institute, Division of Cardiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 200 Lothrop St. BST W1044, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA.
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2
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Lee W, Zamudio-Ochoa A, Buchel G, Podlesniy P, Marti Gutierrez N, Puigròs M, Calderon A, Tang HY, Li L, Mikhalchenko A, Koski A, Trullas R, Mitalipov S, Temiakov D. Molecular basis for maternal inheritance of human mitochondrial DNA. Nat Genet 2023; 55:1632-1639. [PMID: 37723262 PMCID: PMC10763495 DOI: 10.1038/s41588-023-01505-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Uniparental inheritance of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is an evolutionary trait found in nearly all eukaryotes. In many species, including humans, the sperm mitochondria are introduced to the oocyte during fertilization1,2. The mechanisms hypothesized to prevent paternal mtDNA transmission include ubiquitination of the sperm mitochondria and mitophagy3,4. However, the causative mechanisms of paternal mtDNA elimination have not been defined5,6. We found that mitochondria in human spermatozoa are devoid of intact mtDNA and lack mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM)-the major nucleoid protein required to protect, maintain and transcribe mtDNA. During spermatogenesis, sperm cells express an isoform of TFAM, which retains the mitochondrial presequence, ordinarily removed upon mitochondrial import. Phosphorylation of this presequence prevents mitochondrial import and directs TFAM to the spermatozoon nucleus. TFAM relocalization from the mitochondria of spermatogonia to the spermatozoa nucleus directly correlates with the elimination of mtDNA, thereby explaining maternal inheritance in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Angelica Zamudio-Ochoa
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Gina Buchel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Petar Podlesniy
- Neurobiology Unit, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques de Barcelona (IIBB-CSIC-IDIBAPS) and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nuria Marti Gutierrez
- Center for Embryonic Cell and Gene Therapy, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Margalida Puigròs
- Neurobiology Unit, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques de Barcelona (IIBB-CSIC-IDIBAPS) and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Calderon
- Neurobiology Unit, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques de Barcelona (IIBB-CSIC-IDIBAPS) and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Hsin-Yao Tang
- Molecular & Cellular Oncogenesis Program, The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Li Li
- Department of Pathology and Genomic Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Aleksei Mikhalchenko
- Center for Embryonic Cell and Gene Therapy, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Amy Koski
- Center for Embryonic Cell and Gene Therapy, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Ramon Trullas
- Neurobiology Unit, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques de Barcelona (IIBB-CSIC-IDIBAPS) and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Shoukhrat Mitalipov
- Center for Embryonic Cell and Gene Therapy, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Dmitry Temiakov
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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3
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Popova D, Bhide P, D'Antonio F, Basnet P, Acharya G. Sperm mitochondrial DNA copy numbers in normal and abnormal semen analysis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BJOG 2021; 129:1434-1446. [PMID: 34954901 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Normal mature sperm have a considerably reduced number of mitochondria which provide the energy required for progressive sperm motility. Literature suggests that disorders of sperm motility may be linked to abnormal sperm mitochondrial number and function. OBJECTIVES To summarize the evidence from literature regarding the association of mitochondrial DNA copy numbers and semen quality with a particular emphasis on the spermatozoa motility. SEARCH STRATEGY Standard methodology recommended by Cochrane. SELECTION CRITERIA All published primary research reporting on the association between mitochondrial DNA copy numbers and semen quality. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Using standard methodology recommended by Cochrane we pooled results using a random effects model and the findings were reported as a standardised mean difference. MAIN RESULTS We included 10 studies. The primary outcome was sperm mitochondrial DNA copy numbers. A meta-analysis including five studies showed significantly higher mitochondrial DNA copy numbers in abnormal semen analysis as compared to normal semen analysis(SMD 1.08, 95% CI 0.74-1.43). Seven studies included in the meta-analysis showed a significant negative correlation between mitochondrial DNA copy numbers and semen parameters. The quality of evidence was assessed as good to very good in 60% of studies. CONCLUSIONS Our review demonstrates significantly higher mitochondrial DNA in human sperm cells of men with abnormal semen analysis in comparison to men with normal semen analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Popova
- Women´s Health and Perinatology Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Priya Bhide
- Women´s Health and Perinatology Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.,Homerton Fertility Centre, Homerton University Hospital, London, UK
| | - Francesco D'Antonio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre for Fetal Care and High-risk Pregnancy, University of Chieti, Italy
| | - Purusotam Basnet
- Women´s Health and Perinatology Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Ganesh Acharya
- Women´s Health and Perinatology Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.,Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Center for Fetal Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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4
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Boguenet M, Bouet PE, Spiers A, Reynier P, May-Panloup P. Mitochondria: their role in spermatozoa and in male infertility. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 27:697-719. [PMID: 33555313 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The best-known role of spermatozoa is to fertilize the oocyte and to transmit the paternal genome to offspring. These highly specialized cells have a unique structure consisting of all the elements absolutely necessary to each stage of fertilization and to embryonic development. Mature spermatozoa are made up of a head with the nucleus, a neck, and a flagellum that allows motility and that contains a midpiece with a mitochondrial helix. Mitochondria are central to cellular energy production but they also have various other functions. Although mitochondria are recognized as essential to spermatozoa, their exact pathophysiological role and their functioning are complex. Available literature relative to mitochondria in spermatozoa is dense and contradictory in some cases. Furthermore, mitochondria are only indirectly involved in cytoplasmic heredity as their DNA, the paternal mitochondrial DNA, is not transmitted to descendants. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONAL This review aims to summarize available literature on mitochondria in spermatozoa, and, in particular, that with respect to humans, with the perspective of better understanding the anomalies that could be implicated in male infertility. SEARCH METHODS PubMed was used to search the MEDLINE database for peer-reviewed original articles and reviews pertaining to human spermatozoa and mitochondria. Searches were performed using keywords belonging to three groups: 'mitochondria' or 'mitochondrial DNA', 'spermatozoa' or 'sperm' and 'reactive oxygen species' or 'calcium' or 'apoptosis' or signaling pathways'. These keywords were combined with other relevant search phrases. References from these articles were used to obtain additional articles. OUTCOMES Mitochondria are central to the metabolism of spermatozoa and they are implicated in energy production, redox equilibrium and calcium regulation, as well as apoptotic pathways, all of which are necessary for flagellar motility, capacitation, acrosome reaction and gametic fusion. In numerous cases, alterations in one of the aforementioned functions could be linked to a decline in sperm quality and/or infertility. The link between the mitochondrial genome and the quality of spermatozoa appears to be more complex. Although the quantity of mtDNA, and the existence of large-scale deletions therein, are inversely correlated to sperm quality, the effects of mutations seem to be heterogeneous and particularly related to their pathogenicity. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The importance of the role of mitochondria in reproduction, and particularly in gamete quality, has recently emerged following numerous publications. Better understanding of male infertility is of great interest in the current context where a significant decline in sperm quality has been observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magalie Boguenet
- MITOVASC Institute, CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, Angers University, Angers 49000, France
| | - Pierre-Emmanuel Bouet
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Angers University Hospital, Angers 49000, France
| | - Andrew Spiers
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Angers University Hospital, Angers 49000, France
| | - Pascal Reynier
- MITOVASC Institute, CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, Angers University, Angers 49000, France.,Department of Biochemistry and Genetics, Angers University Hospital, Angers 49000, France
| | - Pascale May-Panloup
- MITOVASC Institute, CNRS 6015, INSERM U1083, Angers University, Angers 49000, France.,Reproductive Biology Unit, Angers University Hospital, Angers 49000, France
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5
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Zakirova EG, Muzyka VV, Mazunin IO, Orishchenko KE. Natural and Artificial Mechanisms of Mitochondrial Genome Elimination. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11020076. [PMID: 33498399 PMCID: PMC7909434 DOI: 10.3390/life11020076] [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: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The generally accepted theory of the genetic drift of mitochondrial alleles during mammalian ontogenesis is based on the presence of a selective bottleneck in the female germline. However, there is a variety of different theories on the pathways of genetic regulation of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) dynamics in oogenesis and adult somatic cells. The current review summarizes present knowledge on the natural mechanisms of mitochondrial genome elimination during mammalian development. We also discuss the variety of existing and developing methodologies for artificial manipulation of the mtDNA heteroplasmy level. Understanding of the basics of mtDNA dynamics will shed the light on the pathogenesis and potential therapies of human diseases associated with mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvira G. Zakirova
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.G.Z.); (V.V.M.)
| | - Vladimir V. Muzyka
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.G.Z.); (V.V.M.)
- Department of Genetic Technologies, Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Ilya O. Mazunin
- Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, 143026 Skolkovo, Russia;
| | - Konstantin E. Orishchenko
- Federal Research Center Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (E.G.Z.); (V.V.M.)
- Department of Genetic Technologies, Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
- Correspondence:
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6
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Mitochondria, spermatogenesis, and male infertility - An update. Mitochondrion 2020; 54:26-40. [PMID: 32534048 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2020.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The incorporation of mitochondria in the eukaryotic cell is one of the most enigmatic events in the course of evolution. This important organelle was thought to be only the powerhouse of the cell, but was later learnt to perform many other indispensable functions in the cell. Two major contributions of mitochondria in spermatogenesis concern energy production and apoptosis. Apart from this, mitochondria also participate in a number of other processes affecting spermatogenesis and fertility. Mitochondria in sperm are arranged in the periphery of the tail microtubules to serve to energy demand for motility. Apart from this, the role of mitochondria in germ cell proliferation, mitotic regulation, and the elimination of germ cells by apoptosis are now well recognized. Eventually, mutations in the mitochondrial genome have been reported in male infertility, particularly in sluggish sperm (asthenozoospermia); however, heteroplasmy in the mtDNA and a complex interplay between the nucleus and mitochondria affect their penetrance. In this article, we have provided an update on the role of mitochondria in various events of spermatogenesis and male fertility and on the correlation of mitochondrial DNA mutations with male infertility.
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7
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Eker C, Celik HG, Balci BK, Gunel T. Investigation of human paternal mitochondrial DNA transmission in ART babies whose fathers with male infertility. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2019; 236:183-192. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2019.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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8
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Torralba D, Baixauli F, Villarroya-Beltri C, Fernández-Delgado I, Latorre-Pellicer A, Acín-Pérez R, Martín-Cófreces NB, Jaso-Tamame ÁL, Iborra S, Jorge I, González-Aseguinolaza G, Garaude J, Vicente-Manzanares M, Enríquez JA, Mittelbrunn M, Sánchez-Madrid F. Priming of dendritic cells by DNA-containing extracellular vesicles from activated T cells through antigen-driven contacts. Nat Commun 2018; 9:2658. [PMID: 29985392 PMCID: PMC6037695 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-05077-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2017] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Interaction of T cell with antigen-bearing dendritic cells (DC) results in T cell activation, but whether this interaction has physiological consequences on DC function is largely unexplored. Here we show that when antigen-bearing DCs contact T cells, DCs initiate anti-pathogenic programs. Signals of this interaction are transmitted from the T cell to the DC, through extracellular vesicles (EV) that contain genomic and mitochondrial DNA, to induce antiviral responses via the cGAS/STING cytosolic DNA-sensing pathway and expression of IRF3-dependent interferon regulated genes. Moreover, EV-treated DCs are more resistant to subsequent viral infections. In summary, our results show that T cells prime DCs through the transfer of exosomal DNA, supporting a specific role for antigen-dependent contacts in conferring protection to DCs against pathogen infection. The reciprocal communication between innate and adaptive immune cells thus allow efficacious responses to unknown threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Torralba
- Vascular Pathophysiology Research Area, Centro Nacional Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029, Madrid, Spain.,Servicio de Inmunología, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Diego de León 62, 28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francesc Baixauli
- Vascular Pathophysiology Research Area, Centro Nacional Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029, Madrid, Spain.,Immunometabolism Department, Max Planck Institute for Immunobiology and Epigenetics, 79108, Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Carolina Villarroya-Beltri
- Vascular Pathophysiology Research Area, Centro Nacional Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029, Madrid, Spain.,Servicio de Inmunología, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Diego de León 62, 28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - Irene Fernández-Delgado
- Vascular Pathophysiology Research Area, Centro Nacional Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029, Madrid, Spain.,Servicio de Inmunología, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Diego de León 62, 28006, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Latorre-Pellicer
- Grupo de Medicina Xenómica, CIBERER, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Rebeca Acín-Pérez
- Myocardial Pathophysiology Research Area, Centro Nacional Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Noa B Martín-Cófreces
- Vascular Pathophysiology Research Area, Centro Nacional Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029, Madrid, Spain.,Servicio de Inmunología, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Diego de León 62, 28006, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Salvador Iborra
- Myocardial Pathophysiology Research Area, Centro Nacional Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Jorge
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, 28029, Madrid, Spain.,Laboratory of Cardiovascular Proteomics, Centro Nacional Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Johan Garaude
- Myocardial Pathophysiology Research Area, Centro Nacional Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - José Antonio Enríquez
- Myocardial Pathophysiology Research Area, Centro Nacional Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigaciones en RED (CIBERFES), Melchor Fernández Almagro 9, 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Mittelbrunn
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria, Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), 28041, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Biología Molecular, UAM-CSIC, Departamento de Biología Celular e Inflamación, 28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Sánchez-Madrid
- Vascular Pathophysiology Research Area, Centro Nacional Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), 28029, Madrid, Spain. .,Servicio de Inmunología, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria Princesa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Diego de León 62, 28006, Madrid, Spain. .,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Melchor Fernández Almagro 3, 28029, Madrid, Spain.
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9
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Mitochondrial cytopathies and the kidney. Nephrol Ther 2017; 13 Suppl 1:S23-S28. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nephro.2017.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/25/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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10
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuya Ishii
- Office of Health and Safety; Hokkaido University; Hokkaido Japan
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11
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Pyle A, Hudson G, Wilson IJ, Coxhead J, Smertenko T, Herbert M, Santibanez-Koref M, Chinnery PF. Extreme-Depth Re-sequencing of Mitochondrial DNA Finds No Evidence of Paternal Transmission in Humans. PLoS Genet 2015; 11:e1005040. [PMID: 25973765 PMCID: PMC4431825 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1005040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent reports have questioned the accepted dogma that mammalian mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is strictly maternally inherited. In humans, the argument hinges on detecting a signature of inter-molecular recombination in mtDNA sequences sampled at the population level, inferring a paternal source for the mixed haplotypes. However, interpreting these data is fraught with difficulty, and direct experimental evidence is lacking. Using extreme-high depth mtDNA re-sequencing up to ~1.2 million-fold coverage, we find no evidence that paternal mtDNA haplotypes are transmitted to offspring in humans, thus excluding a simple dilution mechanism for uniparental transmission of mtDNA present in all healthy individuals. Our findings indicate that an active mechanism eliminates paternal mtDNA which likely acts at the molecular level. Emerging evidence raises the possibility that human mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is not strictly maternally inherited, but it has not been technically possible to test this hypothesis directly. We identified trios with discordant mtDNA haplotypes, parent-offspring trios were validated using polymorphic microsatellites, and then used extreme-high depth mtDNA re-sequencing to look for paternally transmitted mtDNA. Despite having up to ~1.2 million-fold coverage of mtDNA, we find no evidence that paternal mtDNA haplotypes are transmitted to offspring in humans. Our findings exclude a simple dilution mechanism for uniparental transmission of mtDNA present in all healthy individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Pyle
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Gavin Hudson
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Ian J. Wilson
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Coxhead
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Tania Smertenko
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Mary Herbert
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Mauro Santibanez-Koref
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick F. Chinnery
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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12
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Hosseinzadeh Colagar A, Karimi F. Large scale deletions of the mitochondrial DNA in astheno, asthenoterato and oligoasthenoterato-spermic men. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 25:321-8. [DOI: 10.3109/19401736.2013.796512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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13
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Abstract
Most eukaryotes show uniparental inheritance of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). In this issue of Developmental Cell, DeLuca and O'Farrell (2012) show that active elimination of mtDNA during sperm development in Drosophila ensures that mature spermatozoa are devoid of DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Chan
- Division of Biology, California Institute of Technology, and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Pasadena, CA 91125, USA.
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14
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Gabriel MS, Chan SW, Alhathal N, Chen JZ, Zini A. Influence of microsurgical varicocelectomy on human sperm mitochondrial DNA copy number: a pilot study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2012; 29:759-64. [PMID: 22562241 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-012-9785-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2012] [Accepted: 04/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is good evidence to show that varicocele repair can improve conventional sperm parameters, as well as, sperm DNA integrity, in infertile men with a clinical varicocele. OBJECTIVE To examine the effect of varicocelectomy on sperm quality, specifically, sperm nuclear chromatin integrity and sperm mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A prospective study done between March 2007 and January 2008. We evaluated a consecutive series of infertile men (n = 14) presenting to Ovo clinic with one year or more history of infertility, a clinically palpable varicocele and poor motility (<25 % rapid progressive and <50 % progressive). SURGICAL PROCEDURE Microsurgical sub-inguinal varicocelectomy. OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS Conventional sperm parameters, sperm mtDNA copy number (by real time PCR) and sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA) parameters (%DFI,% HDS) before and 4 months after microsurgical varicocelectomy. RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS Sperm concentration and SCSA parameters (%DFI and %HDS) improved significantly after surgery (P < 0.05). Sperm mitochondrial DNA copy number decreased significantly after surgery (27 ± 30 to 9 ± 6 copies per sperm, respectively, P = 0.032). There was a significant negative correlation between mitochondrial DNA copy number and sperm motility (r = - 0.71, P = 0.002). CONCLUSION These findings support the concept that correction of a varicocele can improve spermatogenesis and sperm function, as mitochondrial DNA copy number has been suggested to reflect the efficiency of spermatogenesis and has been inversely related to sperm motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria San Gabriel
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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15
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Rajender S, Rahul P, Mahdi AA. Mitochondria, spermatogenesis and male infertility. Mitochondrion 2010; 10:419-28. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2010.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2010] [Revised: 05/24/2010] [Accepted: 05/28/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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16
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Unckless RL, Herren JK. Population genetics of sexually antagonistic mitochondrial mutants under inbreeding. J Theor Biol 2009; 260:132-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2009.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2008] [Revised: 06/01/2009] [Accepted: 06/02/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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17
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Mitochondrial DNA integrity and copy number in sperm from infertile men. Fertil Steril 2008; 90:2238-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.10.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2007] [Revised: 10/27/2007] [Accepted: 10/27/2007] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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18
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Wolff JN, Gemmell NJ. Estimating Mitochondrial DNA Content of Chinook Salmon Spermatozoa Using Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction1. Biol Reprod 2008; 79:247-52. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.107.067009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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19
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Abstract
The human cell is a symbiosis of two life forms, the nucleus-cytosol and the mitochondrion. The nucleus-cytosol emphasizes structure and its genes are Mendelian, whereas the mitochondrion specializes in energy and its mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) genes are maternal. Mitochondria oxidize calories via oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) to generate a mitochondrial inner membrane proton gradient (DeltaP). DeltaP then acts as a source of potential energy to produce ATP, generate heat, regulate reactive oxygen species (ROS), and control apoptosis, etc. Interspecific comparisons of mtDNAs have revealed that the mtDNA retains a core set of electron and proton carrier genes for the proton-translocating OXPHOS complexes I, III, IV, and V. Human mtDNA analysis has revealed these genes frequently contain region-specific adaptive polymorphisms. Therefore, the mtDNA with its energy controlling genes may have been retained to permit rapid adaptation to new environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas C Wallace
- Center for Molecular and Mitochondrial Medicine and Genetics, Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Irvine, California 92697-3940, USA.
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20
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May-Panloup P, Chretien MF, Malthiery Y, Reynier P. Mitochondrial DNA in the Oocyte and the Developing Embryo. Curr Top Dev Biol 2007; 77:51-83. [PMID: 17222700 DOI: 10.1016/s0070-2153(06)77003-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria play a primary role in cellular energetic metabolism, homeostasis, and death. They possess their own multicopy genome, which is maternally transmitted. Mitochondria are directly involved at several levels in the reproductive process since their functional status influences the quality of oocytes and contributes to the process of fertilization and embryonic development. This chapter discusses recent findings concerning mitochondrial DNA content and its expression during oogenesis, fertilization, and early embryonic development.
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21
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May-Panloup P, Chrétien MF, Malthiery Y, Reynier P. ADN mitochondrial du spermatozoïde. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006; 34:847-54. [PMID: 16962811 DOI: 10.1016/j.gyobfe.2006.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2006] [Accepted: 06/30/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria play a primary role in cellular energetic metabolism, homeostasis and death. In spermatozoa, in particular, mitochondria produce the ATP necessary for motility. Mitochondrial functions depend, at least partially, on mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). The mitochondrial genome, the transmission of which is exclusively maternal contributes to cytoplasmic heredity. Qualitative and quantitative mtDNA abnormalities have been associated with male infertility. This review focuses on the role of mtDNA in human fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- P May-Panloup
- Département de pathologie cellulaire et tissulaire, Inserm U694, pôle de biologie, CHU, 49033 Angers, France.
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22
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Montesino M, Salas A, Crespillo M, Albarrán C, Alonso A, Alvarez-Iglesias V, Cano JA, Carvalho M, Corach D, Cruz C, Di Lonardo A, Espinheira R, Farfán MJ, Filippini S, García-Hirschfeld J, Hernández A, Lima G, López-Cubría CM, López-Soto M, Pagano S, Paredes M, Pinheiro MF, Rodríguez-Monge AM, Sala A, Sóñora S, Sumita DR, Vide MC, Whittle MR, Zurita A, Prieto L. Analysis of body fluid mixtures by mtDNA sequencing: An inter-laboratory study of the GEP-ISFG working group. Forensic Sci Int 2006; 168:42-56. [PMID: 16899347 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2006.06.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2006] [Revised: 06/15/2006] [Accepted: 06/17/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) working group of the GEP-ISFG (Spanish and Portuguese Group of the International Society for Forensic Genetics) carried out an inter-laboratory exercise consisting of the analysis of mtDNA sequencing patterns in mixed stains (saliva/semen and blood/semen). Mixtures were prepared with saliva or blood from a female donor and three different semen dilutions (pure, 1:10 and 1:20) in order to simulate forensic casework. All labs extracted the DNA by preferential lysis and amplified and sequenced the first mtDNA hypervariable region (HVS-I). Autosomal and Y-STR markers were also analysed in order to compare nuclear and mitochondrial results from the same DNA extracts. A mixed stain prepared using semen from a vasectomized individual was also analysed. The results were reasonably consistent among labs for the first fractions but not for the second ones, for which some laboratories reported contamination problems. In the first fractions, both the female and male haplotypes were generally detected in those samples prepared with undiluted semen. In contrast, most of the mixtures prepared with diluted semen only yielded the female haplotype, suggesting that the mtDNA copy number per cell is smaller in semen than in saliva or blood. Although the detection level of the male component decreased in accordance with the degree of semen dilution, it was found that the loss of signal was not consistently uniform throughout each electropherogram. Moreover, differences between mixtures prepared from different donors and different body fluids were also observed. We conclude that the particular characteristics of each mixed stain can deeply influence the interpretation of the mtDNA evidence in forensic mixtures (leading in some cases to false exclusions). In this sense, the implementation of preliminary tests with the aim of identifying the fluids involved in the mixture is an essential tool. In addition, in order to prevent incorrect conclusions in the interpretation of electropherograms we strongly recommend: (i) the use of additional sequencing primers to confirm the sequencing results and (ii) interpreting the results to the light of the phylogenetic perspective.
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23
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Oshaghi MA. mtDNA inheritance in the mosquitoes of Anopheles stephensi. Mitochondrion 2005; 5:266-71. [PMID: 16050989 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2005.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2005] [Revised: 05/04/2005] [Accepted: 05/06/2005] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The inheritance of mtDNA was tested in malaria vector mosquitoes of Anopheles stephensi strains using PCR-RFLP analysis for its utility in addressing epidemiological questions related to the transmission and spread of malaria. Reciprocal crosses were made between two haplotypes with distinct mtDNA restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) profiles through 20 consecutive generations. All of the progenies produced by these crosses had the mtDNA haplotype of the female parent suggesting that, if it occurs, paternal inheritance of mtDNA in An. stephensi is rare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad A Oshaghi
- Department of Medical Entomology, Tehran School of Public Health and Institute of Health Researches, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 6446, Tehran 14155, Iran.
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24
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Abstract
Several unique properties of human mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), including its high copy number, maternal inheritance, lack of recombination, and high mutation rate, have made it the molecule of choice for studies of human population history and evolution. Here we review the current state of knowledge concerning these properties, how mtDNA variation is studied, what we have learned, and what the future likely holds. We conclude that increasingly, mtDNA studies are (and should be) supplemented with analyses of the Y-chromosome and other nuclear DNA variation. Some serious issues need to be addressed concerning nuclear inserts, database quality, and the possible influence of selection on mtDNA variation. Nonetheless, mtDNA studies will continue to play an important role in such areas as examining socio-cultural influences on human genetic variation, ancient DNA, certain forensic DNA applications, and in tracing personal genetic history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitte Pakendorf
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, D-04103 Leipzig, Germany.
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25
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Taanman JW, Llewelyn Williams S. The Human Mitochondrial Genome. OXIDATIVE STRESS AND DISEASE 2005. [DOI: 10.1201/9781420028843.ch3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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26
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Korpelainen H. The evolutionary processes of mitochondrial and chloroplast genomes differ from those of nuclear genomes. Naturwissenschaften 2004; 91:505-18. [PMID: 15452701 DOI: 10.1007/s00114-004-0571-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
This paper first introduces our present knowledge of the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts, and the organization and inheritance patterns of their genomes, and then carries on to review the evolutionary processes influencing mitochondrial and chloroplast genomes. The differences in evolutionary phenomena between the nuclear and cytoplasmic genomes are highlighted. It is emphasized that varying inheritance patterns and copy numbers among different types of genomes, and the potential advantage achieved through the transfer of many cytoplasmic genes to the nucleus, have important implications for the evolution of nuclear, mitochondrial and chloroplast genomes. Cytoplasmic genes transferred to the nucleus have joined the more strictly controlled genetic system of the nuclear genome, including also sexual recombination, while genes retained within the cytoplasmic organelles can be involved in selection and drift processes both within and among individuals. Within-individual processes can be either intra- or intercellular. In the case of heteroplasmy, which is attributed to mutations or biparental inheritance, within-individual selection on cytoplasmic DNA may provide a mechanism by which the organism can adapt rapidly. The inheritance of cytoplasmic genomes is not universally maternal. The presence of a range of inheritance patterns indicates that different strategies have been adopted by different organisms. On the other hand, the variability occasionally observed in the inheritance mechanisms of cytoplasmic genomes reduces heritability and increases environmental components in phenotypic features and, consequently, decreases the potential for adaptive evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Korpelainen
- Department of Applied Biology, University of Helsinki, PO Box 27, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.
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27
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Kao SH, Chao HT, Liu HW, Liao TL, Wei YH. Sperm mitochondrial DNA depletion in men with asthenospermia. Fertil Steril 2004; 82:66-73. [PMID: 15236991 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2003.11.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2003] [Revised: 11/21/2003] [Accepted: 11/21/2003] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the content of sperm mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in patients with asthenospermia or with poor sperm motility. DESIGN Analysis of the content of mtDNA as the ratio between the amount of mtDNA and nuclear DNA by using a new concurrent polymerase chain reaction. SETTING University hospital infertility center. PATIENT(S) Eighty-six men who sought infertility therapy. INTERVENTION(S) Moving characteristics of sperm were examined with a computer-assisted semen analyzer. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Sperm samples were classified into two groups, one with asthenospermia and the other with normal moving characteristics. The content of mtDNA in sperm was determined by polymerase chain reaction. We analyzed the mitochondrial mass by MitoTracker Green staining and analyzed DNA content with propidium iodide staining by flow cytometry. RESULT(S) A decrease in sperm mtDNA content was detected in patients with asthenospermia or with poor sperm motility (<20% motility). The relative mtDNA contents in the asthenospermia and normal groups were 7.2 +/- 1.3 (mean +/- SD, n = 23) and 74.1 +/- 2.0 (n = 29), respectively. Lower intensities of propidium iodide staining were detected in patients with asthenospermia or poor motility, but there was no significant difference in MitoTracker Green staining between the sperm with different motility. CONCLUSION(S) We suggest that mtDNA content may serve as a useful indicator of sperm quality and that mtDNA depletion may play an important role in the pathophysiology of some male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Huei Kao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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28
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Sutovsky P, Van Leyen K, McCauley T, Day BN, Sutovsky M. Degradation of paternal mitochondria after fertilization: implications for heteroplasmy, assisted reproductive technologies and mtDNA inheritance. Reprod Biomed Online 2004; 8:24-33. [PMID: 14759284 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60495-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Maternal inheritance of mitochondrial DNA has long been regarded as a major paradox in developmental biology. While some confusion may still persist in popular science, research data clearly document that the paternal sperm-borne mitochondria of most mammalian species enter the ooplasm at fertilization and are specifically targeted for degradation by the resident ubiquitin system. Ubiquitin is a proteolytic chaperone that forms covalently linked polyubiquitin chains on the targeted proteinaceous substrates. The polyubiquitin tag redirects the substrate proteins to a 26-S proteasome, a multi-subunit proteolytic organelle. Thus, specific proteasomal inhibitors reversibly block sperm mitochondrial degradation in ooplasm. Lysosomal degradation and the activity of membrane-lipoperoxidating enzyme 15-lipoxygenase (15-LOX) may also contribute to sperm mitochondrial degradation in the ooplasm, but probably is not crucial. Prohibitin, the major protein of the inner mitochondrial membrane, appears to be ubiquitinated in the sperm mitochondria. Occasional occurrence of paternal inheritance of mtDNA has been suggested in mammals including humans. While most such evidence has been widely disputed, it warrants further examination. Of particular concern is the documented heteroplasmy, i.e. mixed mtDNA inheritance after ooplasmic transplantation. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has inherent potential for delaying the degradation of sperm mitochondria. However, paternal mtDNA inheritance after ICSI has not been documented so far.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Sutovsky
- Department of Animal Science, University of Missouri-Columbia, MO, USA.
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29
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Thyagarajan D, Byrne E. Mitochondrial disorders of the nervous system: clinical, biochemical, and molecular genetic features. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF NEUROBIOLOGY 2003; 53:93-144. [PMID: 12512338 DOI: 10.1016/s0074-7742(02)53005-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Thyagarajan
- Department of Neurology, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042, Australia
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30
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Díez-Sánchez C, Ruiz-Pesini E, Lapeña AC, Montoya J, Pérez-Martos A, Enríquez JA, López-Pérez MJ. Mitochondrial DNA content of human spermatozoa. Biol Reprod 2003; 68:180-5. [PMID: 12493711 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.102.005140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm mitochondria play an important role in spermatozoa because of the high ATP demand of these cells. Different mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations and haplogroups influence sperm function. The mtDNA dose also contributes to genetic variability and pathology in different tissues and organs, but nothing is known about its relevance in the performance of spermatozoa. We estimated the variability in mtDNA content within a population of men. Different mtDNA:nuclear DNA ratios were characteristic of progressive and nonprogressive spermatozoa, confirming the influence of mtDNA content on sperm functionality. We also estimated that the absolute content of mtDNA was 700 and 1200 mtDNA copies per cell in progressive and nonprogressive human spermatozoa, respectively. These results suggest that a marked increase of mtDNA copy number per cell volume takes place during spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Díez-Sánchez
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Celular, Universidad de Zaragoza, 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
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31
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Thorburn DR, Dahl HH. Mitochondrial disorders: genetics, counseling, prenatal diagnosis and reproductive options. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS 2002; 106:102-14. [PMID: 11579429 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.1380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Most patients with mitochondrial disorders are diagnosed by finding a respiratory chain enzyme defect or a mutation in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). The provision of accurate genetic counseling and reproductive options to these families is complicated by the unique genetic features of mtDNA that distinguish it from Mendelian genetics. These include maternal inheritance, heteroplasmy, the threshold effect, the mitochondrial bottleneck, tissue variation, and selection. Although we still have much to learn about mtDNA genetics, it is now possible to provide useful guidance to families with an mtDNA mutation or a respiratory chain enzyme defect. We describe a range of current reproductive options that may be considered for prevention of transmission of mtDNA mutations, including the use of donor oocytes, prenatal diagnosis (by chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis), and preimplantation genetic diagnosis, plus possible future options such as nuclear transfer and cytoplasmic transfer. For common mtDNA mutations associated with mitochondrial cytopathies (such as NARP, Leigh Disease, MELAS, MERRF, Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy, CPEO, Kearns-Sayre syndrome, and Pearson syndrome), we summarize the available data on recurrence risk and discuss the relative advantages and disadvantages of reproductive options.
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Affiliation(s)
- D R Thorburn
- Mitochondrial Research Laboratory, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
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32
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Tully
- Biotechnology Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 100 Bureau Drive, Stop 8311, Gaithersburg, MD 20899-8311, USA
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33
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Abstract
The rate of advance of our understanding of mitochondrial pathology continues to accelerate. Trends in genotype-phenotype correlations in mitochondrial DNA mutations continue to be developed; the latest of these is the association of exercise intolerance with cytochrome b mutations and onset in infancy of multisystem disorders associated with cytochrome oxidase assembly defects. New models for mitochondrial disease are being developed. Drugs, toxins and deficiency of nuclear encoded proteins that are targeted at mitochondria are now recognized as important causes of secondary mitochondrial respiratory chain deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- A H Schapira
- University Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Royal Free and University College School of Medicine, and Institute of Neurology, University College London, UK.
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34
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Bender K, Schneider PM, Rittner C. Application of mtDNA sequence analysis in forensic casework for the identification of human remains. Forensic Sci Int 2000; 113:103-7. [PMID: 10978609 DOI: 10.1016/s0379-0738(00)00223-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In four forensic cases of unidentified skeletal remains investigated in the last year, we were able to attach three to missing persons. In one case we could show that the discovered bone sample did not fit to a missing child. The method for mitochondrial DNA analysis for the routine identification of skeletal remains was established in our institute by typing bone samples of defined age obtained from Frankfurt's cemetery. Reproducible results were obtained for bones up to 75 years old. For analysis the bone samples were pulverised to fine powder, decalcified and DNA was extracted. From the DNA we amplified a 404-bp fragment from HV-1 and a 379-bp fragment from HV-2 of the mtDNA control region. After sequencing of the PCR products, the results were compared to the Anderson reference sequence and to putative maternal relatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Bender
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany.
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35
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Sutovsky P, Moreno RD, Ramalho-Santos J, Dominko T, Simerly C, Schatten G. Ubiquitinated sperm mitochondria, selective proteolysis, and the regulation of mitochondrial inheritance in mammalian embryos. Biol Reprod 2000; 63:582-90. [PMID: 10906068 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod63.2.582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 270] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The strictly maternal inheritance of mitochondria and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in mammals is a developmental paradox promoted by an unknown mechanism responsible for the destruction of the sperm mitochondria shortly after fertilization. We have recently reported that the sperm mitochondria are ubiquitinated inside the oocyte cytoplasm and later subjected to proteolysis during preimplantation development (P. Sutovsky et al., Nature 1999; 402:371-372). Here, we provide further evidence for this process by showing that the proteolytic destruction of bull sperm mitochondria inside cow egg cytoplasm depends upon the activity of the universal proteolytic marker, ubiquitin, and the lysosomal apparatus of the egg. Binding of ubiquitin to sperm mitochondria was visualized by monospecific antibodies throughout pronuclear development and during the first embryonic divisions. The recognition and disposal of the ubiquitinated sperm mitochondria was prevented by the microinjection of anti-ubiquitin antibodies and by the treatment of the fertilized zygotes with lysosomotropic agent ammonium chloride. The postfecundal ubiquitination of sperm mitochondria and their destruction was not seen in the hybrid embryos created using cow eggs and sperm of wild cattle, gaur, thus supporting the hypothesis that sperm mitochondrion destruction is species specific. The initial ligation of ubiquitin molecules to sperm mitochondrial membrane proteins, one of which could be prohibitin, occurs during spermatogenesis. Even though the ubiquitin cross-reactivity was transiently lost from the sperm mitochondria during epididymal passage, likely as a result of disulfide bond cross-linking, it was restored and amplified after fertilization. Ubiquitination therefore may represent a mechanism for the elimination of paternal mitochondria during fertilization. Our data have important implications for anthropology, treatment of mitochondrial disorders, and for the new methods of assisted procreation, such as cloning, oocyte cytoplasm donation, and intracytoplasmic sperm injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Sutovsky
- Oregon Regional Primate Research Center, Departments of Cell-Developmental Biology and Obstetrics-Gynecology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Beaverton, Oregon 97006, USA
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36
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Danan C, Sternberg D, Van Steirteghem A, Cazeneuve C, Duquesnoy P, Besmond C, Goossens M, Lissens W, Amselem S. Evaluation of parental mitochondrial inheritance in neonates born after intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Am J Hum Genet 1999; 65:463-73. [PMID: 10417289 PMCID: PMC1377945 DOI: 10.1086/302484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is now used when severe male-factor infertility has been documented. Since defective mitochondrial functions may result in male hypofertility, it is of prime importance to evaluate the risk of paternal transmission of an mtDNA defect to neonates. DNA samples from the blood of 21 infertile couples and their 27 neonates born after ICSI were studied. The highly polymorphic mtDNA D-loop region was analyzed by four PCR-based approaches. With denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE), which allows 2% of a minor mtDNA species to be detected, the 27 newborns had a DGGE pattern identical to that of their mother but different from that of their father. Heteroplasmy documented in several parents and children supported an exclusive maternal inheritance of mtDNA. The parental origin of the children's mtDNA molecules also was studied by more-sensitive assays: restriction-endonuclease analysis (REA) of alpha[32P]-radiolabeled PCR products; paternal-specific PCR assay; and depletion of maternal mtDNA, followed by REA. We did not detect paternal mtDNA in nine neonates, with a sensitivity level of 0.01% in five children, 0.1% in two children, and 1% in two children. The estimated ratio of sperm-to-oocyte mtDNA molecules in humans is 0.1%-1.5%. Thus, we conclude that, in these families, the ICSI procedure performed with mature spermatozoa did not alter the uniparental pattern of inheritance of mtDNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Danan
- Laboratoire de Génétique Moléculaire-INSERM U468, Hôpital Henri-Mondor, Créteil, France
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37
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Taanman JW. The mitochondrial genome: structure, transcription, translation and replication. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 1999; 1410:103-23. [PMID: 10076021 DOI: 10.1016/s0005-2728(98)00161-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 998] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria play a central role in cellular energy provision. The organelles contain their own genome with a modified genetic code. The mammalian mitochondrial genome is transmitted exclusively through the female germ line. The human mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is a double-stranded, circular molecule of 16569 bp and contains 37 genes coding for two rRNAs, 22 tRNAs and 13 polypeptides. The mtDNA-encoded polypeptides are all subunits of enzyme complexes of the oxidative phosphorylation system. Mitochondria are not self-supporting entities but rely heavily for their functions on imported nuclear gene products. The basic mechanisms of mitochondrial gene expression have been solved. Cis-acting mtDNA sequences have been characterised by sequence comparisons, mapping studies and mutation analysis both in vitro and in patients harbouring mtDNA mutations. Characterisation of trans-acting factors has proven more difficult but several key enzymes involved in mtDNA replication, transcription and protein synthesis have now been biochemically identified and some have been cloned. These studies revealed that, although some factors may have an additional function elsewhere in the cell, most are unique to mitochondria. It is expected that cell cultures of patients with mitochondrial diseases will increasingly be used to address fundamental questions about mtDNA expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- J W Taanman
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Royal Free Hospital School of Medicine, University of London, Rowland Hill Street, London NW3 2PF,
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38
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Howell N. Human mitochondrial diseases: answering questions and questioning answers. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CYTOLOGY 1998; 186:49-116. [PMID: 9770297 DOI: 10.1016/s0074-7696(08)61051-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Since the first identification in 1988 of pathogenic mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations, the mitochondrial diseases have emerged as a major clinical entity. The most striking feature of these disorders is their marked heterogeneity, which extends to their clinical, biochemical, and genetic characteristics. The major mitochondrial encephalomyopathies include MELAS (mitochondrial encephalopathy with lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes), MERRF (myoclonic epilepsy with ragged red fibers), KSS/CPEO (Kearns-Sayre syndrome/chronic progressive external ophthalmoplegia), and NARP/MILS (neuropathy, ataxia, and retinitis pigmentosum/maternally inherited Leigh syndrome) and they typically present highly variable multisystem defects that usually involve abnormalities of skeletal muscle and/or the CNS. The primary emphasis here is to review recent investigations of these mitochondrial diseases from the standpoint of how the complexities of mitochondrial genetics and biogenesis might determine their varied features. In addition, the mitochondrial encephalomyopathies are compared and contrasted to Leber hereditary optic neuropathy, a mitochondrial disease in which the pathogenic mtDNA mutations produce a more uniform and focal neuropathology. All of these disorders involve, at some level, a mitochondrial respiratory chain dysfunction. Because mitochondrial genetics differs so strikingly from the Mendelian inheritance of chromosomes, recent research on the origin and subsequent segregation and transmission of mtDNA mutations is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Howell
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77555, USA.
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39
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DiMauro S, Bonilla E, Davidson M, Hirano M, Schon EA. Mitochondria in neuromuscular disorders. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 1998; 1366:199-210. [PMID: 9714805 DOI: 10.1016/s0005-2728(98)00113-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This review considers primary mitochondrial diseases affecting the respiratory chain. As diseases due to mitochondrial DNA defects defy traditional anatomical classifications, we have not limited our discussion to neuromuscular disorders, but have extended it to include mitochondrial encephalomyopathies. Primary mitochondrial diseases can be due to mutations in either the nuclear or the mitochondrial genome. Nuclear mutations can affect (i) genes encoding enzymatic or structural mitochondrial proteins; (ii) translocases; (iii) mitochondrial protein importation; and (iv) intergenomic signaling. We review briefly recent molecular data and outstanding questions regarding these mendelian disorders, with special emphasis on cytochrome c oxidase deficiency and coenzyme Q10 deficiency. Mitochondrial DNA mutations fall into three main categories: (i) sporadic rearrangements (deletions/duplications); (ii) maternally inherited rearrangements (duplications); and (iii) maternally inherited point mutations. We summarize the most common clinical presentations and discuss pathogenic mechanisms, which remain largely elusive. Uncertainties about pathogenesis extend to the process of cell death, although excitotoxicity in neurons and apoptosis in muscle seem to have important roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- S DiMauro
- Department of Neurology, H. Houston Merritt Clinical Research Center for Muscular Dystrophy and Related Diseases, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, 4-420, 630 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA.
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