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Leir SH, Paranjapye A, Harris A. Functional genomics of the human epididymis: Further characterization of efferent ducts and model systems by single-cell RNA sequencing analysis. Andrology 2024; 12:991-1000. [PMID: 37301539 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human epididymis is poorly studied due to the lack of availability of tissue samples. Our understanding of its structure and function depends upon anatomical and histological observations of archived material. OBJECTIVES Here we used single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technologies to elucidate the identity of cells within the human efferent ducts (EDs) and compared them to caput epididymis cells. We also compared the cellularity of primary tissues with those of 2D and 3D (organoid) culture models used for functional studies. MATERIALS AND METHODS Human epididymis tissue was dissected to separate different anatomical regions and digested to release single cells for processing on the 10X Genomics Chromium platform. Primary human epididymis epithelial (HEE) cells and HEE organoids were grown as described previously and subjected to scRNA-seq. scRNA-seq data were processed by standard bioinformatics pipelines and used for comparative analysis. RESULTS We define the cell types in the EDs which include specialized epithelial cells, connective tissue stromal cells, vascular endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and immune cells, but lack basal cells that are seen in the caput epididymis. Furthermore, we identify a sub-population of epithelial cells which have marker genes found in the bladder and urothelium. Comparative genomics analysis of the 2D and 3D culture models shows cellular identities adapted to the culture environment while still maintaining similarity to the primary tissue. DISCUSSION Our data suggest that EDs are lined with a transitional epithelium, which like the urothelium is able to stretch and contract depending on luminal volume. This is consistent with its primary role in seminal fluid resorption and sperm concentration. Moreover, we describe the cellularity of models to study the human epididymis epithelium in vitro. CONCLUSION Single-cell RNA-seq data from the human epididymis make a valuable contribution to our understanding of this highly specialized organ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Hsing Leir
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Alekh Paranjapye
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Ann Harris
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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2
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Paira DA, Olmedo JJ, Olivera C, Tissera AD, Molina RI, Rivero VE, Motrich RD, Saka HA. Chronic epididymitis due to Chlamydia trachomatis LGV-L2 in an HIV-negative heterosexual patient: a case report. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1129166. [PMID: 37228719 PMCID: PMC10203518 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1129166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is an obligate intracellular pathogen and the leading bacterial cause of sexually transmitted infections worldwide. Chlamydia trachomatis genovars L1-L3 are responsible for lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV), an invasive sexually transmitted disease endemic in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, South America, the Caribbean, India and South East Asia. The typical signs and symptoms of C. trachomatis LGV urogenital infections in men include herpetiform ulcers, inguinal buboes, and/or lymphadenopathies. Since 2003, endemic cases of proctitis and proctocolitis caused by C. trachomatis LGV emerged in Europe, mainly in HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM). Scarce data have been reported about unusual clinical presentations of C. trachomatis LGV urogenital infections. Herein, we report a case of a 36-year-old heterosexual, HIV-negative male declaring he did not have sex with men or trans women, who presented to the Urology and Andrology outpatient clinic of a healthcare center from Cordoba, Argentina, with intermittent testicular pain over the preceding 6 months. Doppler ultrasound indicated right epididymitis and funiculitis. Out of 17 sexually transmitted infections (STIs) investigated, a positive result was obtained only for C. trachomatis. Also, semen analysis revealed oligoasthenozoospermia, reduced sperm viability as well as increased sperm DNA fragmentation and necrosis, together with augmented reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and the presence of anti-sperm IgG autoantibodies. In this context, doxycycline 100 mg/12 h for 45 days was prescribed. A post-treatment control documented microbiological cure along with resolution of clinical signs and symptoms and improved semen quality. Strikingly, sequencing of the ompA gene revealed C. trachomatis LGV L2 as the causative uropathogen. Remarkably, the patient did not present the typical signs and symptoms of LGV. Instead, the infection associated with chronic testicular pain, semen inflammation and markedly reduced sperm quality. To our knowledge, this is the first reported evidence of chronic epididymitis due to C. trachomatis LGV L2 infection in an HIV-negative heterosexual man. These findings constitute important and valuable information for researchers and practitioners and highlight that C. trachomatis LGV-L2 should be considered as putative etiologic agent of chronic epididymitis, even in the absence of the typical LGV signs and symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Andrea Paira
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), CONICET, Córdoba, Argentina
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - José Javier Olmedo
- Fundación Urológica Córdoba para la Docencia e Investigación Médica (FUCDIM), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Carolina Olivera
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), CONICET, Córdoba, Argentina
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | | | | | - Virginia Elena Rivero
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), CONICET, Córdoba, Argentina
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Rubén Darío Motrich
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), CONICET, Córdoba, Argentina
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Héctor Alex Saka
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología (CIBICI), CONICET, Córdoba, Argentina
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
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3
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Santacroce L, Imbimbo C, Ballini A, Crocetto F, Scacco S, Cantore S, Di Zazzo E, Colella M, Jirillo E. Testicular Immunity and Its Connection with the Microbiota. Physiological and Clinical Implications in the Light of Personalized Medicine. J Pers Med 2022; 12:1335. [PMID: 36013286 PMCID: PMC9409709 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12081335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Reproduction is a complex process, which is based on the cooperation between the endocrine-immune system and the microbiota. Testicular immunity is characterized by the so-called immune privilege, a mechanism that avoids autoimmune attacks against proteins expressed by spermatozoa. Testicular microbiota is connected with the gut microbiota, the most prevalent site of commensals inthe body. Both microbiotas take part inthe development of the immune system and protection againstpathogen invasion. Dysbiosis is caused by concurrent pathologies, such as obesity, diabetes, infections and trauma. The substitution of beneficial bacteria with pathogens may lead to destruction of spermatozoa directly or indirectly and, ultimately, to male infertility. Novel therapeutic interventions, i.e., nutritional interventions and supplementation of natural products, such as, probiotics, prebiotics, antioxidants and polyphenols, may lead to the restoration of the otherwise-impaired male reproductive potential, even if experimental and clinical results are not always concordant. In this review, the structure and immune function of the testis will be described with special reference to the blood-testisbarrier. The regulatory role of both the gut and testicular microbiota will be illustrated in health and disease, also emphasizing therapeutic attempts with natural products for the correction of male infertility, in the era of personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Santacroce
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Microbiology and Virology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Ciro Imbimbo
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131Naples, Italy
| | - Andrea Ballini
- Department of Precision Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Felice Crocetto
- Department of Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, School of Medicine, University of Naples “Federico II”, 80131Naples, Italy
| | - Salvatore Scacco
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neurosciences and Sense Organs, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Stefania Cantore
- Independent Researcher, Sorriso & Benessere—Ricerca e Clinica, 70129 Bari, Italy
| | - Erika Di Zazzo
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences “V. Tiberio”, University of Molise, 86100 Campobasso, Italy
| | - Marica Colella
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Microbiology and Virology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Emilio Jirillo
- Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Section of Microbiology and Virology, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
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Shum W, Zhang BL, Cao AS, Zhou X, Shi SM, Zhang ZY, Gu LY, Shi S. Calcium Homeostasis in the Epididymal Microenvironment: Is Extracellular Calcium a Cofactor for Matrix Gla Protein-Dependent Scavenging Regulated by Vitamins. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:827940. [PMID: 35252193 PMCID: PMC8893953 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.827940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In the male reproductive tract, the epididymis is an essential organ for sperm maturation, in which sperm cells acquire mobility and the ability to fertilize oocytes while being stored in a protective microenvironment. Epididymal function involves a specialized luminal microenvironment established by the epithelial cells of epididymal mucosa. Low-calcium concentration is a unique feature of this epididymal luminal microenvironment, its relevance and regulation are, however, incompletely understood. In the rat epididymis, the vitamin D-related calcium-dependent TRPV6-TMEM16A channel-coupler has been shown to be involved in fluid transport, and, in a spatially complementary manner, vitamin K2-related γ-glutamyl carboxylase (GGCX)-dependent carboxylation of matrix Gla protein (MGP) plays an essential role in promoting calcium-dependent protein aggregation. An SNP in the human GGCX gene has been associated with asthenozoospermia. In addition, bioinformatic analysis also suggests the involvement of a vitamin B6-axis in calcium-dependent MGP-mediated protein aggregation. These findings suggest that vitamins interact with calcium homeostasis in the epididymis to ensure proper sperm maturation and male fertility. This review article discusses the regulation mechanisms of calcium homeostasis in the epididymis, and the potential role of vitamin interactions on epididymal calcium homeostasis, especially the role of matrix calcium in the epididymal lumen as a cofactor for the carboxylated MGP-mediated scavenging function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winnie Shum
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- *Correspondence: Winnie Shum,
| | - Bao Li Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
- Center for Excellence in Molecular Cell Science, Shanghai Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Reproduction and Development Institution, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Albert Shang Cao
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin Zhou
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Su Meng Shi
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ze Yang Zhang
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lou Yi Gu
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuo Shi
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China
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5
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Wu Y, Li H, Qin Y. S100A4 promotes the progression of lipopolysaccharide-induced acute epididymitis in mice†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:1213-1224. [PMID: 32072170 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
S100A4 has been suggested to be a critical regulator of tumor metastasis and is implicated in the progression of inflammation. The aim of this study is to investigate the expression and possible role of S100A4 in epididymitis. Using a mouse model of epididymitis induced by the injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the deferent duct, we found that LPS administration induced an upregulation of S100a4 transcription (P < 0.05) and a recruitment of S100A4 positive cells in the epididymal interstitium of wild type (WT) mice. Co-immunofluorescence showed that S100A4 was mainly expressed by granulocytes, CD4 lymphocytes, and macrophages. Deficiency of S100A4 reduced epididymal pathological reaction and the mRNA levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α (P < 0.01), suggesting that S100A4 promotes the progression of epididymitis. Furthermore, S100A4 deficiency alleviated the decline of sperm motility and rectified the abnormal expression of sperm membrane protein AMAD3, which suggested that in the progression of epididymitis, S100A4 aggravates the damage to sperm vitality. In addition, both Ki-67 marked cell proliferation and transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling detected cell apoptosis were reduced in S100a4-/- mice compared with WT mice after LPS treatment, indicating that S100A4 promotes both cell proliferation and cell apoptosis in epididymitis. Overall, these results demonstrate that S100A4 promotes the progression of LPS-induced epididymitis and facilitates a decline in sperm vitality, and its function may be related to the process of cell proliferation and apoptosis during inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingjie Wu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Haoran Li
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China
| | - Yinghe Qin
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, People's Republic of China
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6
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Mei C, Kang Y, Zhang C, He C, Liao A, Huang D. C-Type Natriuretic Peptide Plays an Anti-Inflammatory Role in Rat Epididymitis Induced by UPEC. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:711842. [PMID: 34466404 PMCID: PMC8403061 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.711842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human epididymitis is mainly caused by retrograde urinary tract infection with uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). This disease is an important factor (accounting for 20-30%) causing male infertility. C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP), a protein composed of 22 amino acids, is proved to play an immunoregulatory role in respiratory and cardiovascular systems. CNP is expressed extremely high in the epididymis, but whether CNP plays the same role in acute epididymitis is unclear. At first, we established an acute caput epididymitis model in rats with UPEC and treated them with CNP to measure inflammatory damage. Then RNA-seq transcriptome technology was used to reveal potential signal pathways. Secondly, the turbidity and activity of UPEC were assessed using a microplate reader and the amount of UPEC by agar plates after incubation with CNP. Thirdly, macrophages in caput epididymis were tested by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Meanwhile, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) with or without CNP was used to stimulate the macrophage (RAW264.7) in vitro and to detect the expression level of pro-inflammatory factors. Finally, the macrophage (RAW264.7) was treated with CNP, 8-Br-cGMP [cyclic guanosinc monophosphate (cGMP) analog] and KT5823 [protein kinase G (PKG) inhibitor], and the expression level of nuclear factor-k-gene binding (NF-kB) signal pathway was examined. The results showed that the damage of epididymis induced by UPEC as well as the pro-inflammatory factors could be alleviated significantly with CNP treatment. CNP could inhibit the activity and numbers of bacteria in both in vivo and in vitro experiments. Moreover, CNP repressed the invasion, and the expression of pro-inflammatory factors (such as NF-kB, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) in macrophages and its effect could be inhibited by KT5823. Therefore, we drew a conclusion from the above experiments that CNP alleviates the acute epididymitis injury induced by UPEC. On one hand, CNP could inhibit the growth of UPEC. On the other hand, CNP could decrease invasion and inflammatory reaction of macrophages; the mechanism was involved in inhibiting NF-kB signal pathway through the cGMP/PKG in macrophages. This research would open up the possibility of using CNP as a potential treatment for epididymitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunlei Mei
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Reproductive Center, Jiangxi Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Nanchang, China
| | - Yafei Kang
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chenlu Zhang
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunyu He
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Aihua Liao
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Donghui Huang
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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7
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Sheng Z, Gao N, Fan D, Wu N, Zhang Y, Han D, Zhang Y, Tan W, Wang P, An J. Zika virus disrupts the barrier structure and Absorption/Secretion functions of the epididymis in mice. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009211. [PMID: 33667230 PMCID: PMC7968736 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Several studies have demonstrated that Zika virus (ZIKV) damages testis and leads to infertility in mice; however, the infection in the epididymis, another important organ of male reproductive health, has gained less attention. Previously, we detected lesions in the epididymis in interferon type I and II receptor knockout male mice during ZIKV infection. Herein, the pathogenesis of ZIKV in the epididymis was further assessed in the infected mice after footpad inoculation. ZIKV efficiently replicated in the epididymis, and principal cells were susceptible to ZIKV. ZIKV infection disrupted the histomorphology of the epididymis, and the effects were characterized by a decrease in the thickness of the epithelial layer and an increase in the luminal diameter, especially at the proximal end. Significant inflammatory cell infiltration was observed in the epididymis accompanied by an increase in the levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-28. The expression of tight junction proteins was downregulated and associated with disordered arrangement of the junctions. Importantly, the expression levels of aquaporin 1 and lipocalin 8, indicators of the absorption and secretion functions of the epididymis, were markedly reduced, and the proteins were redistributed. These events synergistically altered the microenvironment for sperm maturation, disturbed sperm transport downstream, and may impact male reproductive health. Overall, these results provide new insights into the pathogenesis of the male reproductive damage caused by ZIKV infection and the possible contribution of epididymal injury into this process. Therefore, male fertility of the population in areas of ZIKV epidemic requires additional attention. Unlike other mosquito-transmitted flaviviruses, ZIKV can persistently replicate in the male reproductive system and is sexually transmitted. ZIKV infection was reported to damage testis. However, ZIKV-induced epididymal injury was not investigated in detail. Clinically, epididymitis is closely associated with male infertility. In this study, a mouse model was used to demonstrate that ZIKV causes histomorphological and functional changes in the epididymis, which may alter the microenvironment of sperm maturation and movement and finally lead to male infertility. Therefore, long-term investigation of male reproductive health may be needed in the areas of ZIKV epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyang Sheng
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Na Gao
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Dongying Fan
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Na Wu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingying Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Daishu Han
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yun Zhang
- Huadong Research Institute for Medicine and Biotechnics, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weilong Tan
- Huadong Research Institute for Medicine and Biotechnics, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Peigang Wang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (PW); (JA)
| | - Jing An
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Center of Epilepsy, Beijing Institute for Brain Disorders, Beijing, China
- * E-mail: (PW); (JA)
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8
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Pleuger C, Silva EJR, Pilatz A, Bhushan S, Meinhardt A. Differential Immune Response to Infection and Acute Inflammation Along the Epididymis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:599594. [PMID: 33329594 PMCID: PMC7729520 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.599594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The epididymis is a tubular structure connecting the vas deferens to the testis. This organ consists of three main regions—caput, corpus, and cauda—that face opposing immunological tasks. A means of combating invading pathogens is required in the distally located cauda, where there is a risk of ascending bacterial infections originating from the urethra. Meanwhile, immune tolerance is necessary at the caput, where spermatozoa with immunogenic neo-antigens originate from the testis. Consistently, when challenged with live bacteria or inflammatory stimuli, the cauda elicits a much stronger immune response and inflammatory-inflicted damage than the caput. At the cellular level, a role for diverse and strategically positioned mononuclear phagocytes is emerging. At the mechanistic level, differential expression of immunoprotective and immunomodulatory mediators has been detected between the three main regions of the epididymis. In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge about region-specific immunological characteristics and unveil possible underlying mechanisms on cellular and molecular levels. Improved understanding of the different immunological microenvironments is the basis for an improved therapy and counseling of patients with epididymal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiane Pleuger
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Erick José Ramo Silva
- Department of Biophysics and Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, University Hospital, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Hessian Centre of Reproductive Medicine, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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9
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Olaniyan OT, Dare A, Okotie GE, Adetunji CO, Ibitoye BO, Bamidele OJ, Eweoya OO. Testis and blood-testis barrier in Covid-19 infestation: role of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 in male infertility. J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol 2020; 31:jbcpp-2020-0156. [PMID: 33006953 DOI: 10.1515/jbcpp-2020-0156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS- CoV-2) that causes COVID-19 infections penetrates body cells by binding to angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) receptors. Evidence shows that SARS-CoV-2 can also affect the urogenital tract. Hence, it should be given serious attention when treating COVID-19-infected male patients of reproductive age group. Other viruses like HIV, mumps, papilloma and Epstein-Barr can induce viral orchitis, germ cell apoptosis, inflammation and germ cell destruction with attending infertility and tumors. The blood-testis barrier (BTB) and blood-epididymis barrier (BEB) are essential physical barricades in the male reproductive tract located between the blood vessel and seminiferous tubules in the testes. Despite the significant role of these barriers in male reproductive function, studies have shown that a wide range of viruses can still penetrate the barriers and induce testicular dysfunctions. Therefore, this mini-review highlights the role of ACE2 receptors in promoting SARS-CoV-2-induced blood-testis/epididymal barrier infiltration and testicular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olugbemi T Olaniyan
- Laboratory for Reproductive Biology and Developmental Programming, Department of Physiology, Edo University Iyamho, Iyamho, Nigeria
| | - Ayobami Dare
- Department of Physiology, School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville, Durban, South Africa
| | - Gloria E Okotie
- Department of Physiology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Charles O Adetunji
- Applied Microbiology, Department of Microbiology, Biotechnology and Nanotechnology Laboratory, Edo University Iyamho, Iyamho, Edo State, Nigeria
| | | | - Okoli J Bamidele
- Institute of Chemical and Biotechnology, Faculty of Computer and Applied Sciences, Vaal University of Technology, Southern Gauteng Science and Technology Park, Department of Chemistry, Vanderbijlpark, South Africa
| | - Olugbenga O Eweoya
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of the Gambia, Banjul, The Gambia
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10
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Zhao H, Yu C, He C, Mei C, Liao A, Huang D. The Immune Characteristics of the Epididymis and the Immune Pathway of the Epididymitis Caused by Different Pathogens. Front Immunol 2020; 11:2115. [PMID: 33117332 PMCID: PMC7561410 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.02115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The epididymis is an important male accessory sex organ where sperm motility and fertilization ability develop. When spermatozoa carrying foreign antigens enter the epididymis, the epididymis shows "immune privilege" to tolerate them. It is well-known that a tolerogenic environment exists in the caput epididymis, while pro-inflammatory circumstances prefer the cauda epididymis. This meticulously regulated immune environment not only protects spermatozoa from autoimmunity but also defends spermatozoa against pathogenic damage. Epididymitis is one of the common causes of male infertility. Up to 40% of patients suffer from permanent oligospermia or azoospermia. This is related to the immune characteristics of the epididymis itself. Moreover, epididymitis induced by different pathogenic microbial infections has different characteristics. This article elaborates on the distribution and immune response characteristics of epididymis immune cells, the role of epididymis epithelial cells (EECs), and the epididymis defense against different pathogenic infections (such as uropathogenic Escherichia coli, Chlamydia trachomatis, and viruses to provide therapeutic approaches for epididymitis and its subsequent fertility problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hu Zhao
- Department of Human Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Caiqian Yu
- Department of Human Anatomy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunyu He
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chunlei Mei
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Aihua Liao
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Donghui Huang
- Institute of Reproduction Health Research, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Klein B, Pant S, Bhushan S, Kautz J, Rudat C, Kispert A, Pilatz A, Wijayarathna R, Middendorff R, Loveland KL, Hedger MP, Meinhardt A. Dexamethasone improves therapeutic outcomes in a preclinical bacterial epididymitis mouse model. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:1195-1205. [PMID: 31211847 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can dexamethasone improve infertility-related cauda epididymidal tissue damage caused by bacterial epididymitis? SUMMARY ANSWER Dexamethasone in addition to anti-microbial treatment effectively reduces long-term deleterious epididymal tissue damage by dampening the host's adaptive immune response. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Despite effective anti-microbial treatment, ~40% of patients with epididymitis experience subsequent sub- or infertility. An epididymitis mouse model has shown that the host immune response is mainly responsible for the magnitude of epididymal tissue damage that is fundamentally causative of the subsequent fertility issues. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Bacterial epididymitis was induced in male mice by using uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). From Day 3 after infection onwards, mice were treated with daily doses of levofloxacin (20 mg/kg, total n = 12 mice), dexamethasone (0.5 mg/kg, total n = 9) or both in combination (total n = 11) for seven consecutive days. Control animals were left untreated, i.e. given no interventional treatment following UPEC infection (total n = 11). Half of the animals from each group were killed either at 10 or 31 days post-infection. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS A mouse model of induced bacterial epididymitis was applied to adult male C57BL/6J mice. At the respective endpoints (10 or 31 days post-infection), epididymides were collected. Effectiveness of antibiotic treatment was assessed by plating of epididymal homogenates onto lysogeny broth agar plates. Overall tissue morphology and the degree and nature of tissue damage were assessed histologically. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to assess local cytokine transcript levels. Blood was drawn and serum analysed for systemic IgG and IgM levels by ELISA. In addition, correlation analyses of clinical data and serum-analyses of IgG and IgM levels in patients with epididymitis were performed. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The addition of dexamethasone to the standard anti-microbial treatment did not further worsen epididymal tissue integrity. In fact, an obviously dampened immune response and reduced tissue reaction/damage was observed at both 10 and 31 days post-infection following combined treatment. More specifically, epididymal duct continuity was preserved, enabling sperm transit. In contrast, in untreated or antibiotic-treated animals, damage of the epididymal duct and duct constrictions were observed, associated with a lack of cauda spermatozoa. In line with the bacteriostatic/bactericidal effect of levofloxacin (alone as well as in combination), local cytokine transcript levels were significantly and similarly reduced in animals treated with levofloxacin alone (P < 0.01) or in combination with dexamethasone (P < 0.05) compared to UPEC-infected untreated animals. Interestingly, the addition of dexamethasone to the anti-microbial treatment induced a unique dampening effect on adaptive immunity, since systemic IgG and IgM levels as well as the pan-T cell marker CD3 were reduced at both 10 and 31 days post-infection. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Breeding studies to address the fertility-protecting effect of the combined treatment were not possible in the experimental animals because the vas deferens was ligated (model specific). WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Whereas innate immunity is necessary and involved in acute bacterial clearance, adaptive immunity seems to be responsible for long-term, subclinical immunological activities that may negatively affect the pathogenesis of bacterial epididymitis even after effective bacterial eradication. These effects can be reduced in mice by the additional treatment with dexamethasone. This immunological characteristic of bacterial epididymitis shows similarities to the Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction known from other types of bacterial infection. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was supported by grants from the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, Monash University and the Medical Faculty of Justus-Liebig University to the International Research Training Group on 'Molecular pathogenesis of male reproductive disorders' (GRK 1871). R.W., K.L.L. and M.P.H. were supported by grants from the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia (ID1079646, ID1081987, ID1020269 and ID1063843) and by the Victorian Government's Operational Infrastructure Support Program. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER No clinical trial involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britta Klein
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Swapnila Pant
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Julia Kautz
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Carsten Rudat
- Institute for Molecular Biology, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Andreas Kispert
- Institute for Molecular Biology, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Germany
| | - Rukmali Wijayarathna
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Ralf Middendorff
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia.,School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany.,Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
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12
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Klein B, Bhushan S, Günther S, Middendorff R, Loveland KL, Hedger MP, Meinhardt A. Differential tissue-specific damage caused by bacterial epididymo-orchitis in the mouse. Mol Hum Reprod 2020; 26:215-227. [PMID: 32011693 PMCID: PMC7187874 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ascending bacterial urinary tract infections can cause epididymo-orchitis. In the cauda epididymidis, this frequently leads to persistent tissue damage. Less coherent data is available concerning the functional consequences of epididymo-orchitis on testis and caput epididymidis. This in vivo study addresses the functional and spatial differences in responsiveness of murine epididymis and testis to infection with uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). Whole transcriptome analysis (WTA) was performed on testis, caput, corpus and cauda epididymidis of adult C57BL/6 J wildtype mice. Following UPEC-induced epididymo-orchitis in these mice, epididymal and testicular tissue damage was evaluated histologically and semi-quantitatively at 10 days and 31 days post-inoculation. Expression of inflammatory markers and candidate antimicrobial genes were analysed by RT-qPCR. WTA revealed distinct differences in gene signatures between caput and cauda epididymidis, particularly amonst immunity-related genes. Cellular and molecular signs of testicular inflammation and disruption of spermatogenesis were noticed at day 10, but recovery was observed by day 31. In contrast to the cauda, the caput epididymidis did not reveal any signs of gross morphological damage or presence of pro-inflammatory processes despite confirmed infection. In contrast to beta-defensins, known UPEC-associated antimicrobial peptides (AMP), like Lcn2, Camp and Lypd8, were inherently highly expressed or upregulated in the caput following infection, potentially allowing an early luminal protection from UPEC. At the time points investigated, the caput epididymidis was protected from any obvious infection/inflammation-derived tissue damage. Studies addressing earlier time-points will conclude whether in the caput epididymidis a pro-inflammatory response is indeed not essential for effective protection from UPEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Britta Klein
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen 35385, Germany
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen 35385, Germany
| | - Stefan Günther
- ECCPS Bioinformatics and Deep Sequencing Platform, Max Planck Institute for Heart and Lung Research, Bad Nauheim 61231, Germany
| | - Ralf Middendorff
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen 35385, Germany
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton 3168, Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, Monash Medical Centre, Clayton 3168, Australia
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen 35385, Germany
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton 3168, Australia
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13
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Avellar MCW, Ribeiro CM, Dias-da-Silva MR, Silva EJR. In search of new paradigms for epididymal health and disease: innate immunity, inflammatory mediators, and steroid hormones. Andrology 2019; 7:690-702. [PMID: 31207127 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 04/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The primary job of the epididymis is to mature and protect the luminally transiting spermatozoa. Mounting evidence is showing that innate immune components [including Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and antimicrobial proteins, among which are β-defensins] and inflammatory mediators, under the primary influence of androgens, participate in the cellular and molecular processes that define this tissue. Here, we present an overview of the contributions of these signaling pathway components during epididymal homeostasis and discuss the hypotheses as to their involvement in epididymitis, the most common urological inflammatory condition in men, frequently impairing their fertility. Drawing primarily from rodent models, we also focus on how the distribution and functional expression of innate immune components are differentially regulated in the prenatal developing epididymis, providing new insights into the disruption of these signaling pathways throughout the lifespan. Male infertility is caused by a variety of conditions, such as congenital malformations, genetic and endocrine disorders, exposure to environmental toxicants, and inflammatory/infectious conditions. More than one-third of infertile men with an idiopathic condition cannot currently be adequately diagnosed. Thinking about the innate immunity and inflammation context of the epididymis may provide new insights and directions as to how these systems contribute to male fertility, as well as also uncover urological and andrological outcomes that may aid clinicians in diagnosing and preventing epididymal pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C W Avellar
- Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - C M Ribeiro
- Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - M R Dias-da-Silva
- Department of Medicine, Universidade Federal de São Paulo - Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - E J R Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista 'Júlio de Mesquita Filho', Botucatu, SP, Brazil
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14
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Wang F, Liu W, Jiang Q, Gong M, Chen R, Wu H, Han R, Chen Y, Han D. Lipopolysaccharide-induced testicular dysfunction and epididymitis in mice: a critical role of tumor necrosis factor alpha†. Biol Reprod 2018; 100:849-861. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Revised: 09/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Weihua Liu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Qian Jiang
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Maolei Gong
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Ran Chen
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Han Wu
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-product Safety, Institute of Epigenetics & Epigenomics, College of Animal Science & Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Ruiqin Han
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yongmei Chen
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Daishu Han
- Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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15
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Fijak M, Pilatz A, Hedger MP, Nicolas N, Bhushan S, Michel V, Tung KSK, Schuppe HC, Meinhardt A. Infectious, inflammatory and 'autoimmune' male factor infertility: how do rodent models inform clinical practice? Hum Reprod Update 2018; 24:416-441. [PMID: 29648649 PMCID: PMC6016649 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2016] [Revised: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infection and inflammation of the reproductive tract are significant causes of male factor infertility. Ascending infections caused by sexually transmitted bacteria or urinary tract pathogens represent the most frequent aetiology of epididymo-orchitis, but viral, haematogenous dissemination is also a contributory factor. Limitations in adequate diagnosis and therapy reflect an obvious need for further understanding of human epididymal and testicular immunopathologies and their contribution to infertility. A major obstacle for advancing our knowledge is the limited access to suitable tissue samples. Similarly, the key events in the inflammatory or autoimmune pathologies affecting human male fertility are poorly amenable to close examination. Moreover, the disease processes generally have occurred long before the patient attends the clinic for fertility assessment. In this regard, data obtained from experimental animal models and respective comparative analyses have shown promise to overcome these restrictions in humans. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This narrative review will focus on male fertility disturbances caused by infection and inflammation, and the usefulness of the most frequently applied animal models to study these conditions. SEARCH METHODS An extensive search in Medline database was performed without restrictions until January 2018 using the following search terms: 'infection' and/or 'inflammation' and 'testis' and/or 'epididymis', 'infection' and/or 'inflammation' and 'male genital tract', 'male infertility', 'orchitis', 'epididymitis', 'experimental autoimmune' and 'orchitis' or 'epididymitis' or 'epididymo-orchitis', antisperm antibodies', 'vasectomy'. In addition to that, reference lists of primary and review articles were reviewed for additional publications independently by each author. Selected articles were verified by each two separate authors and discrepancies discussed within the team. OUTCOMES There is clear evidence that models mimicking testicular and/or epididymal inflammation and infection have been instructive in a better understanding of the mechanisms of disease initiation and progression. In this regard, rodent models of acute bacterial epididymitis best reflect the clinical situation in terms of mimicking the infection pathway, pathogens selected and the damage, such as fibrotic transformation, observed. Similarly, animal models of acute testicular and epididymal inflammation using lipopolysaccharides show impairment of reproduction, endocrine function and histological tissue architecture, also seen in men. Autoimmune responses can be studied in models of experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) and vasectomy. In particular, the early stages of EAO development showing inflammatory responses in the form of peritubular lymphocytic infiltrates, thickening of the lamina propria of affected tubules, production of autoantibodies against testicular antigens or secretion of pro-inflammatory mediators, replicate observations in testicular sperm extraction samples of patients with 'mixed atrophy' of spermatogenesis. Vasectomy, in the form of sperm antibodies and chronic inflammation, can also be studied in animal models, providing valuable insights into the human response. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This is the first comprehensive review of rodent models of both infectious and autoimmune disease of testis/epididymis, and their clinical implications, i.e. their importance in understanding male infertility related to infectious and non-infectious/autoimmune disease of the reproductive organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Fijak
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Aulweg 123, Giessen, Germany
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Clinic of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Germany
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nour Nicolas
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Aulweg 123, Giessen, Germany
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Aulweg 123, Giessen, Germany
| | - Vera Michel
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Aulweg 123, Giessen, Germany
| | - Kenneth S K Tung
- Departments of Pathology and Microbiology, Beirne Carter Center for Immunology Research, University of Virginia, 345 Crispell Drive, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Hans-Christian Schuppe
- Clinic of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Aulweg 123, Giessen, Germany
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, 27-31 Wright Street, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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16
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Silva EJR, Ribeiro CM, Mirim AFM, Silva AAS, Romano RM, Hallak J, Avellar MCW. Lipopolysaccharide and lipotheicoic acid differentially modulate epididymal cytokine and chemokine profiles and sperm parameters in experimental acute epididymitis. Sci Rep 2018; 8:103. [PMID: 29311626 PMCID: PMC5758752 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-17944-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial infections are the most prevalent etiological factors of epididymitis, a commonly diagnosed inflammatory disease in the investigation of male infertility factors. The influence of early pathogenic mechanisms at play during bacterial epididymitis on reproductive outcomes is little understood. We report here that experimental epididymitis induced in rats by Gram-negative (LPS) and Gram-positive (LTA) bacterial products resulted in differential patterns of acute inflammation in the cauda epididymis. LPS elicited a strong inflammatory reaction, as reflected by upregulation of levels of mRNA for seven inflammatory mediators (Il1b, Tnf, Il6, Ifng, Il10, Nos2 and Nfkbia), and tissue concentration of six cytokines/chemokines (IL1A, IL1B, IL6, IL10, CXCL2 and CCL2) within the first 24 h post-treatment. Conversely, LTA induced downregulation of one (Nfkbia) and upregulation of six (Il1b, Il6, Nos2, Il4 Il10 and Ptgs1) inflammatory gene transcripts, whereas increased the tissue concentration of three cytokines/chemokines (IL10, CXCL2 and CCL2). The stronger acute inflammatory response induced by LPS correlated with a reduction of epididymal sperm count and transit time that occurred at 1, 7, and 15 days post-treatment. Our study provides evidence that early epididymal inflammatory signaling events to bacterial activators of innate immunity may contribute to the detrimental effects of epididymitis upon male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erick J R Silva
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, 04044-020, Brazil.
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Botucatu, SP, 18618-869, Brazil.
| | - Camilla M Ribeiro
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, 04044-020, Brazil
| | - André F M Mirim
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, 04044-020, Brazil
| | - Alan A S Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences of Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Botucatu, SP, 18618-869, Brazil
| | - Renata M Romano
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, 04044-020, Brazil
- Department of Pharmacy, State University of Centro-Oeste, Guarapuava, PR, 85040-080, Brazil
| | - Jorge Hallak
- Androscience, Science and Innovation Center in Andrology, São Paulo, SP, 03178-200, Brazil
- Reproductive Toxicology Unity, Department of Pathology and Division of Urology, Hospital das Clínicas, University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo, SP, 01246-903, Brazil
| | - Maria Christina W Avellar
- Section of Experimental Endocrinology, Department of Pharmacology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, 04044-020, Brazil.
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17
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Michel V, Duan Y, Stoschek E, Bhushan S, Middendorff R, Young JM, Loveland KL, Kretser DMD, Hedger MP, Meinhardt A. UropathogenicEscherichia colicauses fibrotic remodelling of the epididymis. J Pathol 2016; 240:15-24. [DOI: 10.1002/path.4748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Revised: 04/28/2016] [Accepted: 05/20/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Vera Michel
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology; Justus-Liebig-University Giessen; Germany
| | - Yonggang Duan
- Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University; Shenzhen Second People's Hospital; People's Republic of China
| | - Elke Stoschek
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology; Justus-Liebig-University Giessen; Germany
| | - Sudhanshu Bhushan
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology; Justus-Liebig-University Giessen; Germany
| | - Ralf Middendorff
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology; Justus-Liebig-University Giessen; Germany
| | - Julia M Young
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Kate L Loveland
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - David M De Kretser
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Mark P Hedger
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology; Justus-Liebig-University Giessen; Germany
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research; Melbourne Victoria Australia
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Bernabò N, Agostino RD, Ordinelli A, Mattioli M, Barboni B. The maturation of murine spermatozoa membranes within the epididymis, a computational biology perspective. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2016; 62:299-308. [PMID: 27586844 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2016.1205679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
To become fertile, mammalian spermatozoa require completing a complex biochemical maturation that begins in the testis and ends within the female oviduct. Here, we paid attention to the events occurring at the membrane level during the epididymal transit. Indeed, in the epididymis, the molecular composition and the physical-chemical proprieties of sperm membranes markedly change, with functional cross talking among the spermatozoa, the epithelium, and the luminal content (particularly the epididymosomes). To study this process, we undertook a biological networks study, representing the involved molecules as nodes and their interactions as links. The analysis of network topology revealed that it has a scale free and small world architecture and it is robust against random failure. That assures a fast and efficient transmission of information and it leads to identifying the molecules exerting a higher level of control on the system, among which cholesterol plays a pivotal role. The reactome enrichment analysis allowed the reconstruction of the biochemical pathways involved in sperm epididymal maturation and STRING analysis permitted the identification of molecular events possibly involved in that process. In conclusion, this approach allows inferring interesting information, thus contributing to the knowledge on this process and suggesting staring points for further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Bernabò
- a Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Teramo , Teramo , Italy
| | | | | | - Mauro Mattioli
- a Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Teramo , Teramo , Italy
| | - Barbara Barboni
- a Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Teramo , Teramo , Italy
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Khosravi F, Michel V, Galuska CE, Bhushan S, Christian P, Schuppe HC, Pilatz A, Galuska SP, Meinhardt A. Desialylation of Spermatozoa and Epithelial Cell Glycocalyx Is a Consequence of Bacterial Infection of the Epididymis. J Biol Chem 2016; 291:17717-26. [PMID: 27339898 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m116.718072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Urinary tract infections caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) pathovars belong to the most frequent infections in humans. In men, pathogens can also spread to the genital tract via the continuous ductal system, eliciting bacterial prostatitis and/or epididymo-orchitis. Antibiotic treatment usually clears pathogens in acute epididymitis; however, the fertility of patients can be permanently impaired. Because a premature acrosome reaction was observed in an UPEC epididymitis mouse model, and sialidases on the sperm surface are considered to be activated via proteases of the acrosome, we aimed to investigate whether alterations of the sialome of epididymal spermatozoa and surrounding epithelial cells occur during UPEC infection. In UPEC-elicited acute epididymitis in mice, a substantial loss of N-acetylneuraminic acid residues was detected in epididymal spermatozoa and epithelial cells using combined laser microdissection/HPLC-ESI-MS analysis. In support, a substantial reduction of sialic acid residues bound to the surface of spermatozoa was documented in men with a recent history of E. coli-associated epididymitis. In vitro, such an UPEC induced N-acetylneuraminic acid release from human spermatozoa was effectively counteracted by a sialidase inhibitor. These findings strongly suggest a substantial remodeling of the glycocalyx of spermatozoa and epididymal epithelial cells by endogenous sialidases after a premature acrosome reaction during acute epididymitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhad Khosravi
- From the Institutes of Anatomy and Cell Biology and Biochemistry and
| | - Vera Michel
- From the Institutes of Anatomy and Cell Biology and
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- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology, and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Justus Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany and
| | - Adrian Pilatz
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology, and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Justus Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany and
| | - Sebastian P Galuska
- Biochemistry and the Department of Reproductive Biology, Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
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Schagdarsurengin U, Western P, Steger K, Meinhardt A. Developmental origins of male subfertility: role of infection, inflammation, and environmental factors. Semin Immunopathol 2016; 38:765-781. [PMID: 27315198 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-016-0576-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Male gamete development begins with the specification of primordial cells in the epiblast of the early embryo and is not complete until spermatozoa mature in the epididymis of adult males. This protracted developmental process involves extensive alteration of the paternal germline epigenome. Initially, epigenetic reprogramming in fetal germ cells results in removal of most DNA methylation, including parent-specific epigenetic information. The germ cells then establish sex-specific epigenetic information through de novo methylation and undergo spermatogenesis. Chromatin in haploid germ cells is repackaged into protamines during spermiogenesis, providing further widespread epigenetic reorganization. Finally, after fertilization, epigenetic reprogramming in the preimplantation embryo is necessary for regaining totipotency. These events provide substantial windows during which epigenetic errors either may be corrected or may occur in the germline. There is now increasing evidence that environmental factors such as exposure to toxicants, the parents' and individual's diet, and even infectious and inflammatory events in the male reproductive tract may influence epigenetic reprogramming. This, together with other damage inflicted on the germline chromatin, may result in negative consequences for fertility and health. Large epidemiological birth cohort studies have yielded insight into possible causative environmental factors. Together with experimental animal studies, a clearer view of environmental impacts on fetal development and their intergenerational and even transgenerational effects on reproductive health has emerged and is reviewed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Undraga Schagdarsurengin
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Section Molecular Andrology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Patrick Western
- Centre for Genetic Diseases, Hudson Institute for Medical Research and Department of Molecular and Translational Science, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Klaus Steger
- Department of Urology, Pediatric Urology and Andrology, Section Molecular Andrology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Andreas Meinhardt
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Unit of Reproductive Biology, Justus-Liebig University of Giessen, Aulweg 123, 35385, Giessen, Germany.
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Domeniconi RF, Souza ACF, Xu B, Washington AM, Hinton BT. Is the Epididymis a Series of Organs Placed Side By Side? Biol Reprod 2016; 95:10. [PMID: 27122633 PMCID: PMC5029429 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.138768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 04/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian epididymis is more than a highly convoluted tube divided into four regions: initial segment, caput, corpus and cauda. It is a highly segmented structure with each segment expressing its own and overlapping genes, proteins, and signal transduction pathways. Therefore, the epididymis may be viewed as a series of organs placed side by side. In this review we discuss the contributions of septa that divide the epididymis into segments and present hypotheses as to the mechanism by which septa form. The mechanisms of Wolffian duct segmentation are likened to the mechanisms of segmentation of the renal nephron and somites. The renal nephron may provide valuable clues as to how the Wolffian duct is patterned during development, whereas somitogenesis may provide clues as to the timing of the development of each segment. Emphasis is also placed upon how segments are differentially regulated, in support of the idea that the epididymis can be considered a series of multiple organs placed side by side. One region in particular, the initial segment, which consists of 2 or 4 segments in mice and rats, respectively, is unique with respect to its regulation and vascularity compared to other segments; loss of development of these segments leads to male infertility. Different ways of thinking about how the epididymis functions may provide new directions and ideas as to how sperm maturation takes place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel F Domeniconi
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, Virginia
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