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Gül M, Russo GI, Kandil H, Boitrelle F, Saleh R, Chung E, Kavoussi P, Mostafa T, Shah R, Agarwal A. Male Infertility: New Developments, Current Challenges, and Future Directions. World J Mens Health 2024; 42:502-517. [PMID: 38164030 PMCID: PMC11216957 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.230232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
There have been many significant scientific advances in the diagnostics and treatment modalities in the field of male infertility in recent decades. Examples of these include assisted reproductive technologies, sperm selection techniques for intracytoplasmic sperm injection, surgical procedures for sperm retrieval, and novel tests of sperm function. However, there is certainly a need for new developments in this field. In this review, we discuss advances in the management of male infertility, such as seminal oxidative stress testing, sperm DNA fragmentation testing, genetic and epigenetic tests, genetic manipulations, artificial intelligence, personalized medicine, and telemedicine. The role of the reproductive urologist will continue to expand in future years to address different topzics related to diverse questions and controversies of pathophysiology, diagnosis, and therapy of male infertility, training researchers and physicians in medical and scientific research in reproductive urology/andrology, and further development of andrology as an independent specialty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Gül
- Department of Urology, Selcuk University School of Medicine, Konya, Turkey
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Giorgio Ivan Russo
- Urology Section, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Hussein Kandil
- Fakih IVF Fertility Center, Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Florence Boitrelle
- Reproductive Biology, Fertility Preservation, Andrology, CECOS, Poissy Hospital, Poissy, France
- Paris Saclay University, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Jouy-en-Josas, France
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Ramadan Saleh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
- Ajyal IVF Center, Ajyal Hospital, Sohag, Egypt
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Eric Chung
- Department of Urology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Parviz Kavoussi
- Department of Reproductive Urology, Austin Fertility & Reproductive Medicine/Westlake IVF, Austin, TX, USA
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Taymour Mostafa
- Department of Andrology, Sexology and STIs, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Rupin Shah
- Department of Urology, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre, Mumbai, India
- Well Women's Centre, Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai, India
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Global Andrology Forum, Moreland Hills, OH, USA
- Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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Kim HK, Kim TJ. Current Status and Future Prospects of Stem Cell Therapy for Infertile Patients with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency. Biomolecules 2024; 14:242. [PMID: 38397479 PMCID: PMC10887045 DOI: 10.3390/biom14020242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), also known as premature menopause or premature ovarian failure, signifies the partial or complete loss of ovarian endocrine function and fertility before 40 years of age. This condition affects approximately 1% of women of childbearing age. Although 5-10% of patients may conceive naturally, conventional infertility treatments, including assisted reproductive technology, often prove ineffective for the majority. For infertile patients with POI, oocyte donation or adoption exist, although a prevalent desire persists among them to have biological children. Stem cells, which are characterized by their undifferentiated nature, self-renewal capability, and potential to differentiate into various cell types, have emerged as promising avenues for treating POI. Stem cell therapy can potentially reverse the diminished ovarian endocrine function and restore fertility. Beyond direct POI therapy, stem cells show promise in supplementary applications such as ovarian tissue cryopreservation and tissue engineering. However, technological and ethical challenges hinder the widespread clinical application of stem cells. This review examines the current landscape of stem cell therapy for POI, underscoring the importance of comprehensive assessments that acknowledge the diversity of cell types and functions. Additionally, this review scrutinizes the limitations and prospects associated with the clinical implementation of stem cell treatments for POI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hye Kyeong Kim
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Infertility Center, CHA University Ilsan Medical Center, Goyang 10414, Republic of Korea;
| | - Tae Jin Kim
- Department of Urology, CHA University Ilsan Medical Center, CHA University School of Medicine, Goyang 10414, Republic of Korea
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Cucinella G, Gullo G, Catania E, Perino A, Billone V, Marinelli S, Napoletano G, Zaami S. Stem Cells and Infertility: A Review of Clinical Applications and Legal Frameworks. J Pers Med 2024; 14:135. [PMID: 38392569 PMCID: PMC10890184 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14020135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a condition defined by the failure to establish a clinical pregnancy after 12 months of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse or due to an impairment of a person's capacity to reproduce either as an individual or with their partner. The authors have set out to succinctly investigate, explore, and assess infertility treatments, harnessing the potential of stem cells to effectively and safely treat infertility; in addition, this paper will present the legal and regulatory complexities at the heart of stem cell research, with an overview of the legislative state of affairs in six major European countries. For couples who cannot benefit from assisted reproductive technologies (ART) to treat their infertility, stem-cells-based approaches have been shown to be a highly promising approach. Nonetheless, lingering ethical and immunological uncertainties require more conclusive findings and data before such treatment avenues can become mainstream and be applied on a large scale. The isolation of human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) is ethically controversial, since their collection involves the destruction of human embryonic tissue. Overall, stem cell research has resulted in important new breakthroughs in the treatment of infertility. The effort to untangle the complex web of ethical and legal issues associated with such therapeutic approaches will have to rely on evidence-based, broadly shared standards, guidelines, and best practices to make sure that the procreative rights of patients can be effectively reconciled with the core values at the heart of medical ethics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaspare Cucinella
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Villa Sofia Cervello Hospital, University of Palermo, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Gullo
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Villa Sofia Cervello Hospital, University of Palermo, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Erika Catania
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Villa Sofia Cervello Hospital, University of Palermo, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonio Perino
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Villa Sofia Cervello Hospital, University of Palermo, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Valentina Billone
- IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Villa Sofia Cervello Hospital, University of Palermo, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Gabriele Napoletano
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Zaami
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopedic Sciences, "Sapienza" University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
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Zhang G, Xie XX, Zhang SE, Zhang FL, Li CX, Qiao T, Dyce PW, Feng XL, Lin WB, Sun QC, Shen W, Cheng SF. Induced differentiation of primordial germ cell like cells from SOX9 + porcine skin derived stem cells. Theriogenology 2023; 212:129-139. [PMID: 37717516 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.08.027] [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: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the mechanisms behind porcine primordial germ cell like cells (pPGCLCs) development, differentiation, and gametogenesis is crucial in the treatment of infertility. In this study, SOX9+ skin derived stem cells (SOX9+ SDSCs) were isolated from fetal porcine skin and a high-purity SOX9+ SDSCs population was obtained. The SOX9+ SDSCs were induced to transdifferentiate into PGCLCs during 8 days of cultured. The results of RNA-seq, western blot and immunofluorescence staining verified SDSCs have the potential to transdifferentiate into PGCLCs from aspects of transcription factor activation, germ layer differentiation, energy metabolism, and epigenetic changes. Both adherent and suspended cells were collected. The adherent cells were found to be very similar to early porcine primordial germ cells (pPGCs). The suspended cells resembled late stage pPGCs and had a potential to enter meiotic process. This SDSCs culture-induced in vitro model is expected to provide suitable donor cells for stem cell transplantation in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geng Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Xin-Xiang Xie
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Shu-Er Zhang
- Animal Husbandry General Station of Shandong Province, Jinan, 250010, China
| | - Fa-Li Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, 271018, China
| | - Chun-Xiao Li
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Tian Qiao
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Paul W Dyce
- Department of Animal Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA
| | - Xin-Lei Feng
- Shandong Animal Products Quality and Safety Center, Jinan, 250010, China
| | - Wei-Bo Lin
- Animal Husbandry Development Center of Changyi City, Weifang, 261300, China
| | - Qi-Cheng Sun
- School of Finance, Southwestern University of Finance and Economics, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Wei Shen
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China.
| | - Shun-Feng Cheng
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China.
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Zhao ZL, Hu SH, Wan ZS, Bu WZ, Chen SQ, Han TH, Lu YQ. Effect of icariin on the transformation efficiency of induced pluripotent stem cells into sperm cells in vitro. Rev Int Androl 2023; 21:100373. [PMID: 37399730 DOI: 10.1016/j.androl.2023.100373] [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: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of icariin on the transformation efficiency of germ cell-like cells from mouse induced pluripotent stem cells into sperm cells in vitro. METHODS Firstly, mouse induced pluripotent stem cells were induced and cultured to transform into germ cell-like cells, and the primordial germ cell-like cells were identified by Western blot and RT-PCR. Then, different concentrations of icariin (0.1μg/mL, 1μg/mL, 10μg/mL and 100μg/mL) were added into the culture medium, and the obtained primitive germ cell-like cells were cultured, Western blot and RT-PCR were used to identify the obtained sperm cells, the transformation efficiency was compared. RESULTS The primordium germ cell-like cells obtained from mouse induced pluripotent stem cells in vitro specially expressed Oct-4 protein, C-kit protein, Mvh mRNA, Fragilis mRNA and Stella mRNA. The sperm cells were specially expressed VASA, SCP3 and γH2AX proteins. RT-PCR showed that the sperm cells were specially expressed Ddx4, Tp2 and Prm1 mRNA. Compared with the control group, the expression level of VASA protein (1.744±0.283, 2.882±0.373, 6.489±0.460), SCP3 protein (2.250±0.306, 7.058±0.521, 8.654±0.804), γH2AX protein (4.304±0.433, 5.713±0.339, 9.268±0.545), Ddx4 mRNA (1.374±0.145, 2.846±0.194, 4.021±0.154), Tp2 mRNA (1.358±0.130, 3.623±0.326, 5.811±0.390) and Prm1 mRNA (1.326±0.162, 3.487±0.237, 4.666±0.307) in 0.1μg/mL, 1μg/mL, 10μg/mL icariin experimental groups were all lower than that of VASA protein (10.560±0.413), SCP3 protein (13.804±0.642), γH2AX protein (11.874±0.464), Ddx4 mRNA (6.4005±0.361), Tp2 mRNA (7.314±0.256) and Prm1 mRNA (7.334±0.390) in 100μg/mL icariin experimental group. CONCLUSIONS Icariin can promote the transformation of mouse induced pluripotent stem cells into sperm cells in vitro, and it is concentration-dependent manner in a certain concentration range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen-Li Zhao
- Department of Urology, Hainan Women and Children's Medical Center, Haikou 570206, Hainan, China.
| | - Shao-Hua Hu
- Department of Urology, Hainan Women and Children's Medical Center, Haikou 570206, Hainan, China
| | - Zhi-Sheng Wan
- Department of Urology, Hainan Women and Children's Medical Center, Haikou 570206, Hainan, China
| | - Wei-Zhen Bu
- Department of Urology, Hainan Women and Children's Medical Center, Haikou 570206, Hainan, China
| | - Song-Qiang Chen
- Department of Urology, Hainan Women and Children's Medical Center, Haikou 570206, Hainan, China
| | - Tian-Hong Han
- Department of Endoscopy Center, Hainan Women and Children's Medical Center, Haikou 570206, Hainan, China
| | - Yi-Qun Lu
- Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 201102, China
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Adriansyah RF, Margiana R, Supardi S, Narulita P. Current Progress in Stem Cell Therapy for Male Infertility. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2023; 19:2073-2093. [PMID: 37440145 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-023-10577-3] [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] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Infertility has become one of the most common issues worldwide, which has negatively affected society and infertile couples. Meanwhile, male infertility is responsible for about 50% of infertility. Accordingly, a great number of researchers have focused on its treatment during the last few years; however, current therapies such as assisted reproductive technology (ART) are not effective enough in treating male infertility. Because of their self-renewal and differentiation capabilities and unlimited sources, stem cells have recently raised great hope in the treatment of reproductive system disorders. Stem cells are undifferentiated cells that can induce different numbers of specific cells, such as male and female gametes, demonstrating their potential application in the treatment of infertility. The present review aimed at identifying the causes and potential factors that influence male fertility. Besides, we highlighted the recent studies that investigated the efficiency of stem cells such as spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs), embryonic stem cells (ESCs), very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the treatment of various types of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ria Margiana
- Andrology Program, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia.
- Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia.
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.
- Master's Programme Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia.
- Indonesia General Academic Hospital, Depok, Indonesia.
- Ciptomangunkusumo General Academic Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia.
| | - Supardi Supardi
- Andrology Program, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
- Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Pety Narulita
- Andrology Program, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
- Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia
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Sharma P, Kaushal N, Saleth LR, Ghavami S, Dhingra S, Kaur P. Oxidative stress-induced apoptosis and autophagy: Balancing the contrary forces in spermatogenesis. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2023; 1869:166742. [PMID: 37146914 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a complex process in the testis and is a cornerstone of male infertility. The abundance of unsaturated fatty acid and high cell division rate make male germs cells prone to DNA deterioration. ROS-mediated oxidative stress triggers DNA damage, autophagy, and apoptosis in male germ cells, which are critical causative factors that lead to male infertility. The complex connection and molecular crosstalk between apoptosis and autophagy is seen at multifaceted levels that interconnect the signaling pathways of these two processes. Multilevel interaction between apoptosis and autophagy is a seamless state of survival and death in response to various stressors. Interaction between multiple genes and proteins such as the mTor signaling pathway, Atg12 proteins, and the death adapter proteins, such as Beclin 1, p53, and Bcl-2 family proteins, validates such a link between these two phenomena. Testicular cells being epigenetically different from somatic cells, undergo numerous significant epigenetic transitions, and ROS modulates the epigenetic framework of mature sperm. Epigenetic deregulation of apoptosis and autophagy under oxidative stress conditions can cause sperm cell damage. The current review recapitulates the current role of prevailing stressors that generate oxidative stress leading to the induction of apoptosis and autophagy in the male reproductive system. Considering the pathophysiological consequences of ROS-mediated apoptosis and autophagy, a combinatorial approach, including apoptosis inhibition and autophagy activation, a therapeutic strategy to treat male idiopathic infertility. Understanding the crosslink between apoptosis and autophagy under stress conditions in male germ cells may play an essential role in developing therapeutic strategies to treat infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parul Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, Thapar Institute of Engineering & Technology, Patiala, Punjab 147004, India
| | - Naveen Kaushal
- Department of Biophysics, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
| | - Leena Regi Saleth
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2H 2A6, Canada
| | - Saeid Ghavami
- Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; Research Institute of Hematology and Oncology, Cancer Care Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9, Canada; Faculty of Medicine in Zabrze, University of Technology in Katowice, Academia of Silesia, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Sanjiv Dhingra
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, Max Rady College of Medicine, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2H 2A6, Canada
| | - Parminder Kaur
- Department of Biotechnology, University Institute of Engineering & Technology, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160024, India.
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In vitro differentiation of primed human induced pluripotent stem cells into primordial germ cell-like cells. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:1971-1979. [PMID: 36534237 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-08012-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies have shown significant results in the differentiation of mouse-induced pluripotent stem cells (miPSCs) into primordial germ cell-like cells (PGCLCs) and that human iPSCs (hiPSCs) can also differentiate into PGCLCs; however, the efficiency of PGCLC induction from hiPSCs is < 5%. In this study, we examined a new protocol to differentiate hiPSCs into PGCLCs. METHODS AND RESULTS hiPSCs-derived embryoid bodies (EBs) were exposed to differentiate inducing factors, bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4), and retinoic acid (RA) for 6 days. Cell differentiation was assessed by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunofluorescence (IF) studies. Our results showed increased expression of the PRDM1 gene on the first day of differentiation. On other days, DAZL, VASA, and STRA8 genes increased, and the expression of PRDM1, NANOG, and OCT4 genes decreased. The expression of VASA, C-KIT, and STRA8 proteins was confirmed by IF. A flow cytometry analysis revealed that ~ 60% of differentiated cells were VASA- and STRA8-positive. CONCLUSION EB formation and constant exposure of EBs to BMP4 and RA lead to the differentiation of hiPSCs into PGCLCs.
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Wang X, Liu X, Qu M, Li H. Sertoli cell-only syndrome: advances, challenges, and perspectives in genetics and mechanisms. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:67. [PMID: 36814036 PMCID: PMC11072804 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-023-04723-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Male infertility can be caused by quantitative and/or qualitative abnormalities in spermatogenesis, which affects men's physical and mental health. Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS) is the most severe histological phenotype of male infertility characterized by the depletion of germ cells with only Sertoli cells remaining in the seminiferous tubules. Most SCOS cases cannot be explained by the already known genetic causes including karyotype abnormalities and microdeletions of the Y chromosome. With the development of sequencing technology, studies on screening new genetic causes for SCOS are growing in recent years. Directly sequencing of target genes in sporadic cases and whole-exome sequencing applied in familial cases have identified several genes associated with SCOS. Analyses of the testicular transcriptome, proteome, and epigenetics in SCOS patients provide explanations regarding the molecular mechanisms of SCOS. In this review, we discuss the possible relationship between defective germline development and SCOS based on mouse models with SCO phenotype. We also summarize the advances and challenges in the exploration of genetic causes and mechanisms of SCOS. Knowing the genetic factors of SCOS offers a better understanding of SCO and human spermatogenesis, and it also has practical significance for improving diagnosis, making appropriate medical decisions, and genetic counseling. For therapeutic implications, SCOS research, along with the achievements in stem cell technologies and gene therapy, build the foundation to develop novel therapies for SCOS patients to produce functional spermatozoa, giving them hope to father children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotong Wang
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430000, China
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Xinyu Liu
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430000, China
| | - Mengyuan Qu
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430000, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430000, China.
- Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, 430000, China.
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Bhat RA, Rafi H, Tardiolo G, Fazio F, Aragona F, Zumbo A, Coelho C, D'Alessandro E. The role of embryonic stem cells, transcription and growth factors in mammals: A review. Tissue Cell 2023; 80:102002. [PMID: 36549226 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2022.102002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Mammals represent a relevant species in worldwide cultures with significant commercial value. These animals are considered an attractive large animal model for biomedical and biotechnology research. The development of large animal experimental models may open alternative strategies for investigating stem cells (SCs) physiology and potential application in the veterinary field. The embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are known to possess natural pluripotency that confers the ability to differentiate into various tissues in vivo and in vitro. These notable characteristics can be useful for research and innovative applications, including biomedicine, agriculture and industry. Transcription factors play a crucial role in preserving stem cell self-renewal, whereas growth factors are involved in both growth and differentiation. However, to date, many questions concerning pluripotency, cellular differentiation regulator genes, and other molecules such as growth factors and their interactions in many mammalian species remain unresolved. The purpose of this review is to provide an overall review regarding the study of ESCs in mammals and briefly discuss the role of transcription and growth factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayees Ahmad Bhat
- Department of Zoology, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra 136119, India
| | - Humera Rafi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Gujrat, Pakistan
| | - Giuseppe Tardiolo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci snc, Messina 98168, Italy
| | - Francesco Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci snc, Messina 98168, Italy.
| | - Francesca Aragona
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci snc, Messina 98168, Italy
| | - Alessandro Zumbo
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci snc, Messina 98168, Italy
| | - Clarisse Coelho
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias (ULHT), Campo Grande 376, Lisboa 1749-024, Portugal
| | - Enrico D'Alessandro
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Via Palatucci snc, Messina 98168, Italy
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11
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Babaei K, Aziminezhad M, Norollahi SE, Vahidi S, Samadani AA. Cell therapy for the treatment of reproductive diseases and infertility: an overview from the mechanism to the clinic alongside diagnostic methods. Front Med 2022; 16:827-858. [PMID: 36562947 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-022-0948-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is experienced by 8%-12% of adults in their reproductive period globally and has become a prevalent concern. Besides routine therapeutic methods, stem cells are rapidly being examined as viable alternative therapies in regenerative medicine and translational investigation. Remarkable progress has been made in understanding the biology and purpose of stem cells. The affected pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are further studied for their possible use in reproductive medicine, particularly for infertility induced by premature ovarian insufficiency and azoospermia. Accordingly, this study discusses current developments in the use of some kinds of MSCs such as adipose-derived stem cells, bone marrow stromal cells, umbilical cord MSCs, and menstrual blood MSCs. These methods have been used to manage ovarian and uterine disorders, and each technique presents a novel method for the therapy of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosar Babaei
- Non-Communicable Disease Research Center, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
| | - Mohsen Aziminezhad
- Non-Communicable Disease Research Center, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran.,UMR INSERM U 1122, IGE-PCV, Interactions Gène-Environment En Physiopathologie Cardiovascular Université De Lorraine, Nancy, France
| | - Seyedeh Elham Norollahi
- Cancer Research Center and Department of Immunology, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Sogand Vahidi
- Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Ali Akbar Samadani
- Guilan Road Trauma Research Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
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Li Z, Fang F, Long Y, Zhao Q, Wang X, Ye Z, Meng T, Gu X, Xiang W, Xiong C, Li H. The balance between NANOG and SOX17 mediated by TET proteins regulates specification of human primordial germ cell fate. Cell Biosci 2022; 12:181. [PMID: 36333732 PMCID: PMC9636699 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-022-00917-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human primordial germ cells (hPGCs) initiate from the early post-implantation embryo at week 2–3 and undergo epigenetic reprogramming during development. However, the regulatory mechanism of DNA methylation during hPGC specification is still largely unknown due to the difficulties in analyzing early human embryos. Using an in vitro model of hPGC induction, we found a novel function of TET proteins and NANOG in the hPGC specification which was different from that discovered in mice. Methods Using the CRISPR–Cas9 system, we generated a set of TET1, TET2 and TET3 knockout H1 human embryonic stem cell (hESC) lines bearing a BLIMP1-2A-mKate2 reporter. We determined the global mRNA transcription and DNA methylation profiles of pluripotent cells and induced hPGC-like cells (hPGCLCs) by RNA-seq and whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) to reveal the involved signaling pathways after TET proteins knockout. ChIP-qPCR was performed to verify the binding of TET and NANOG proteins in the SOX17 promoter. Real-time quantitative PCR, western blot and immunofluorescence were performed to measure gene expression at mRNA and protein levels. The efficiency of hPGC induction was evaluated by FACS. Results In humans, TET1, TET2 and TET3 triple-knockout (TKO) human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) impaired the NODAL signaling pathway and impeded hPGC specification in vitro, while the hyperactivated NODAL signaling pathway led to gastrulation failure when Tet proteins were inactivated in mouse. Specifically, TET proteins stimulated SOX17 through the NODAL signaling pathway and directly regulates NANOG expression at the onset of hPGCLCs induction. Notably, NANOG could bind to SOX17 promoter to regulate its expression in hPGCLCs specification. Furthermore, in TKO hESCs, DNMT3B-mediated hypermethylation of the NODAL signaling-related genes and NANOG/SOX17 promoters repressed their activation and inhibited hPGCLC induction. Knockout of DNMT3B in TKO hESCs partially restored NODAL signaling and NANOG/SOX17 expression, and rescued hPGCLC induction. Conclusion Our results show that TETs-mediated oxidation of 5-methylcytosine modulates the NODAL signaling pathway and its downstream genes, NANOG and SOX17, by promoting demethylation in opposition to DNMT3B-mediated methylation, suggesting that the epigenetic balance of DNA methylation and demethylation in key genes plays a fundamental role in early hPGC specification. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13578-022-00917-0.
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Simultaneous determination of multiple constituents of Qi-Lin pill by UPLC-MS/MS: Applications to pharmacokinetics and testicular tissue distribution in rats. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2022; 223:115157. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2022.115157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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14
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Wang X, Li Z, Qu M, Xiong C, Li H. A homozygous PIWIL2 frameshift variant affects the formation and maintenance of human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived spermatogonial stem cells and causes Sertoli cell-only syndrome. STEM CELL RESEARCH & THERAPY 2022; 13:480. [PMID: 36153567 PMCID: PMC9509617 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-022-03175-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background The most serious condition of male infertility is complete Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS), which refers to the lack of all spermatogenic cells in the testes. The genetic cause of SCOS remains to be explored. We aimed to investigate the genetic cause of SCOS and assess the effects of the identified causative variant on human male germ cells. Methods Whole-exome sequencing was performed to identify potentially pathogenic variants in a man with complete SCOS, and Sanger sequencing was performed to verify the causative variant in this man and his father and brother. The pathogenic mechanisms of the causative variant were investigated by in vitro differentiation of human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) into germ cell-like cells. Results The homozygous loss-of-function (LoF) variant p.His244ArgfsTer31 (c.731_732delAT) in PIWIL2 was identified as the causative variant in the man with complete SCOS, and the same variant in heterozygosis was confirmed in his father and brother. This variant resulted in a truncated PIWIL2 protein lacking all functional domains, and no PIWIL2 expression was detected in the patient’s testes. The patient and PIWIL2−/− hiPSCs could be differentiated into primordial germ cell-like cells and spermatogonial stem cell-like cells (SSCLCs) in vitro, but the formation and maintenance of SSCLCs were severely impaired. RNA-seq analyses suggested the inactivation of the Wnt signaling pathway in the process of SSCLC induction in the PIWIL2−/− group, which was validated in the patient group by RT-qPCR. The Wnt signaling pathway inhibitor hindered the formation and maintenance of SSCLCs during the differentiation of normal hiPSCs. Conclusions Our study revealed the pivotal role of PIWIL2 in the formation and maintenance of human spermatogonial stem cells. We provided clinical and functional evidence that the LoF variant in PIWIL2 is a genetic cause of SCOS, which supported the potential role of PIWIL2 in genetic diagnosis. Furthermore, our results highlighted the applicability of in vitro differentiation models to function validation experiments. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13287-022-03175-6.
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15
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Can nanomaterials support the diagnosis and treatment of human infertility? A preliminary review. Life Sci 2022; 299:120539. [PMID: 35390438 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Human infertilities are disorders that afflict many people all over the world. Both male and female reproductive systems must work together in a precise and coordinated manner and infertility has a wide range of problems for this system. Recent advances in nanomedicine immensely helped design the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to alleviate human infertility in both sexes. Nanoscience has recently been used by researchers to increase the detection limit of infertility-related biomarkers via fabricating sensitive nanobiosensors for detecting follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), anti-müllerian hormone (AMH), pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), progesterone, and testosterone. At the same time, a variety of nanostructures, including magnetic nanoparticles (i.e., zinc nanoparticles, cerium nanoparticles, gold nanoparticles, silver nanoparticles), nano-vitamins, extracellular vesicles, and spermbots, have shown promising outcomes in the treatment of human infertilities. Despite recent advancements, some nanostructures might have toxic effects on cells, especially germ cells, and must be optimized with the right ingredients, such as antioxidants, nutrients, and vitamins, to obtain the right strategy to treat and detect human infertilities. This review presents recent developments in nanotechnology regarding impairments still faced by human infertility. New perspectives for further use of nanotechnology in reproductive medicine studies are also discussed. In conclusion, nanotechnology, as a tool for reproductive medicine, has been considered to help overcome current impairments.
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Sengupta P, Roychoudhury S, Nath M, Dutta S. Oxidative Stress and Idiopathic Male Infertility. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1358:181-204. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-89340-8_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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17
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Ganjibakhsh M, Mehraein F, Koruji M, Bashiri Z. The therapeutic potential of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stromal cells in the treatment of busulfan-induced azoospermic mice. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:153-163. [PMID: 34519944 PMCID: PMC8866597 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02309-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The generation of germ cells from mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) provides a valuable in vitro platform for infertility modeling. The establishment of these cells is a new approach for assisted reproductive technology (ART) to help infertile patients who lack functional gametes. METHODS Human adipose-derived MSCs were isolated and then characterized for multipotency by flow cytometry, differentiation capacity, and cytogenetic assays. These cells were used in a male germ cell differentiation study. The expression of male germ cell markers was evaluated at day 21 of differentiation using an immunofluorescence assay, flow cytometry, and RT-qPCR. Undifferentiated MSCs were used for transplantation in busulfan-induced azoospermic mice. RESULTS In this study, MSCs were successfully isolated from human adipose tissues which were positive for cell markers such as CD90, CD105, CD73, and CD29 but negative for CD34 and CD45. The results of flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry, and RT-qPCR analysis at day 21 of differentiation showed that the undifferentiated adipose-derived MSCs are able to differentiate into male germ cells. Additionally, transplantation of undifferentiated MSCs in busulfan-induced azoospermic mice caused spermatogenesis recovery in the majority of seminiferous tubules. CONCLUSION In this study, we showed that differentiation of human adipose-derived MSCs into male germ cells is a useful tool for in vitro study of human germ cell development. Our results demonstrated that cell therapy with adipose-derived MSCs could help the repair of pathological changes in testicular seminiferous tubules. Therefore, it may have a clinical application for the treatment of azoospermia in infertile patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meysam Ganjibakhsh
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Mehraein
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Koruji
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran ,Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Bashiri
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran ,Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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18
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Hayaei Tehrani RS, Hajari MA, Ghorbaninejad Z, Esfandiari F. Droplet microfluidic devices for organized stem cell differentiation into germ cells: capabilities and challenges. Biophys Rev 2021; 13:1245-1271. [PMID: 35059040 PMCID: PMC8724463 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-021-00907-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Demystifying the mechanisms that underlie germline development and gamete production is critical for expanding advanced therapies for infertile couples who cannot benefit from current infertility treatments. However, the low number of germ cells, particularly in the early stages of development, represents a serious challenge in obtaining sufficient materials required for research purposes. In this regard, pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) have provided an opportunity for producing an unlimited source of germ cells in vitro. Achieving this ambition is highly dependent on accurate stem cell niche reconstitution which is achievable through applying advanced cell engineering approaches. Recently, hydrogel microparticles (HMPs), as either microcarriers or microcapsules, have shown promising potential in providing an excellent 3-dimensional (3D) biomimetic microenvironment alongside the systematic bioactive agent delivery. In this review, recent studies of utilizing various HMP-based cell engineering strategies for appropriate niche reconstitution and efficient in vitro differentiation are highlighted with a special focus on the capabilities of droplet-based microfluidic (DBM) technology. We believe that a deep understanding of the current limitations and potentials of the DBM systems in integration with stem cell biology provides a bright future for germ cell research. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12551-021-00907-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reyhaneh Sadat Hayaei Tehrani
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, 16635-148, 1665659911 Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Hajari
- Department of Cell Engineering, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zeynab Ghorbaninejad
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, 16635-148, 1665659911 Tehran, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Esfandiari
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, 16635-148, 1665659911 Tehran, Iran
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Qamar AY, Hussain T, Rafique MK, Bang S, Tanga BM, Seong G, Fang X, Saadeldin IM, Cho J. The Role of Stem Cells and Their Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Restoring Female and Male Fertility. Cells 2021; 10:cells10092460. [PMID: 34572109 PMCID: PMC8468931 DOI: 10.3390/cells10092460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a globally recognized issue caused by different reproductive disorders. To date, various therapeutic approaches to restore fertility have been attempted including etiology-specific medication, hormonal therapies, surgical excisions, and assisted reproductive technologies. Although these approaches produce results, however, fertility restoration is not achieved in all cases. Advances in using stem cell (SC) therapy hold a great promise for treating infertile patients due to their abilities to self-renew, differentiate, and produce different paracrine factors to regenerate the damaged or injured cells and replenish the affected germ cells. Furthermore, SCs secrete extracellular vesicles (EVs) containing biologically active molecules including nucleic acids, lipids, and proteins. EVs are involved in various physiological and pathological processes and show promising non-cellular therapeutic uses to combat infertility. Several studies have indicated that SCs and/or their derived EVs transplantation plays a crucial role in the regeneration of different segments of the reproductive system, oocyte production, and initiation of sperm production. However, available evidence triggers the need to testify the efficacy of SC transplantation or EVs injection in resolving the infertility issues of the human population. In this review, we highlight the recent literature covering the issues of infertility in females and males, with a special focus on the possible treatments by stem cells or their derived EVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Yar Qamar
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (A.Y.Q.); (S.B.); (B.M.T.); (G.S.); (X.F.); (I.M.S.)
- College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Jhang, Sub-Campus of University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan; (T.H.); (M.K.R.)
| | - Tariq Hussain
- College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Jhang, Sub-Campus of University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan; (T.H.); (M.K.R.)
| | - Muhammad Kamran Rafique
- College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Jhang, Sub-Campus of University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan; (T.H.); (M.K.R.)
| | - Seonggyu Bang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (A.Y.Q.); (S.B.); (B.M.T.); (G.S.); (X.F.); (I.M.S.)
| | - Bereket Molla Tanga
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (A.Y.Q.); (S.B.); (B.M.T.); (G.S.); (X.F.); (I.M.S.)
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hawassa University, Hawassa 05, Ethiopia
| | - Gyeonghwan Seong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (A.Y.Q.); (S.B.); (B.M.T.); (G.S.); (X.F.); (I.M.S.)
| | - Xun Fang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (A.Y.Q.); (S.B.); (B.M.T.); (G.S.); (X.F.); (I.M.S.)
| | - Islam M. Saadeldin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (A.Y.Q.); (S.B.); (B.M.T.); (G.S.); (X.F.); (I.M.S.)
| | - Jongki Cho
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134, Korea; (A.Y.Q.); (S.B.); (B.M.T.); (G.S.); (X.F.); (I.M.S.)
- Correspondence:
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Eshghifar N, Dehghan BK, Do AA, Koukhaloo SZ, Habibi M, Pouresmaeili F. Infertility cell therapy and epigenetic insights. Hum Antibodies 2021; 29:17-26. [PMID: 33554898 DOI: 10.3233/hab-200438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in assisted reproductive technology (ART) have allowed couples with severe infertility to conceive, but the methods are not effective for all cases. Stem cells as undifferentiated cells which are found in different stages of embryonic, fetal and adult life are known to be capable of forming different cell types, tissues, and organs. Due to their unlimited resources and the incredible power of differentiation are considered as potential new therapeutic biological tools for treatment of infertility. For reproductive medicine, stem cells are stimulated in vitro to develop various specialized functional cells including male and female gametes. The epigenetic patterns can be modified in the genome under certain drugs exposure or lifestyle alterations. Therefore, epigenetics-related disorders may be treated if the nature of the modifications is completely admissible. It is proved that our understanding of epigenetic processes and its association with infertility would help us not only to understand the etiological factors but also to treat some type of male infertilities. Exploration of both genetic and epigenetic variations in the disease development could help in the identification of the interaction patterns between these two phenomena and possible improvement of therapeutic methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahal Eshghifar
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnam Kamali Dehghan
- Department of Medical Genetics, National Institute of Medical Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, Iran.,Medical Genetics, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Jiroft, Kerman, Iran.,Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Advanced Science and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atieh Abedin Do
- Groupe de Recherche en Écologie Buccale, Faculté de Médecine Dentaire, Université Laval, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Mohsen Habibi
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farkhondeh Pouresmaeili
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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21
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Hajiesmailpoor A, Emami P, Kondori BJ, Ghorbani M. Stem cell therapy as a recent advanced approach in male infertility. Tissue Cell 2021; 73:101634. [PMID: 34481231 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Infertility is one of the most common problems in the world that has negative effects on society and infertile people. Among the various causes of infertility, male infertility accounts for almost half of all infertility cases. Despite advances in medicine, current male infertility treatments such as assisted reproductive technology (ART) have not been successful in treating all types of male infertility. Recently, stem cells have been considered as therapeutic targets for many diseases, including infertility, due to their self-renewing and high differentiation. The purpose of this review is to discuss different types of male infertility and the effect of various stem cells against the treatment of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayshe Hajiesmailpoor
- Department of Emergency Medical Sciences, Faculty of Paramedical, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
| | - Payam Emami
- Department of Emergency Medical Sciences, Faculty of Paramedical, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran.
| | - Bahman Jalali Kondori
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Masoud Ghorbani
- Applied Biotechnology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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22
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Saha S, Roy P, Corbitt C, Kakar SS. Application of Stem Cell Therapy for Infertility. Cells 2021; 10:1613. [PMID: 34203240 PMCID: PMC8303590 DOI: 10.3390/cells10071613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Infertility creates an immense impact on the psychosocial wellbeing of affected couples, leading to poor quality of life. Infertility is now considered to be a global health issue affecting approximately 15% of couples worldwide. It may arise from factors related to the male (30%), including varicocele, undescended testes, testicular cancer, and azoospermia; the female (30%), including premature ovarian failure and uterine disorders; or both partners (30%). With the recent advancement in assisted reproduction technology (ART), many affected couples (80%) could find a solution. However, a substantial number of couples cannot conceive even after ART. Stem cells are now increasingly being investigated as promising alternative therapeutics in translational research of regenerative medicine. Tremendous headway has been made to understand the biology and function of stem cells. Considering the minimum ethical concern and easily available abundant resources, extensive research is being conducted on induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) for their potential application in reproductive medicine, especially in cases of infertility resulting from azoospermia and premature ovarian insufficiency. However, most of these investigations have been carried out in animal models. Evolutionary divergence observed in pluripotency among animals and humans requires caution when extrapolating the data obtained from murine models to safely apply them to clinical applications in humans. Hence, more clinical trials based on larger populations need to be carried out to investigate the relevance of stem cell therapy, including its safety and efficacy, in translational infertility medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarama Saha
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh 249203, India;
| | - Partha Roy
- Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee 247667, India;
| | - Cynthia Corbitt
- Department of Biology, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA;
| | - Sham S. Kakar
- Department of Physiology and James Graham Brown Cancer Center, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40292, USA
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Pieri NCG, de Souza AF, Botigelli RC, Pessôa LVDF, Recchia K, Machado LS, Glória MH, de Castro RVG, Leal DF, Fantinato Neto P, Martins SMMK, Dos Santos Martins D, Bressan FF, de Andrade AFC. Porcine Primordial Germ Cell-Like Cells Generated from Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Under Different Culture Conditions. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2021; 18:1639-1656. [PMID: 34115317 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-021-10198-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Culture conditions regulate the process of pluripotency acquisition and self-renewal. This study aimed to analyse the influence of the in vitro environment on the induction of porcine induced pluripotent stem cell (piPSCs) differentiation into primordial germ cell-like cells (pPGCLCs). piPSC culture with different supplementation strategies (LIF, bFGF, or LIF plus bFGF) promoted heterogeneous phenotypic profiles. Continuous bFGF supplementation during piPSCs culture was beneficial to support a pluripotent state and the differentiation of piPSCs into pPGCLCs. The pPGCLCs were positive for the gene and protein expression of pluripotent and germinative markers. This study can provide a suitable in vitro model for use in translational studies and to help answer numerous remaining questions about germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naira Caroline Godoy Pieri
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil.
| | - Aline Fernanda de Souza
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, SP, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Ramon Cesar Botigelli
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Kaiana Recchia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucas Simões Machado
- Department of Biochemistry, Paulista School of Medicine, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo/SP, Brazil
| | - Mayra Hirakawa Glória
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, SP, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Raquel Vasconcelos Guimarães de Castro
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Diego Feitosa Leal
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
| | - Paulo Fantinato Neto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, SP, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | | | - Daniele Dos Santos Martins
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - Fabiana Fernandes Bressan
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, SP, Pirassununga, Brazil
| | - André Furugen Cesar de Andrade
- Department of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, SP, Brazil
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Induced Tissue-Specific Stem Cells (iTSCs): Their Generation and Possible Use in Regenerative Medicine. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13060780. [PMID: 34071015 PMCID: PMC8224740 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13060780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Induced tissue-specific stem cells (iTSCs) are partially reprogrammed cells which have an intermediate state, such as progenitors or stem cells. They originate from the de-differentiation of differentiated somatic cells into pluripotent stem cells, such as induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and embryonic stem cells (ESCs), or from the differentiation of undifferentiated cells. They show a limited capacity to differentiate and a morphology similar to that of somatic cell stem cells present in tissues, but distinct from that of iPSCs and ESCs. iTSCs can be generally obtained 7 to 10 days after reprogramming of somatic cells with Yamanaka’s factors, and their fibroblast-like morphology remains unaltered. iTSCs can also be obtained directly from iPSCs cultured under conditions allowing cellular differentiation. In this case, to effectively induce iTSCs, additional treatment is required, as exemplified by the conversion of iPSCs into naïve iPSCs. iTSCs can proliferate continuously in vitro, but when transplanted into immunocompromised mice, they fail to generate solid tumors (teratomas), implying loss of tumorigenic potential. The low tendency of iTSCs to elicit tumors is beneficial, especially considering applications for regenerative medicine in humans. Several iTSC types have been identified, including iTS-L, iTS-P, and iTS-D, obtained by reprogramming hepatocytes, pancreatic cells, and deciduous tooth-derived dental pulp cells, respectively. This review provides a brief overview of iPSCs and discusses recent advances in the establishment of iTSCs and their possible applications in regenerative medicine.
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Agarwal A, Baskaran S, Parekh N, Cho CL, Henkel R, Vij S, Arafa M, Panner Selvam MK, Shah R. Male infertility. Lancet 2021; 397:319-333. [PMID: 33308486 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(20)32667-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 430] [Impact Index Per Article: 143.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
It is estimated that infertility affects 8-12% of couples globally, with a male factor being a primary or contributing cause in approximately 50% of couples. Causes of male subfertility vary highly, but can be related to congenital, acquired, or idiopathic factors that impair spermatogenesis. Many health conditions can affect male fertility, which underscores the need for a thorough evaluation of patients to identify treatable or reversible lifestyle factors or medical conditions. Although semen analysis remains the cornerstone for evaluating male infertility, advanced diagnostic tests to investigate sperm quality and function have been developed to improve diagnosis and management. The use of assisted reproductive techniques has also substantially improved the ability of couples with infertility to have biological children. This Seminar aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the assessment and management of men with infertility, along with current controversies and future endeavours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | - Saradha Baskaran
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Neel Parekh
- Department of Urology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Chak-Lam Cho
- SH Ho Urology Center, Department of Surgery, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Ralf Henkel
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA; Department of Medical Bioscience, University of Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa; Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah Vij
- Department of Urology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Mohamed Arafa
- Male Infertility Unit, Urology Department, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Andrology Department, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Rupin Shah
- Department of Urology, Lilavati Hospital and Research Center, Mumbai, India
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26
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de Araujo M. Human Rights and Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): A Contractarian Approach. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS 2020. [DOI: 10.7202/1073798ar] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
What are human rights? Do they exist? I propose to answer these questions by advancing a contractarian account of human rights. I focus on the human right to found a family and have children. I also show how the contractarian approach to human rights can explain the current relevance of reproductive rights in the human rights discourse, and how the emergence of ART (Assisted Reproductive Technologies) has contributed to this shift. The contractarian account of human rights asks, firstly, the following question: which basic needs and desires can be ascribed to any human being regardless of gender, nationality, sexual orientation, age, ethnicity etc.? Having an interest, for instance, in preserving one’s own bodily integrity, freedom, and private property qualifies as a basic human need or basic desire. But a basic human need or desire does not constitute in itself a human right. Secondly, the contractarian account of human rights asks, then, which basic human needs or basic desires individuals and states representatives would consider so important that they would agree to create institutional frameworks, both at the domestic and international level, in such a way as to enable individuals to pursue the fulfilment of their basic needs or desires without state interference. Human rights exist and can only be claimed in the context of these normative frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo de Araujo
- Faculty of Law, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Department of Philosophy, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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27
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Rafaqat W, Kayani MR, Fatima T, Shaharyar S, Khan S, Ashraf M, Afzal U, Rehman R. Association of polymorphism c.-124G>A and c.-16 C>T in the promoter region of human INHA gene with altered sperm parameters; A pilot study. Int J Clin Pract 2020; 74:e13595. [PMID: 32593229 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.13595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this was to demonstrate the association of Inhibin α (INHα) c.-124G>A and INHα-c.-16 C>T polymorphisms with altered sperm parameters in a selected male population of Karachi, Pakistan. STUDY DESIGN & SETTINGS In this pilot study, male subjects were stratified on the basis of the WHO criteria for altered sperm parameters; 83 (cases-altered sperm parameters) and 30 (controls-normal sperm parameters) subjects were included for analysis of INHα-c.124G>A polymorphism and 88 (cases) and 38 (controls) were analysed for INHα -c-16 C>T polymorphism. Genotyping of INHα-c.-124G>A and INHα-c.-16 C>T was performed by PCR-RFLP, genotype distribution in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was evaluated by binary logistic regression model. RESULTS For the c.-124G>A polymorphism in INHα gene, frequency of the three major genotypes in controls was: GG: 80.0%, GA: 20.0% and AA: 0% and in cases was: GG: 59.0%, GA: 30.2% and AA: 10.8%. The GG genotype was significantly associated with male infertility (P < .045, OR = 2.776, 95% CI = 1.025-7.513) while the GA genotype was not significantly associated with infertility (P < .290 OR = 0.580, 95% CI = 0.211-1.593). Frequency of mutant AA genotype was 10.8% in cases (altered sperm parameters) and absent (0%) in normal sperm parameter (controls). The frequencies of three major genotypes CC, CT and TT did not show any significant difference between cases and controls (P > .05). CONCLUSION The results from our study exhibited a significant association of c.-124G>A polymorphism in the INHα gene promoter region with male infertility in the Pakistani population. A significant association of c.-16 C>T polymorphism with male infertility, however, was not observed. Further large-scale studies should be conducted to confirm this association.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Tasneem Fatima
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Saeeda Shaharyar
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Shagufta Khan
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Mussarat Ashraf
- Department of Biological & Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Usman Afzal
- Medical College, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Rehana Rehman
- Medical College, Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
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28
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Pourakbari R, Ahmadi H, Yousefi M, Aghebati-Maleki L. Cell therapy in female infertility-related diseases: Emphasis on recurrent miscarriage and repeated implantation failure. Life Sci 2020; 258:118181. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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29
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Abstract
Recent research with human embryos, in different parts of the world, has sparked a new debate on the ethics of genetic human enhancement. This debate, however, has mainly focused on gene-editing technologies, especially CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats). Less attention has been given to the prospect of pursuing genetic human enhancement by means of IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) in conjunction with in vitro gametogenesis, genome-wide association studies, and embryo selection. This article examines the different ethical implications of the quest for cognitive enhancement by means of gene-editing on the one hand, and embryo selection on the other. The article focuses on the ethics of cognitive enhancement by means of embryo selection, as this technology is more likely to become commercially available before cognitive enhancement by means of gene-editing. This article argues that the philosophical debate on the ethics of enhancement should take into consideration public attitudes to research on human genomics and human enhancement technologies. The article discusses, then, some of the recent findings of the SIENNA Project, which in 2019 conducted a survey on public attitudes to human genomics and human enhancement technologies in 11 countries (France, Germany, Greece, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Brazil, South Africa, South Korea, and United States).
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30
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Can mesenchymal stem cells ameliorate testicular damage? Current researches. JOURNAL OF SURGERY AND MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.28982/josam.770063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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31
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Fang F, Li Z, Zhao Q, Ye Z, Gu X, Pan F, Li H, Xiang W, Xiong C. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Derived From Two Idiopathic Azoospermia Patients Display Compromised Differentiation Potential for Primordial Germ Cell Fate. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:432. [PMID: 32671061 PMCID: PMC7331483 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.00432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
At present, the etiology of most non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) remains unclear. In vitro generation of patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) is an effective approach for exploring the mechanisms of human disease. Here, we established iPSCs from two patients with idiopathic NOA and differentiated them into primordial germ cell-like cells (PGCLCs) in vitro. Compared with iPSCs derived from normal fertile men, the NOA patient-specific iPSCs show decreased efficiency of PGCLC formation in vitro. Particularly, the embryoids derived from NOA patient-specific iPSCs show defects in the expression of early primordial germ cell (PGC) genes. The transcriptome analysis reveals the expression patterns of key human PGC genes are generally similar in PGCLCs differentiated from all iPSC lines, and the differentially expressed genes were enriched with gene ontology (GO) of cell cycle and apoptosis regulation. Moreover, the PGCLCs derived from NOA patient-specific iPSCs might have initiated epigenetic reprogramming at a very early stage. Thus, the NOA patient-specific iPSCs exhibit poor response to germ cell induction in vitro, which may be related to the regulation of apoptotic process. These findings provide a foundation for future research on mechanism of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zili Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhen Ye
- Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiuli Gu
- Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Pan
- Department of Urology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Wenpei Xiang
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Chengliang Xiong
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
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32
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Adaptation of Human Testicular Niche Cells for Pluripotent Stem Cell and Testis Development Research. Tissue Eng Regen Med 2020; 17:223-235. [PMID: 32114677 DOI: 10.1007/s13770-020-00240-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human testicular cells are greatly valuable to the research community as tools for studying testicular physiology and the effects of environmental pollutants. Because adult testicular cells have a limited self-organization capacity and life span, we investigated whether human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) can be used together with testicular cells to move a step closer toward making an optimal model of the human testis. METHODS We used in vitro culture of donor testicular cells under serum-containing and chemically defined conditions. CRISPR-Cas9 technology was applied to introduce fluorescent transgenes (mCherry2 and EGFP) into hPSCs and testicular cells. hPSC-derived spheroids were co-cultured with human testicular cells in mini-spin bioreactors. RESULTS Traditional cell culture conditions used for maintenance of testicular somatic cells generally contain serum and pose limitations on evaluating the role of active molecules on cell functions. We established that chemically defined culture conditions can be used to maintain testicular cells without the loss of proliferative activity. These cultures demonstrate marker expression which is characteristic of common testicular cell types: Sertoli, Leydig, endothelial, myoid cells, and macrophages. In order to model testicular physiology, it is important to be able to perform live cell microscopy. Thus, we generated fluorescent protein-expressing human testicular cells and hPSCs and demonstrated that these cell types can be successfully co-cultured for prolonged periods of time in a three-dimensional microenvironment. CONCLUSION Our research extends the possible applications of human testis-derived somatic cells and shows that they can be used together with hPSCs for further studies of human male reproductive biology.
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33
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Ghanbari E, Khazaei M, Ghahremani-Nasab M, Mehdizadeh A, Yousefi M. Novel therapeutic approaches of tissue engineering in male infertility. Cell Tissue Res 2020; 380:31-42. [PMID: 32043209 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-020-03178-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Male reproductive organ plays an important role in sperm production, maintenance and entry to the female reproductive tract, as well as generation and secretion of male sex hormones responsible for the health of male reproductive system. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the experimental and clinical evidence on the utilization of tissue engineering techniques in treating male infertility. Tissue engineering (TE) and regenerative medicine have developed new approaches to treat patients with reproductive disorders such as iatrogenic injuries, congenital abnormalities, and trauma. In some cases, including congenital defects and undescended testis or hypogonadism, the sperm samples are not retrieved. This makes TE a possible future strategy for restoration of male fertility. Here, we have summarized the recent advances in experimental and clinical application of cell-, tissue-, and organ-based regenerative medicine in male reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Ghanbari
- Fertility and Infertility Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mozafar Khazaei
- Fertility and Infertility Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | | | - Amir Mehdizadeh
- Endocrine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Comprehensive Health Laboratory, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. .,Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. .,Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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34
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Majidi F, Bamehr H, Shalchian Z, Kouchakian MR, Mohammadzadeh N, Khalili A. Differentiation of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell into germ-like cell under effect of co-culture with testicular cell tissue. Anat Histol Embryol 2020; 49:359-364. [PMID: 32034794 DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Supplements produced by mouse testicular cells (mTCs) and the interaction between cells can increase the differentiation rate of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) into the germ-like cells. We studied the differentiation rate of hUCMSCs into the germ-like cells under effect of mTCs co-culturing. Isolated hUCMSCs from postpartum human umbilical cords were cultured. Then, the expression of mesenchymal (CD73, CD90 and CD105) and haematopoietic (CD34 and CD45) markers of hUCMSCs were confirmed by flow cytometry. Then, the hUCMSCs were cultured in four distinct groups: (a) control, (b) co-culture until D0, (c) co-culture until D5 and (d) co-culture until D10, in order to differentiate into the germ-like cells. After 10 days, the expression of OCT4, VASA, Fragilis and SYCP3 genes were examined by Real-Time qPCR. The flow cytometry indicated a high expression of mesenchymal markers and a low expression of haematopoietic markers (CD73:98.6%, CD90: 99.1%, CD105: 99.5%, CD34: 4.22% and CD45: 2.54%). The expression of OCT4 decreased during the time while the expression of VASA, Fragilis and SYCP3 markers increased in the co-culture with testicular cells (p value <.05). Co-culture with mTCs may be used as an effective method to differentiate hUCMSCs into germ-like cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Majidi
- Department of Animal Physiology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hadi Bamehr
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Zohreh Shalchian
- Department of Food Chemistry, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Reza Kouchakian
- Department of Anatomical Science, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nima Mohammadzadeh
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cancer Biomedical Center, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Khalili
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Cancer Biomedical Center, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Immunology, School of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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35
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Kurek M, Albalushi H, Hovatta O, Stukenborg JB. Human Pluripotent Stem Cells in Reproductive Science-a Comparison of Protocols Used to Generate and Define Male Germ Cells from Pluripotent Stem Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21031028. [PMID: 32033159 PMCID: PMC7038013 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21031028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2019] [Revised: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, fertility-related issues affect around 15% of couples. In 20%–30% of cases men are solely responsible, and they contribute in around 50% of all cases. Hence, understanding of in vivo germ-cell specification and exploring different angles of fertility preservation and infertility intervention are considered hot topics nowadays, with special focus on the use of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) as a source of in vitro germ-cell generation. However, the generation of male germ cells from hPSCs can currently be considered challenging, making a judgment on the real perspective of these innovative approaches difficult. Ever since the first spontaneous germ-cell differentiation studies, using human embryonic stem cells, various strategies, including specific co-cultures, gene over-expression, and addition of growth factors, have been applied for human germ-cell derivation. In line with the variety of differentiation methods, the outcomes have ranged from early and migratory primordial germ cells up to post-meiotic spermatids. This variety of culture approaches and cell lines makes comparisons between protocols difficult. Considering the diverse strategies and outcomes, we aim in this mini-review to summarize the literature regarding in vitro derivation of human male germ cells from hPSCs, while keeping a particular focus on the culture methods, growth factors, and cell lines used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Kurek
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, 17164 Solna, Sweden; (M.K.); (H.A.)
| | - Halima Albalushi
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, 17164 Solna, Sweden; (M.K.); (H.A.)
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, 123 Muscat, Oman
| | - Outi Hovatta
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet and University Hospital Karolinska Institutet, 141 52 Huddinge, Sweden;
| | - Jan-Bernd Stukenborg
- NORDFERTIL Research Lab Stockholm, Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Karolinska Institutet, and Karolinska University Hospital, 17164 Solna, Sweden; (M.K.); (H.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +46-8524-82788
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36
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Amini Mahabadi J, Karimian M, Aghighi F, Enderami SE, Seyyed Hosseini E, Talaei SA, Gheibi Hayat SM, Nikzad H. Retinoic acid and 17β-estradiol improve male germ cell differentiation from mouse-induced pluripotent stem cells. Andrologia 2019; 52:e13466. [PMID: 31736115 DOI: 10.1111/and.13466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Revised: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This research aimed to explore the impacts of retinoic acid (RA)/17β-estradiol (E) induction and embryoid body formation to enhance differentiation of mouse-induced pluripotent stem cells (miPSCs) into male germ cells in vitro. Flow cytometry and qPCR were conducted to describe miPSCs differentiation process. Various temporal expression profiles of germ cell-related genes were traced. Stra8 gene expression increased in the RA group on the 4th day compared to other groups. The RA group experienced a more significant increase than E group. The expression of Sycp3 increased in RA + E group on 4th day compared with other groups. Expression of AKAP3 enhanced in the RA + E group than other groups on day 4. Moreover, miPSCs showed that this gene expression in the RA + E group was increased in comparison to RA and E groups on day 7. AKAP3 gene expression on day 7 of miPSCs decreased in RA and E groups. Flow cytometry data indicated that 3%-8% of the cells in sub-G1 stage were haploid after RA and E induction compared to other groups on day 4. This study showed that miPSCs possess the power for differentiating into male germ cells in vitro via formation of embryoid body by RA with/or E induction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javad Amini Mahabadi
- Gametogenesis Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karimian
- Anatomical Sciences Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.,Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Aghighi
- Physiology Research Center, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Seyed Ehsan Enderami
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Immunogenetics Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | | | - Sayyed Alireza Talaei
- Physiology Research Center, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Gheibi Hayat
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Hossein Nikzad
- Gametogenesis Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
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37
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Three-dimensional decellularized amnion membrane scaffold promotes the efficiency of male germ cells generation from human induced pluripotent stem cells. Exp Cell Res 2019; 384:111544. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2019.111544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 07/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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38
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Gauthier-Fisher A, Kauffman A, Librach CL. Potential use of stem cells for fertility preservation. Andrology 2019; 8:862-878. [PMID: 31560823 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility and gonadal dysfunction can result from gonadotoxic therapies, environmental exposures, aging, or genetic conditions. In men, non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) results from defects in the spermatogenic process that can be attributed to spermatogonial stem cells (SSC) or their niche, or both. While assisted reproductive technologies and sperm banking can enable fertility preservation (FP) in men of reproductive age who are at risk for infertility, FP for pre-pubertal patients remains experimental. Therapeutic options for NOA are limited. The rapid advance of stem cell research and of gene editing technologies could enable new FP options for these patients. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), SSC, and testicular niche cells, as well as mesenchymal stromal cells (aka medicinal signaling cells, MSCs), have been investigated for their potential use in male FP strategies. OBJECTIVE Here, we review the benefits and challenges for three types of stem cell-based approaches under investigation for male FP, focusing on the role that promising sources of MSC derived from human umbilical cord, specifically human umbilical cord perivascular cells (HUCPVC), could fulfill. These approaches are as follows: 1. isolation and ex vivo expansion of autologous SSC for in vivo transplantation or in vitro spermatogenesis; 2. in vitro differentiation toward germ cell and testicular somatic cell lineages using autologous SSC, or stem cells such iPSC or MSC; and 3. protection or regeneration of the spermatogenic niche after gonadotoxic insults in vivo. CONCLUSION Our studies suggest that HUCPVC are promising sources of cells that could be utilized in multiple aspects of male FP strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - A Kauffman
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - C L Librach
- CReATe Fertility Centre, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Gynecology, Women's College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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39
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Deng C, Xie Y, Zhang C, Ouyang B, Chen H, Lv L, Yao J, Liang X, Zhang Y, Sun X, Deng C, Liu G. Urine-Derived Stem Cells Facilitate Endogenous Spermatogenesis Restoration of Busulfan-Induced Nonobstructive Azoospermic Mice by Paracrine Exosomes. Stem Cells Dev 2019; 28:1322-1333. [PMID: 31311428 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2019.0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a severe form of male infertility, with limited effective treatments. Urine-derived stem cells (USCs) possess multipotent differentiation capacity and paracrine effects, and participate in tissue repair and regeneration. The aim of this study is to investigate whether the transplantation of USCs or USC exosomes (USC-exos) could promote endogenous spermatogenesis restoration in a busulfan-induced NOA mice model. USCs were cultured and characterized by flow cytometry. High-density USCs were cultured in a hollow fiber bioreactor for exosomes collection. USC-exos were isolated from USCs conditional media and identified by transmission electron microscopy, western blotting, and Flow NanoAnalyzer analysis. USC-exos exhibited sphere- or cup-shaped morphology with a mean diameter of 66.5 ± 16.0 nm, and expressed CD63 and CD9. USCs and USC-exos were transplanted into the interstitial space in the testes of NOA mice per the following groups: normal group; groups treated with no injection, phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), USCs or USC-exos on days 3 and 36 after busulfan administration, respectively. Thirty days after USCs and USC-exos transplantation, spermatogenesis was restored by both USCs and USC-exos in NOA mice 36 days after busulfan treatment as confirmed by immunofluorescence staining and hematoxylin and eosin staining. Moreover, spermatogenic genes (Pou5f1, Prm1, SYCP3, and DAZL) and the spermatogenic protein UCHL1 were significantly increased in both the USCs 36 and USC-exos36 groups compared with the PBS group, as demonstrated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. However, the transplantation of USCs or USC-exos at day 3 after busulfan treatment did not improve spermatogenesis in NOA mice. Our study demonstrated that USCs could facilitate endogenous spermatogenesis restoration of busulfan-induced NOA mice through paracrine exosomes but could not protect the mouse testicles at the early stage of destruction caused by busulfan. This study provides a novel insight into the treatment of NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuncan Deng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliate Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yun Xie
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Ouyang
- Department of Andrology, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haicheng Chen
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Linyan Lv
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliate Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiahui Yao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliate Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliate Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Xiangzhou Sun
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chunhua Deng
- Department of Andrology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guihua Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The Sixth Affiliate Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Wang J, Liu C, Fujino M, Tong G, Zhang Q, Li XK, Yan H. Stem Cells as a Resource for Treatment of Infertility-related Diseases. Curr Mol Med 2019; 19:539-546. [PMID: 31288721 PMCID: PMC6806537 DOI: 10.2174/1566524019666190709172636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Worldwide, infertility affects 8-12% of couples of reproductive age and has become a common problem. There are many ways to treat infertility, including medication, intrauterine insemination, and in vitro fertilization. In recent years, stem-cell therapy has raised new hope in the field of reproductive disability management. Stem cells are self-renewing, self-replicating undifferentiated cells that are capable of producing specialized cells under appropriate conditions. They exist throughout a human’s embryo, fetal, and adult stages and can proliferate into different cells. While many issues remain to be addressed concerning stem cells, stem cells have undeniably opened up new ways to treat infertility. In this review, we describe past, present, and future strategies for the use of stem cells in reproductive medicine
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Reproductive Center, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Division of Transplantation Immunology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Chi Liu
- Division of Transplantation Immunology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Masayuki Fujino
- Division of Transplantation Immunology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan.,AIDS Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Guoqing Tong
- Reproductive Center, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinxiu Zhang
- Department of Medical and Life Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao-Kang Li
- Division of Transplantation Immunology, National Research Institute for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hua Yan
- Reproductive Center, Shuguang Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Sujit KM, Sarkar S, Singh V, Pandey R, Agrawal NK, Trivedi S, Singh K, Gupta G, Rajender S. Genome-wide differential methylation analyses identifies methylation signatures of male infertility. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:2256-2267. [PMID: 30358834 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do methylation changes in sperm DNA correlate with infertility? STUDY ANSWER Loss of spermatogenesis and fertility was correlated with 1680 differentially-methylated CpGs (DMCs) across 1052 genes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Methylation changes in a number of genes have been correlated with reduced sperm count and motility. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This case-control study used spermatozoal DNA from 38 oligo-/oligoastheno-zoospermic infertile patients and 26 normozoospermic fertile men. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTINGS, METHODS Genome-wide methylation analysis was undertaken using 450 K BeadChip on spermatozoal DNA from six infertile and six fertile men to identify DMCs. This was followed by deep sequencing of spermatozoal DNA from 32 infertile patients and 20 fertile controls. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 1680 DMCs were identified, out of which 1436 were hypermethylated and 244 were hypomethylated. Classification of DMCs according to the genes identified BCAN, CTNNA3, DLGAP2, GATA3, MAGI2 and TP73 among imprinted genes, SPATA5, SPATA7, SPATA16 and SPATA22 among spermatogenesis-associated genes, KDM4C and JMJD1C, EZH2 and HDAC4 among genes which regulate methylation and gene expression, HLA-C, HLA-DRB6 and HLA-DQA1 among complementation and immune response genes, and CRISPLD1, LPHN3 and CPEB2 among other genes. Genes showing significant differential methylation in deep sequencing, i.e. HOXB1, GATA3, EBF3, BCAN and TCERG1L, are strong candidates for further investigations. The role of chance was ruled out by deep sequencing of select genes. LARGE-SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASON FOR CAUTION Genome-wide analyses are fairly accurate, but may not be exactly validated in replication studies across all DMCs. We used the 't' test in the genome-wide methylation analysis, whereas other tests could provide a more robust and powerful analysis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS DMCs can serve as markers for inclusion in infertility screening panels, particularly those in the genes showing differential methylation consistent with previous studies. The genes validated by deep sequencing are strong candidates for investigations of their roles in spermatogenesis. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was funded by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Govt. of India with grant number BSC0101 awarded to Rajender Singh. None of the authors has any competing interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Saumya Sarkar
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Vertika Singh
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Rajesh Pandey
- CSIR Ayurgenomics Unit-TRISUTRA, CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, New Delhi, India.,Mammalian Genetics Unit, MRC Harwell Institute, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Neeraj Kumar Agrawal
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Sameer Trivedi
- Department of Urology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Kiran Singh
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Gopal Gupta
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Singh Rajender
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
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Rahmani F, Movahedin M, Mazaheri Z, Soleimani M. Transplantation of mouse iPSCs into testis of azoospermic mouse model: in vivo and in vitro study. ARTIFICIAL CELLS NANOMEDICINE AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2019; 47:1585-1594. [PMID: 31007064 DOI: 10.1080/21691401.2019.1594854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to induce spermatogenesis in azoospermic testis through induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived spermatogonial stem cell-like cells (SSCLCs) after iPSCs in vivo and in vitro transplantation and three-dimensional organ culture. DiI-labelled mouse iPSCs were transplanted to azoospermic testis mouse model (pretreated by busulfan 40 mg/kg). This study was designed based on two experimental groups. In experimental group 1(in vivo) labelled iPSCs were transplanted to azoospermic host testis. In experimental group 2 (in vitro) after cell transplantation, fragments of host testes were set as 3D organ culture and testis without cells transplantation served as the control group by the same method. The samples were evaluated by tracing DiI, cell homing, immunohistochemistry, and quantitative RT PCR assays. 2 weeks after iPSCs transplantation, the molecular assessment showed that Plzf, Thy1, Vasa and Gfra1 expression were increased significantly (p ≤ .05) in host testis and labelled iPSCs co-localized by the Plzf and Thy1 markers expression in the base of seminiferous tubules. These findings suggest the ability of iPSCs to achieve homing in the testis niche and indicate the critical inductive role of microenvironment signals in the differentiation of iPSCs to spermatogonial stem cell-like cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Forouzan Rahmani
- a Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Science , Tarbiat Modares University , Tehran , Iran
| | - Mansoureh Movahedin
- a Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Science , Tarbiat Modares University , Tehran , Iran
| | - Zohreh Mazaheri
- b Department of Anatomical Sciences, Basic Medical Research Center , Histogenotech Company , Tehran , Iran
| | - Masoud Soleimani
- c Department of Hematology and Stem Cell Therapy, Faculty of Medical Science , Tarbiat Modares University , Tehran , Iran
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Luo Y, Xie L, Mohsin A, Ahmed W, Xu C, Peng Y, Hang H, Zhuang Y, Chu J, Guo M. Efficient generation of male germ-like cells derived during co-culturing of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells with Sertoli cells under retinoic acid and testosterone induction. Stem Cell Res Ther 2019; 10:91. [PMID: 30867048 PMCID: PMC6415496 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-019-1181-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Revised: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) are considered an efficient and important candidate for male infertility treatment because they contain pluripotent stem cells, which can differentiate into all cells from three germ layers. However, the efficient generation of male germ-like cell (MGLCs) is one of the key issues, and little is known about the mechanisms underlying generation of MGLCs. Herein, we attempt to improve the efficient generation of MGLCs derived during co-culturing of rat ADMSCs with SCs under retinoic acid (RA) and testosterone (T) treatment. METHODS ADMSCs isolated from male SD rat were induced into generation of MGLCs by using respective methods in vitro. Transwell insert system was used for co-culturing. Busulfan-induced non-obstructive azoospermia rat mode was used to evaluate spermatogenic recovery ability of treated ADMSCs. Besides, the relative gene expression level was detected by reverse transcription PCR, quantitative RT-PCR. The relative protein expression level was detected by western blot (WB) and immunostaining analysis. RESULTS The results showed that ADMSCs co-cultured with TM4 cells under RA and T induction enhanced the formation of bigger and tightly packed MGLCs feature colonies in vitro. Moreover, the expression of male germ cell-related markers (Oct4, Stella, Ddx4, Dazl, PGP9.5, Stra8, and ITGα6) is significantly upregulated in TM4 cell-co-cultured ADMSCs in vitro and in busulfan-treated rat testis after injecting TM4 cell-treated ADMSCs for 2 months. Comparatively, the ADMSCs treated by TM4 cell with RA and T exhibited the highest expression of male germ cell-related markers. RA- and T-treated TM4 cell showed fewer dead cells and higher cytokine secretion than untreated groups. The protein expression level of TGFβ-SMAD2/3, JAK2-STAT3, and AKT pathways in ADMSCs co-cultured with TM4 cells under RA and T was higher than others. Whereas, downregulation of male germ cell-related marker expression subsequently inhibited the phosphorylation of SMAD2/3, JAK2, STAT3, and AKT. CONCLUSION These results suggested that TM4 cells could efficiently stimulate in vitro generation of MGLCs during co-culturing of ADMSCs under RA and T treatment. Conclusively, the ADMSCs co-cultured with TM4 cell under RA and T induction stimulate the efficient generation of MGLCs in vitro through activating TGFβ-SMAD2/3, JAK2-STAT3, and AKT pathways. Among them, JAK2-STAT3 and AKT pathways are being first reported to show involvement of in vitro generation of MGLCs during ADMSC co-culturing with SCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanxia Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Rd, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Lili Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Rd, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Ali Mohsin
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Rd, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Waqas Ahmed
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Rd, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Chenze Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Rd, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Yan Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Rd, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Haifeng Hang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Rd, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Yingping Zhuang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Rd, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Ju Chu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Rd, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Meijin Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, 130 Meilong Rd, Shanghai, 200237, China.
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