1
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Campos RK, Liang Y, Azar SR, Ly J, Camargos VN, Hager-Soto EE, Eyzaguirre E, Sun J, Rossi SL. CD8 + T cell response promotes viral clearance and reduces chances of severe testicular damage in mouse models of long-term Zika virus infection of the testes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.22.575592. [PMID: 38328060 PMCID: PMC10849515 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.22.575592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) causes human testicular inflammation and alterations in sperm parameters and causes testicular damage in mouse models. The involvement of individual immune cells in testicular damage is not fully understood. We detected virus in the testes of the interferon (IFN) α/β receptor -/- A129 mice three weeks post-infection and found elevated chemokines in the testes, suggesting chronic inflammation and long-term infection play a role in testicular damage. In the testes, myeloid cells and CD4 + T cells were absent at 7 dpi but were present at 23 days post-infection (dpi), and CD8 + T cell infiltration started at 7 dpi. CD8 -/- mice with an antibody-depleted IFN response had a significant reduction in spermatogenesis, indicating that CD8 + T cells are essential to prevent testicular damage during long-term ZIKV infections. Our findings on the dynamics of testicular immune cells and importance of CD8 + T cells functions as a framework to understand mechanisms underlying observed inflammation and sperm alterations in humans.
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2
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Ravindran S, Lahon A. Tropism and immune response of chikungunya and zika viruses: An overview. Cytokine 2023; 170:156327. [PMID: 37579710 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2023.156327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) and chikungunya virus (CHIKV) are two medically important vector-borne viruses responsible for causing significant disease burden in humans, including neurological sequelae/complications. Besides sharing some common clinical features, ZIKV has major shares in causing microcephaly and brain malformations in developing foetus, whereas CHIKV causes chronic joint pain/swelling in infected individuals. Both viruses have a common route of entry to the host body. i.e., dermal site of inoculation through the bite of an infected mosquito and later taken up by different immune cells for further dissemination to other areas of the host body that lead to a range of immune responses via different pathways. The immune responses generated by both viruses have similar characteristics with varying degrees of inflammation and activation of immune cells. However, the overall response of immune cells is not fully explored in the context of ZIKV and CHIKV infection. The knowledge of cellular tropism and the immune response is the key to understanding the mechanisms of viral immunity and pathogenesis, which may allow to develop novel therapeutic strategies for these viral infections. This review aims to discuss recent advancements and identify the knowledge gaps in understanding the mechanism of cellular tropism and immune response of CHIKV and ZIKV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa Ravindran
- Institute of Advanced Virology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695317, India
| | - Anismrita Lahon
- Institute of Advanced Virology, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695317, India.
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3
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Patrício D, Santiago J, Mano JF, Fardilha M. Organoids of the male reproductive system: Challenges, opportunities, and their potential use in fertility research. WIREs Mech Dis 2023; 15:e1590. [PMID: 36442887 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Organoids are units of function of a given organ able to reproduce, in culture, a biological structure similar in architecture and function to its counterpart in vivo. Today, it is possible to develop an organoid from a fragment of tissue, a stem cell located in an adult organ, an embryonic stem cell, or an induced pluripotent stem cell. In the past decade, many organoids have been developed which mimic stomach, pancreas, liver and brain tissues, optic cups, among many others. Additionally, different male reproductive system organs have already been developed as organoids, including the prostate and testis. These 3D cultures may be of great importance for urological cancer research and have the potential to be used in fertility research for the study of spermatozoa production and maturation, germ cells-somatic cells interactions, and mechanisms of disease. They also provide an accurate preclinical pipeline for drug testing and discovery, as well as for the study of drug resistance. In this work, we revise the current knowledge on organoid technology and its use in healthcare and research, describe the male reproductive system organoids and other biomaterials already developed, and discuss their current application. Finally, we highlight the research gaps, challenges, and opportunities in the field and propose strategies to improve the use of organoids for the study of male infertility situations. This article is categorized under: Reproductive System Diseases > Stem Cells and Development Reproductive System Diseases > Biomedical Engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Patrício
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.,Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Joana Santiago
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - João F Mano
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Margarida Fardilha
- Institute of Biomedicine, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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4
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Delafiori J, Faria AVDS, de Oliveira AN, Sales GM, Dias-Audibert FL, Catharino RR. Unraveling the Metabolic Alterations Induced by Zika Infection in Prostate Epithelial (PNT1a) and Adenocarcinoma (PC-3) Cell Lines. J Proteome Res 2023; 22:193-203. [PMID: 36469742 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.2c00630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The outbreak of Zika virus infection in 2016 led to the identification of its presence in several types of biofluids, including semen. Later discoveries associated Zika infection with sexual transmission and persistent replication in cells of the male reproductive tract. Prostate epithelial and carcinoma cells are favorable to virus replication, with studies pointing to transcriptomics alterations of immune and inflammation genes upon persistence. However, metabolome alterations promoted by the Zika virus in prostate cells are unknown. Given its chronic effects and oncolytic potential, we aim to investigate the metabolic alterations induced by the Zika virus in prostate epithelial (PNT1a) and adenocarcinoma (PC-3) cells using an untargeted metabolomics approach and high-resolution mass spectrometry. PNT1a cells were viable up to 15 days post ZIKV infection, in contrast to its antiproliferative effect in the PC-3 cell lineage. Remarkable alterations in the PNT1a cell metabolism were observed upon infection, especially regarding glycerolipids, fatty acids, and acylcarnitines, which could be related to viral cellular resource exploitation, in addition to the over-time increase in oxidative stress metabolites associated with carcinogenesis. The upregulation of FA20:5 at 5 dpi in PC-3 cells corroborates the antiproliferative effect observed since this metabolite was previously reported to induce PC-3 cell death. Overall, Zika virus promotes extensive lipid alterations on both PNT1a and PC-3 cells, promoting different outcomes based on the cellular metabolic state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeany Delafiori
- Innovare Biomarkers Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Alessandra V de S Faria
- Department of Biochemistry and Tissue Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP 13083-862, Brazil
| | - Arthur N de Oliveira
- Innovare Biomarkers Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Geovana M Sales
- Innovare Biomarkers Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Flávia Luísa Dias-Audibert
- Innovare Biomarkers Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo R Catharino
- Innovare Biomarkers Laboratory, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, SP 13083-970, Brazil
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5
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The Colombian Zika Virus Isolate (COL345Si) Replicates in Prostate Adenocarcinoma Cells and Modulates the Antiviral Response. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122420. [PMID: 36557673 PMCID: PMC9782197 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV), a flavivirus that is mainly transmitted by A. aegypti and A. albopictus and sexual transmission, has been documented and described. The ZIKV RNA detection in the semen of vasectomized men indicates that accessory glands such as the prostate could be a site of virus replication. In this study, we characterized the ZIKV infection, evaluated the antiviral profile, and demonstrated the AXL and TIM-1 expression on the PC3 prostate cell line. It was also determined that PC3 cells are susceptible and permissive to ZIKV infection without altering the cell viability or causing a cytopathic effect. The antiviral profile suggests that the PC3 cells modulate the antiviral response through the suppressor molecule expression, SOCS-1, during a ZIKV infection.
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6
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Mungin JW, Chen X, Liu B. Interferon Epsilon Signaling Confers Attenuated Zika Replication in Human Vaginal Epithelial Cells. Pathogens 2022; 11:853. [PMID: 36014974 PMCID: PMC9415962 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11080853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) is an emerging flavivirus that causes congenital birth defects and neurological compilations in the human host. Although ZIKV is primarily transmitted through infected mosquitos, recent studies reveal sexual contact as a potential transmission route. In vagina-bearing individuals, the vaginal epithelium constitutes the first line of defense against viruses. However, it is unclear how ZIKV interacts with the vaginal epithelium to initiate ZIKV transmission. In this study, we demonstrate that exposing ZIKV to human vaginal epithelial cells (hVECs) resulted in de novo viral RNA replication, increased envelope viral protein production, and a steady, extracellular release of infectious viral particles. Interestingly, our data show that, despite an increase in viral load, the hVECs did not exhibit significant cytopathology in culture as other cell types typically do. Furthermore, our data reveal that the innate antiviral state of hVECs plays a crucial role in preventing viral cytopathology. For the first time, our data show that interferon epsilon inhibits ZIKV replication. Collectively, our results in this study provide a novel perspective on the viral susceptibility and replication dynamics during ZIKV infection in the human vaginal epithelium. These findings will be instrumental towards developing therapeutic agents aimed at eliminating the pathology caused by the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Bindong Liu
- Centers for AIDS Health Disparity Research, Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Physiology, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN 37208, USA; (J.W.M.J.); (X.C.)
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7
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Ball EE, Pesavento PA, Van Rompay KKA, Keel MK, Singapuri A, Gomez-Vazquez JP, Dudley DM, O’Connor DH, Breitbach ME, Maness NJ, Schouest B, Panganiban A, Coffey LL. Zika virus persistence in the male macaque reproductive tract. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010566. [PMID: 35788751 PMCID: PMC9299295 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) is unique among mosquito-borne flaviviruses in that it is also vertically and sexually transmitted by humans. The male reproductive tract is thought to be a ZIKV reservoir; however, the reported magnitude and duration of viral persistence in male genital tissues vary widely in humans and non-human primate models. ZIKV tissue and cellular tropism and potential effects on male fertility also remain unclear. The objective of this study was to resolve these questions by analyzing archived genital tissues from 51 ZIKV-inoculated male macaques and correlating data on plasma viral kinetics, tissue tropism, and ZIKV-induced pathological changes in the reproductive tract. We hypothesized that ZIKV would persist in the male macaque genital tract for longer than there was detectable viremia, where it would localize to germ and epithelial cells and associate with lesions. We detected ZIKV RNA and infectious virus in testis, epididymis, seminal vesicle, and prostate gland. In contrast to prepubertal males, sexually mature macaques were significantly more likely to harbor persistent ZIKV RNA or infectious virus somewhere in the genital tract, with detection as late as 60 days post-inoculation. ZIKV RNA localized primarily to testicular stem cells/sperm precursors and epithelial cells, including Sertoli cells, epididymal duct epithelium, and glandular epithelia of the seminal vesicle and prostate gland. ZIKV infection was associated with microscopic evidence of inflammation in the epididymis and prostate gland of sexually mature males, pathologies that were absent in uninfected controls, which could have significant effects on male fertility. The findings from this study increase our understanding of persistent ZIKV infection which can inform risk of sexual transmission during assisted reproductive therapies as well as potential impacts on male fertility. Zika virus (ZIKV) spread since 2015 led to establishment of urban epidemic cycles involving humans and Aedes mosquitoes. ZIKV is also sexually and vertically transmitted and causes congenital Zika syndrome. Together, these features show that ZIKV poses significant global public health risks. By virtue of similar reproductive anatomy and physiology to humans, macaques serve as a useful model for ZIKV infection. However, macaque studies to date have been limited by small sample size, typically 1 to 5 animals. Although mounting evidence identifies the male reproductive tract as a significant ZIKV reservoir, data regarding the duration of ZIKV persistence, potential for sexual transmission, and male genitourinary sequelae remain sparse. Here, we analyzed archived genital tissues from more than 50 ZIKV-inoculated male macaques. Our results show that ZIKV can persist in the male macaque reproductive tract after the resolution of viremia, with virus localization to sperm precursors and epithelial cells, and microscopic evidence of inflammation in the epididymis and prostate gland. Our findings help explain cases of sexual transmission of ZIKV in humans, which also carries a risk for transmission via assisted fertility procedures, even after resolution of detectable viremia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin E. Ball
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
- United States Army, Veterinary Corps
| | - Patricia A. Pesavento
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Koen K. A. Van Rompay
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
- California National Primate Research Center, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - M. Kevin Keel
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Anil Singapuri
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Jose P. Gomez-Vazquez
- Center for Animal Disease Modeling and Surveillance, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Dawn M. Dudley
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - David H. O’Connor
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Meghan E. Breitbach
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Nicholas J. Maness
- Division of Microbiology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, Los Angeles, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Blake Schouest
- Division of Microbiology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, Los Angeles, United States of America
| | - Antonito Panganiban
- Division of Microbiology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, Los Angeles, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Lark L. Coffey
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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8
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Lima MLD, Cabral ÁS, Bittar C, Falleiros Junior LR, Guerra LHA, Carneiro BM, de Souza Ferreira LC, Nogueira ML, Taboga SR, Calmon MF, Rahal P. Early infection of Zika virus in the male reproductive system of AG129 mice: molecular and immunohistochemical evaluation. Braz J Microbiol 2022; 53:1279-1287. [PMID: 35460509 PMCID: PMC9433484 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-022-00761-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual transmission of Zika virus (ZIKV), an important arbovirus, and the virus persistence in semen raise several questions about how and where it circulates in the male reproductive system (MRS). Several studies reported detection of the virus in testes, epididymis, and prostate at 5 days post-infection (dpi) or more in animal models. In the present study, we investigated the interactions of ZIKV with mouse MRS using the AG129 strain, a ZIKV permissive immunodeficient mouse strain, at two dpi. Viral RNA was detected in blood, testes, epididymis, and prostatic complexes (prostate and seminal vesicles). Immunohistochemical (IHC) analyses, based on the envelope protein, showed an early infection in organs of MRS since ZIKV positive antigens were detected in cells within or surrounding blood vessels, Sertoli, and germ cells in testes and epithelial cells in epididymis and prostate. Positive antigens for NS5 protein, the virus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, were also detected by IHC in these organs and circulating leukocytes, suggesting that the virus replicates in these sites as early as 2 days post-infection. Analysis of the early stages of ZIKV infection in MRS may improve the current knowledge about this issue and contribute to the development of therapies directed to the infection at this site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Letícia Duarte Lima
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José Do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ágata Silva Cabral
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José Do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cintia Bittar
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José Do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Luiz Roberto Falleiros Junior
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José Do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luiz Henrique Alves Guerra
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José Do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bruno Moreira Carneiro
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José Do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
- Institute of Exact and Natural Science, Rondonópolis Federal University (UFR), Rondonópolis, Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | | | - Maurício Lacerda Nogueira
- Department of Infectious, Dermatological and Parasitic Infections, São José Do Rio Preto Medical School (FAMERP), São José Do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sebastião Roberto Taboga
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José Do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marilia Freitas Calmon
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José Do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paula Rahal
- Department of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), São José Do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
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9
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Akhigbe RE, Dutta S, Hamed MA, Ajayi AF, Sengupta P, Ahmad G. Viral Infections and Male Infertility: A Comprehensive Review of the Role of Oxidative Stress. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:782915. [PMID: 36303638 PMCID: PMC9580820 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.782915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral infections have been a part of human existence to date, though viruses have posed a huge threat with various outbreaks lately. These threats are associated with reproductive health challenges, especially male infertility. The prime focus of this review is to highlight the mechanisms associated with viral infection-induced male infertility/subfertility and identify new treatment strategies with the aim to preserve male fertility. The reviewed data showed that viral infections stimulate inflammatory responses, resulting in the release of proinflammatory cytokines, which induces oxidative stress. This oxido-inflammatory cycle could continue in a vicious cycle and threaten male fertility. Existing data from human and experimental studies show that viral infection-induced oxido-inflammatory response results in testicular damage, atrophy of the seminiferous tubules and Sertoli cells, and reduced Leydig cell mass. This is accompanied by reduced circulatory testosterone, impaired spermatogenesis, reduced sperm motility, lipid peroxidation, DNA fragmentation and apoptosis of the sperm cells. Based on the available pieces of evidence, antioxidant therapy, in vivo and in vitro, may be beneficial and protects against the potential risk of male infertility from viral infection. It is, however recommended that more clinical studies be conducted to demonstrate the possible protective roles of antioxidants used as adjuvant therapy in viral infections, and in the in vitro treatment of semen samples for those utilizing semen washing and artificial reproductive techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland E. Akhigbe
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - Sulagna Dutta
- Department of Oral Biology and Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Malaysia
| | - Moses A. Hamed
- Reproductive Biology and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Oasis of Grace Hospital, Osogbo, Nigeria
- Brainwill Laboratories, Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - Ayodeji F. Ajayi
- Department of Physiology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Biosciences and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Malaysia
- *Correspondence: Pallav Sengupta
| | - Gulfam Ahmad
- Redox Biology Group, Discipline of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Charles Perkins Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Gulfam Ahmad
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10
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Zafar MI, Yu J, Li H. Implications of RNA Viruses in the Male Reproductive Tract: An Outlook on SARS-CoV-2. Front Microbiol 2022; 12:783963. [PMID: 35003013 PMCID: PMC8739959 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.783963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging viral infections continuously pose a threat to human wellbeing. Several RNA viruses have managed to establish access to the male reproductive tract and persist in human semen. The sexual transmission of the virus is of critical public concern. The epidemiological inferences are essential to understand its complexity, particularly the probability of viral transmission from asymptomatic patients or those in the incubation period or from the patient who was previously infected and now fully recovered. From the clinical perspective, negative impacts in the male reproductive tract associated with RNA virus infection have been described, including orchitis, epididymitis, impaired spermatogenesis, and a decrease in sperm quality, which can affect male fertility at different time intervals. The disruption of anatomical barriers due to inflammatory responses might enable the viral invasion into the testis, and the immune privilege status of testes might facilitate a sustained persistence of the virus in the semen. In this review, the current knowledge about other RNA viruses that affect male reproductive health provides the framework to discuss the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The molecular mechanisms, sexual transmission, and viral impacts for mumps, HIV, Zika, and Ebola viruses are explored. We discuss the currently available information on the impact of SARS-CoV-2 and its sequelae in the male reproductive tract, particularly regarding presence in semen, its impact on sexual organs, and sperm quality. To date, no sexual transmission of SARS-CoV-2 has been reported, whereas the identification of viral particles in semen remains conflicting. In the purview of the earlier conducted analyses, it is essential to investigate further the long-term health impacts of SARS-CoV-2 on the male reproductive tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ishraq Zafar
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiangyu Yu
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Department of Reproductive Medicine, Central Theater Command General Hospital of Chinese People's Liberation Army, Wuhan, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Medicine Hospital, Wuhan, China
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11
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Vogt MB, Frere F, Hawks SA, Perez CE, Coutermarsh-Ott S, Duggal NK. Persistence of Zika virus RNA in the epididymis of the murine male reproductive tract. Virology 2021; 560:43-53. [PMID: 34023724 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2021.05.001] [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: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) can infect developing fetuses in utero and cause severe congenital defects independent of route of maternal infection. Infected men can shed ZIKV RNA in semen for over six months. Whether prolonged viral RNA shedding in semen indicates a persistent infection in the male reproductive tract is unknown. We hypothesized that if ZIKV establishes a persistent infection in the male reproductive tract (MRT), then immunosuppressant treatment should stimulate ZIKV replication and seminal shedding. Male mice were infected with ZIKV and immunosuppressed when they shed viral RNA but not infectious virus in ejaculates. Following immunosuppression, we did not detect infectious virus in ejaculates. However, we did detect ZIKV positive and negative sense RNA in the epididymal lumens of mice treated with cyclophosphamide, suggesting that ZIKV persists in the epididymis. This study provides insight into the mechanisms behind ZIKV sexual transmission, which may inform public health decisions regarding ZIKV risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan B Vogt
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Francesca Frere
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Seth A Hawks
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Claudia E Perez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Sheryl Coutermarsh-Ott
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Nisha K Duggal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
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12
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Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unexpected worldwide situation, and all countries have implemented their own policies to curb the spread of the virus. The pathophysiology of COVID-19 has opened numerous hypotheses of functional alterations in different physiological aspects. The direct impact of SARS-CoV-2 on the urogenital organs of males and females is still to be assessed. Nevertheless, based on biological similarities between SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2, several hypotheses have been proposed. In this study, we will discuss the possible mechanism of action, and potential effects on the male/female reproductive system and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akash S Mali
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague Czech Republic
| | - Madhuri Magdum
- Department of Hospital Pharmacy, Samata Hospital, Dombiwali (MH), India
| | - Jiri Novotny
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague Czech Republic
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13
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Machado FC, Bittar C, Rahal P, Calmon MF. Identification of differentially expressed miRNAs in human cells infected with different Zika virus strains. Arch Virol 2021; 166:1681-1689. [PMID: 33847814 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-021-05051-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Infection with distinct Zika virus (ZIKV) strains in in vitro and in vivo models has demonstrated that the host's response to infection is strain-dependent. There has been no analysis of the impact of infection with different ZIKV strains on miRNA expression in human cells. We investigated miRNA expression in PNT1A cells upon infection with an African ZIKV strain (MR766) and a Brazilian ZIKV strain (ZIKVBR) using PCR array. Sixteen miRNAs were modulated in PNT1A cells: six miRNAs were modulated by both strains, while a set of ten miRNAs were modulated exclusively by ZIKVBR infection. In silico analysis showed that nine significant KEGG pathways and eight significant GO terms were predicted to be enriched upon ZIKVBR infection, and these pathways were related to cancer, environmental information processing, metabolism, and extracellular matrix. Differential modulation of miRNA expression suggests that distinct strains of ZIKV can differentially modulate the host response through the action of miRNAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francielly Cristina Machado
- Department of Biology, IBILCE, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, UNESP, São Paulo State University, Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, Bairro Jardim Nazareth, São José do Rio Preto, SP, 15054-010, Brazil
| | - Cíntia Bittar
- Department of Biology, IBILCE, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, UNESP, São Paulo State University, Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, Bairro Jardim Nazareth, São José do Rio Preto, SP, 15054-010, Brazil
| | - Paula Rahal
- Department of Biology, IBILCE, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, UNESP, São Paulo State University, Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, Bairro Jardim Nazareth, São José do Rio Preto, SP, 15054-010, Brazil
| | - Marilia Freitas Calmon
- Department of Biology, IBILCE, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, UNESP, São Paulo State University, Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, Bairro Jardim Nazareth, São José do Rio Preto, SP, 15054-010, Brazil.
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14
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Halabi J, Jagger BW, Salazar V, Winkler ES, White JP, Humphrey PA, Hirsch AJ, Streblow DN, Diamond MS, Moley K. Zika Virus Causes Acute and Chronic Prostatitis in Mice and Macaques. J Infect Dis 2021; 221:1506-1517. [PMID: 31616920 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiz533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual transmission and persistence of Zika virus (ZIKV) in the male reproductive tract has raised concerned for potential damaging effects on function. Animal studies have demonstrated that ZIKV virus can infect and damage the testis and epididymis, and these results has been correlated to lower sperm counts in ZIKV-infected humans. The prostate plays a vital role in the male reproductive tract, with acute and chronic prostatitis linked to male infertility. METHODS In this study, we evaluated the effects of ZIKV virus on the prostate in mice and nonhuman primates. RESULTS In mice, ZIKV infected the prostate and triggered inflammation that persisted even after virus clearance. Evidence of chronic prostatitis associated with ZIKV infection remained for several months. Similar histological findings were observed in the prostate of ZIKV-infected rhesus macaques. CONCLUSIONS These studies establish that ZIKV replicates in the prostate and can cause acute and chronic inflammatory and proliferative changes in mouse and nonhuman primate models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Halabi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Brett W Jagger
- Department of Medicine, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Vanessa Salazar
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Emma S Winkler
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - James P White
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Peter A Humphrey
- Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Alec J Hirsch
- Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute, Oregon Health and Science University Beaverton, Oregon, USA.,Division of Pathobiology and Immunology, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | - Daniel N Streblow
- Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute, Oregon Health and Science University Beaverton, Oregon, USA.,Division of Pathobiology and Immunology, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon, USA
| | - Michael S Diamond
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine St. Louis, Missouri, USA.,Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Kelle Moley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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15
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Best K, Barouch DH, Guedj J, Ribeiro RM, Perelson AS. Zika virus dynamics: Effects of inoculum dose, the innate immune response and viral interference. PLoS Comput Biol 2021; 17:e1008564. [PMID: 33471814 PMCID: PMC7817008 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1008564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Experimental Zika virus infection in non-human primates results in acute viral load dynamics that can be well-described by mathematical models. The inoculum dose that would be received in a natural infection setting is likely lower than the experimental infections and how this difference affects the viral dynamics and immune response is unclear. Here we study a dataset of experimental infection of non-human primates with a range of doses of Zika virus. We develop new models of infection incorporating both an innate immune response and viral interference with that response. We find that such a model explains the data better than models with no interaction between virus and the immune response. We also find that larger inoculum doses lead to faster dynamics of infection, but approximately the same total amount of viral production. The relationship between the infecting dose of a pathogen and the subsequent viral dynamics is unclear in many disease settings, and this relationship has implications for both the timing and the required efficacy of antiviral therapy. Since experimental challenge studies often employ higher doses of virus than would generally be present in natural infection assessment of this relationship is particularly important for translation of findings. In this study we used mathematical modelling of viral load data from a multi-dose study of Zika virus infection in a macaque model to describe the impact of varying the dose of Zika virus on model parameters, and developed a novel mathematical model incorporating viral interference with the innate immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Best
- Theoretical Biology and Biophysics, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico, United States of America
| | - Dan H. Barouch
- Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | | | - Ruy M. Ribeiro
- Theoretical Biology and Biophysics, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico, United States of America
- Laboratório de Biomatemática, Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Alan S. Perelson
- Theoretical Biology and Biophysics, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, New Mexico, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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16
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Teixeira TA, Oliveira YC, Bernardes FS, Kallas EG, Duarte-Neto AN, Esteves SC, Drevet JR, Hallak J. Viral infections and implications for male reproductive health. Asian J Androl 2021; 23:335-347. [PMID: 33473014 PMCID: PMC8269834 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_82_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral infections have haunted humankind since times immemorial. Overpopulation, globalization, and extensive deforestation have created an ideal environment for a viral spread with unknown and multiple shedding routes. Many viruses can infect the male reproductive tract, with potential adverse consequences to male reproductive health, including infertility and cancer. Moreover, some genital tract viral infections can be sexually transmitted, potentially impacting the resulting offspring's health. We have summarized the evidence concerning the presence and adverse effects of the relevant viruses on the reproductive tract (mumps virus, human immunodeficiency virus, herpes virus, human papillomavirus, hepatitis B and C viruses, Ebola virus, Zika virus, influenza virus, and coronaviruses), their routes of infection, target organs and cells, prevalence and pattern of virus shedding in semen, as well as diagnosis/testing and treatment strategies. The pathophysiological understanding in the male genital tract is essential to assess its clinical impact on male reproductive health and guide future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago A Teixeira
- Androscience, Science and Innovation Center in Andrology and High-Complex Clinical and Research Andrology Laboratory, São Paulo 04534-011, SP, Brazil.,Division of Urology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-000, SP, Brazil.,Men's Health Study Group, Institute for Advanced Studies, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-060, SP, Brazil.,Division of Urology, School of Medicine, Federal University of Amapa, Macapa 68903-419, AP, Brazil
| | - Yasmin C Oliveira
- Androscience, Science and Innovation Center in Andrology and High-Complex Clinical and Research Andrology Laboratory, São Paulo 04534-011, SP, Brazil.,Division of Urology, School of Medicine, Federal University of Amapa, Macapa 68903-419, AP, Brazil
| | - Felipe S Bernardes
- Androscience, Science and Innovation Center in Andrology and High-Complex Clinical and Research Andrology Laboratory, São Paulo 04534-011, SP, Brazil.,Division of Urology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-000, SP, Brazil.,Men's Health Study Group, Institute for Advanced Studies, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-060, SP, Brazil
| | - Esper G Kallas
- Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Amaro N Duarte-Neto
- BIAS - Brazilian Image Autopsy Study Group, Department of Pathology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas 13075-460, SP, Brazil.,Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas 13083-968, SP, Brazil.,Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus 8000, Denmark
| | - Joël R Drevet
- GReD Institute, CNRS-INSERM-Université Clermont Auvergne, Faculty of Medicine, Clermont-Ferrand 63000, France
| | - Jorge Hallak
- Androscience, Science and Innovation Center in Andrology and High-Complex Clinical and Research Andrology Laboratory, São Paulo 04534-011, SP, Brazil.,Division of Urology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-000, SP, Brazil.,Men's Health Study Group, Institute for Advanced Studies, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-060, SP, Brazil.,Reproductive Toxicology Unit, Department of Pathology, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05403-000, SP, Brazil
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17
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Spencer Clinton JL, Tran LL, Vogt MB, Rowley DR, Kimata JT, Rico-Hesse R. IP-10 and CXCR3 signaling inhibit Zika virus replication in human prostate cells. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0244587. [PMID: 33378361 PMCID: PMC7773246 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Our previous studies have shown that Zika virus (ZIKV) replicates in human prostate cells, suggesting that the prostate may serve as a long-term reservoir for virus transmission. Here, we demonstrated that the innate immune responses generated to three distinct ZIKV strains (all isolated from human serum) were significantly different and dependent on their passage history (in mosquito, monkey, or human cells). In addition, some of these phenotypic differences were reduced by a single additional cell culture passage, suggesting that viruses that have been passaged more than 3 times from the patient sample will no longer reflect natural phenotypes. Two of the ZIKV strains analyzed induced high levels of the IP-10 chemokine and IFNγ in human prostate epithelial and stromal mesenchymal stem cells. To further understand the importance of these innate responses on ZIKV replication, we measured the effects of IP-10 and its downstream receptor, CXCR3, on RNA and virus production in prostate cells. Treatment with IP-10, CXCR3 agonist, or CXCR3 antagonist significantly altered ZIKV viral gene expression, depending on their passage in cells of relevant hosts (mosquito or human). We detected differences in gene expression of two primary CXCR3 isoforms (CXCR3-A and CXCR3-B) on the two cell types, possibly explaining differences in viral output. Lastly, we examined the effects of IP-10, agonist, or antagonist on cell death and proliferation under physiologically relevant infection rates, and detected no significant differences. Although we did not measure protein expression directly, our results indicate that CXCR3 signaling may be a target for therapeutics, to ultimately stop sexual transmission of this virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. Spencer Clinton
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Linda L. Tran
- Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Megan B. Vogt
- Integrative Molecular and Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - David R. Rowley
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Jason T. Kimata
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Rebecca Rico-Hesse
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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18
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Schmidt JK, Mean KD, Puntney RC, Alexander ES, Sullivan R, Simmons HA, Zeng X, Weiler AM, Friedrich TC, Golos TG. Zika virus in rhesus macaque semen and reproductive tract tissues: a pilot study of acute infection†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:1030-1042. [PMID: 32761051 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa137] [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: 05/07/2019] [Revised: 07/09/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Although sexual transmission of Zika virus (ZIKV) is well-documented, the viral reservoir(s) in the male reproductive tract remains uncertain in humans and immune-intact animal models. We evaluated the presence of ZIKV in a rhesus macaque pilot study to determine persistence in semen, assess the impact of infection on sperm functional characteristics, and define the viral reservoir in the male reproductive tract. Five adult male rhesus monkeys were inoculated with 105 PFU of Asian-lineage ZIKV isolate PRVABC59, and two males were inoculated with the same dose of African-lineage ZIKV DAKAR41524. Viremia and viral RNA (vRNA) shedding in semen were monitored, and a cohort of animals were necropsied for tissue collection to assess tissue vRNA burden and histopathology. All animals exhibited viremia for limited periods (1-11 days); duration of shedding did not differ significantly between viral isolates. There were sporadic low levels of vRNA in the semen from some, but not all animals. Viral RNA levels in reproductive tract tissues were also modest and present in the epididymis in three of five cases, one case in the vas deferens, but not detected in testis, seminal vesicles or prostate. ZIKV infection did not impact semen motility parameters as assessed by computer-assisted sperm analysis. Despite some evidence of prolonged ZIKV RNA shedding in human semen and high tropism of ZIKV for male reproductive tract tissues in mice deficient in Type 1 interferon signaling, in the rhesus macaques assessed in this pilot study, we did not consistently find ZIKV RNA in the male reproductive tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna K Schmidt
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Riley C Puntney
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Ruth Sullivan
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Xiankun Zeng
- United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Andrea M Weiler
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Thomas C Friedrich
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, Madison, WI, USA.,Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Thaddeus G Golos
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, Madison, WI, USA.,Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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19
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Massarotti C, Garolla A, Maccarini E, Scaruffi P, Stigliani S, Anserini P, Foresta C. SARS-CoV-2 in the semen: Where does it come from? Andrology 2020; 9:39-41. [PMID: 32533891 PMCID: PMC7323151 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background The recent report of SARS‐CoV‐2 presence in semen samples of six patients, including two subjects who were recovering from the clinical disease, re‐opened the discussion on possible male genital tract infection, virus shedding in semen, sexual transmission and safety of fertility treatments during the pandemic period. Objectives To explore current data and hypothesis on the possible sites of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in the male reproduction system. Materials and methods We reviewed the current literature to describe: a) the evidences on angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (AC2E) and transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) expression in the testes, accessory glands (including prostate) and the urinary tract; b) other coronaviruses’ (SARS and MERS) ability to infect these sites. Results The co‐expression of both ACE2 and TMPRSS2 genes was reported in spermatogonial stem cells, elongated spermatids, in at least a small percentage of prostate hillock cells and in renal tubular cells. Testicular damage was described in autopsies of SARS patients, without evidence of the virus in the specimens. Prostate is a known infection site for MERS‐CoV. SARS‐CoV‐2 was detected in urines. Discussion There are still al lot of open questions on the effects of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection on the male reproductive tract. The presence of receptors is not a proof that the testis provides a site for viral infection and it is still unknown if SARS‐CoV‐2 is capable to pass the blood‐testis barrier. The possibility of a prostate involvement has not been investigated yet: we have no data, but theoretically it cannot be excluded. Moreover, the RNA detected in semen could have been just a residual of urinary shedding. Conclusion Opening our prospective beyond the testis could be the key to better understand the possibility of a semen‐related viral transmission as well as COVID19 short and long‐term effects on male reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Massarotti
- Physiopathology of Human Reproduction Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Andrea Garolla
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Elena Maccarini
- Physiopathology of Human Reproduction Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Paola Scaruffi
- Physiopathology of Human Reproduction Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Sara Stigliani
- Physiopathology of Human Reproduction Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Paola Anserini
- Physiopathology of Human Reproduction Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Carlo Foresta
- Unit of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
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20
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Wang L, Liang R, Gao Y, Li Y, Deng X, Xiang R, Zhang Y, Ying T, Jiang S, Yu F. Development of Small-Molecule Inhibitors Against Zika Virus Infection. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:2725. [PMID: 31866959 PMCID: PMC6909824 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.02725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, the outbreak of infectious disease caused by Zika virus (ZIKV) has posed a major threat to global public health, calling for the development of therapeutics to treat ZIKV disease. Here, we have described the different stages of the ZIKV life cycle and summarized the latest progress in the development of small-molecule inhibitors against ZIKV infection. We have also discussed some general strategies for the discovery of small-molecule ZIKV inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Wang
- Research Center of Chinese Jujube, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Ruiying Liang
- College of Life and Science, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Yaning Gao
- Department of Natural Medicines, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanbai Li
- College of Life and Science, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Xiaoqian Deng
- College of Life and Science, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Rong Xiang
- College of Life and Science, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Yina Zhang
- College of Life and Science, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
| | - Tianlei Ying
- MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Shibo Jiang
- MOE/NHC/CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei Yu
- College of Life and Science, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, China
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21
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Medina FA, Torres G, Acevedo J, Fonseca S, Casiano L, De León-Rodríguez CM, Santiago GA, Doyle K, Sharp TM, Alvarado LI, Paz-Bailey G, Muñoz-Jordán JL. Duration of the Presence of Infectious Zika Virus in Semen and Serum. J Infect Dis 2019; 219:31-40. [PMID: 30059980 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiy462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) has recently caused a large epidemic in the Americas that is associated with birth defects. Although ZIKV is primarily transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, ZIKV RNA is detectable in blood and semen of infected individuals for weeks or months, during which sexual and other modes of transmission are possible. However, viral RNA is usually detectable longer than infectious virus is present. We determined the frequency of isolation of infectious virus from semen and serum samples prospectively obtained from a cohort of patients in Puerto Rico. We confirmed isolation of infectious virus on the basis of a tissue culture cytopathic effect, an increase in virus genome copy equivalents (GCE), and positive results of immunofluorescence analysis; virus in infected cells was quantitated by flow cytometry. These criteria confirmed the presence of infectious virus in semen specimens from 8 of 97 patients for up to 38 days after initial detection when virus loads are >1.4 × 106 genome copy equivalents/mL. Two serum isolates were obtained from 296 patients. These findings can help guide important prevention guidelines for persons that may potentially be infectious and transmit ZIKV sexually.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freddy A Medina
- Dengue Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, San Juan
| | - Giselle Torres
- Dengue Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, San Juan
| | - Jenny Acevedo
- Dengue Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, San Juan
| | - Sharon Fonseca
- Dengue Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, San Juan
| | - Leslie Casiano
- Dengue Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, San Juan
| | | | - Gilberto A Santiago
- Dengue Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, San Juan
| | - Katherine Doyle
- Dengue Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, San Juan
| | - Tyler M Sharp
- Dengue Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, San Juan
| | - Luisa I Alvarado
- Ponce Health Sciences University-Saint Luke's Episcopal Hospital Consortium, Ponce, Puerto Rico
| | - Gabriela Paz-Bailey
- Dengue Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, San Juan
| | - Jorge L Muñoz-Jordán
- Dengue Branch, Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, San Juan
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22
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Molecular signatures associated with prostate cancer cell line (PC-3) exposure to inactivated Zika virus. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15351. [PMID: 31653965 PMCID: PMC6814752 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-51954-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent outbreak of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection associated with microcephaly cases has elicited much research on the mechanisms involved in ZIKV-host cell interactions. It has been described that Zika virus impairs cell growth, raising a hypothesis about its oncolytic potential against cancer cells. ZIKV tumor cell growth inhibition was later confirmed for glioblastoma. It was also demonstrated that an inactivated ZIKV prototype (ZVp) based on bacterial outer membrane vesicles has antiproliferative activity upon other cancer cell lines, such as PC-3 prostate cancer cell. This study aims at understanding the pathways that might be involved with the antiproliferative effect of Zika virus against prostate cancer cells. A metabolomic approach based on high-resolution mass spectrometry analysis led to the identification of 21 statistically relevant markers of PC-3 cells treated with ZVp. The markers were associated with metabolic alterations that trigger lipid remodeling, endoplasmic reticulum stress, inflammatory mediators, as well as disrupted porphyrin and folate metabolism. These findings highlight molecular signatures of ZVp-induced response that may be involved on cellular pathways triggered by its antiproliferative effect. To our knowledge, this is the first reported metabolomic assessment of ZIKV effect on prostate cancer cells, a promising topic for further research.
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23
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Jacobs S, Delang L, Verbeken E, Neyts J, Kaptein SJF. A Viral Polymerase Inhibitor Reduces Zika Virus Replication in the Reproductive Organs of Male Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20092122. [PMID: 31032814 PMCID: PMC6539190 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In humans, Zika virus and viral RNA have been detected in semen up to 2.2 months and 6 months post infection (pi), respectively. Although the contribution of sexual transmission to the spread of ZIKV is too low to sustain an outbreak, it can increase the risk of infection and the epidemic size as well as prolong the duration of an outbreak. In this study, we explored the potential of antivirals to serve as an effective strategy to prevent sexual transmission. Male AG129 mice infected with a ZIKV isolate from Suriname were treated with the nucleoside analog, 7-deaza-2′-C-methyladenosine (7DMA), that was previously shown to be efficacious in reducing ZIKV viremia and delaying ZIKV-induced disease in mice. Following treatment, viral RNA and infectious virus titers were consistently reduced in the male reproductive organs compared to vehicle-treated mice. This reduction of ZIKV loads in the testis was confirmed by the detection of lower levels of ZIKV antigens. Our data illustrate the value of this mouse model to validate the efficacy of new potential ZIKV drugs at the level of the male reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofie Jacobs
- KU Leuven Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Leen Delang
- KU Leuven Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | | | - Johan Neyts
- KU Leuven Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Suzanne J F Kaptein
- KU Leuven Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rega Institute for Medical Research, Laboratory of Virology and Chemotherapy, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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Kurscheidt FA, Mesquita CSS, Damke GMZF, Damke E, Carvalho ARBDA, Suehiro TT, Teixeira JJV, da Silva VRS, Souza RP, Consolaro MEL. Persistence and clinical relevance of Zika virus in the male genital tract. Nat Rev Urol 2019; 16:211-230. [DOI: 10.1038/s41585-019-0149-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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25
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Motrich RD, Salazar FC, Breser ML, Mackern-Oberti JP, Godoy GJ, Olivera C, Paira DA, Rivero VE. Implications of prostate inflammation on male fertility. Andrologia 2018; 50:e13093. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ruben D. Motrich
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba; Córdoba Argentina
| | - Florencia C. Salazar
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba; Córdoba Argentina
| | - Maria L. Breser
- Instituto A.P. de Ciencias Básicas y Aplicadas; Universidad Nacional de Villa María, Ciudad Universitaria; Villa María, Cordoba Argentina
| | - Juan P. Mackern-Oberti
- Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo, IMBECU-CONICET; Mendoza Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Instituto de Fisiología; Universidad Nacional de Cuyo; Mendoza Argentina
| | - Gloria J. Godoy
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba; Córdoba Argentina
| | - Carolina Olivera
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba; Córdoba Argentina
| | - Daniela A. Paira
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba; Córdoba Argentina
| | - Virginia E. Rivero
- Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología, CIBICI-CONICET; Universidad Nacional de Córdoba; Córdoba Argentina
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26
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Abstract
Recent Zika virus outbreaks have been associated with severe outcomes, especially during pregnancy. A great deal of effort has been put toward understanding this virus, particularly the immune mechanisms responsible for rapid viral control in the majority of infections. Identifying and understanding the key mechanisms of immune control will provide the foundation for the development of effective vaccines and antiviral therapy. Here, we outline a mathematical modeling approach for analyzing the within-host dynamics of Zika virus, and we describe how these models can be used to understand key aspects of the viral life cycle and to predict antiviral efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Best
- Theoretical Biology and Biophysics, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545
| | - Alan S. Perelson
- Theoretical Biology and Biophysics, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545
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27
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Matusali G, Houzet L, Satie AP, Mahé D, Aubry F, Couderc T, Frouard J, Bourgeau S, Bensalah K, Lavoué S, Joguet G, Bujan L, Cabié A, Avelar G, Lecuit M, Le Tortorec A, Dejucq-Rainsford N. Zika virus infects human testicular tissue and germ cells. J Clin Invest 2018; 128:4697-4710. [PMID: 30063220 DOI: 10.1172/jci121735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) is a teratogenic mosquito-borne flavivirus that can be sexually transmitted from man to woman. The finding of high viral loads and prolonged viral shedding in semen suggests that ZIKV replicates within the human male genital tract, but its target organs are unknown. Using ex vivo infection of organotypic cultures, we demonstrated here that ZIKV replicates in human testicular tissue and infects a broad range of cell types, including germ cells, which we also identified as infected in semen from ZIKV-infected donors. ZIKV had no major deleterious effect on the morphology and hormonal production of the human testis explants. Infection induced a broad antiviral response but no IFN upregulation and minimal proinflammatory response in testis explants, with no cytopathic effect. Finally, we studied ZIKV infection in mouse testis and compared it to human infection. This study provides key insights into how ZIKV may persist in semen and alter semen parameters, as well as a valuable tool for testing antiviral agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Matusali
- Université de Rennes, Inserm, École des hautes études en santé publique (EHESP), Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail (Irset) - UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Laurent Houzet
- Université de Rennes, Inserm, École des hautes études en santé publique (EHESP), Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail (Irset) - UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Anne-Pascale Satie
- Université de Rennes, Inserm, École des hautes études en santé publique (EHESP), Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail (Irset) - UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Dominique Mahé
- Université de Rennes, Inserm, École des hautes études en santé publique (EHESP), Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail (Irset) - UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Florence Aubry
- Université de Rennes, Inserm, École des hautes études en santé publique (EHESP), Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail (Irset) - UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Thérèse Couderc
- Institut Pasteur, Biology of Infection Unit, Paris, France.,Inserm U1117, Paris, France
| | - Julie Frouard
- Université de Rennes, Inserm, École des hautes études en santé publique (EHESP), Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail (Irset) - UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Salomé Bourgeau
- Université de Rennes, Inserm, École des hautes études en santé publique (EHESP), Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail (Irset) - UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Karim Bensalah
- Service d'Urologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Sylvain Lavoué
- Unité de coordination hospitalière des prélèvements d'organes et de tissus, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Guillaume Joguet
- Centre Caribéen de Médecine de la Reproduction-CECOS CHU de Pointe-à-Pitre, Pointe-à-Pitre, France
| | - Louis Bujan
- Research Group on Human Fertility EA 3694, University Paul Sabatier Toulouse III - CECOS, Hôpital Paule de Viguier, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - André Cabié
- Inserm Centre d'Investigation Clinique 1424, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Martinique, and Service de maladies infectieuses, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Martinique, Fort de France, France
| | - Gleide Avelar
- Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Marc Lecuit
- Institut Pasteur, Biology of Infection Unit, Paris, France.,Inserm U1117, Paris, France.,Paris-Descartes University, Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Necker-Enfants Malades University Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Anna Le Tortorec
- Université de Rennes, Inserm, École des hautes études en santé publique (EHESP), Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail (Irset) - UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
| | - Nathalie Dejucq-Rainsford
- Université de Rennes, Inserm, École des hautes études en santé publique (EHESP), Institut de recherche en santé, environnement et travail (Irset) - UMR_S1085, Rennes, France
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28
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Counotte MJ, Kim CR, Wang J, Bernstein K, Deal CD, Broutet NJN, Low N. Sexual transmission of Zika virus and other flaviviruses: A living systematic review. PLoS Med 2018; 15:e1002611. [PMID: 30040845 PMCID: PMC6057622 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1002611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health authorities in the United States and Europe reported an increasing number of travel-associated episodes of sexual transmission of Zika virus (ZIKV) following the 2015-2017 ZIKV outbreak. This, and other scientific evidence, suggests that ZIKV is sexually transmissible in addition to having its primary mosquito-borne route. The objective of this systematic review and evidence synthesis was to clarify the epidemiology of sexually transmitted ZIKV. METHODS AND FINDINGS We performed a living (i.e., continually updated) systematic review of evidence published up to 15 April 2018 about sexual transmission of ZIKV and other arthropod-borne flaviviruses in humans and other animals. We defined 7 key elements of ZIKV sexual transmission for which we extracted data: (1) rectal and vaginal susceptibility to infection, (2) incubation period following sexual transmission, (3) serial interval between the onset of symptoms in a primary and secondary infected individuals, (4) duration of infectiousness, (5) reproduction number, (6) probability of transmission per sex act, and (7) transmission rate. We identified 1,227 unique publications and included 128, of which 77 presented data on humans and 51 presented data on animals. Laboratory experiments confirm that rectal and vaginal mucosae are susceptible to infection with ZIKV and that the testis serves as a reservoir for the virus in animal models. Sexual transmission was reported in 36 human couples: 34/36 of these involved male-to-female sexual transmission. The median serial symptom onset interval in 15 couples was 12 days (interquartile range: 10-14.5); the maximum was 44 days. We found evidence from 2 prospective cohorts that ZIKV RNA is present in human semen with a median duration of 34 days (95% CI: 28-41 days) and 35 days (no CI given) (low certainty of evidence, according to GRADE). Aggregated data about detection of ZIKV RNA from 37 case reports and case series indicate a median duration of detection of ZIKV of 40 days (95% CI: 30-49 days) and maximum duration of 370 days in semen. In human vaginal fluid, median duration was 14 days (95% CI: 7-20 days) and maximum duration was 37 days (very low certainty). Infectious virus in human semen was detected for a median duration of 12 days (95% CI: 1-21 days) and maximum of 69 days. Modelling studies indicate that the reproduction number is below 1 (very low certainty). Evidence was lacking to estimate the incubation period or the transmission rate. Evidence on sexual transmission of other flaviviruses was scarce. The certainty of the evidence is limited because of uncontrolled residual bias. CONCLUSIONS The living systematic review and sexual transmission framework allowed us to assess evidence about the risk of sexual transmission of ZIKV. ZIKV is more likely transmitted from men to women than from women to men. For other flaviviruses, evidence of sexual transmissibility is still absent. Taking into account all available data about the duration of detection of ZIKV in culture and from the serial interval, our findings suggest that the infectious period for sexual transmission of ZIKV is shorter than estimates from the earliest post-outbreak studies, which were based on reverse transcription PCR alone.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caron Rahn Kim
- Department of Reproductive Health and Research, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jingying Wang
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Kyle Bernstein
- Division of Sexually Transmitted Disease Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Carolyn D. Deal
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | | | - Nicola Low
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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29
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Stassen L, Armitage CW, van der Heide DJ, Beagley KW, Frentiu FD. Zika Virus in the Male Reproductive Tract. Viruses 2018; 10:v10040198. [PMID: 29659541 PMCID: PMC5923492 DOI: 10.3390/v10040198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) are resurging across the globe. Zika virus (ZIKV) has caused significant concern in recent years because it can lead to congenital malformations in babies and Guillain-Barré syndrome in adults. Unlike other arboviruses, ZIKV can be sexually transmitted and may persist in the male reproductive tract. There is limited information regarding the impact of ZIKV on male reproductive health and fertility. Understanding the mechanisms that underlie persistent ZIKV infections in men is critical to developing effective vaccines and therapies. Mouse and macaque models have begun to unravel the pathogenesis of ZIKV infection in the male reproductive tract, with the testes and prostate gland implicated as potential reservoirs for persistent ZIKV infection. Here, we summarize current knowledge regarding the pathogenesis of ZIKV in the male reproductive tract, the development of animal models to study ZIKV infection at this site, and prospects for vaccines and therapeutics against persistent ZIKV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liesel Stassen
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, and School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4006, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Charles W Armitage
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, and School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4006, Queensland, Australia.
| | - David J van der Heide
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, and School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4006, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Kenneth W Beagley
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, and School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4006, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Francesca D Frentiu
- Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, and School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4006, Queensland, Australia.
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30
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Ramani S, Crawford SE, Blutt SE, Estes MK. Human organoid cultures: transformative new tools for human virus studies. Curr Opin Virol 2018; 29:79-86. [PMID: 29656244 PMCID: PMC5944856 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2018.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Revised: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Studies of human infectious diseases have been limited by the paucity of functional models that mimic normal human physiology and pathophysiology. Recent advances in the development of multicellular, physiologically active organotypic cultures produced from embryonic and pluripotent stem cells, as well as from stem cells isolated from biopsies and surgical specimens are allowing unprecedented new studies and discoveries about host-microbe interactions. Here, we summarize recent developments in the use of organoids for studying human viral pathogens, including intestinal infections with human rotavirus, norovirus, enteroviruses and adenoviruses (intestinal organoids and enteroids), neuronal infections with Zika virus (cerebral organoids) and respiratory infections with respiratory syncytial virus in (lung bud organoids). Biologic discovery of host-specific genetic and epigenetic factors affecting infection, and responses to infection that lead to disease are possible with the use of organoid cultures. Continued development to increase the complexity of these cultures by including components of the normal host tissue microenvironment such as immune cells, blood vessels and microbiome, will facilitate studies on human viral pathogenesis, and advance the development of platforms for pre-clinical evaluation of vaccines, antivirals and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasirekha Ramani
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sue E Crawford
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sarah E Blutt
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Mary K Estes
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA; Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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