1
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Tong KY, Liu WW, Sun LW, Liu DY, Xiang YZ, Li C, Chai LW, Chen K, Huang GN, Li JY. Novel PLCZ1 mutation caused polyspermy during in vitro fertilization. Asian J Androl 2024; 26:389-395. [PMID: 38445955 DOI: 10.4103/aja202376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Failure of oocyte activation, including polyspermy and defects in pronuclear (PN) formation, triggers early embryonic developmental arrest. Many studies have shown that phospholipase C zeta 1 ( PLCZ1 ) mutations cause failure of PN formation following intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI); however, whether PLCZ1 mutation is associated with polyspermy during in vitro fertilization (IVF) remains unknown. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed to identify candidate mutations in couples with primary infertility. Sanger sequencing was used to validate the mutations. Multiple PLCZ1 -mutated sperm were injected into human and mouse oocytes to explore whether PN formation was induced. Assisted oocyte activation (AOA) after ICSI was performed to overcome the failure of oocyte activation. We identified three PLCZ1 mutations in three patients who experienced polyspermy during IVF cycles, including a novel missense mutation c.1154C>T, p.R385Q. PN formation failure was observed during the ICSI cycle. However, injection of multiple PLCZ1- mutated sperm induced PN formation, suggesting that the Ca 2+ oscillations induced by the sperm exceeded the necessary threshold for PN formation. AOA after ICSI enabled normal fertilization, and all patients achieved successful pregnancies. These findings expand the mutational spectrum of PLCZ1 and suggest an important role for PLCZ1 in terms of blocking polyspermy. Furthermore, this study may benefit genetic diagnoses in cases of abnormal fertilization and provide potential appropriate therapeutic measures for these patients with sperm-derived polyspermy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Ya Tong
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400012, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing 400012, China
| | - Wei-Wei Liu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400012, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing 400012, China
| | - Li-Wei Sun
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400012, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing 400012, China
| | - Dong-Yun Liu
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400012, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing 400012, China
| | - Ye-Zhou Xiang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400012, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing 400012, China
| | - Chong Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400012, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing 400012, China
| | - Lu-Wei Chai
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400012, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing 400012, China
| | - Ke Chen
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400012, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing 400012, China
| | - Guo-Ning Huang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400012, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing 400012, China
| | - Jing-Yu Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400012, China
- Chongqing Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing 400012, China
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2
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Parrella A, Medrano L, Aizpurua J, Gómez-Torres MJ. Phospholipase C Zeta in Human Spermatozoa: A Systematic Review on Current Development and Clinical Application. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1344. [PMID: 38279344 PMCID: PMC10815952 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021344] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
During fertilization, the fusion of the spermatozoa with the oocytes causes the release of calcium from the oocyte endoplasmatic reticulum. This, in turn, triggers a series of calcium ion (Ca2+) oscillations, a process known as oocyte activation. The sperm-specific factor responsible for oocyte activation is phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ). Men undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) with their spermatozoa lacking PLCζ are incapable of generating Ca2+ oscillation, leading to fertilization failure. The immunofluorescence assay is the most used technique to assess the expression and localization of PLCζ and to diagnose patients with reduced/absent ability to activate the oocytes. In these patients, the use of assisted oocyte activation (AOA) technique can help to yield successful ICSI results and shorten the time of pregnancy. However, the production of a stable PLCζ recombinant protein represents a new powerful therapeutic approach to treating individuals with this condition. We aim to conduct a systematic review focusing on the expression, level, and localization of PLCζ, discussing the novel genetic mutation associated with its impairment. In addition, we highlight the benefits of AOA, looking at new and less invasive methods to diagnose and treat cases with PLCζ dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Parrella
- IVF Life, Reproductive Medicine, 03540 Alicante, Spain; (A.P.); (L.M.); (J.A.)
| | - Llanos Medrano
- IVF Life, Reproductive Medicine, 03540 Alicante, Spain; (A.P.); (L.M.); (J.A.)
| | - Jon Aizpurua
- IVF Life, Reproductive Medicine, 03540 Alicante, Spain; (A.P.); (L.M.); (J.A.)
- Cátedra Human Fertility, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
| | - María José Gómez-Torres
- Cátedra Human Fertility, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
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Wei Y, Wang J, Qu R, Zhang W, Tan Y, Sha Y, Li L, Yin T. Genetic mechanisms of fertilization failure and early embryonic arrest: a comprehensive review. Hum Reprod Update 2024; 30:48-80. [PMID: 37758324 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmad026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infertility and pregnancy loss are longstanding problems. Successful fertilization and high-quality embryos are prerequisites for an ongoing pregnancy. Studies have proven that every stage in the human reproductive process is regulated by multiple genes and any problem, at any step, may lead to fertilization failure (FF) or early embryonic arrest (EEA). Doctors can diagnose the pathogenic factors involved in FF and EEA by using genetic methods. With the progress in the development of new genetic technologies, such as single-cell RNA analysis and whole-exome sequencing, a new approach has opened up for us to directly study human germ cells and reproductive development. These findings will help us to identify the unique mechanism(s) that leads to FF and EEA in order to find potential treatments. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The goal of this review is to compile current genetic knowledge related to FF and EEA, clarifying the mechanisms involved and providing clues for clinical diagnosis and treatment. SEARCH METHODS PubMed was used to search for relevant research articles and reviews, primarily focusing on English-language publications from January 1978 to June 2023. The search terms included fertilization failure, early embryonic arrest, genetic, epigenetic, whole-exome sequencing, DNA methylation, chromosome, non-coding RNA, and other related keywords. Additional studies were identified by searching reference lists. This review primarily focuses on research conducted in humans. However, it also incorporates relevant data from animal models when applicable. The results were presented descriptively, and individual study quality was not assessed. OUTCOMES A total of 233 relevant articles were included in the final review, from 3925 records identified initially. The review provides an overview of genetic factors and mechanisms involved in the human reproductive process. The genetic mutations and other genetic mechanisms of FF and EEA were systematically reviewed, for example, globozoospermia, oocyte activation failure, maternal effect gene mutations, zygotic genome activation abnormalities, chromosome abnormalities, and epigenetic abnormalities. Additionally, the review summarizes progress in treatments for different gene defects, offering new insights for clinical diagnosis and treatment. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The information provided in this review will facilitate the development of more accurate molecular screening tools for diagnosing infertility using genetic markers and networks in human reproductive development. The findings will also help guide clinical practice by identifying appropriate interventions based on specific gene mutations. For example, when an individual has obvious gene mutations related to FF, ICSI is recommended instead of IVF. However, in the case of genetic defects such as phospholipase C zeta1 (PLCZ1), actin-like7A (ACTL7A), actin-like 9 (ACTL9), and IQ motif-containing N (IQCN), ICSI may also fail to fertilize. We can consider artificial oocyte activation technology with ICSI to improve fertilization rate and reduce monetary and time costs. In the future, fertility is expected to be improved or restored by interfering with or supplementing the relevant genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqiu Wei
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jingxuan Wang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Rui Qu
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Weiqian Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yiling Tan
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanwei Sha
- Department of Andrology, Women and Children's Hospital, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Research, School of Medicine, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Lin Li
- Central Laboratory, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tailang Yin
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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4
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Gonzalez-Castro RA, Carnevale EM. Phospholipase C Zeta 1 (PLCZ1): The Function and Potential for Fertility Assessment and In Vitro Embryo Production in Cattle and Horses. Vet Sci 2023; 10:698. [PMID: 38133249 PMCID: PMC10747197 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10120698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Phospholipase C Zeta 1 (PLCZ1) is considered a major sperm-borne oocyte activation factor. After gamete fusion, PLCZ1 triggers calcium oscillations in the oocyte, resulting in oocyte activation. In assisted fertilization, oocyte activation failure is a major cause of low fertility. Most cases of oocyte activation failures in humans related to male infertility are associated with gene mutations and/or altered PLCZ1. Consequently, PLCZ1 evaluation could be an effective diagnostic marker and predictor of sperm fertilizing potential for in vivo and in vitro embryo production. The characterization of PLCZ1 has been principally investigated in men and mice, with less known about the PLCZ1 impact on assisted reproduction in other species, such as cattle and horses. In horses, sperm PLCZ1 varies among stallions, and sperm populations with high PLCZ1 are associated with cleavage after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In contrast, bull sperm is less able to initiate calcium oscillations and undergo nuclear remodeling, resulting in poor cleavage after ICSI. Advantageously, injections of PLCZ1 are able to rescue oocyte failure in mouse oocytes after ICSI, promoting full development and birth. However, further research is needed to optimize PLCZ1 diagnostic tests for consistent association with fertility and to determine whether PLCZ1 as an oocyte-activating treatment is a physiological, efficient, and safe method for improving assisted fertilization in cattle and horses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elaine M. Carnevale
- Equine Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
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5
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Wang X, Zhou R, Lu X, Dai S, Liu M, Jiang C, Yang Y, Shen Y, Wang Y, Liu H. Identification of nonfunctional PABPC1L causing oocyte maturation abnormalities and early embryonic arrest in female primary infertility. Clin Genet 2023; 104:648-658. [PMID: 37723834 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14425] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
Oocyte maturation arrest, fertilization failure, and early embryonic arrest are important causes of female infertility, whereas the genetic events that contribute to these processes are largely unknown. Loss-of-function of PABPC1L in mice has been suggested to cause female infertility involved in the absence of mature oocytes or embryos in vivo or in vitro. However, the role of PABPC1L in human female reproduction remains largely elusive. In this study, we identified a homozygous missense mutation (c.536G>A, p.R179Q) and a compound heterozygous mutation (c.793C>T, p.R265W; c.1201C>T, p.Q401*) in PABPC1L in two unrelated infertile females characterized by recurrent oocyte maturation abnormalities and early embryonic arrest. These variants resulted in nonfunctional PABPC1L protein and were associated with impaired chromatin configuration and transcriptional silencing in GV oocytes. Moreover, the binding capacity of mutant PABPC1L to mRNAs related to oocyte maturation and early embryonic development was decreased significantly. Our findings revealed novel PABPC1L mutations causing oocyte maturation abnormalities and early embryonic arrest, confirming the essential role of PABPC1L in human female fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruixi Zhou
- Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaowei Lu
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Siyu Dai
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Mohan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chuan Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yanting Yang
- Medical Genetics Department/Prenatal Diagnostic Center, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ying Shen
- Department of Obstetrics/Gynecology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric, Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hanmin Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Pediatric Pulmonology and Immunology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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6
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Zhang X, Hu C, Wu L. Advances in the study of genetic factors and clinical interventions for fertilization failure. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023:10.1007/s10815-023-02810-2. [PMID: 37289376 PMCID: PMC10371943 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02810-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Fertilization failure refers to the failure in the pronucleus formation, evaluating 16-18 h post in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection. It can be caused by sperm, oocytes, and sperm-oocyte interaction and lead to great financial and physical stress to the patients. Recent advancements in genetics, molecular biology, and clinical-assisted reproductive technology have greatly enhanced research into the causes and treatment of fertilization failure. Here, we review the causes that have been reported to lead to fertilization failure in fertilization processes, including the sperm acrosome reaction, penetration of the cumulus and zona pellucida, recognition and fusion of the sperm and oocyte membranes, oocyte activation, and pronucleus formation. Additionally, we summarize the progress of corresponding treatment methods of fertilization failure. This review will provide the latest research advances in the genetic aspects of fertilization failure and will benefit both researchers and clinical practitioners in reproduction and genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangjun Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Congyuan Hu
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China
| | - Limin Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230001, Anhui, China.
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7
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Lin Y, Huang Y, Li B, Zhang T, Niu Y, Hu S, Ding Y, Yao G, Wei Z, Yao N, Yao Y, Lu Y, He Y, Zhu Q, Zhang L, Sun Y. Novel mutations in PLCZ1 lead to early embryonic arrest as a male factor. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1193248. [PMID: 37261077 PMCID: PMC10227596 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1193248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Early embryonic arrest is one of the causes of assist reproduction technology (ART) failure. We have previously reported that the first sperm-derived genetic factor, ACTL7a mutations, could lead to early embryonic arrest. However, whether there are other male genetic factors associated with early embryonic arrest remains elusive. Here, we reported bi-allelic mutations in PLCZ1, a well-known causal gene of total fertilization failure, in four infertile males. Among these mutations, p.403_404del, p.I489S, and p.W536X were newly reported in this study. Histological and Western blotting analysis of the patients' sperm indicated these variants as loss-of-function mutations. These patients manifested normal conventional semen parameters and ultra-structures in sperm heads. However, among four in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles, 81.8% (18/22) of the oocytes were polyspermic fertilized, which was rarely reported in PLCZ1-related male patients. In the following six ICSI cycles, artificial oocyte activation (AOA) was applied and successfully rescued the fertilization failure and polyspermy phenotypes, with 31.3% (15/48) of the MII oocytes normally fertilized. However, 60.0% (9/15) of these normally fertilized zygotes were arrested at 2-5-cell stage, with one failing to cleave, indicating that PLCZ1 was not only necessary for fertilization, but also crucial for early embryonic development. However, these rescued zygotes showed a lower potential in developing into blastocysts when cultured in vitro. Thus, fresh cleavage transfer was tried and two live births were successfully achieved thereafter. In conclusion, this study provided novel mutations in PLCZ1 gene to expand the pathogenic mutational spectrum in male infertility and demonstrated that PLCZ1 was a crucial sperm-related genetic factor for early embryonic arrest. We also proposed that cleavage transfer after ICSI and AOA treatment could be a potential treatment method for male patients carrying bi-allelic mutations in PLCZ1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunying Lin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Boyu Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yichao Niu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuanggang Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Ding
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Guangxin Yao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhe Wei
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning Yao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yejie Yao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yao Lu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yaqiong He
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Qinling Zhu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine Center, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
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Curnow EC, Vannucci B, Muller CH, Herndon CN. Successful Live Birth Outcome Following Assisted Activation of Failed Fertilized Oocytes. Reprod Sci 2023:10.1007/s43032-023-01186-z. [PMID: 36752985 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01186-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Here, we report on a rare case of a live birth following assisted oocyte activation of failed fertilized oocytes. A 34-year-old nulliparous woman presenting at a university-based assisted reproductive technology center with multi-factor infertility underwent an IVF cycle using intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) of frozen/thawed testicular sperm aspiration (TESA) sample and preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A). All oocytes displayed failed fertilization at assessment 18 h post-ICSI. Rescue of this cycle was achieved with the use of an assisted oocyte activation (AOA) protocol, whereby oocytes were subjected to AOA with calcium ionophore at 19 h post-ICSI and assessed for blastocyst development. Blastocyst-stage embryos were biopsied for PGT-A analysis with one of the three embryos reporting as genetically normal. This embryo was transferred in a frozen embryo transfer cycle and resulted in a normal pregnancy and term live birth. In conclusion, application of AOA protocols following failed fertilization outcomes can lead to viable, genetically normal embryos capable of resulting in a live birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliza C Curnow
- REI Division, Department of ObGyn, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA.
| | - Bianca Vannucci
- REI Division, Department of ObGyn, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Charles H Muller
- Male Fertility Lab, Department of Urology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
| | - Christopher N Herndon
- REI Division, Department of ObGyn, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195, USA
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9
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Zhang J, Yao G, Zhang T, Hu J, Yang G, He J, He Q, Fan H, Bai Y, Sun Y. Effect of calcium ionophore (A23187) on embryo development and its safety in PGT cycles. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 13:979248. [PMID: 36686427 PMCID: PMC9846205 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.979248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has tremendous advantages for resolving the problem of male infertility. However, ICSI fertilization can fail in some patients because of various reasons, primarily because of the failure of oocyte activation. Oocytes have been activated using calcium ionophore (A23187) in previous clinical cases of ICSI fertilization failure. However, studies on the efficiency of calcium ionophore (A23187) activation, its effects on the developmental potential of embryos, and its effects on pregnancy outcomes after embryo transfer are relatively limited. Methods In this study, we investigated the safety and long-term efficacy of calcium ionophore (A23187) by analyzing its effects on fertilization, embryonic development, aneuploidy, and pregnancy outcomes in patients undergoing preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) cycles. Results Comparative analyses of the activation followed by PGT (A-PGT) and PGT groups revealed no significant differences between the oocyte cleavage rate and high-quality embryo rate (98.19% vs. 98.63% and 63.13% vs. 68.39%, respectively, p > 0.05). Although the blastocyst formation rate was significantly lower in the A-PGT group than that in the PGT group (52.22% vs. 59.90%, p < 0.05), no significant difference was observed in the blastocyst aneuploidy rates of the two groups (24.49% vs. 24.55%, p > 0.05). Furthermore, no significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of the live birth rate (43.75% vs. 52.99%), week of delivery, and birth weight of the infants after transfer of euploid blastocysts (p > 0.05). Furthermore, the 2PN rate, oocyte cleavage rate, blastocyst formation rate, and live birth rate were found to be significantly lower in the A-ICSI group than those in the ICSI group (p < 0.01), but there was no significant difference between the two groups in the week of delivery and birth weight of live births (p > 0.05). Discussion These results suggest that the use of calcium ionophore (A23187) activation as an option in cases of ICSI fertilization failure does not affect the ploidy of developing blastocysts and has no significant effects on the week of delivery or birth weight after transfer. Thus, we provide a scientific basis for the clinical safety of oocyte activation using calcium ionophore (A23187).
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Affiliation(s)
- Junya Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guidong Yao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Tongwei Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jingyi Hu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guang Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiahuan He
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qina He
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Huiying Fan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yucheng Bai
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yingpu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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10
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Peng Y, Lin Y, Deng K, Shen J, Cui Y, Liu J, Yang X, Diao F. Mutations in PLCZ1 induce male infertility associated with polyspermy and fertilization failure. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:53-64. [PMID: 36529831 PMCID: PMC9840742 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02670-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the genetic causes of polyspermy and total fertilization failure (TFF) in two independent male patients suffering from male infertility. METHODS Immunofluorescence (IF) staining was used to detect the localization of the PLCζ protein in sperm and the maternal pronucleus in the zygote. Genomic DNA samples were extracted from the peripheral blood of patients and their families. The ExAC database was used to identify the frequency of corresponding mutations. The PLCZ1 mutations were validated by Sanger sequencing. The pathogenicity of the identified mutations and their possible effects on the protein were assessed using in silico tools and molecular modeling. RESULTS We identified a reported homozygous mutation c.588C > A (p.Cys196Ter) and a compound heterozygous mutation c.2 T > C(p.Met1Thr)/c.590G > A (p.Arg197His) with one novel mutation in PLCZ1. The IF results showed that these multipronuclear zygotes formed as a result of polyspermy. In silico analysis predicted that the mutations result in disease-causing proteins. IF staining revealed that PLCζ is abnormally localized in the sperm samples from the two affected patients. Assisted oocyte activation (AOA) successfully rescued polyspermy and TFF and achieved pregnancy in two patients with the PLCZ1 mutation. CONCLUSION We identified a homozygous mutation in PLCZ1 (c.588C > A [p.Cys196Ter]) in a male patient with polyspermy after in vitro fertilization (IVF) as well as a compound heterozygous mutation c.2 T > C(p.Met1Thr)/c.590G > A (p.Arg197His) with one novel mutation in a male patient with fertilization failure after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and we provide evidence that the homozygous mutation can cause polyspermy and the compound heterozygous mutation can cause fertilization failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yawen Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuting Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 People’s Republic of China
| | - Kai Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiandong Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 People’s Republic of China
| | - Yugui Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiayin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 People’s Republic of China
| | - Feiyang Diao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029 People’s Republic of China
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11
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Wang T, Cao B, Cai Y, Chen S, Wang B, Yuan Y, Zhang Q. Plcz1 Deficiency Decreased Fertility in Male Mice Which Is Associated with Sperm Quality Decline and Abnormal Cytoskeleton in Epididymis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:314. [PMID: 36613757 PMCID: PMC9820195 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Phospholipase C zeta1 (Plcz1) was known to be a physiological factor in sperm that activates oocytes to complete meiosis by triggering Ca2+ oscillations after fertilisation. However, the role of male Plcz1 in spermatogenesis and early embryo development in progeny has been controversial. Plcz1 knockout (Plcz1-/-) mouse model (Plcz1m3 and Plcz1m5) was generated by using the CRISPR-Cas9 system. The fertility of Plcz1-/- mice was evaluated by analysing the number of offsprings, sperm quality, pathological changes in the testis and epididymis. RNA-seq and RT-PCR were performed to screen differentially expressed genes and signalling pathways related to fertility in Plcz1-/- mice. Further mechanism was explored by using Plcz1-/- cells. Plcz1 knockout led to hypofertility in male mice. In particular, a significant time delay in development and polyspermy was found in eggs fertilized by both Plcz1m3 and Plcz1m5 sperm. Interestingly, a decline in sperm quality combined with pathological changes in epididymis was found in Plcz1m3 mice but not in Plcz1m5 mice. Notably, abnormal cytoskeleton appears in epididymis of Plcz1m3 mice and Plcz1-/- cells. Cytoskeleton damage of epididymis is involved in fertility decline of males upon Plcz1 deficiency in this model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
| | - Binbin Cao
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
| | - Yao Cai
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
| | - Si Chen
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
| | - Baozhu Wang
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
| | - Yan Yuan
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
| | - Quan Zhang
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
- Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225012, China
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12
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Mirsanei JS, Sheibak N, Zandieh Z, Mehdizadeh M, Aflatoonian R, Tabatabaei M, Mousavi AS, Amjadi F. Microfluidic chips as a method for sperm selection improve fertilization rate in couples with fertilization failure. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2022; 306:901-910. [PMID: 35650258 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06618-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Sperm quality plays a vital role in successful fertilization and pregnancy. Patients with fertilization failure (total failure or low-fertilization rate) despite having normal semen parameters are a challenging group whose sperm cannot fertilize the oocyte via the intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) technique. Microfluidics is offered as a new method for proper sperm sorting. METHODS This study aimed to evaluate sperm parameters, DNA fragmentation index (DFI), expression of phospholipase C zeta 1 (PLCZ1), and transition nuclear proteins 1 (TNP1) mRNAs in sperm selected by microfluidic sperm sorting (MSS) chip compared with conventional density gradient centrifugation technique in patients with fertilization failure following ICSI. Subsequence fertilization rate and embryo quality were assayed. RESULTS Normal morphology and total motility were significantly higher, and DFI was significantly lower in sperm selected by the MSS chip in fertilization failure and control groups. The RT-PCR results demonstrated a significant increase in the expression of PLCZ1 and TNP1 genes in sperm of both groups selected by MSS chips compared to the DGC method. In addition, with the selected sperm by MSS chip, an increase in fertilization rate and improvement of embryo quality was obtained. CONCLUSION The present study findings show that sperm sorting by the microfluidic method improves fertilization rate in patients with poor fertilization outcomes following ICSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamileh Sadat Mirsanei
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nadia Sheibak
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Zandieh
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Mehdizadeh
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Aflatoonian
- Department of Endocrinology and Female Infertility, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryamsadat Tabatabaei
- Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atieh Sadat Mousavi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemehsadat Amjadi
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Reproductive Sciences and Technology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Shahid Akbarabadi Clinical Research Development Unit (ShACRDU), Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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13
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Yuan H, Chen J, Li N, Miao H, Chen Y, Lyu S, Qiao Y, Yang G, Luo H, Chen L, Mao F, Huang L, He Y, Hu S, Miao C, Qian Y, Feng R. Target-Sequencing of Female Infertility Pathogenic Gene Panel and a Novel TUBB8 Loss-of-Function Mutation. Front Genet 2022; 13:865103. [PMID: 35620457 PMCID: PMC9127544 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.865103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic screening is an important approach for etiology determination and helps to optimize administration protocols in reproductive centers. After the first pathogenic gene of female infertility was reported in 2016, more and more new pathogenic genes were discovered, and we sought to develop an efficient and cost-effective method for genetic screening in patients. In this study, we designed a target-sequencing panel with 22 female infertility-related genes, namely, TUBB8, PATL2, WEE2, and PANX1 and sequenced 68 primary infertility (PI) and recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) patients. We sequenced 68 samples reaching an average depth of 1559× and detected 3,134 variants. Among them, 62.2% were synonymous single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) and 36.3% were non-synonymous SNVs. The remaining 1.5% are indels (insertions and deletions) and stop-gains. DNAH11 and TUBB8 are the two genes that mutated most frequently. We also found a novel TUBB8 variant (c.898_900del; p.300_300del), proved its loss-of-function mechanism, and profiled the interactome of the wild-type (WT) and mutant TUBB8 proteins. Overall, this target-sequencing method provides an efficient and cost-effective approach for screening in IVF clinics and will support researchers for the discovery of new pathogenic variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxia Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianhua Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Na Li
- The Reproduction Engineer Key Laboratory of Shanxi Health Committee, Department of Reproductive Genetics, Institute of Reproduction and Genetics of Changzhi Medical College, Heping Hospital of Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, China
| | - Hui Miao
- The Reproduction Engineer Key Laboratory of Shanxi Health Committee, Department of Reproductive Genetics, Institute of Reproduction and Genetics of Changzhi Medical College, Heping Hospital of Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, China
| | - Yao Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shuyan Lyu
- The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huaian, China
| | - Yu Qiao
- The Affiliated Huaian No. 1 People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Huaian, China
| | - Guangping Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Liangliang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Fei Mao
- Reproductive Medical Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lingli Huang
- Reproductive Medical Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanni He
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Saifei Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Congxiu Miao
- The Reproduction Engineer Key Laboratory of Shanxi Health Committee, Department of Reproductive Genetics, Institute of Reproduction and Genetics of Changzhi Medical College, Heping Hospital of Changzhi Medical College, Changzhi, China
| | - Yun Qian
- Reproductive Medical Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruizhi Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.,Reproductive Medical Center of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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14
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Chen H, Li P, Du X, Zhao Y, Wang L, Tian Y, Song X, Shuai L, Bai X, Chen L. Homozygous Loss of Septin12, but not its Haploinsufficiency, Leads to Male Infertility and Fertilization Failure. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:850052. [PMID: 35547809 PMCID: PMC9082362 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.850052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The SEPTIN12 gene has been associated with male infertility. Male Septin12+/− chimera mice were infertile, supporting the prevailing view that SEPTIN12 haploinsufficiency causes male infertility. In this study, we identified a heterozygous mutation on SEPTIN12, c.72C>A (p.Cys24Ter) in the male partner of a patient couple, who had a previous fertilization failure (FF) after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and became pregnant after ICSI together with artificial oocyte activation (AOA). To investigate the role of SEPTIN12 in FF and oocyte activation, we constructed Septin12 knockout mice. Surprisingly, Septin12−/− male mice, but not Septin12+/− male mice, are infertile, and have reduced sperm counts and abnormal sperm morphology. Importantly, AOA treatment enhances the 2-cell embryo rate of ICSI embryos injected with Septin12−/− sperm, indicating that FF caused by male Septin12 deficiency is overcome by AOA. Mechanistically, loss of PLCζ around the acrosome might be the reason for FF of Septin12−/− sperm. Taken together, our data indicated that homozygous knockout of Septin12, but not Septin12 haploinsufficiency, leads to male infertility and FF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haixia Chen
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Peng Li
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Frontiers Science Center for Cell Responses, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Biology Education and College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Institute of Translational Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaoling Du
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Frontiers Science Center for Cell Responses, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Biology Education and College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Institute of Translational Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Yiding Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Lingling Wang
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Frontiers Science Center for Cell Responses, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Biology Education and College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Institute of Translational Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Ye Tian
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xueru Song
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Ling Shuai
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology and College of Pharmacy, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaohong Bai
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Health and Eugenics, Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Lingyi Chen
- Tianjin Union Medical Center, State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Protein Sciences, Frontiers Science Center for Cell Responses, National Demonstration Center for Experimental Biology Education and College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Institute of Translational Medicine, Tianjin, China
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15
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Attia A, Nicholson C, Martins da Silva SJ. Artificial Egg Activation Using Calcium Ionophore. Semin Reprod Med 2022; 39:e5-e11. [PMID: 35272388 DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1742171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Artificial oocyte activation, most commonly using calcium ionophore, is a treatment add-on utilized to avoid recurrence of abnormally low or total failed fertilization following in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection. It aims to modify defective physiological processes, specifically calcium-mediated cell signaling that are critical to events required for fertilization. Routine application of artificial oocyte activation is neither required nor recommended; however, it represents an invaluable intervention for a subgroup of patients affected by sperm-related oocyte activation deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Attia
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Cara Nicholson
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah J Martins da Silva
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
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16
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Liu R, Yan Z, Fan Y, Qu R, Chen B, Li B, Wu L, Wu H, Mu J, Zhao L, Wang W, Dong J, Zeng Y, Li Q, Wang L, Sang Q, Zhang Z, Kuang Y. OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:1394-1405. [PMID: 35551387 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ruyi Liu
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zheng Yan
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yong Fan
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ronggui Qu
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Biaobang Chen
- Institute of Reproductive Health, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Wu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haibo Wu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Mu
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Zhao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies), Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Dong
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yang Zeng
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiaoli Li
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing Sang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhihua Zhang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, The Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, The State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanping Kuang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Xue Y, Cheng X, Xiong Y, Li K. Gene mutations associated with fertilization failure after in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1086883. [PMID: 36589837 PMCID: PMC9800785 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1086883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertilization failure during assisted reproductive technologies (ART) is often unpredictable, as this failure is encountered only after in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) have been performed. The etiology of fertilization failure remains elusive. More and more mutations of genes are found to be involved in human fertilization failure in infertile patients as high throughput sequencing techniques are becoming widely applied. In this review, the mutations of nine important genes expressed in sperm or oocytes, PLCZ1, ACTL7A, ACTL9, DNAH17, WEE2, TUBB8, NLRP5, ZP2, and TLE6, were summarized and discussed. These abnormalities mainly have shown Mendelian patterns of inheritance, including dominant and recessive inheritance, although de novo mutations were present in some cases. The review revealed the crucial roles of each reported gene in the fertilization process and summarized all known mutations and their corresponding phenotypes. The review suggested the mutations might become promising targets for precision treatments in reproductive medicine. Moreover, our work will provide some helpful clues for genetic counseling, risk prediction, and optimizing clinical treatments for human infertility by supplying the useful and timely information on the genetic causes leading to fertilization failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamei Xue
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohong Cheng
- Institute for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuping Xiong
- Institute for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kun Li
- Institute for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal’s & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Kun Li,
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18
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Wang J, Zhang J, Sun X, Lin Y, Cai L, Cui Y, Liu J, Liu M, Yang X. Novel bi-allelic variants in ACTL7A are associated with male infertility and total fertilization failure. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:3161-3169. [PMID: 34727571 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 09/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What are the genetic causes of total fertilization failure (TFF) in a proband suffering from male infertility? SUMMARY ANSWER Novel compound heterozygous variants (c.[463C>T];[1084G>A], p.[(Arg155Ter)];[(Gly362Arg)]) in actin-like protein 7A (ACTL7A) were identified as a causative genetic factor for human TFF. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY ACTL7A, an actin-related protein, is essential for spermatogenesis. ACTL7A variants have been reported to cause early embryonic arrest in humans but have not been studied in human TFF. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We recruited a non-consanguineous family whose son was affected by infertility characterized by TFF after ICSI. Whole-exome sequencing was used to identify the potential pathogenic variants. Artificial oocyte activation (AOA) after ICSI was performed to overcome TFF and any resulting pregnancy was followed up. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Sanger sequencing was performed to validate the variants. Pathogenicity of the identified variants was predicted by in silico tools. The ultrastructure of spermatozoa was studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Immunofluorescence staining and western blotting were used to investigate the mechanism of the variants on the affected spermatozoa. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Novel compound heterozygous variants in ACTL7A (c.[463C>T];[1084G>A], p.[(Arg155Ter)];[(Gly362Arg)]) were identified in a family with TFF after ICSI. In silico analysis predicted that the variants lead to a disease-causing protein. TEM showed that the ACTL7A variants caused ultrastructural defects in the acrosome and perinuclear theca. Protein expression of ACTL7A and phospholipase C zeta, a key sperm-borne oocyte activation factor, was significantly reduced in the affected sperm compared to healthy controls, suggesting that the ACLT7A variants lead to an oocyte activation deficiency and TFF. AOA by calcium ionophore (A23187) after ICSI successfully rescued the TFF and achieved a live birth for the patient with ACTL7A variants. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Given the rarity of sperm-associated TFF, only one family with an only child carrying the ACTL7A variants was found. In addition, the TFF phenotype was not assessed in two or more ICSI cycles, due to the intervention in ICSI with AOA after one failed ICSI cycle. Further studies should validate the ACTL7A variants and its effect on male infertility in larger independent cohorts. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS : Our findings revealed a critical role of ACTL7A in male fertility and identified bi-allelic variants in ACTL7A associated with human TFF, which expands the genetic spectrum of TFF and supports the genetic diagnosis of TFF patients. We also rescued TFF by AOA and obtained a healthy live birth, which provides a potentially effective intervention for patients with ACTL7A pathogenic variants. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (81971374 and 81401267). No conflicts of interest were declared. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jintao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xueping Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuting Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lingbo Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yugui Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jiayin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Mingxi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoyu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, The Center for Clinical Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
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Dai J, Zhang T, Guo J, Zhou Q, Gu Y, Zhang J, Hu L, Zong Y, Song J, Zhang S, Dai C, Gong F, Lu G, Zheng W, Lin G. Homozygous pathogenic variants in ACTL9 cause fertilization failure and male infertility in humans and mice. Am J Hum Genet 2021; 108:469-481. [PMID: 33626338 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2021.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Total fertilization failure (TFF) can occur during in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments, even following intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Various male or female factors could contribute to TFF. Increasing evidence suggested that genetic variations in PLCZ1, which encodes 1-phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate phosphodiesterase zeta-1 (PLCζ), is involved in oocyte activation and is a key male factor in TFF. In the present study, we explored the genetic variants in male individuals that led to TFF. A total of 54 couples with TFF or poor fertilization (fertilization rate < 20%) were screened, and 21 couples were determined to have a male infertility factor by the mouse oocyte activation test. Whole-exome sequencing of these 21 male individuals identified three homozygous pathogenic variants in ACTL9 (actin like 9) in three individuals. ACTL9 variations led to abnormal ultrastructure of the perinuclear theca (PT), and PLCζ was absent in the head and present in the neck of the mutant sperm, which contributed to failed normal calcium oscillations in oocytes and subsequent TFF. The key roles of ACTL9 in the PT structure and TFF after ICSI were further confirmed in an Actl9-mutated mouse model. Furthermore, assisted oocyte activation by calcium ionophore exposure successfully overcame TFF and achieved live births in a couple with an ACTL9 variant. These findings identified the role of ACTL9 in the PT structure and the correct localization of PLCζ. The results also provide a genetic marker and a therapeutic option for individuals who have undergone ICSI without successful fertilization.
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Diagnosis and Treatment of Male Infertility-Related Fertilization Failure. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9123899. [PMID: 33271815 PMCID: PMC7761017 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9123899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects approximately 15% of reproductive-aged couples worldwide, of which up to 30% of the cases are caused by male factors alone. The origin of male infertility is mostly attributed to sperm abnormalities, of which many are caused by genetic defects. The development of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has helped to circumvent most male infertility conditions. However, there is still a challenging group of infertile males whose sperm, although having normal sperm parameters, are unable to activate the oocyte, even after ICSI treatment. While ICSI generally allows fertilization rates of 70 to 80%, total fertilization failure (FF) still occurs in 1 to 3% of ICSI cycles. Phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ) has been demonstrated to be a critical sperm oocyte activating factor (SOAF) and the absence, reduced, or altered forms of PLCζ have been shown to cause male infertility-related FF. The purpose of this review is to (i) summarize the current knowledge on PLCζ as the critical sperm factor for successful fertilization, as well as to discuss the existence of alternative sperm-induced oocyte activation mechanisms, (ii) describe the diagnostic tests available to determine the cause of FF, and (iii) summarize the beneficial effect of assisted oocyte activation (AOA) to overcome FF.
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Katan M, Cockcroft S. Phospholipase C families: Common themes and versatility in physiology and pathology. Prog Lipid Res 2020; 80:101065. [PMID: 32966869 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2020.101065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase Cs (PLCs) are expressed in all mammalian cells and play critical roles in signal transduction. To obtain a comprehensive understanding of these enzymes in physiology and pathology, a detailed structural, biochemical, cell biological and genetic information is required. In this review, we cover all these aspects to summarize current knowledge of the entire superfamily. The families of PLCs have expanded from 13 enzymes to 16 with the identification of the atypical PLCs in the human genome. Recent structural insights highlight the common themes that cover not only the substrate catalysis but also the mechanisms of activation. This involves the release of autoinhibitory interactions that, in the absence of stimulation, maintain classical PLC enzymes in their inactive forms. Studies of individual PLCs provide a rich repertoire of PLC function in different physiologies. Furthermore, the genetic studies discovered numerous mutated and rare variants of PLC enzymes and their link to human disease development, greatly expanding our understanding of their roles in diverse pathologies. Notably, substantial evidence now supports involvement of different PLC isoforms in the development of specific cancer types, immune disorders and neurodegeneration. These advances will stimulate the generation of new drugs that target PLC enzymes, and will therefore open new possibilities for treatment of a number of diseases where current therapies remain ineffective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilda Katan
- Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Shamshad Cockcroft
- Department of Neuroscience, Physiology and Pharmacology, Division of Biosciences, University College London, 21 University Street, London WC1E 6JJ, UK.
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Kashir J. Increasing associations between defects in phospholipase C zeta and conditions of male infertility: not just ICSI failure? J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1273-1293. [PMID: 32285298 PMCID: PMC7311621 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01748-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Oocyte activation is a fundamental event at mammalian fertilization. In mammals, this process is initiated by a series of characteristic calcium (Ca2+) oscillations, induced by a sperm-specific phospholipase C (PLC) termed PLCzeta (PLCζ). Dysfunction/reduction/deletion of PLCζ is associated with forms of male infertility where the sperm is unable to initiate Ca2+ oscillations and oocyte activation, specifically in cases of fertilization failure. This review article aims to systematically summarize recent advancements and controversies in the field to update expanding clinical associations between PLCζ and various male factor conditions. This article also discusses how such associations may potentially underlie defective embryogenesis and recurrent implantation failure following fertility treatments, alongside potential diagnostic and therapeutic PLCζ approaches, aiming to direct future research efforts to utilize such knowledge clinically. METHODS An extensive literature search was performed using literature databases (PubMed/MEDLINE/Web of Knowledge) focusing on phospholipase C zeta (PLCzeta; PLCζ), oocyte activation, and calcium oscillations, as well as specific male factor conditions. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Defective PLCζ or PLCζ-induced Ca2+ release can be linked to multiple forms of male infertility including abnormal sperm parameters and morphology, sperm DNA fragmentation and oxidation, and abnormal embryogenesis/pregnancies. Such sperm exhibit absent/reduced levels, and abnormal localization patterns of PLCζ within the sperm head. CONCLUSIONS Defective PLCζ and abnormal patterns of Ca2+ release are increasingly suspected a significant causative factor underlying abnormalities or insufficiencies in Ca2+ oscillation-driven early embryogenic events. Such cases could potentially strongly benefit from relevant therapeutic and diagnostic applications of PLCζ, or even alternative mechanisms, following further focused research efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junaid Kashir
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. .,School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK. .,Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
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