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Aitken RJ. Role of sperm DNA damage in creating de novo mutations in human offspring: the ‘post-meiotic oocyte collusion’ hypothesis. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:109-124. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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2
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Agarwal A, Maldonado Rosas I, Anagnostopoulou C, Cannarella R, Boitrelle F, Munoz LV, Finelli R, Durairajanayagam D, Henkel R, Saleh R. Oxidative Stress and Assisted Reproduction: A Comprehensive Review of Its Pathophysiological Role and Strategies for Optimizing Embryo Culture Environment. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11030477. [PMID: 35326126 PMCID: PMC8944628 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11030477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) due to an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants has been established as an important factor that can negatively affect the outcomes of assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs). Excess ROS exert their pathological effects through damage to cellular lipids, organelles, and DNA, alteration of enzymatic function, and apoptosis. ROS can be produced intracellularly, from immature sperm, oocytes, and embryos. Additionally, several external factors may induce high ROS production in the ART setup, including atmospheric oxygen, CO2 incubators, consumables, visible light, temperature, humidity, volatile organic compounds, and culture media additives. Pathological amounts of ROS can also be generated during the cryopreservation-thawing process of gametes or embryos. Generally, these factors can act at any stage during ART, from gamete preparation to embryo development, till the blastocyst stage. In this review, we discuss the in vitro conditions and environmental factors responsible for the induction of OS in an ART setting. In addition, we describe the effects of OS on gametes and embryos. Furthermore, we highlight strategies to ameliorate the impact of OS during the whole human embryo culture period, from gametes to blastocyst stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (R.F.); (R.H.)
- Correspondence:
| | | | | | - Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Florence Boitrelle
- Reproductive Biology, Fertility Preservation, Andrology, CECOS, Poissy Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France;
- Department BREED, UVSQ, INRAE, Paris Saclay University, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Lina Villar Munoz
- Citmer Reproductive Medicine, IVF LAB, Mexico City 11520, Mexico; (I.M.R.); (L.V.M.)
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (R.F.); (R.H.)
| | - Damayanthi Durairajanayagam
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Ralf Henkel
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (R.F.); (R.H.)
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London W2 1NY, UK
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Cape Town 7530, South Africa
- LogixX Pharma, Theale RG7 4AB, UK
| | - Ramadan Saleh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag 82524, Egypt;
- Ajyal IVF Center, Ajyal Hospital, Sohag 82524, Egypt
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3
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Mustafa S, Ijaz MU, ul Ain Q, Afsar T, Almajwal A, Shafique H, Razak S. OUP accepted manuscript. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2022; 11:475-485. [PMID: 35782651 PMCID: PMC9244725 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfac024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shama Mustafa
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Umar Ijaz
- Department of Zoology, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad 38040, Pakistan
| | - Qurat ul Ain
- Department of Zoology, Government College Women University, Sialkot 51310, Pakistan
| | - Tayyaba Afsar
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Almajwal
- Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Huma Shafique
- Institute of cellular medicine, Newcastle University Medical School, Newcastle University, Newcastle NE17RU, United Kingdom
| | - Suhail Razak
- Corresponding author: Department of Community Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia.
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4
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Takei GL, Tourzani DA, Paudel B, Visconti PE. Activation of cAMP-dependent phosphorylation pathways is independent of ROS production during mouse sperm capacitation. Mol Reprod Dev 2021; 88:544-557. [PMID: 34318548 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian sperm have to undergo capacitation to fertilize the egg. At the molecular level, capacitation involves cAMP synthesis, protein kinase A activation, and downstream increase in tyrosine phosphorylation. In addition, during capacitation, mammalian sperm actively generate reactive oxygen species (ROS). It has been proposed that ROS modulate phosphorylation pathways; however, the crosstalk between these signaling processes is not well-understood. In the present study, we used loss- and gain-of-function approaches to evaluate the interconnection between ROS and phosphorylation. We showed that BSA and HCO3 - , but not Ca2+ , in the capacitation media are required for ROS production. The synergic effect of these compounds was neither mediated by HCO3 - stimulation of cAMP synthesis nor by BSA-induced cholesterol efflux. The capacitation-induced ROS generation was blocked in the presence of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and apocynin. However, none of these compounds affected cAMP-dependent or tyrosine phosphorylation. On the other hand, the addition of NADPH to the media induced ROS generation in sperm incubated in the absence of BSA and HCO3 - without upregulating cAMP-dependent or tyrosine phosphorylation signaling. Most interestingly, catalase, but not SOD, blocked in vitro fertilization suggesting a role for H2 O2 in this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gen L Takei
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Darya A Tourzani
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Bidur Paudel
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Pablo E Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, USA
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Gajski G, Ravlić S, Godschalk R, Collins A, Dusinska M, Brunborg G. Application of the comet assay for the evaluation of DNA damage in mature sperm. MUTATION RESEARCH. REVIEWS IN MUTATION RESEARCH 2021; 788:108398. [PMID: 34893163 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2021.108398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
DNA integrity is considered an important parameter of semen quality and is of significant value as a predictor of male fertility. Currently, there are several methods that can assess sperm DNA integrity. One such assay is the comet assay, or single-cell gel electrophoresis, which is a simple, sensitive, reliable, quick and low-cost technique that is used for measuring DNA strand breaks and repair at the level of individual cells. Although the comet assay is usually performed with somatic cells from different organs, the assay has the ability to detect genotoxicity in germ cells at different stages of spermatogenesis. Since the ability of sperm to remove DNA damage differs between the stages, interpretation of the results is dependent on the cells used. In this paper we give an overview on the use and applications of the comet assay on mature sperm and its ability to detect sperm DNA damage in both animals and humans. Overall, it can be concluded that the presence in sperm of significantly damaged DNA, assessed by the comet assay, is related to male infertility and seems to reduce live births. Although there is some evidence that sperm DNA damage also has a long-term impact on offspring's health, this aspect of DNA damage in sperm is understudied and deserves further attention. In summary, the comet assay can be applied as a useful tool to study effects of genotoxic exposures on sperm DNA integrity in animals and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Goran Gajski
- Institute for Medical Research and Occupational Health, Mutagenesis Unit, Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Sanda Ravlić
- University of Zagreb, Centre for Research and Knowledge Transfer in Biotechnology, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Roger Godschalk
- Maastricht University, School for Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Andrew Collins
- University of Oslo, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Department of Nutrition, Oslo, Norway
| | - Maria Dusinska
- Norwegian Institute for Air Research (NILU), Department of Environmental Chemistry, Health Effects Laboratory, Kjeller, Norway
| | - Gunnar Brunborg
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH), Section of Molecular Toxicology, Department of Environmental Health, Oslo, Norway
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Hardneck F, de Villiers C, Maree L. Effect of Copper Sulphate and Cadmium Chloride on Non-Human Primate Sperm Function In Vitro. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:6200. [PMID: 34201151 PMCID: PMC8228149 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18126200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
In order to address the large percentage of unexplained male infertility in humans, more detailed investigations using sperm functional tests are needed to identify possible causes for compromised fertility. Since many environmental and lifestyle factors might be contributing to infertility, future studies aiming to elucidate the effect of such factors on male fertility will need the use of appropriate research models. The current study aimed to assess the effects of two heavy metals, namely copper sulphate, and cadmium chloride, on non-human primate (NHP) sperm function in order to establish the possibility of using these primate species as models for reproductive studies. Our combined results indicated that the functionality of NHP spermatozoa is inhibited by the two heavy metals investigated. After in vitro exposure, detrimental effects, and significant lowered values (p < 0.05) were obtained for sperm motility, viability and vitality, acrosome intactness, and hyperactivation. These metals, at the tested higher concentrations, therefore, have the ability to impair sperm quality thereby affecting sperm fertilizing capability in both humans and NHPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farren Hardneck
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville 7535, South Africa;
| | - Charon de Villiers
- PUDAC-Delft Animal Facility, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town 7505, South Africa;
| | - Liana Maree
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville 7535, South Africa;
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Aitken RJ, Curry BJ, Shokri S, Pujianto DA, Gavriliouk D, Gibb Z, Whiting S, Connaughton HS, Nixon B, Salamonsen LA, Baker MA. Evidence that extrapancreatic insulin production is involved in the mediation of sperm survival. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 526:111193. [PMID: 33610643 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Evidence is presented for expression of the insulin receptor on the surface of mammalian spermatozoa as well as transcripts for the receptor substrate adaptor proteins (IRS1-4) needed to mediate insulin action. Exposure to this hormone resulted in insulin receptor phosphorylation (pTyr972), activation of AKT (pSer473) and the stimulation of sperm motility. Intriguingly, the male germ line is also shown to be capable of generating insulin, possessing the relevant mRNA transcript and expressing strong immunocytochemical signals for both insulin and C-peptide. Insulin could be released from the spermatozoa by sonication in a concentration-dependent manner but was not secreted in response to glucose, fructose or stimulation with progesterone. However, insulin release could be induced by factors present in human uterine lavages. Furthermore, the endometrium was also shown to possess the machinery for insulin production and action (mRNA, insulin, C-peptide, proprotein convertase and insulin receptor), releasing insulin into the uterine lumen prior to ovulation. These studies emphasize the fundamental importance of extra-pancreatic insulin in regulating the reproductive process, particularly in the support of spermatozoa on their perilous voyage to the site of fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia, 2305.
| | - Benjamin J Curry
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Said Shokri
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Dwi Ari Pujianto
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Daniel Gavriliouk
- Family Fertility Centre, Ashford Specialist Centre, SA, 5035, Australia
| | - Zamira Gibb
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Sara Whiting
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Hayley S Connaughton
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia, 2305
| | - Lois A Salamonsen
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Centre for Reproductive Health, Monash University, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Mark A Baker
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia, 2305
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Caroselli S, Zwergel C, Pirolli A, Sabatino M, Xu Z, Kirsch G, Mai A, Colotti G, Altieri F, Canipari R, Valente S, Ragno R. Discovery of the First Human Arylsulfatase A Reversible Inhibitor Impairing Mouse Oocyte Fertilization. ACS Chem Biol 2020; 15:1349-1357. [PMID: 32239919 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.9b00999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Arylsulfatase A (ARSA) plays a crucial role in the reproduction of mammals due to its involvement in the specific gamete interaction preceding sperm and egg fusion leading to fertilization. Recently, it has been shown that zona pellucida (ZP) sperm binding and in vivo fertilization in mice are markedly hampered by using a specific anti-ARSA antibody. Herein, the design and discovery of the first ARSA small molecule inhibitor based on a coumarin-containing polycycle are presented. Through a structure-based approach applied on our in-house library, compound 1r was identified as an ARSA reversible inhibitor (ARSAi); then its activity was validated through both surface plasmon resonance and biochemical inhibition experiments, the first providing a KD value of 21 μM and the latter an IC50 value of 13.2 μM. Further investigations highlighted that compound 1r induced 20% sperm death at 25 μM and also impaired sperm motility; nevertheless both the effects were mediated by ROS production, since they were rescued by the cotreatment of 1r and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC). Interestingly, while 1r was not able to hamper the ZP/sperm binding, it markedly decreased the in vitro oocyte fertilization by mouse sperm up to 60%. Notably, this effect was not hampered by 1r/NAC coadministration, hence allowing the ruling out of an ROS-dependent mechanism. In conclusion, herein is reported the first ever hit of ARSAi as a chemical tool that will enable better exploration of ARSA's biological role in fertilization as well as provide a starting point for developing 1r structure optimization aimed at increasing enzyme inhibition potency but also providing a deeper understanding of the involvement of ARSA in the fertilization pathway mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Caroselli
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Scarpa 16, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Clemens Zwergel
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Department of Precision Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli, University of Campania, Via L. De Crecchio 7, 80138 Naples, Italy
| | - Adele Pirolli
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Department of Information Technology, IRBM Science Park, Via Pontina km 30, 600, 00071 Pomezia, Rome, Italy
| | - Manuela Sabatino
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Zhanjie Xu
- Université de Lorraine, UMR CNRS 7565, Structure et Réactivité des Systèmes Moléculaires Complexes, Equipe 3 (HECRIN), 1 Boulevard Arago, 57078, Metz Technopôle, France
| | - Gilbert Kirsch
- Université de Lorraine, UMR CNRS 7565, Structure et Réactivité des Systèmes Moléculaires Complexes, Equipe 3 (HECRIN), 1 Boulevard Arago, 57078, Metz Technopôle, France
| | - Antonello Mai
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Istituto Pasteur-Fondazione Cenci Bolognetti, Sapienza Università di Roma, Viale Regina Elena 291, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Gianni Colotti
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Italian National Research Council, c/o Department of Biochemical Sciences “Alessandro Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Altieri
- Department of Biochemical Sciences “Alessandro Rossi Fanelli”, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rita Canipari
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, Section of Histology and Medical Embryology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via A. Scarpa 16, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Sergio Valente
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Rino Ragno
- Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
- Rome Center for Molecular Design, Department of Drug Chemistry and Technologies, Sapienza University of Rome, P. le A. Moro 5, 00185 Rome, Italy
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Yu L, Yang X, Ma B, Ying H, Shang X, He B, Zhang Q. Abnormal arachidonic acid metabolic network may reduce sperm motility via P38 MAPK. Open Biol 2020; 9:180091. [PMID: 31014201 PMCID: PMC6501647 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.180091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Asthenozoospermia is a common cause of male infertility, the aetiology of which remains unclear in 50–60% of cases. The current study aimed to characterize metabolic alterations in asthenozoospermic seminal plasma and to explore the signalling pathways involved in sperm motility regulation. At first, high-performance liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–tandem mass spectrometry was used to detect the targeted metabolic network of arachidonic acid (AA). Metabolomic multivariate data analysis showed significant distinction of AA metabolites between asthenozoospermic and healthy seminal plasma. AA as well as its lipoxygenase (LOX) and cytochrome P450 metabolites were found to be abnormally increased, while cyclooxygenase (COX) metabolites were complicatedly disturbed in asthenozoospermic volunteers compared with those in healthy ones. In vitro experiments and western blot analysis of sperm cells revealed a decrease in sperm motility and upregulation of sperm phosphor-P38 induced by AA. P38 inhibitor could increase AA-reduced sperm motility. Also, all the inhibitors of the three metabolic pathways of AA could block AA-induced P38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation and further improve sperm motility. We report here for the first time that an abnormal AA metabolic network could reduce sperm motility via P38 MAPK activation through the LOX, cytochrome P450 and COX metabolic pathways, which might be an underlying pathomechanism of asthenozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisha Yu
- 1 College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University , Nanjing 210009 , People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaojing Yang
- 1 College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University , Nanjing 210009 , People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Ma
- 1 College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University , Nanjing 210009 , People's Republic of China
| | - Hanjie Ying
- 2 College of Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Engineering, Nanjing Tech University , Nanjing 211816 , People's Republic of China
| | - Xuejun Shang
- 3 Department of Andrology, Jinling Hospital, School of Medicine, Nanjing University , Nanjing 210002 , People's Republic of China
| | - Bingfang He
- 1 College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University , Nanjing 210009 , People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Zhang
- 1 College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nanjing Tech University , Nanjing 210009 , People's Republic of China
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Aitken RJ, Drevet JR. The Importance of Oxidative Stress in Determining the Functionality of Mammalian Spermatozoa: A Two-Edged Sword. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9020111. [PMID: 32012712 PMCID: PMC7070991 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9020111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
This article addresses the importance of oxidative processes in both the generation of functional gametes and the aetiology of defective sperm function. Functionally, sperm capacitation is recognized as a redox-regulated process, wherein a low level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation is intimately involved in driving such events as the stimulation of tyrosine phosphorylation, the facilitation of cholesterol efflux and the promotion of cAMP generation. However, the continuous generation of ROS ultimately creates problems for spermatozoa because their unique physical architecture and unusual biochemical composition means that they are vulnerable to oxidative stress. As a consequence, they are heavily dependent on the antioxidant protection afforded by the fluids in the male and female reproductive tracts and, during the precarious process of insemination, seminal plasma. If this antioxidant protection should be compromised for any reason, then the spermatozoa experience pathological oxidative damage. In addition, situations may prevail that cause the spermatozoa to become exposed to high levels of ROS emanating either from other cells in the immediate vicinity (particularly neutrophils) or from the spermatozoa themselves. The environmental and lifestyle factors that promote ROS generation by the spermatozoa are reviewed in this article, as are the techniques that might be used in a diagnostic context to identify patients whose reproductive capacity is under oxidative threat. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of ROS-monitoring methodologies is critical if we are to effectively identify those patients for whom treatment with antioxidants might be considered a rational management strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Sciences, Faculty of Science and Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- Correspondence:
| | - Joel R. Drevet
- GReD Institute, INSERM U1103—CNRS UMR6293—Université Clermont Auvergne, Faculty of Medicine, CRBC building, 28 place Henri Dunant, 63001 Clermont-Ferrand, France;
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11
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Vatannejad A, Tavilani H, Sadeghi MR, Karimi M, Lakpour N, Amanpour S, Shabani Nashtaei M, Doosti M. Evaluation of the NOX5 protein expression and oxidative stress in sperm from asthenozoospermic men compared to normozoospermic men. J Endocrinol Invest 2019; 42:1181-1189. [PMID: 30963466 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-019-01035-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE NADPH oxidase 5 (NOX5), the main isoform of NOX in spermatozoa, has been recognized as the main active generators of reactive oxygen species (ROS), including superoxide anion (O 2 -. ) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). ROS have been shown to play important roles in many physiological and pathological conditions in spermatozoa. The present study aims to investigate the alterations of NOX5 protein expression and oxidative stress (OS) status in asthenozoospermic men compared to normozoospermic men. METHODS Semen samples were collected from 25 asthenozoospermic men and 28 normozoospermic men. In this study, NOX5 protein expression was evaluated by Western blotting. An OS status was evaluated by measuring of ROS (O 2 -. and H2O2), DNA damage and plasma membrane integrity in spermatozoa. RESULTS The protein expression of NOX5 (p < 0.0001) was remarkably higher in asthenozoospermic men in comparison to normozoospermic men. In addition, the percentages of intracellular O 2 -. (p < 0.0001), H2O2 (p < 0.0001) in viable spermatozoa, apoptotic sperm cells with altered plasma membrane (p < 0.001) and DNA damage (p = 0.001) were significantly increased in asthenozoospermic men compared to normozoospermic men. CONCLUSIONS The present study provides evidence that the overexpression of NOX5 protein may induce excessive ROS production and oxidative stress damages to DNA and plasma membrane integrity in asthenozoospermic men.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Vatannejad
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
- Student's Scientific Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - H Tavilani
- Urology and Nephrology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - M R Sadeghi
- Monoclonal Antibody Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Karimi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - N Lakpour
- Reproductive Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Oncopathology Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - S Amanpour
- Cancer Biology Research Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Shabani Nashtaei
- Department of Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences Faculty of Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Doosti
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Ghanbari H, Keshtgar S, Zare HR, Gharesi-Fard B. Inhibition of CatSper and Hv1 Channels and NOX5 Enzyme Affect Progesterone-Induced Increase of Intracellular Calcium Concentration and ROS Generation in Human Sperm. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2019; 44:127-134. [PMID: 30936599 PMCID: PMC6423429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Normal sperm function depends on appropriate intracellular calcium (Cai 2+) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Calcium activates NADPH oxidase-5 (NOX5) that leads to ROS generation. The calcium channel of sperm (CatSper) is activated by progesterone and intracellular alkalization. Herein, the interactive role of CatSper, Hv1 channels, and NOX5 enzyme on Cai 2+ and ROS generation in human sperm is investigated. METHODS The present laboratory in vitro study was carried out in the School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (Shiraz, Iran) during 2016. Normal semen samples (n=15) were washed and diluted to 20×106 sperm/mL. The diluted samples were divided into 16 groups containing Ham's F-10 (the control group), 2 µM NNC (CatSper inhibitor), 1 mM ZnCl2 (Hv1 inhibitor), 1 µM DPI (NOX5 inhibitor), NNC+Zn, NNC+DPI, and NNC+Zn+DPI. The other 8 groups were the same as the above except that they contained 1 µM progesterone. Cell viability and Cai 2+ were analyzed by flou-3 AM probe and PI staining, respectively, using flow cytometric method. ROS generation was assessed by chemiluminescence method. Statistical analysis was performed using the one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test. P values <0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS Progesterone increased Cai 2+ and ROS generation. The addition of NNC, Zn, or NNC+Zn significantly decreased Cai 2+ in the control and progesterone containing groups. Progesterone-induced ROS generation was decreased significantly in all groups containing NNC, Zn, or DPI and reached to the control level when DPI was added to NNC or Zn. CONCLUSION There is a functional relationship between CatSper and Hv1 channels in increasing Cai 2++. The activity of CatSper and Hv1 channels are required for progesterone-induced ROS generation by NOX5 enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamideh Ghanbari
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran;
| | - Sara Keshtgar
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran;
| | - Hamid Reza Zare
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran;
| | - Behrouz Gharesi-Fard
- Department of Immunology, Infertility Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Yahyazadeh A, Deniz ÖG, Kaplan AA, Altun G, Yurt KK, Davis D. The genomic effects of cell phone exposure on the reproductive system. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2018; 167:684-693. [PMID: 29884549 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2018.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Revised: 05/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Humans are exposed to increasing levels of electromagnetic fields (EMF) at various frequencies as technology advances. In this context, improving understanding of the biological effects of EMF remains an important, high priority issue. Although a number of studies in this issue and elsewhere have focused on the mechanisms of the oxidative stress caused by EMF, the precise understanding of the processes involved remains to be elucidated. Due to unclear results among the studies, the issue of EMF exposure in the literature should be evaluated at the genomic level on the reproductive system. Based on this requirement, a detail review of recently published studies is necessary. The main objectives of this study are to show differences between negative and positive effect of EMF on the reproductive system of animal and human. Extensive review of literature has been made based on well known data bases like Web of Science, PubMed, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus. This paper reviews the current literature and is intended to contribute to a better understanding of the genotoxic effects of EMF emitted from mobile phones and wireless systems on the human reproductive system, especially on fertility. The current literature reveals that mobile phones can affect cellular functions via non-thermal effects. Although the cellular targets of global system for mobile communications (GSM)-modulated EMF are associated with the cell membrane, the subject is still controversial. Studies regarding the genotoxic effects of EMF have generally focused on DNA damage. Possible mechanisms are related to ROS formation due to oxidative stress. EMF increases ROS production by enhancing the activity of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) oxidase in the cell membrane. Further detailed studies are needed to elucidate DNA damage mechanisms and apoptotic pathways during oogenesis and spermatogenesis in germ cells exposed to EMF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Yahyazadeh
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayıs University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Ömür Gülsüm Deniz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayıs University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Arife Ahsen Kaplan
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayıs University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Gamze Altun
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayıs University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Kıymet Kübra Yurt
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical Faculty, Ondokuz Mayıs University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
| | - Devra Davis
- Environmental Health Trust, P.O. Box 58, Teton Village, WY 83025, United States
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14
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Hardneck F, Israel G, Pool E, Maree L. Quantitative assessment of heavy metal effects on sperm function using computer-aided sperm analysis and cytotoxicity assays. Andrologia 2018; 50:e13141. [PMID: 30225848 DOI: 10.1111/and.13141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
One known environmental risk factor impacting on human reproduction is heavy metal pollution. Although some metals (e.g., Cu, Se and Zn) have protective effects on the male reproductive system in low doses, heavy metals can accumulate to toxic levels and result in poor semen quality and decreased sperm function. We investigated the effect of CuSO4 and CdCl2 (10, 50, 100 and 250 µg/ml or 500 µg/ml) on human sperm motility and vitality by using computer-aided sperm analysis (CASA) and two cytotoxicity assays (WST-1 and XTT). Several sperm motility parameters were significantly reduced after 5 hr of exposure to the highest concentrations of CuSO4 (250 µg/ml) and CdCl2 (500 µg/ml). The WST-1 assay also revealed significantly lower absorbance values for 50, 100 and 250 µg/ml CuSO4 and for 500 µg/ml CdCl2 ; however, no significant effect was seen with XTT. The calculated average IC50 value was 50.31± 4.34 µg/ml for CuSO4 and 392.32 ±76.79 µg/ml for CdCl2 . The effects of these metals were confirmed with MgCl2 , a positive control. This study provides threshold concentrations for the harmful effect of CuSO4 and CdCl2 on human spermatozoa and recommends the use of WST-1 as vitality assay in future in vitro studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farren Hardneck
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Gadieja Israel
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Edmund Pool
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Liana Maree
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
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15
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Samarasinghe SVAC, Krishnan K, Naidu R, Megharaj M, Miller K, Fraser B, Aitken RJ. Parabens generate reactive oxygen species in human spermatozoa. Andrology 2018; 6:532-541. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S. V. A. C. Samarasinghe
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation; Faculty of Science; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC-CARE); University of Newcastle; NSW Australia
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science; Faculty of Science; School of Environmental and Life Sciences; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
| | - K. Krishnan
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation; Faculty of Science; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC-CARE); University of Newcastle; NSW Australia
| | - R. Naidu
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation; Faculty of Science; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC-CARE); University of Newcastle; NSW Australia
| | - M. Megharaj
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation; Faculty of Science; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
- Cooperative Research Centre for Contamination Assessment and Remediation of the Environment (CRC-CARE); University of Newcastle; NSW Australia
| | - K. Miller
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science; Faculty of Science; School of Environmental and Life Sciences; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
| | - B. Fraser
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science; Faculty of Science; School of Environmental and Life Sciences; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
| | - R. J. Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science; Faculty of Science; School of Environmental and Life Sciences; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
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Kratz EM, Kałuża A, Ferens-Sieczkowska M, Olejnik B, Fiutek R, Zimmer M, Piwowar A. Gelatinases and their tissue inhibitors are associated with oxidative stress: a potential set of markers connected with male infertility. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 28:1029-1037. [PMID: 25562173 DOI: 10.1071/rd14268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2014] [Accepted: 11/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) may be regulated by oxidative stress in various pathophysiological processes; therefore, the aim of the present study was to analyse the associations between the expression of the gelatinases MMP-9 and MMP-2 and their tissue inhibitors TIMP-1, TIMP-2 and levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) in seminal plasma prepared for artificial insemination. Levels of MMPs and TIMPs were evaluated using ELISA, whereas TAC and AOPP in the seminal plasma of 131 childless men and 38 fertile volunteers were determined spectrophotometrically. Seminal MMP-9 expression was higher in childless men than in fertile subjects, whereas there was no significant differences in MMP-2 expression between the analysed seminal groups. TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 expression was similar in all groups. However, TAC expression was significantly higher in infertile normozoospermic and oligozoospermic men and AOPP expression was higher in astheno-, oligo- and normozoospermic infertile patients than in fertile men. High AOPP, together with an increased MMP-9:TIMP-1 ratio alters the oxidative-antioxidative balance of the ejaculate, thereby reducing male fertility, and therefore these parameters may serve as additional diagnostic markers of semen quality and male reproductive potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa M Kratz
- Department of Chemistry and Immunochemistry, Wroc?aw Medical University, O. Bujwida 44A, 50-345 Wroc?aw, Poland
| | - Anna Kałuża
- Department of Chemistry and Immunochemistry, Wroc?aw Medical University, O. Bujwida 44A, 50-345 Wroc?aw, Poland
| | | | - Beata Olejnik
- Department of Chemistry and Immunochemistry, Wroc?aw Medical University, O. Bujwida 44A, 50-345 Wroc?aw, Poland
| | - Renata Fiutek
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Wroc?aw Medical University, Academic Hospital, Borowska 213, 50-556 Wroc?aw, Poland
| | - Mariusz Zimmer
- 2nd Department and Clinic of Gynaecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Wroc?aw Medical University, Academic Hospital, Borowska 213, 50-556 Wroc?aw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Piwowar
- Department of Toxicology, Wroc?aw Medical University, Borowska 211, 50-556 Wroc?aw, Poland
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17
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Clinical assessment of the male fertility. Obstet Gynecol Sci 2018; 61:179-191. [PMID: 29564308 PMCID: PMC5854897 DOI: 10.5468/ogs.2018.61.2.179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Revised: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The evaluation of infertility in males consists of physical examination and semen analyses. Standardized semen analyses depend on the descriptive analysis of sperm motility, morphology, and concentration, with a threshold level that must be surpassed to be considered a fertile spermatozoon. Nonetheless, these conventional parameters are not satisfactory for clinicians since 25% of infertility cases worldwide remain unexplained. Therefore, newer tests methods have been established to investigate sperm physiology and functions by monitoring characteristics such as motility, capacitation, the acrosome reaction, reactive oxygen species, sperm DNA damage, chromatin structure, zona pellucida binding, and sperm-oocyte fusion. After the introduction of intracytoplasmic sperm injection technique, sperm maturity, morphology, and aneuploidy conditions have gotten more attention for investigating unexplained male infertility. In the present article, recent advancements in research regarding the utilization of male fertility prediction tests and their role and accuracy are reviewed.
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18
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Kratz EM, Piwowar A, Zeman M, Stebelová K, Thalhammer T. Decreased melatonin levels and increased levels of advanced oxidation protein products in the seminal plasma are related to male infertility. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 28:507-15. [PMID: 25218686 DOI: 10.1071/rd14165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 07/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin, an indolamine secreted by the pineal gland, is known as a powerful free-radical scavenger and wide-spectrum antioxidant. Therefore, the aim of this study was to correlate markers of oxidative protein damage (advanced oxidation protein products, AOPPs) and the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) with melatonin levels in the seminal plasma of men with azoospermia (n=37), theratozoospermia (n=29) and fertile controls (normozoospermia, n=37). Melatonin concentration was measured by radioimmunoassay. The levels of AOPP as well as TAC efficiency (determined by the ferric reducing antioxidant power, FRAP) were estimated by spectrophotometric methods. The concentration of melatonin and AOPP significantly differed in azoospermic (P<0.0001) and theratozoospermic (P<0.0001) patients versus fertile men, and correlated negatively (r=-0.33, P=0.0016). The TAC levels were significantly higher in azoospermia than in theratozoospermia (P=0.0022) and the control group (P=0.00016). In azoospermia, the AOPP concentration was also significantly higher than that observed in theratozoospermia (P=0.00029). Decreased levels of melatonin together with elevated AOPP altered the oxidative-antioxidative balance in the ejaculate, thereby reducing fertility. Therefore, melatonin and AOPP levels may serve as additional diagnostic markers of semen quality and male reproductive potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Maria Kratz
- Department of Chemistry and Immunochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Wroc?aw Medical University, O. Bujwida 44A, 50-345 Wroc?aw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Piwowar
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Wroc?aw Medical University, Borowska 211, 50-556 Wroc?aw, Poland
| | - Michal Zeman
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ethology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Mlynska dolina B2, 84215 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Katarína Stebelová
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ethology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Mlynska dolina B2, 84215 Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Theresia Thalhammer
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20 Vienna, Austria
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19
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Bromfield EG, Aitken RJ, Anderson AL, McLaughlin EA, Nixon B. The impact of oxidative stress on chaperone-mediated human sperm-egg interaction. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:2597-613. [PMID: 26345691 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does oxidative stress impact upon human sperm-egg interaction and in particular the formation of zona pellucida-receptor complexes on the sperm surface? SUMMARY ANSWER Oxidative stress during human sperm capacitation resulted in the chemical alkylation of the molecular chaperone heat shock protein A2 (HSPA2), a concomitant reduction in surface expression of the zona pellucida-receptor arylsulphatase A (ARSA) and a severe loss of zona pellucida binding ability. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY An inability to bind to the zona pellucida is commonly encountered in the defective spermatozoa generated by male infertility patients; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unresolved. Recent studies have revealed that zona pellucida binding is mediated by molecular chaperones, particularly HSPA2, that facilitate the formation of multimeric zona pellucida-receptor complexes on the surface of mammalian spermatozoa during capacitation. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Spermatozoa were collected from healthy normozoospermic donors (n = 15). Low levels of oxidative stress were induced in populations of non-capacitated spermatozoa by a 1 h treatment with 4-hydroxynonenal (4HNE) or hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and then these insults were removed and cells were capacitated for 3 h. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Motility, membrane fluidity, protein tyrosine phosphorylation and lipid raft distribution were evaluated after sperm capacitation to determine the impact of oxidative stress on this process. The surface expression of ARSA and sperm adhesion molecule 1 (SPAM1) was observed using fluorescence microscopy, and the ability of treated cells to interact with homologous human zonae pellucidae was assessed through gamete co-incubation. Proximity ligation was used to evaluate the state of the HSPA2-laden zona pellucida-receptor complex and an immunoprecipitation approach was taken to establish the chemical alkylation of HSPA2 by the cytotoxic lipid aldehyde 4HNE. The validity of these findings was then tested through treatment of oxidatively stressed cells with the nucleophile penicillamine in order to scavenge lipid aldehydes and limit their ability to interact with HSPA2. All experiments were performed on samples pooled from two or more donors per replicate, with a minimum of three replicates. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The oxidative treatments employed in this study did not influence sperm motility or capacitation-associated changes in membrane fluidity, tyrosine phosphorylation and lipid raft redistribution. However, they did significantly impair zona pellucida binding compared with the capacitated control (P < 0.01). The reduction in zona pellucida binding was associated with the impaired surface expression (P < 0.02) of a zona pellucida-receptor complex comprising HSPA2, SPAM1 and ARSA. Proximity ligation and immunoprecipitation assays demonstrated that impaired zona pellucida binding was, in turn, associated with the chemical alkylation of HSPA2 with 4HNE and the concomitant disruption of this zona pellucida-receptor complex. The use of penicillamine enabled a partial recovery of ARSA surface expression and zona pellucida adherence in H2O2-treated cells. These data suggest that the ability of low levels of oxidative stress to disrupt sperm function is mediated by the production of lipid aldehydes as a consequence of lipid peroxidation and their adduction to the molecular chaperone HSPA2 that is responsible for co-ordinating the assembly of functional zona pellucida-receptor complexes during sperm capacitation. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION While these results extend only to one particular zona pellucida-receptor complex, we postulate that oxidative stress may more broadly impact upon sperm surface architecture. In this light, further study is required to assess the impact of oxidative stress on additional HSPA2-laden protein complexes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These findings link low levels of oxidative stress to a severe loss of sperm function. In doing so, this work suggests a potential cause of male infertility pertaining to a loss of zona pellucida recognition ability and will contribute to the more accurate diagnosis and treatment of such conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Biology, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Biology, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Amanda L Anderson
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Biology, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Eileen A McLaughlin
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Biology, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Brett Nixon
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Biology, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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Aitken JB, Naumovski N, Curry B, Grupen CG, Gibb Z, Aitken RJ. Characterization of an L-Amino Acid Oxidase in Equine Spermatozoa1. Biol Reprod 2015; 92:125. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.126052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2014] [Accepted: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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21
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Moazamian R, Polhemus A, Connaughton H, Fraser B, Whiting S, Gharagozloo P, Aitken RJ. Oxidative stress and human spermatozoa: diagnostic and functional significance of aldehydes generated as a result of lipid peroxidation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 21:502-15. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gav014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2015] [Accepted: 03/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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22
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Chauvigné F, Boj M, Finn RN, Cerdà J. Mitochondrial aquaporin-8-mediated hydrogen peroxide transport is essential for teleost spermatozoon motility. Sci Rep 2015; 5:7789. [PMID: 25586329 PMCID: PMC4293619 DOI: 10.1038/srep07789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2014] [Accepted: 12/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS), particularly hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), cause oxidative cell damage and inhibit sperm function. In most oviparous fishes that spawn in seawater (SW), spermatozoa may be exposed to harmful ROS loads associated with the hyperosmotic stress of axonemal activation and ATP synthesis from mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. However, it is not known how marine spermatozoa can cope with the increased ROS levels to maintain flagellar motility. Here, we show that a marine teleost orthologue of human aquaporin-8, termed Aqp8b, is rapidly phosphorylated and inserted into the inner mitochondrial membrane of SW-activated spermatozoa, where it facilitates H2O2 efflux from this compartment. When Aqp8b intracellular trafficking and mitochondrial channel activity are immunologically blocked in activated spermatozoa, ROS levels accumulate in the mitochondria leading to mitochondrial membrane depolarisation, the reduction of ATP production, and the progressive arrest of sperm motility. However, the decreased sperm vitality underlying Aqp8b loss of function is fully reversed in the presence of a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant. These findings reveal a previously unknown detoxification mechanism in spermatozoa under hypertonic conditions, whereby mitochondrial Aqp8b-mediated H2O2 efflux permits fuel production and the maintenance of flagellar motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- François Chauvigné
- 1] Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA)-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 08003 Barcelona, Spain [2] Department of Biology, Bergen High Technology Centre, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway
| | - Mónica Boj
- Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA)-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roderick Nigel Finn
- 1] Department of Biology, Bergen High Technology Centre, University of Bergen, 5020 Bergen, Norway [2] Institute of Marine Research, Nordnes, 5817 Bergen, Norway
| | - Joan Cerdà
- Institut de Recerca i Tecnologia Agroalimentàries (IRTA)-Institut de Ciències del Mar, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), 08003 Barcelona, Spain
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23
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Akintunde JK, Oboh G, Akindahunsi AA. Inhibition of key markers linked with spermatogenesis and cellular ATP by subchronic exposure to leachate in a rat model. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2015; 68:159-168. [PMID: 25092531 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-014-0068-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2013] [Accepted: 07/01/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Few or no studies have measured the toxic effects of subchronic exposure to leachate using key markers linked with spermatogenesis and cellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in an experimental rat model. This study was undertaken to evaluate the toxic effects of leachate obtained from the Elewi Odo municipal battery-recycling site (EOMABRL) on male reproductive function using testicular hormones and biomarker of cellular ATP. EOMABRL was administered at 0, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100% concentrations to adult male rats for 60 days. After exposure, serum was collected for hormonal biochemistry assays, and testes were collected to determine the activity of xanthine oxidase (XO) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Exposure of animals to EOMABRL resulted in a 519.7, 285.7, 569.1, 606.1, and 1,793.2% increase in XO activity with a sequential decrease in LDH activity (marker of cellular ATP) by 44.1, 55.9, 61.4, 69.3, and 89.7%, respectively, compared with the control. Furthermore, EOMABRL caused a significant inhibitory effect on serum luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and testosterone levels. We conclude that some possible mechanisms by which EOMABRL elicits toxicity in male rat testes could be through inhibition of LDH activity and depletion of serum hormone levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- J K Akintunde
- Functional Foods, Nutraceuticals and Phytomedicine Research Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B., 704, Akure, 340001, Nigeria,
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Bromfield EG, Aitken RJ, Gibb Z, Lambourne SR, Nixon B. Capacitation in the presence of methyl-β-cyclodextrin results in enhanced zona pellucida-binding ability of stallion spermatozoa. Reproduction 2014; 147:153-66. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-13-0393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
While IVF has been widely successful in many domesticated species, the development of a robust IVF system for the horse remains an elusive and highly valued goal. A major impediment to the development of equine IVF is the fact that optimised conditions for the capacitation of equine spermatozoa are yet to be developed. Conversely, it is known that stallion spermatozoa are particularly susceptible to damage arising as a consequence of capacitation-like changes induced prematurely in response to semen handling and transport conditions. To address these limitations, this study sought to develop an effective system to both suppress and promote thein vitrocapacitation of stallion spermatozoa. Our data indicated that the latter could be achieved in a bicarbonate-rich medium supplemented with a phosphodiesterase inhibitor, a cyclic AMP analogue, and methyl-β-cyclodextrin, an efficient cholesterol-withdrawing agent. The populations of spermatozoa generated under these conditions displayed a number of hallmarks of capacitation, including elevated levels of tyrosine phosphorylation, a reorganisation of the plasma membrane leading to lipid raft coalescence in the peri-acrosomal region of the sperm head, and a dramatic increase in their ability to interact with heterologous bovine zona pellucida (ZP) and undergo agonist-induced acrosomal exocytosis. Furthermore, this functional transformation was effectively suppressed in media devoid of bicarbonate. Collectively, these results highlight the importance of efficient cholesterol removal in priming stallion spermatozoa for ZP bindingin vitro.
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Aitken RJ, Nixon B. Sperm capacitation: a distant landscape glimpsed but unexplored. Mol Hum Reprod 2013; 19:785-93. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gat067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
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Barzideh J, Scott RJ, Aitken RJ. Analysis of the global methylation status of human spermatozoa and its association with the tendency of these cells to enter apoptosis. Andrologia 2012; 45:424-9. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- J. Barzideh
- Discipline of Biological Sciences; Faculty of Science and IT; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
- Discipline of Medical Genetics; Faculty of Health; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton; NSW Australia
| | - R. J. Scott
- Discipline of Medical Genetics; Faculty of Health; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton; NSW Australia
| | - R. J. Aitken
- Discipline of Biological Sciences; Faculty of Science and IT; University of Newcastle; Callaghan NSW Australia
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Aitken RJ, Gibb Z, Mitchell LA, Lambourne SR, Connaughton HS, De Iuliis GN. Sperm Motility Is Lost In Vitro as a Consequence of Mitochondrial Free Radical Production and the Generation of Electrophilic Aldehydes but Can Be Significantly Rescued by the Presence of Nucleophilic Thiols1. Biol Reprod 2012; 87:110. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.102020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
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Ghani E, Keshtgar S, Habibagahi M, Ghannadi A, Kazeroni M. Expression of NOX5 in human teratozoospermia compared to normozoospermia. Andrologia 2012; 45:351-6. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- E. Ghani
- Department of Physiology; School of Medicine; Shiraz University of Medical Sciences; Shiraz; Iran
| | - S. Keshtgar
- Department of Physiology; School of Medicine; Shiraz University of Medical Sciences; Shiraz; Iran
| | - M. Habibagahi
- Immunotherapy laboratory; Department of Immunology; Shiraz University of Medical Sciences; Shiraz; Iran
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Aitken RJ, Whiting S, De Iuliis GN, McClymont S, Mitchell LA, Baker MA. Electrophilic aldehydes generated by sperm metabolism activate mitochondrial reactive oxygen species generation and apoptosis by targeting succinate dehydrogenase. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:33048-60. [PMID: 22851170 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.366690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress is a major cause of defective sperm function in cases of male infertility. Such stress is known to be associated with high levels of superoxide production by the sperm mitochondria; however, the causes of this aberrant activity are unknown. Here we show that electrophilic aldehydes such as 4-hydroxynonenal (4HNE) and acrolein, generated as a result of lipid peroxidation, target the mitochondria of human spermatozoa and stimulate mitochondrial superoxide generation in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The activation of mitochondrial electron leakage by 4HNE is shown to involve the disruption of succinate dehydrogenase activity and subsequent activation of an intrinsic apoptotic cascade beginning with a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and terminating in oxidative DNA adduct formation, DNA strand breakage, and cell death. A tight correlation between spontaneous mitochondrial superoxide generation and 4HNE content (R(2) = 0.89) in untreated populations of human spermatozoa emphasized the pathophysiological significance of these findings. The latter also provide a biochemical explanation for the self-perpetuating nature of oxidative stress in the male germ line, with the products of lipid peroxidation stimulating free radical generation by the sperm mitochondria in a positive feedback loop.
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Affiliation(s)
- R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre in Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science and IT, University of Newcastle, University Drive, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia.
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Mozdarani H, Ghoraeian P. Efficient combined FISH and PRINS technique for detection of DAZ microdeletion in human sperm. J Assist Reprod Genet 2012; 29:979-84. [PMID: 22648284 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-012-9805-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2012] [Accepted: 05/20/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) now offers an effective therapeutic option for men with male infertility and is believed to allow transmission of genetically determined infertility to the male offspring. Transmission of DAZ (Deleted in Azoospermia) microdeletion is one of the major concerns for oligo and severe oligozoospermia patients. Screening of the Y chromosome microdeletion in the diagnostic work-up of infertile men is mainly done using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on blood leukocytes. However, there are evidences showing that presence of DAZ in somatic cells might not be indicative of its presence in germ cell lineage. In this report we are going to describe a combined Primed in situ labeling (PRINS) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) technique to show the localization of DAZ gene as well as Y chromosome centromere on sperm nuclei. PRINS is a combination of FISH and in situ polymerization provides another approach for in situ chromosomal detection. In the present study the PRINS primers specific for DAZ genes and traditional direct labeled centromere FISH probes for Y and X chromosomes were used in order to simultaneously detect DAZ genes and sex chromosome aneuploidy in sperm samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Mozdarani
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medical Sciences , Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
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31
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Benedetti S, Tagliamonte MC, Catalani S, Primiterra M, Canestrari F, De Stefani S, Palini S, Bulletti C. Differences in blood and semen oxidative status in fertile and infertile men, and their relationship with sperm quality. Reprod Biomed Online 2012; 25:300-6. [PMID: 22818093 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2012.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2011] [Revised: 05/11/2012] [Accepted: 05/24/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress plays a fundamental role in the aetiology of male infertility by negatively affecting sperm quality and function. Assessment of blood and seminal plasma oxidative profiles might be a valuable tool to improve evaluation of sperm reproductive capacity and functional competence. This study examined the lipid-soluble antioxidant profile and levels of lipid peroxidation both in blood and seminal plasma samples of infertile and fertile males, in relation to semen parameters. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and vitamin E concentrations were significantly (P<0.05) lower in seminal plasma of infertile men compared with fertile subjects; concurrently, a significant accumulation of malondialdehyde was found in infertile patients (P=0.032 compared with controls), which was negatively correlated with sperm motility and morphology. In blood samples, infertile men presented lower concentrations of TAC, carotenoids and vitamin E than fertile subjects; TAC and carotenoids were positively correlated with sperm motility, morphology and concentration. Finally, blood TAC and vitamin E concentrations were positively correlated with the corresponding seminal values, confirming the close relationship between blood and semen antioxidants. All these results indicated the possibility of using not only seminal antioxidants but also blood antioxidants as biochemical markers to support sperm quality evaluation. Oxidative stress induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS) has been widely recognized as one of the major causes of male infertility; indeed, excessive ROS production can negatively impact sperm quality and function. The assessment of blood and seminal plasma oxidative profiles has been suggested as a valuable tool to improve the evaluation of sperm reproductive capacity and functional competence in infertile men. With this in mind, in the present study we examined the lipid soluble antioxidant profile (carotenoids and vitamins A and E) and the levels of lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde; MDA) both in blood and seminal plasma samples of infertile and fertile males, in correlation with semen parameters namely motility, morphology and concentration. As a result, we obtained evidence that the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and the concentrations of vitamin E of seminal plasma samples were significantly lower in infertile men than in fertile subjects; at the same time, a significant accumulation of MDA was found in infertile patients. MDA, in turn, negatively correlated with sperm motility and morphology, thus confirming that oxidative damage to lipids impairs sperm quality. In blood samples, infertile men presented lower TAC and lower concentrations of carotenoids and vitamin E than fertile subjects; interestingly, TAC and carotenoid concentrations were positively correlated with sperm motility, morphology, and concentration, confirming the close relationship between blood antioxidants and sperm quality. In conclusion, all these results suggested that the examination of blood and semen oxidative profiles might furnish useful information on sperm quality and function in infertile men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Benedetti
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Section of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Via Ubaldini 7-61029 Urbino (PU), Italy.
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32
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Bosman E, Esterhuizen AD, Rodrigues FA, Becker PJ, Hoffmann WA. Prevalence of hyperinsulinaemia among normozoospermic donors at Medfem Clinic, South Africa. Andrologia 2012; 45:18-25. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2012.01303.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- E. Bosman
- Medfem Clinic; Cramerview; Gauteng; South Africa
| | | | | | - P. J. Becker
- Biostatistics Unit; Medical Research Council & Division of Clinical Epidemiology, University of Pretoria; Pretoria; South Africa
| | - W. A. Hoffmann
- Department of Biomedical Sciences; Tshwane University of Technology; Pretoria; South Africa
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Morita M, Nakajima A, Takemura A, Okuno M. Involvement of redox- and phosphorylation-dependent pathways in osmotic adaptation in sperm cells of euryhaline tilapia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 214:2096-104. [PMID: 21613527 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.053405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Sperm cells involved in fertilisation must tolerate hypo-osmotic and hyper-osmotic environments. Euryhaline tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) can acclimatise to and reproduce in freshwater and seawater because its sperm are able to adapt to these differing osmotic environments. In this study, we found that the dephosphorylation of sperm proteins in O. mossambicus correlated with the activation of flagellar motility when sperm were exposed to hypotonic or hypertonic conditions, and that differences in phosphorylation may reflect adaptations to a given osmotic environment. Of the sperm proteins that were dephosphorylated, the phosphorylation pattern of an 18 kDa protein, identified as the superoxide anion scavenger Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn SOD), was different in freshwater- and seawater-acclimatised tilapia sperm. Cu/Zn SOD was distributed from the sperm head to the flagellum. Additionally, differences were observed between freshwater and seawater tilapia in the nitration of tyrosine residues (which might be mediated by SOD) in sperm flagellar proteins in response to osmotic shock. These results demonstrate that reactive-oxygen-species-dependent mechanisms contribute to both osmotic tolerance and the activation of flagellar motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaya Morita
- Sesoko Station, Tropical Biosphere Research Center, University of the Ryukyus, Sesoko, Motobu, Okinawa 907-0227, Japan.
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34
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Gharagozloo P, Aitken RJ. The role of sperm oxidative stress in male infertility and the significance of oral antioxidant therapy. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:1628-40. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 331] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
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Aitken RJ, Curry BJ. Redox regulation of human sperm function: from the physiological control of sperm capacitation to the etiology of infertility and DNA damage in the germ line. Antioxid Redox Signal 2011; 14:367-81. [PMID: 20522002 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2010.3186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Defective sperm function is the largest single defined cause of human infertility and one of the major reasons we are witnessing an exponential increase in the uptake of assisted conception therapy in the developed world. A major characteristic of defective human spermatozoa is the presence of large amounts of DNA damage, which is, in turn, associated with reduced fertility, increased rates of miscarriage, and an enhanced risk of disease in the offspring. This DNA damage is largely oxidative and is closely associated with defects in spermiogenesis. To explain the origins of this DNA damage, we postulate that spermiogenesis is disrupted by oxidative stress, leading to the creation of defective gametes with poorly remodeled chromatin that are particularly susceptible to free radical attack. To compound the problem, these defective cells have a tendency to undergo an unusual truncated form of apoptosis associated with high amounts of superoxide generation by the sperm mitochondria. This leads to significant oxidative DNA damage that eventually culminates in the DNA fragmentation we see in infertile patients. In light of the significance of oxidative stress in the etiology of defective sperm function, a variety of antioxidant therapies are now being assessed for their therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Aitken
- Discipline of Biological Sciences and ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Australia.
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36
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Rodriguez PC, Valdez LB, Zaobornyj T, Boveris A, Beconi MT. Nitric Oxide and Superoxide Anion Production During Heparin-Induced Capacitation in Cryopreserved Bovine Spermatozoa. Reprod Domest Anim 2011; 46:74-81. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2010.01583.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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Aitken RJ, Koppers AJ. Apoptosis and DNA damage in human spermatozoa. Asian J Androl 2011; 13:36-42. [PMID: 20802502 PMCID: PMC3739394 DOI: 10.1038/aja.2010.68] [Citation(s) in RCA: 223] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2010] [Accepted: 06/25/2010] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA damage is frequently encountered in spermatozoa of subfertile males and is correlated with a range of adverse clinical outcomes including impaired fertilization, disrupted preimplantation embryonic development, increased rates of miscarriage and an enhanced risk of disease in the progeny. The etiology of DNA fragmentation in human spermatozoa is closely correlated with the appearance of oxidative base adducts and evidence of impaired spermiogenesis. We hypothesize that oxidative stress impedes spermiogenesis, resulting in the generation of spermatozoa with poorly remodelled chromatin. These defective cells have a tendency to default to an apoptotic pathway associated with motility loss, caspase activation, phosphatidylserine exteriorization and the activation of free radical generation by the mitochondria. The latter induces lipid peroxidation and oxidative DNA damage, which then leads to DNA fragmentation and cell death. The physical architecture of spermatozoa prevents any nucleases activated as a result of this apoptotic process from gaining access to the nuclear DNA and inducing its fragmentation. It is for this reason that a majority of the DNA damage encountered in human spermatozoa seems to be oxidative. Given the important role that oxidative stress seems to have in the etiology of DNA damage, there should be an important role for antioxidants in the treatment of this condition. If oxidative DNA damage in spermatozoa is providing a sensitive readout of systemic oxidative stress, the implications of these findings could stretch beyond our immediate goal of trying to minimize DNA damage in spermatozoa as a prelude to assisted conception therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- R John Aitken
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development, Priority Research Centre in Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.
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Hammadeh M, Hamad M, Montenarh M, Fischer-Hammadeh C. Protamine contents and P1/P2 ratio in human spermatozoa from smokers and non-smokers. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:2708-20. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deq226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
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Koppers AJ, Garg ML, Aitken RJ. Stimulation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species production by unesterified, unsaturated fatty acids in defective human spermatozoa. Free Radic Biol Med 2010; 48:112-9. [PMID: 19837155 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2009.10.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2009] [Revised: 09/25/2009] [Accepted: 10/12/2009] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Male infertility is a relatively common condition affecting 1 in 20 men of reproductive age. The etiology of this condition is thought to involve the excessive generation of reactive oxygen species by human spermatozoa; however, the cause of this aberrant activity is unknown. In this study we demonstrate that defective human sperm populations are characterized by high cellular contents of both esterified and unesterified fatty acids and a decrease in the proportion of the total fatty acid pool made up by docosahexaenoic acid. The free unsaturated fatty acid content of these cells was positively correlated with the induction of mitochondrial superoxide generation (P<0.001). This relationship was causal and mediated by the range of unesterified, unsaturated fatty acids that are present in human spermatozoa. Thus direct exposure of these cells to free unsaturated fatty acids stimulated mitochondrial superoxide generation and precipitated a loss of motility and an increase in oxidative DNA damage, two key attributes of male infertility. We conclude that defective human spermatozoa are characterized by an abnormally high content of fatty acids that, in their unesterified, unsaturated form, promote ROS generation by sperm mitochondria, creating a state of oxidative stress and a concomitant loss of functional competence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam J Koppers
- Discipline of Biological Sciences and ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development, Faculty of Science and IT, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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40
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Agarwal A, Desai NR, Makker K, Varghese A, Mouradi R, Sabanegh E, Sharma R. Effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic waves (RF-EMW) from cellular phones on human ejaculated semen: an in vitro pilot study. Fertil Steril 2009; 92:1318-1325. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.08.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2008] [Revised: 07/31/2008] [Accepted: 08/07/2008] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Mobile phone radiation induces reactive oxygen species production and DNA damage in human spermatozoa in vitro. PLoS One 2009; 4:e6446. [PMID: 19649291 PMCID: PMC2714176 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0006446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 231] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2009] [Accepted: 06/30/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In recent times there has been some controversy over the impact of electromagnetic radiation on human health. The significance of mobile phone radiation on male reproduction is a key element of this debate since several studies have suggested a relationship between mobile phone use and semen quality. The potential mechanisms involved have not been established, however, human spermatozoa are known to be particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress by virtue of the abundant availability of substrates for free radical attack and the lack of cytoplasmic space to accommodate antioxidant enzymes. Moreover, the induction of oxidative stress in these cells not only perturbs their capacity for fertilization but also contributes to sperm DNA damage. The latter has, in turn, been linked with poor fertility, an increased incidence of miscarriage and morbidity in the offspring, including childhood cancer. In light of these associations, we have analyzed the influence of RF-EMR on the cell biology of human spermatozoa in vitro. Principal Findings Purified human spermatozoa were exposed to radio-frequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) tuned to 1.8 GHz and covering a range of specific absorption rates (SAR) from 0.4 W/kg to 27.5 W/kg. In step with increasing SAR, motility and vitality were significantly reduced after RF-EMR exposure, while the mitochondrial generation of reactive oxygen species and DNA fragmentation were significantly elevated (P<0.001). Furthermore, we also observed highly significant relationships between SAR, the oxidative DNA damage bio-marker, 8-OH-dG, and DNA fragmentation after RF-EMR exposure. Conclusions RF-EMR in both the power density and frequency range of mobile phones enhances mitochondrial reactive oxygen species generation by human spermatozoa, decreasing the motility and vitality of these cells while stimulating DNA base adduct formation and, ultimately DNA fragmentation. These findings have clear implications for the safety of extensive mobile phone use by males of reproductive age, potentially affecting both their fertility and the health and wellbeing of their offspring.
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De Iuliis GN, Thomson LK, Mitchell LA, Finnie JM, Koppers AJ, Hedges A, Nixon B, Aitken RJ. DNA damage in human spermatozoa is highly correlated with the efficiency of chromatin remodeling and the formation of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, a marker of oxidative stress. Biol Reprod 2009; 81:517-24. [PMID: 19494251 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.076836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 292] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA damage in human spermatozoa has been associated with a range of adverse clinical outcomes, including infertility, abortion, and disease in the offspring. We have advanced a two-step hypothesis to explain this damage involving impaired chromatin remodeling during spermiogenesis followed by a free radical attack to induce DNA strand breakage. The objective of the present study was to test this hypothesis by determining whether impaired chromatin protamination is correlated with oxidative base damage and DNA fragmentation in human spermatozoa. DNA fragmentation, chromatin protamination, mitochondrial membrane potential, and formation of the oxidative base adduct, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8OHdG), were monitored by flow cytometry/fluorescence microscopy. Impairment of DNA protamination during late spermatogenesis was highly correlated (P < 0.001) with DNA damage in human spermatozoa. The disruption of chromatin remodeling also was associated with a significant elevation in the levels of 8OHdG (P < 0.001), and the latter was itself highly correlated with DNA fragmentation (P < 0.001). The significance of oxidative stress in 8OHdG formation was demonstrated experimentally using H2O2/Fe2+ and by the correlation observed between this base adduct and superoxide generation (P < 0.001). That 8OHdG formation was inversely associated with mitochondrial membrane potential (P < 0.001) suggested a possible role for these organelles in the creation of oxidative stress. These results clearly highlight the importance of oxidative stress in the induction of sperm DNA damage and carry significant implications for the clinical management of this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffry N De Iuliis
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development and Hunter Medical Research Institute, Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales 2308, Australia
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45
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Hsu PC, Chang HY, Guo YL, Liu YC, Shih TS. Effect of smoking on blood lead levels in workers and role of reactive oxygen species in lead-induced sperm chromatin DNA damage. Fertil Steril 2009; 91:1096-103. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2007] [Revised: 01/02/2008] [Accepted: 01/02/2008] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) is an imbalance between the amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced and the ability of the antioxidants to scavenge these. OS has been established as a major etiological cause of male infertility. High levels of ROS are harmful and cause damage to sperm nuclear DNA. Evaluation of OS-related damage to spermatozoa is therefore highly relevant in assisted reproductive techniques (ART) such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). ICSI is an effective therapy for severe male factor infertility that bypasses the majority of reproductive tract deficiencies. Despite the controversial findings in the existing literature, there is now enough evidence to show that sperm DNA damage is detrimental to reproductive outcomes. In addition to impairment of fertility, such damage might increase the transmission of genetic diseases to the offspring. Standardization of protocols to assess ROS, antioxidant status, and DNA damage is very important for implementation of these tests in clinical practice. Estimation of seminal ROS levels and extent of sperm DNA damage, especially in an infertile male, may help develop new therapeutic strategies and improve the success of ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute and Obstetrics, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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47
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Yaegaki K, Qian W, Murata T, Imai T, Sato T, Tanaka T, Kamoda T. Oral malodorous compound causes apoptosis and genomic DNA damage in human gingival fibroblasts. J Periodontal Res 2008; 43:391-9. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0765.2007.01052.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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48
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Bennetts LE, De Iuliis GN, Nixon B, Kime M, Zelski K, McVicar CM, Lewis SE, Aitken RJ. Impact of estrogenic compounds on DNA integrity in human spermatozoa: evidence for cross-linking and redox cycling activities. Mutat Res 2008; 641:1-11. [PMID: 18342339 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrfmmm.2008.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2007] [Accepted: 02/02/2008] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
A great deal of circumstantial evidence has linked DNA damage in human spermatozoa with adverse reproductive outcomes including reduced fertility and high rates of miscarriage. Although oxidative stress is thought to make a significant contribution to DNA damage in the male germ line, the factors responsible for creating this stress have not been elucidated. One group of compounds that are thought to be active in this context are the estrogens, either generated as a result of the endogenous metabolism of androgens within the male reproductive tract or gaining access to the latter as a consequence of environmental exposure. In this study, a wide variety of estrogenic compounds were assessed for their direct effects on human spermatozoa in vitro. DNA integrity was assessed using the Comet and TUNEL assays, lesion frequencies were quantified by QPCR using targets within the mitochondrial and nuclear (beta-globin) genomes, DNA adducts were characterized by mass spectrometry and redox activity was monitored using dihydroethidium (DHE) as the probe. Of the estrogenic and estrogen analogue compounds evaluated, catechol estrogens, quercetin, diethylstilbestrol and pyrocatechol stimulated intense redox activity while genistein was only active at the highest doses tested. Other estrogens and estrogen analogues, such as 17beta-estradiol, nonylphenol, bisphenol A and 2,3-dihydroxynaphthalene were inactive. Estrogen-induced redox activity was associated with a dramatic loss of motility and, in the case of 2-hydroxyestradiol, the induction of significant DNA fragmentation. Mass spectrometry also indicated that catechol estrogens were capable of forming dimers that can cross-link the densely packed DNA strands in sperm chromatin, impairing nuclear decondensation. These results highlight the potential importance of estrogenic compounds in creating oxidative stress and DNA damage in the male germ line and suggest that further exploration of these compounds in the aetiology of male infertility is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- L E Bennetts
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development and Discipline of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia
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49
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Andrabi SMH. Mammalian sperm chromatin structure and assessment of DNA fragmentation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2007; 24:561-9. [PMID: 18008155 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-007-9177-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2007] [Accepted: 10/29/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
This review article illustrates the biology of mammalian sperm chromatin structure. The possible causes of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) fragmentation are discussed. Also available molecular techniques for assessment of mammalian sperm DNA damage are described.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M H Andrabi
- Animal Reproduction Laboratory, Animal Sciences Institute, National Agricultural Research Centre, Park Road, Islamabad, 45500, Pakistan.
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Abstract
Traditionally, the diagnosis of male infertility has relied upon microscopic assessment and biochemical assays to determine human semen quality. The conventional parameters given most importance have been the concentration, motility, and morphology of sperm in the ejaculate. Most laboratories also include ‘sperm suitability’ tests where the subpopulations of sperm more likely to finish the marathon journey to the oocyte are separated by density centrifugation. These tests are essential to provide the fundamental information on which clinicians base their initial diagnosis. However, none of these parameters addresses sperm function and their clinical value in predicting fertility is questionable. The advent of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has further reduced the significance and perceived need for sperm quality tests since ICSI requires only one sperm, not subject to classic, or indeed any, tests for the procedure to be successful. Over the past decade, a number of laboratory tests have been developed to determine properties of sperm function. These include quantitative sperm motion parameters, capacitation, basal and induced acrosome reactions, sperm–zona pellucida interactions and nuclear and mitochondrial sperm DNA but few have been adopted into routine clinical use. International collaborations should be initiated to develop clinically relevant molecular and functional tests with agreed protocols and clinical thresholds as a matter of urgency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheena E M Lewis
- School of Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Queen's University Belfast, Institute of Clinical Science, Grosvenor Road, Belfast BT12 6BA, UK.
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