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Tiwari S, Shahat A, Kastelic J, Thakor N, Thundathil J. Optimized total RNA isolation from bovine sperm with enhanced sperm head lysis. Biochem Cell Biol 2024; 102:194-205. [PMID: 37948675 DOI: 10.1139/bcb-2023-0231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing evidence of sperm RNA's role in fertilization and embryonic development has provided impetus for its isolation and thorough characterization. Sperm are considered tough-to-lyse cells due to the compact condensed DNA in sperm heads. Lack of consensus among bovine sperm RNA isolation protocols introduces experimental variability in transcriptome studies. Here, we describe an optimized method for total RNA isolation from bovine sperm using the TRIzol reagent. This study critically investigated the effects of various lysis conditions on sperm RNA isolation. Sperm suspended in TRIzol were subjected to a combination of mechanical treatments (sonication and passage through a 30G needle and syringe) and chemical treatments (supplementation with reducing agents 1,4-dithiothreitol and tris(2-carboxyethyl) phosphine hydrochloride (TCEP)). Microscopic evaluation of sperm lysis confirmed preferential sperm tail versus sperm head lysis. Interestingly, only TCEP-supplemented TRIzol (both mechanical treatments) had progressive sperm head lysis and consistently yielded total sperm RNA. Furthermore, RNA integrity was confirmed based on the electrophoresis profile and an absence of genomic DNA and somatic cells (e.g., epithelial cells, spermatids, etc.) with RT-qPCR. Our findings highlighted the importance of sperm lysis, specifically of the sperm head using TCEP with mechanical treatment, in total RNA isolation and presented a bovine-specific sperm RNA isolation method to reduce experimental variabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Tiwari
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Abdallah Shahat
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - John Kastelic
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Nehal Thakor
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Lethbridge, AB, Canada
- Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Southern Alberta Genome Sciences Centre (SAGSC), University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - Jacob Thundathil
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Southern Alberta Genome Sciences Centre (SAGSC), University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
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2
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Bisconti M, Leroy B, Gallagher MT, Senet C, Martinet B, Arcolia V, Wattiez R, Kirkman-Brown JC, Simon JF, Hennebert E. The ribosome inhibitor chloramphenicol induces motility deficits in human spermatozoa: A proteomic approach identifies potentially involved proteins. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:965076. [PMID: 36120567 PMCID: PMC9478589 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.965076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mature spermatozoa are almost completely devoid of cytoplasm; as such it has long been believed that they do not contain ribosomes and are therefore not capable of synthesising proteins. However, since the 1950s, various studies have shown translational activity within spermatozoa, particularly during their in vitro capacitation. But the type of ribosomes involved (cytoplasmic or mitochondrial) is still debated. Here, we investigate the presence and activity of the two types of ribosomes in mature human spermatozoa. By targeting ribosomal RNAs and proteins, we show that both types of ribosomes are localized in the midpiece as well as in the neck and the base of the head of the spermatozoa. We assessed the impact of cycloheximide (CHX) and chloramphenicol (CP), inhibitors of cytoplasmic and mitochondrial ribosomes, respectively, on different sperm parameters. Neither CHX, nor CP impacted sperm vitality, mitochondrial activity (measured through the ATP content), or capacitation (measured through the content in phosphotyrosines). However, increasing CP concentrations induced a decrease in total and progressive motilities as well as on some kinematic parameters while no effect was observed with CHX. A quantitative proteomic analysis was performed by mass spectrometry in SWATH mode to compare the proteomes of spermatozoa capacitated in the absence or presence of the two ribosome inhibitors. Among the ∼700 proteins identified in the different tested conditions, 3, 3 and 25 proteins presented a modified abundance in the presence of 1 and 2 mg/ml of CHX, and 1 mg/ml of CP, respectively. The observed abundance variations of some CP-down regulated proteins were validated using Multiple-Reaction Monitoring (MRM). Taken together, our results are in favor of an activity of mitochondrial ribosomes. Their inhibition by CP results in a decrease in the abundance of several proteins, at least FUNDC2 and QRICH2, and consequently induces sperm motility deficits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Bisconti
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Baptiste Leroy
- Laboratory of Proteomics and Microbiology, CISMa, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Meurig T. Gallagher
- Centre for Systems Modelling and Quantitative Biomedicine, University of Birmingham, Centre for Human Reproductive Science, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s National Health Service Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Coralie Senet
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Baptiste Martinet
- Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Vanessa Arcolia
- Clinique de Fertilité Régionale de Mons, CHU Ambroise Paré Hospital, Mons, Belgium
| | - Ruddy Wattiez
- Laboratory of Proteomics and Microbiology, CISMa, Research Institute for Biosciences, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Jackson C. Kirkman-Brown
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Centre for Human Reproductive Science, Birmingham Women’s and Children’s National Health Service Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jean-François Simon
- Clinique de Fertilité Régionale de Mons, CHU Ambroise Paré Hospital, Mons, Belgium
| | - Elise Hennebert
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Research Institute for Biosciences, Research Institute for Health Sciences and Technology, University of Mons, Mons, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Elise Hennebert,
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Silva C, Viana P, Barros A, Sá R, Sousa M, Pereira R. Further Insights on RNA Expression and Sperm Motility. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13071291. [PMID: 35886074 PMCID: PMC9319021 DOI: 10.3390/genes13071291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthenozoospermia is one of the main causes of male infertility and it is characterized by reduced sperm motility. Several mutations in genes that code for structural or functional constituents of the sperm have already been identified as known causes of asthenozoospermia. In contrast, the role of sperm RNA in regulating sperm motility is still not fully understood. Consequently, here we aim to contribute to the knowledge regarding the expression of sperm RNA, and ultimately, to provide further insights into its relationship with sperm motility. We investigated the expression of a group of mRNAs by using real-time PCR (CATSPER3, CFAP44, CRHR1, HIP1, IQCG KRT34, LRRC6, QRICH2, RSPH6A, SPATA33 and TEKT2) and the highest score corresponding to the target miRNA for each mRNA in asthenozoospermic and normozoospermic individuals. We observed a reduced expression of all mRNAs and miRNAs in asthenozoospermic patients compared to controls, with a more accentuated reduction in patients with progressive sperm motility lower than 15%. Our work provides further insights regarding the role of RNA in regulating sperm motility. Further studies are required to determine how these genes and their corresponding miRNA act regarding sperm motility, particularly KRT34 and CRHR1, which have not previously been seen to play a significant role in regulating sperm motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Silva
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS/ITR-Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (C.S.); (R.S.); (M.S.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra (FMUC), 3000-370 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Paulo Viana
- Centre for Reproductive Genetics A. Barros, 4100-012 Porto, Portugal; (P.V.); (A.B.)
| | - Alberto Barros
- Centre for Reproductive Genetics A. Barros, 4100-012 Porto, Portugal; (P.V.); (A.B.)
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto (FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Health Research and Innovation (IPATIMUP/i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Rosália Sá
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS/ITR-Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (C.S.); (R.S.); (M.S.)
| | - Mário Sousa
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS/ITR-Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (C.S.); (R.S.); (M.S.)
| | - Rute Pereira
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, ICBAS-School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, UMIB-Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine, ICBAS/ITR-Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (C.S.); (R.S.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence:
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Dai Y, Kong X, Yao C, Xiong C, Li Z, Li H. Multi-stage screening cell-free seminal mRNAs to diagnose completion of meiosis and predict testicular sperm retrieval in men with non-obstructive azoospermia. Andrology 2022; 10:749-757. [PMID: 35266640 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Differential diagnosis of men with subtypes of non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is important for their treatment. Many genes are transcripted during meiosis. We hypothesized that some of these genes can be detected in cell-free seminal mRNAs (cfs-mRNA) and be developed as non-invasive biomarkers for diagnosing NOA subtypes. OBJECTIVE To screen cfs-mRNA to diagnose the completion of meiosis and predict successful sperm retrieval (SR) in men with NOA. MATERIALS AND METHODS NOA patients who visited our institutes from September 2018 to December 2020 for testicular histopathological diagnosis (n = 109) or testicular SR (n = 92) were screened for participation in the study. Microarray and real-time quantitative PCR were used in five stages to obtain candidate cfs-mRNAs for comparisons between patients with early maturation arrest (eMA, meiosis not completed) and late MA or hypospermatogenesis (meiosis completed), and between NOA patients with successful SR and SR failure. RESULTS Twelve cfs-mRNAs were selected based on this comparison between men with eMA and hypospermatogenesis and their gene expression and function information. Of these, AKAP1, BOLL, TCP11, and SETX predominantly derived from testes and germ cells were proposed as candidate cfs-mRNAs. Further quantification in men with NOA demonstrated significantly higher levels of BOLL cfs-mRNA (P < 0.0001) in men with late MA or hypospermatogenesis (n = 23), compared with men with eMA (n = 51); and significantly higher levels (P < 0.0001) in patients with successful SR (n = 44) when compared with patients with SR failure (n = 37). Interestingly, with a similar cutoff value, BOLL cfs-mRNA showed high sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing late MA and hypospermatogenesis (>404 copies/mL) and predicting successful SR (>415 copies/mL). Correlation of BOLL mRNA levels was observed in paired semen and testicular tissues. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS We propose that BOLL cfs-mRNA is a promising non-invasive marker for diagnosing the completion of meiosis and predicting successful testicular SR in men with NOA. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwan Dai
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Henan, China
| | - Xiangbin Kong
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Chencheng Yao
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Chengliang Xiong
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Hospital, Wuhan, China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Andrology, the Center for Men's Health, Urologic Medical Center, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Honggang Li
- Institute of Reproductive Health/Center of Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.,Wuhan Tongji Reproductive Hospital, Wuhan, China
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5
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Nikolaev G, Robeva R, Konakchieva R. Membrane Melatonin Receptors Activated Cell Signaling in Physiology and Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010471. [PMID: 35008896 PMCID: PMC8745360 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The pineal hormone melatonin has attracted great scientific interest since its discovery in 1958. Despite the enormous number of basic and clinical studies the exact role of melatonin in respect to human physiology remains elusive. In humans, two high-affinity receptors for melatonin, MT1 and MT2, belonging to the family of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) have been cloned and identified. The two receptor types activate Gi proteins and MT2 couples additionally to Gq proteins to modulate intracellular events. The individual effects of MT1 and MT2 receptor activation in a variety of cells are complemented by their ability to form homo- and heterodimers, the functional relevance of which is yet to be confirmed. Recently, several melatonin receptor genetic polymorphisms were discovered and implicated in pathology-for instance in type 2 diabetes, autoimmune disease, and cancer. The circadian patterns of melatonin secretion, its pleiotropic effects depending on cell type and condition, and the already demonstrated cross-talks of melatonin receptors with other signal transduction pathways further contribute to the perplexity of research on the role of the pineal hormone in humans. In this review we try to summarize the current knowledge on the membrane melatonin receptor activated cell signaling in physiology and pathology and their relevance to certain disease conditions including cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgi Nikolaev
- Faculty of Biology, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, 1504 Sofia, Bulgaria;
- Correspondence:
| | - Ralitsa Robeva
- Department of Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University, 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria;
| | - Rossitza Konakchieva
- Faculty of Biology, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, 1504 Sofia, Bulgaria;
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6
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Santiago J, Silva JV, Howl J, Santos MAS, Fardilha M. All you need to know about sperm RNAs. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 28:67-91. [PMID: 34624094 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenesis generates a small and highly specialised type of cell that is apparently incapable of transcription and translation. For many years, this dogma was supported by the assumption that (i) the compact sperm nucleus, resulting from the substitution of histones by protamine during spermatogenesis, renders the genome inaccessible to the transcriptional machinery; and (ii) the loss of most organelles, including endoplasmic reticulum and ribosomes, limits or prevents translational activity. Despite these observations, several types of coding and non-coding RNAs have been identified in human sperm. Their functional roles, particularly during fertilisation and embryonic development, are only now becoming apparent. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review aimed to summarise current knowledge of the origin, types and functional roles of sperm RNAs, and to evaluate the clinical benefits of employing these transcripts as biomarkers of male fertility and reproductive outcomes. The possible contribution of sperm RNAs to intergenerational or transgenerational phenotypic inheritance is also addressed. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive literature search on PubMed was conducted using the search terms 'sperm' AND 'RNA'. Searches focussed upon articles written in English and published prior to August 2020. OUTCOMES The development of more sensitive and accurate RNA technologies, including RNA sequencing, has enabled the identification and characterisation of numerous transcripts in human sperm. Though a majority of these RNAs likely arise during spermatogenesis, other data support an epididymal origin of RNA transmitted to maturing sperm by extracellular vesicles. A minority may also be synthesised by de novo transcription in mature sperm, since a small portion of the sperm genome remains packed by histones. This complex RNA population has important roles in paternal chromatin packaging, sperm maturation and capacitation, fertilisation, early embryogenesis and developmental maintenance. In recent years, additional lines of evidence from animal models support a role for sperm RNAs in intergenerational or transgenerational inheritance, modulating both the genotype and phenotype of progeny. Importantly, several reports indicate that the sperm RNA content of fertile and infertile men differs considerably and is strongly modulated by the environment, lifestyle and pathological states. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Transcriptional profiling has considerable potential for the discovery of fertility biomarkers. Understanding the role of sperm transcripts and comparing the sperm RNA fingerprint of fertile and infertile men could help to elucidate the regulatory pathways contributing to male factor infertility. Such data might also provide a molecular explanation for several causes of idiopathic male fertility. Ultimately, transcriptional profiling may be employed to optimise ART procedures and overcome some of the underlying causes of male infertility, ensuring the birth of healthy children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Santiago
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Joana V Silva
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.,i3S-Institute for Innovation and Health Research, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Laboratory of Cell Biology, Department of Microscopy, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - John Howl
- Research Institute in Healthcare Science, University of Wolverhampton, Wolverhampton, UK
| | - Manuel A S Santos
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Margarida Fardilha
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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7
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Corral-Vazquez C, Blanco J, Aiese Cigliano R, Sarrate Z, Rivera-Egea R, Vidal F, Garrido N, Daub C, Anton E. The RNA content of human sperm reflects prior events in spermatogenesis and potential post-fertilization effects. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:6265603. [PMID: 33950245 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Transcriptome analyses using high-throughput methodologies allow a deeper understanding of biological functions in different cell types/tissues. The present study provides an RNA-seq profiling of human sperm mRNAs and lncRNAs (messenger and long non-coding RNAs) in a well-characterized population of fertile individuals. Sperm RNA was extracted from twelve ejaculate samples under strict quality controls. Poly(A)-transcripts were sequenced and aligned to the human genome. mRNAs and lncRNAs were classified according to their mean expression values (FPKM: Fragments Per Kilobase of transcript per Million mapped reads) and integrity. Gene Ontology analysis of the Expressed and Highly Expressed mRNAs showed an involvement in diverse reproduction processes, while the Ubiquitously Expressed and Highly Stable mRNAs were mainly involved in spermatogenesis. Transcription factor enrichment analyses revealed that the Highly Expressed and Ubiquitously Expressed sperm mRNAs were primarily regulated by zinc-fingers and spermatogenesis-related proteins. Regarding the Expressed lncRNAs, only one-third of their potential targets corresponded to Expressed mRNAs and were enriched in cell-cycle regulation processes. The remaining two-thirds were absent in sperm and were enriched in embryogenesis-related processes. A significant amount of post-testicular sperm mRNAs and lncRNAs was also detected. Even though our study is solely directed to the poly-A fraction of sperm transcripts, results indicate that both sperm mRNAs and lncRNAs constitute a footprint of previous spermatogenesis events and are configured to affect the first stages of embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Corral-Vazquez
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - J Blanco
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | | | - Z Sarrate
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - R Rivera-Egea
- IVIRMA Valencia, IVI Foundation, Laboratorio de Andrología, Valencia, Spain
| | - F Vidal
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - N Garrido
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria la Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - C Daub
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - E Anton
- Genetics of Male Fertility Group, Unitat de Biologia Cel·lular (Facultat de Biociències), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
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8
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Santiago J, Santos MAS, Fardilha M, Silva JV. Stress response pathways in the male germ cells and gametes. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:1-13. [PMID: 31814009 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaz063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The unfolded protein response (UPR) is a conserved and essential cellular pathway involved in protein quality control that is activated in response to several cellular stressors such as diseases states, ageing, infection and toxins. The cytosol, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and mitochondria are continuously exposed to new proteins and in situations of aberrant protein folding; one of three lines of defence may be activated: (i) heat-shock response, (ii) mitochondrial UPR and (iii) ER UPR. These pathways lead to different signal transduction mechanisms that activate or upregulate transcription factors that, in turn, regulate genes that increase the cell's ability to correct the conformation of poorly folded proteins or, ultimately, lead to apoptosis. Despite the recent progress in understanding such biological processes, few studies have focused on the implications of the UPR in male infertility, highlighting the need for a first approach concerning the presence of these components in the male reproductive system. In testis, there is a high rate of protein synthesis, and the UPR mechanisms are well described. However, the presence of these mechanisms in spermatozoa, apparently transcriptionally inactive cells, is contentious, and it is unclear how sperm cells deal with stress. Here, we review current concepts and mechanisms of the UPR and highlight the relevance of these stress response pathways in male fertility, especially the presence and functional activation of those components in male germinal cells and spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Santiago
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - M A S Santos
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - M Fardilha
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - J V Silva
- Department of Medical Sciences, Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.,Reproductive Genetics and Embryo-fetal Development Group, Institute for Innovation and Health Research (I3S), University of Porto, 4200-135, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Microscopy, Laboratory of Cell Biology, and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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9
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Pang WK, Kang S, Ryu DY, Rahman MS, Park YJ, Pang MG. Optimization of sperm RNA processing for developmental research. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11606. [PMID: 32665575 PMCID: PMC7360572 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68486-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have demonstrated the significance of sperm RNA function as a transporter of important information directing the course of life. To determine the message contained in sperm RNA, it is necessary to optimize transcriptomic research tools. The current study was performed to optimize the processing of sperm RNA from sample storage to quantitative real-time PCR and assess the corresponding method with to evaluate male fertility and its representative markers, equatorin (EQTN) and peroxiredoxin (PRDX). Following successive steps of the Minimum Information for Publication of Quantitative Real-Time PCR Experiments guidelines, several options were compared using boar spermatozoa. To evaluate the optimized procedures, the relationship between mRNA expression of EQTN and PRDX in spermatozoa and the fertility (litter size) of 20 individual boars was assessed. Unexpectedly, DNase treatment during RNA isolation had the deleterious effect by decreasing the RNA concentration by 56% and eliminating the correlation between EQTN and PRDX4 mRNA expression and male fertility. Moreover, when sperm RNA was processed using the corresponding method, the results showed the highest exon sequence expression, male fertility prediction power, and consistency. This optimized protocol for predicting male fertility can be used to study the transport of messages directing the life course from spermatozoon to offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Won-Ki Pang
- Department of Animal Science and Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Saehan Kang
- Department of Animal Science and Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Do-Yeal Ryu
- Department of Animal Science and Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Md Saidur Rahman
- Department of Animal Science and Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoo-Jin Park
- Department of Animal Science and Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, 17546, Republic of Korea
| | - Myung-Geol Pang
- Department of Animal Science and Technology and BET Research Institute, Chung-Ang University, Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, 17546, Republic of Korea.
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10
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Atabay E, Fajardo Z, Tadeo R, Atabay E, Venturina E, Mingala C, Fissore R. Phospholipase C zeta 1 mRNA as a marker of oocyte-activation and fertilization potential of water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) semen. Livest Sci 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2019.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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11
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Mazilina MA, Komarova EM, Baranov VS. RNA in Human Sperm and Some Problems of Male Fertility. RUSS J GENET+ 2018. [DOI: 10.1134/s1022795418120098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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12
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Dhawan V, Kumar M, Deka D, Malhotra N, Singh N, Dadhwal V, Dada R. Paternal factors and embryonic development: Role in recurrent pregnancy loss. Andrologia 2018; 51:e13171. [PMID: 30324700 DOI: 10.1111/and.13171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 08/18/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The events occurring at the maternal-foetal interface define a successful pregnancy but the current paradigm has shifted towards assessing the contribution of spermatozoa for embryogenesis. Spermatozoa with defective DNA integrity may fertilise the oocyte but affect subsequent embryonic development. The present case-control study was conducted in male partners of couples experiencing recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) to assess the gene expression of spermatozoal FOXG1, SOX3, OGG1, PARP1, RPS6, RBM9, RPS17 and RPL29. This was correlated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI). Semen samples were obtained from 60 cases and 30 fertile controls. Gene expression was done by qPCR analysis, and relative quantification was calculated by the 2-ΔΔCt method. Chemiluminescence and the sperm chromatin structure assay were used to measure the ROS and DFI levels respectively. FOXG1, OGG1, RPS6 and RBM9 were seen to be upregulated, while SOX3 and PARP1 were downregulated. Relative expression of SOX3, OGG1, RPS6 and RPS17 showed a significant difference between patients and controls (p < 0.05). RPL patients were seen to have high ROS (>27.8; p = 0.001) and DFI (>30.7; p < 0.0001) with respect to controls. Sperm transcript dysregulation and oxidative DNA damage can be "carried over" after implantation, thus affecting embryogenesis and health of the future progeny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidhu Dhawan
- Department of Anatomy, Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction & Genetics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Department of Anatomy, Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction & Genetics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Dipika Deka
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Neena Malhotra
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Neeta Singh
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Vatsla Dadhwal
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Rima Dada
- Department of Anatomy, Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction & Genetics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Reddy VS, Yadav B, Yadav CL, Anand M, Swain DK, Kumar D, Kritania D, Madan AK, Kumar J, Yadav S. Effect of sericin supplementation on heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) expression, redox status and post thaw semen quality in goat. Cryobiology 2018; 84:33-39. [PMID: 30098997 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2018.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Cryopreservation results in substantial deterioration of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and ultra-structural changes in sperm organelles, resulting in a marked reduction in post-thaw semen quality. The present study was aimed to explicate the effect of sericin supplementation on expression profile of HSP70, redox status and post-thaw semen quality in Barbari goat. Five Barbari bucks were used to collect thirty semen ejaculates by using artificial vagina and each ejaculate was divided into three aliquots to which sericin was supplemented at 0% (Control), 0.25% (T1) and 0.50% (T2). Further, extended semen samples were equilibrated followed by their cryopreservation. Post-thaw semen characteristics, redox status of seminal plasma, enzyme leakage and HSP70 gene/protein expression in spermatozoa were assessed in all the groups. Per cent progressive motile spermatozoa, spermatozoa having intact plasma membrane (HOST + ve) and intact acrosomes in post-thaw spermatozoa were significantly (p < 0.01) higher in T1 and T2 as compared to control. A significant (p < 0.01) reduction in abnormal spermatozoa was found in T1 as compared to T2. Sericin supplementation significantly (p < 0.05) improved the antioxidative status (SOD, GST, CAT), reduced lipid peroxidation (MDA) and also prevented enzyme (ALT, LDH) leakage as compared to control samples. qRT-PCR results revealed that HSP70 mRNA expression was significantly (p < 0.01) upregulated in T1 and T2 group as compared to control. The positive effect of sericin on expression of HSP70 was further confirmed by immunoblotting followed by densitometry revealing higher expression in T1 and T2 compared to control. Inclusion of 0.25% w/v sericin in semen extender ameliorated the post-thaw semen quality by improving antioxidative status and minimizing the leakage of intracellular enzymes. Sericin supplementation had a beneficial effect on HSP70/HSP70 mRNA expression either by induction or by protection of HSP70/HSP70 mRNA as evident from the gene expression and immunoblotting studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vidya Sagar Reddy
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Veterinary University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Brijesh Yadav
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Veterinary University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Chhote Lal Yadav
- Department of Veterinary Gynecology and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Veterinary University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Mukul Anand
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Veterinary University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Dilip Kumar Swain
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Veterinary University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Devendra Kumar
- College of Biotechnology, Veterinary University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Deepika Kritania
- College of Biotechnology, Veterinary University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Arun Kumar Madan
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Veterinary University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Jitender Kumar
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Veterinary University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sarvajeet Yadav
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Veterinary University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Srivastav A, Changkija B, Sharan K, Nagar GK, Bansode FW. Influence of antifertility agents Dutasteride and Nifedipine on CatSper gene level in epididymis during sperm maturation in BALB/c mice. Reproduction 2018; 155:347-359. [PMID: 29434054 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Calcium (Ca2+) signaling is critical for successful fertilization. In spermatozoa, capacitation, hyperactivation of motility and the acrosome reaction are all mediated by increases in intracellular Ca2+ through CatSper (sperm-specific cation channel). The CatSper channel complex contains four pore-forming α subunits (CatSper1-4) and five accessory subunits called β, δ, ε, γ and ζ. Genetic deletion of any of the four CatSper genes in mice results in loss of hyperactivated motility and male infertility. Despite their vital role in male fertility, almost very little is known about influence of antifertility agents on CatSper gene expression in epididymis and epididymal spermatozoa. Therefore, we performed quantitative real-time qPCR analysis for CatSper expression in the epididymis and epididymal sperm of BALB/c mice after treatment with Dutasteride (DS), a dual 5-α reductase inhibitor and Nifedipine (NF) a calcium channel blocker as positive control. We observed that treatment with antifertility agents Dutasteride and Nifedipine induced significant decreases in the caput and cauda epididymal sperm counts, motility and fertility which could partly be attributed to alteration in the normal morphology of the sperm associated with downregulation/upregulation of CatSper mRNAs in epididymis and epididymal spermatozoa of male BALB/c mice. These can be explained on the basis of interference with mechanisms affecting calcium ion signaling resulting in changes in intracellular calcium required for sperm activity, finally affecting sperm maturation and fertility of male BALB/c mice. These studies provide some novel avenues for developing new male contraceptives in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archana Srivastav
- Division of EndocrinologyCentral Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | | | - Kunal Sharan
- Division of EndocrinologyCentral Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Geet Kumar Nagar
- Division of EndocrinologyCentral Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Falgun W Bansode
- Division of EndocrinologyCentral Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
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15
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Relative abundance of heat shock proteins and clusterin transcripts in spermatozoa collected from boar routinely utilised in an artificial insemination centre: preliminary results. Vet Res Commun 2017; 41:233-239. [PMID: 28429153 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-017-9689-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
It is widely accepted that mature sperm contains RNA. The first hypothesis was that sperm RNAs have no functions of their own but are simply residues of spermatogenesis reflecting the events that occurred during their formation in the testes. More recently new discoveries have essentially expanded these views, showing that sperm mRNAs constitute a population of stable full-length transcripts, many of which are selectively retained during spermatogenesis and delivered to oocytes contributing to early embryo development. It is well known that semen quality can be influenced by occasional physical stress, infection, and variation in temperature and the definition of new markers for evaluation of semen could offer knowledge about the fertility potential of a semen sample. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the presence and the relative quantity of transcripts and protein of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), 90 (HSP90) and clusterin (CLU) in Percoll-selected spermatozoa collected from seven adult boars of proven fertility routinely employed for artificial insemination. Our results showed the presence of HSP70, HSP90 and CLU transcripts with different level of expression: high for HSPs and low for CLU transcripts. The transcript level of both HSPs are similar among selected spermatozoa derived from high quality sperm with the exception of one boar that showed a reduced content of HSP70 and HSP90 mRNA together with a lower semen quality. At protein level, both HSPs were detected with similar amount among all seven boars whilst no band was evidenced for CLU protein.
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16
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El Fekih S, Nguyen MH, Perrin A, Beauvillard D, Morel F, Saad A, Ben Ali H, De Braekeleer M. Sperm RNA preparation for transcriptomic analysis: Review of the techniques and personal experience. Andrologia 2017; 49. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- S. El Fekih
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé; Université de Brest; Brest France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1078; Brest France
- Laboratoire de Cytogénétique, Génétique Moléculaire et Biologie de la Reproduction Humaines; CHU Farhat Hached Sousse; Université de Monastir; Monastir Tunisia
| | - M.-H. Nguyen
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé; Université de Brest; Brest France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1078; Brest France
| | - A. Perrin
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé; Université de Brest; Brest France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1078; Brest France
- Service de Cytogénétique et Biologie de la Reproduction; Hôpital Morvan; CHRU Brest; Brest France
| | - D. Beauvillard
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé; Université de Brest; Brest France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1078; Brest France
- Service de Cytogénétique et Biologie de la Reproduction; Hôpital Morvan; CHRU Brest; Brest France
| | - F. Morel
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé; Université de Brest; Brest France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1078; Brest France
- Service de Cytogénétique et Biologie de la Reproduction; Hôpital Morvan; CHRU Brest; Brest France
| | - A. Saad
- Laboratoire de Cytogénétique, Génétique Moléculaire et Biologie de la Reproduction Humaines; CHU Farhat Hached Sousse; Université de Monastir; Monastir Tunisia
| | - H. Ben Ali
- Laboratoire de Cytogénétique, Génétique Moléculaire et Biologie de la Reproduction Humaines; CHU Farhat Hached Sousse; Université de Monastir; Monastir Tunisia
| | - M. De Braekeleer
- Faculté de Médecine et des Sciences de la Santé; Université de Brest; Brest France
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), U1078; Brest France
- Service de Cytogénétique et Biologie de la Reproduction; Hôpital Morvan; CHRU Brest; Brest France
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17
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New insights about the evaluation of human sperm quality: the aromatase example. Folia Histochem Cytobiol 2016; 47:S13-7. [PMID: 20067884 DOI: 10.2478/v10042-009-0059-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Male contribution to the couple's infertility is at first evaluated by the routine examination of semen parameters upon optical microscopy providing valuable information for a rational initial diagnosis and for a clinical management of infertility. But the different forms of infertility defined according to the WHO criteria especially teratozoospermia are not always related to the chromatin structure or to the fertilization capacity. New investigations at the molecular level (transcript and protein) could be developed in order to understand the nature of sperm malformation responsible of human infertility and thus to evaluate the sperm quality. The profile analysis of spermatozoal transcripts could be considered as a fingerprint of the past spermatogenic events. The selection of representative transcripts of normal spermatozoa remains complex because a differential expression (increased, decreased or not modified levels) of specific transcripts has been revealed between immotile and motile sperm fractions issued from normozoospermic donors. Microarrays tests or real-time quantitative PCR could be helpful for the identification of factors involved in the male infertility. Differences in the expression of specific transcripts have been reported between normal and abnormal semen samples. With the aromatase example, we have noted a negative strong correlation between the amount of transcript and the percentage of abnormal forms especially in presence of head defects. Immunocytochemical procedures using fluorescent probes associated with either confocal microscopy or flow cytometry can be also helpful to proceed with further investigations about the localization of proteins in the compartmentalized spermatozoa or the acrosome reaction. The dual location of aromatase both in the equatorial segment, the mid-piece and the tail could explain the double role of this enzyme in acrosome reaction and motility.
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18
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Fagerlind M, Stålhammar H, Olsson B, Klinga-Levan K. Expression of miRNAs in Bull Spermatozoa Correlates with Fertility Rates. Reprod Domest Anim 2015; 50:587-94. [PMID: 25998690 DOI: 10.1111/rda.12531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 04/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Bull spermatozoa are rich in active miRNAs, and it has been shown that specific spermborne miRNAs can be linked to fertility. Thus, expression profiling of spermatozoa could be helpful for understanding male fertility and the ability of spermatozoa to initiate and sustain zygotic, embryonic and foetal development. Herein we hypothesized that bulls with moderate to high fertility can be identified by differences in amounts of certain miRNAs between their ejaculates. RNA samples from spermatozoa of eight brother pairs (one bull with high and one with moderate NRR in each pair) of the Holstein breed were prepared. miRNA was isolated, and the expression of 178 miRNAs was determined by RT-qPCR. Important findings were that highly expressed miRNAs, not linked to NRR status, were identified in the bull sperm samples, which indicate that these miRNAs have an important role in early embryogenesis. A large fraction of the targets genes were phosphoproteins and genes involved in the regulation of transcription. Seven miRNAs (mir-502-5p, mir-1249, mir-320a, mir-34c-3p, mir-19b-3p, mir-27a-5p and mir-148b-3p) were differentially expressed between bulls with moderate and high NRR with a strong tendency towards a higher expression of miRNAs in bulls with moderate fertility. Thus, bulls with a moderate NRR negatively regulate the expression of protein-coding genes, which leads to problems during the pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Fagerlind
- Systems Biology Research Centre - Infection Biology, School of Bioscience, University of Skövde, Skövde, Sweden
| | | | - B Olsson
- Systems Biology Research Centre - Bioinformatics, School of Bioscience, University of Skövde, Skövde, Sweden
| | - K Klinga-Levan
- Systems Biology Research Centre - Tumor Biology, School of Bioscience, University of Skövde, Skövde, Sweden
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19
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Xu QQ, Yang DQ, Tuo R, Wan J, Chang MX, Nie P. Gene cloning and induced expression pattern of IRF4 and IRF10 in the Asian swamp eel (Monopterus albus). DONG WU XUE YAN JIU = ZOOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2015; 35:380-8. [PMID: 25297077 DOI: 10.13918/j.issn.2095-8137.2014.5.380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
The Asian swamp eel (Monopterus albus) is one of the most economically important freshwater fish in East Asia, but data on the immune genes of M. albus are scarce compared to other commercially important fish. A better understanding of the eel's immune responses may help in developing strategies for disease management, potentially improving yields and mitigating losses. In mammals, interferon regulatory factors (IRFs) play a vital role in both the innate and adaptive immune system; though among teleosts IRF4 and IRF10 have seldom been studied. In this study, we characterized IRF4 and IRF10 from M. albus (maIRF4 and maIRF10) and found that maIRF4 cDNA consists of 1 716 nucleotides encoding a 451 amino acid (aa) protein, while maIRF10 consists of 1 744 nucleotides including an open reading frame (ORF) of 1 236 nt encoding 411 aa. The maIRF10 gene was constitutively expressed at high levels in a variety of tissues, while maIRF4 showed a very limited expression pattern. Expression of maIRF4 and maIRF10 in head kidney, and spleen tissues was significantly up-regulated from 12 h to 48 h post-stimulation with polyinosinic: polycytidylic acid (poly I:C), lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and a common pathogenic bacteria Aeromonas hydrophila. These results suggest that IRF4 and IRF10 play roles in immune responses to both viral and bacterial infections in M. albus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao-Qing Xu
- School of Animal Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434020, China; State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China; Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Freshwater Aquaculture, Wuhan 430070, China.
| | - Dai-Qin Yang
- School of Animal Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434020, China; Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Freshwater Aquaculture, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Rui Tuo
- School of Animal Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434020, China
| | - Jing Wan
- School of Animal Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou 434020, China
| | - Ming-Xian Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Pin Nie
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
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20
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Tscherner A, Gilchrist G, Smith N, Blondin P, Gillis D, LaMarre J. MicroRNA-34 family expression in bovine gametes and preimplantation embryos. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2014; 12:85. [PMID: 25179211 PMCID: PMC4162940 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-12-85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2014] [Accepted: 08/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oocyte fertilization and successful embryo implantation are key events marking the onset of pregnancy. In sexually reproducing organisms, embryogenesis begins with the fusion of two haploid gametes, each of which has undergone progressive stages of maturation. In the final stages of oocyte maturation, minimal transcriptional activity is present and regulation of gene expression occurs primarily at the post-transcriptional level. MicroRNAs (miRNA) are potent effectors of post-transcriptional gene silencing and recent evidence demonstrates that the miR-34 family of miRNA are involved in both spermatogenesis and early events of embryogenesis. METHODS The profile of miR-34 miRNAs has not been characterized in gametes or embryos of Bos taurus. We therefore used quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) to examine this family of miRNAs: miR-34a, -34b and -34c as well as their precursors in bovine gametes and in vitro produced embryos. Oocytes were aspirated from antral follicles of bovine ovaries, and sperm cells were isolated from semen samples of 10 bulls with unknown fertility status. Immature and in vitro matured oocytes, as well as cleaved embryos, were collected in pools. Gametes, embryos and ovarian and testis tissues were purified for RNA. RESULTS All members of the miR-34 family are present in bovine spermatozoa, while only miR-34a and -34c are present in oocytes and cleaved (2-cell) embryos. Mir-34c demonstrates variation among different bulls and is consistently expressed throughout oocyte maturation and in the embryo. The primary transcript of the miR-34b/c bicistron is abundant in the testes and present in ovarian tissue but undetectable in oocytes and in mature spermatozoa. CONCLUSIONS The combination of these findings suggest that miR-34 miRNAs may be required in developing bovine gametes of both sexes, as well as in embryos, and that primary miR-34b/c processing takes place before the completion of gametogenesis. Individual variation in sperm miR-34 family abundance may offer potential as a biomarker of male bovine fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Tscherner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Canada
| | - Graham Gilchrist
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Canada
| | - Natasha Smith
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Canada
| | - Patrick Blondin
- L’Alliance Boviteq, 19320 Rang Grand St François Ouest, Saint-Hyacinthe, Canada
| | - Daniel Gillis
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Physical and Engineering Science, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Canada
| | - Jonathan LaMarre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Canada
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21
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Guo L, Volle DJ, Lewis RE. Identification of a truncated kinase suppressor of Ras 2 mRNA in sperm. FEBS Open Bio 2014; 4:420-5. [PMID: 24918056 PMCID: PMC4050188 DOI: 10.1016/j.fob.2014.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2013] [Revised: 03/31/2014] [Accepted: 04/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
A truncated kinase suppressor of Ras 2 (T-KSR2) mRNA was identified. T-KSR2 is expressed exclusively in mouse testes and sperm. Analysis of T-KSR2 may enhance understanding of spermatogenesis and fertility.
The kinase suppressor of Ras 2 (KSR2) is a scaffold protein for the extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) signaling pathway. KSR2 mediates germline mpk-1 (Caenorhabditis elegans ERK) phosphorylation in C. elegans and has been implicated the regulation of meiosis. KSR2−/− mice exhibit metabolic abnormalities and are reproductively impaired. The role of KSR2 in meiosis and fertility in mice has yet to be elucidated. Here, we describe a novel truncated KSR2 mRNA identified in mouse testes (T-KSR2). Further analysis demonstrates T-KSR2 is specific to mouse testes and mature sperm cells. The detection of T-KSR2 may enhance our understanding of mechanisms controlling spermatogenesis and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Guo
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Deanna J Volle
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Robert E Lewis
- Eppley Institute for Research in Cancer and Allied Diseases, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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Valcarce D, Cartón-García F, Herráez M, Robles V. Effect of cryopreservation on human sperm messenger RNAs crucial for fertilization and early embryo development. Cryobiology 2013; 67:84-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2013.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2013] [Revised: 05/03/2013] [Accepted: 05/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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23
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Garrido N, García-Herrero S, Meseguer M. Assessment of sperm using mRNA microarray technology. Fertil Steril 2013; 99:1008-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2012] [Revised: 02/07/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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24
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Card CJ, Anderson EJ, Zamberlan S, Krieger KE, Kaproth M, Sartini BL. Cryopreserved Bovine Spermatozoal Transcript Profile as Revealed by High-Throughput Ribonucleic Acid Sequencing1. Biol Reprod 2013; 88:49. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.112.103788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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25
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Kumar M, Kumar K, Jain S, Hassan T, Dada R. Novel insights into the genetic and epigenetic paternal contribution to the human embryo. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2013; 68 Suppl 1:5-14. [PMID: 23503950 PMCID: PMC3583177 DOI: 10.6061/clinics/2013(sup01)02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2012] [Accepted: 08/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The integrity of the sperm genome and epigenome are critical for normal embryonic development. The advent of assisted reproductive technology has led to an increased understanding of the role of sperm in fertilization and embryogenesis. During fertilization, the sperm transmits not only nuclear DNA to the oocyte but also activation factor, centrosomes, and a host of messenger RNA and microRNAs. This complex complement of microRNAs and other non-coding RNAs is believed to modify important post-fertilization events. Thus, the health of the sperm genome and epigenome is critical for improving assisted conception rates and the birth of healthy offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Kumar
- Laboratory for Molecular Reproduction and Genetics, Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, India
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Kasimanickam V, Kasimanickam R, Arangasamy A, Saberivand A, Stevenson J, Kastelic J. Association between mRNA abundance of functional sperm function proteins and fertility of Holstein bulls. Theriogenology 2012; 78:2007-2019.e2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2012] [Revised: 07/06/2012] [Accepted: 07/15/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Li C, Zhou X. Gene transcripts in spermatozoa: markers of male infertility. Clin Chim Acta 2012; 413:1035-8. [PMID: 22445828 DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2012.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2011] [Revised: 03/05/2012] [Accepted: 03/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The presence of a complex population of gene transcripts in mature human sperm is well established, and numerous mRNAs and non-coding mRNAs have been identified in sperm of men and other mammalian species using microarray and RT-PCR. The traditional concept that RNAs in mature sperm are only remnants from spermatogenesis and have no biological functions is in doubt. The findings that reverse transcriptases in sperm are active and that sperm can independently activate translation of stored mRNAs suggest that sperm RNAs may have significant effects on male fertility. The differences in expression profiles among RNAs in mature sperm from fertile and infertile men, and the regulation of sperm RNAs in embryonic development make them appealing markers for therapeutic and diagnostic tools in male infertility. In this review, methods for the detection and description of the diversity of gene transcript in sperm are discussed along with their putative roles in functional aspects of sperm and in embryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunjin Li
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin Province, PR China
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide a focused review of the scientific literature pertaining to spermatozoal RNA. DESIGN Review of the literature and appraisal of relevant articles. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) Infertile male. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Spermatozoal RNAs as potential epigenetic modifiers in early embryo development and as clinical markers of male infertility. RESULT(S) The nucleus of mature spermatozoa contains a complex population of mRNAs and miRNAs despite its transcriptionally inert state. CONCLUSION(S) A specific set of functional RNAs are delivered into oocytes during fertilization and are thought to contribute extragenomically to early embryonic development. Even if spermatozoal RNAs is merely residual, it still has the potential to greatly improve the investigative and diagnostic potential of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshio Hamatani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
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Anton E, Krawetz SA. Spermatozoa as biomarkers for the assessment of human male infertility and genotoxicity. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2012; 58:41-50. [DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2011.637152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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30
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Njambere EN, Clarke BB, Zhang N. Dimeric oligonucleotide probes enhance diagnostic macroarray performance. J Microbiol Methods 2011; 86:52-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2011.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2011] [Revised: 03/26/2011] [Accepted: 03/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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31
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Abavisani A, Baghbanzadeh A, Shayan P, Dehghani H. Leptin mRNA in bovine spermatozoa. Res Vet Sci 2011; 90:439-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2010.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2009] [Revised: 07/15/2010] [Accepted: 07/19/2010] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Cappallo-Obermann H, Schulze W, Jastrow H, Baukloh V, Spiess AN. Highly purified spermatozoal RNA obtained by a novel method indicates an unusual 28S/18S rRNA ratio and suggests impaired ribosome assembly. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 17:669-78. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gar037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
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Steger K, Cavalcanti MCO, Schuppe HC. Prognostic markers for competent human spermatozoa: fertilizing capacity and contribution to the embryo. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010; 34:513-27. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.2010.01129.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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34
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Transcriptome analysis of bull spermatozoa: implications for male fertility. Reprod Biomed Online 2010; 21:312-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2010.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2009] [Revised: 02/12/2010] [Accepted: 06/09/2010] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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35
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Carreau S, Wolczynski S, Galeraud-Denis I. Aromatase, oestrogens and human male reproduction. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2010; 365:1571-9. [PMID: 20403870 PMCID: PMC2871913 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2009.0113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In most mammalian species aromatase is encoded by a single gene (Cyp19), which contains 18 exons, nine of them being translated. In man, the presence of a biologically active aromatase and oestrogen receptors (ERalpha and ERbeta) has been reported in Leydig cells, and also in immature germ cells and ejaculated spermatozoa. Concerning aromatase, the amount of transcript and enzymatic activity are decreased in immotile compared with motile sperm. We have amplified aromatase mRNA by real-time polymerase chain reaction in spermatozoa from asthenospermic, teratospermic and asthenoteratospermic men and recorded, respectively, 44, 52 and 67 per cent decreases of the amount of transcripts compared with fertile donors. A high degree of correlation (r = -0.64) between the abnormal spermatozoa (especially microcephaly and acrosome malformations) and aromatase/GAPDH transcript ratio has been observed. Idiopathic infertility is a wide health problem and no treatment is currently available. In humans, even if the role of oestrogens in spermatogenesis is still a matter of debate, the observations of decreased sperm number and motility in men genetically deficient in aromatase, together with our data and those reported in the literature, may suggest a role for aromatase/oestrogens not only during the development and maintenance of spermatogenesis but also in the final maturation of spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge Carreau
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Caen, EA 2608, IFR 146, Caen, France.
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36
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Qi CF, Li Z, Raffeld M, Wang H, Kovalchuk AL, Morse HC. Differential expression of IRF8 in subsets of macrophages and dendritic cells and effects of IRF8 deficiency on splenic B cell and macrophage compartments. Immunol Res 2010; 45:62-74. [PMID: 18663414 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-008-8032-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
IRF8, a transcription factor restricted primarily to hematopoietic cells, is known to influence the differentiation and function of dendritic cells (DC), macrophages, granulocytes and B cells. In human tonsil, IRF8 is expressed at high levels by intrafollicular macrophages and DC, but at much lower levels by tingible body macrophages in germinal centers (GCs) and little, if at all, by follicular DC. Spleens of IRF8-deficient mice had reduced numbers of white pulp follicles and GCs that were irregular in shape. The frequency of follicular B cells was significantly reduced while the population of marginal zone (MZ) B cells was increased. In addition, MZ macrophages were reduced in number and abnormally distributed, while metallophilic macrophages were normal. These findings demonstrate differential requirements for IRF8 among distinct subsets of B cells, DC, and macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen-Feng Qi
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 5640 Fishers Lane, Twinbrook I, Room 1528, Rockville, MD 20852, USA.
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Abstract
The profound architectural changes that transform spermatids into spermatozoa result in a high degree of DNA packaging within the sperm head. However, the mature sperm chromatin that harbors imprinted genes exhibits a dual nucleoprotamine/nucleohistone structure with DNase-sensitive regions, which could be implicated in the establishment of efficient epigenetic information in the developing embryo. Despite its apparent transcriptionally inert state, the sperm nucleus contains diverse RNA populations, mRNAs, antisense and miRNAs, that have been transcribed throughout spermatogenesis. There is also an endogenous reverse transcriptase that may be activated under certain circumstances. It is now commonly accepted that sperm can deliver some RNAs to the ovocyte at fertilization. This review presents potential links between male-specific genomic imprinting, chromatin organization, and the presence of diverse RNA populations within the sperm nucleus and discusses the functional significance of these RNAs in the spermatozoon itself and in the early embryo following fertilization. Some recent data are provided, supporting the view that analyzing the profile of spermatozoal RNAs could be useful for assessment of male fertility.
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38
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Barroso G, Valdespin C, Vega E, Kershenovich R, Avila R, Avendaño C, Oehninger S. Developmental sperm contributions: fertilization and beyond. Fertil Steril 2009; 92:835-848. [PMID: 19631936 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.06.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2008] [Revised: 06/16/2009] [Accepted: 06/16/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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39
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Carreau S, Delalande C, Galeraud-Denis I. Mammalian sperm quality and aromatase expression. Microsc Res Tech 2009; 72:552-7. [DOI: 10.1002/jemt.20703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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40
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Carreau S, Galeraud-Denis I. Transcripts of Aromatase and Estrogen Receptors and Significance of Other RNAs in Human Spermatozoa. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 53:249-55. [DOI: 10.1080/01485010701569908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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41
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Lalancette C, Platts AE, Johnson GD, Emery BR, Carrell DT, Krawetz SA. Identification of human sperm transcripts as candidate markers of male fertility. J Mol Med (Berl) 2009; 87:735-48. [DOI: 10.1007/s00109-009-0485-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2009] [Revised: 04/18/2009] [Accepted: 05/08/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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42
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Bissonnette N, Lévesque-Sergerie JP, Thibault C, Boissonneault G. Spermatozoal transcriptome profiling for bull sperm motility: a potential tool to evaluate semen quality. Reproduction 2009; 138:65-80. [PMID: 19423662 DOI: 10.1530/rep-08-0503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Regarding bull fertility, establishing an association between in vitro findings and field fertility requires a multi-parametric approach that measures the integrity of various structures and dynamic functions, such as motion characteristics, among others. The heterogeneous RNA pattern of spermatozoa could be used in genomic analysis for evaluating both spermatogenesis and fertility potential of semen, mainly because of the static status of the transcriptome of this particular differentiated cell. In a previous study, we determined that some spermatozoal transcripts identified by PCR-based cDNA subtraction are associated with non-return rate, a field fertility index. In the present study, the microarray technology was used in conjunction with differential RNA transcript extraction. We have shown that among these genes, some transcripts are also associated with the motility status of a population of sperm cells fractionated from the same ejaculate. We highlighted a systematic data analysis and validation scheme important for the identification of significant transcripts in this context. With such an approach, we found that transcripts encoding a serine/threonine testis-specific protein kinase (TSSK6) and a metalloproteinase non coding RNA (ADAM5P) are associated with high-motility status (P<0.001), also confirmed by quantitative PCR (P=0.0075). This association was found only when transcripts were extracted using the hot-TRIzol protocol, whereas the cold-TRIzol RNA extract comprised mitochondrial transcripts. These results demonstrate that some transcripts previously identified in association with field fertility are also found associated with in vitro motility provided that a stringent RNA extraction protocol is used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Bissonnette
- Dairy and Swine Research and Development Center, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 2000 College Road, Sherbrooke, Quebec J1M 1Z3, Canada.
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43
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Niu Y, Liang S. Progress in gene transfer by germ cells in mammals. J Genet Genomics 2009; 35:701-14. [PMID: 19103425 DOI: 10.1016/s1673-8527(08)60225-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2008] [Revised: 10/21/2008] [Accepted: 10/30/2008] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Use of germ cells as vectors for transgenesis in mammals has been well developed and offers exciting prospects for experimental and applied biology, agricultural and medical sciences. Such approach is referred to as either male germ cell mediated gene transfer (MGCMGT) or female germ cell mediated gene transfer (FGCMGT) technique. Sperm-mediated gene transfer (SMGT), including its alternative method, testis-mediated gene transfer (TMGT), becomes an established and reliable method for transgenesis. They have been extensively used for producing transgenic animals. The newly developed approach of FGCMGT, ovary-mediated gene transfer (OMGT) is also a novel and useful tool for efficient transgenesis. This review highlights an overview of the recent progress in germ cell mediated gene transfer techniques, methods developed and mechanisms of nucleic acid uptake by germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidong Niu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Peking University People's Hospital, Beijing 100044, China.
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44
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Dougherty DC, Park HM, Sanders MM. Interferon regulatory factors (IRFs) repress transcription of the chicken ovalbumin gene. Gene 2009; 439:63-70. [PMID: 19341784 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2009.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2008] [Revised: 03/14/2009] [Accepted: 03/18/2009] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Although the ovalbumin (Ov) gene has served as a model to study tissue-specific, steroid hormone-induced gene expression in vertebrates for decades, the mechanisms responsible for regulating this gene remain elusive. Ov is repressed in non-oviduct tissue and in estrogen-deprived oviduct by a strong repressor site located from -130 to -100 and designated CAR for COUP-TF adjacent repressor. The goal of this study was to identify the CAR binding protein(s). A transcription factor database search revealed that a putative interferon-stimulated response element (ISRE), which binds interferon regulatory factors (IRFs), is located in this region. Gel mobility shift assays demonstrated that the protein(s) binding to the CAR site is recognized by an IRF antibody and that mutations in the ISRE abolish that binding. In hopes of identifying the IRF(s) responsible for the tissue-specific regulation of Ov, mRNA levels for IRFs-4, -8, and -10 were measured in seven tissues from chicks treated with or without estrogen. PCR experiments showed that both IRF-8 and -10 are expressed in all chick tissues tested whereas IRF-4 has a much more limited expression pattern. Transfection experiments with OvCAT (chloramphenicol acetyltransferase) reporter constructs demonstrated that both IRF-4 and IRF-10 are capable of repressing the Ov gene even in the presence of steroid hormones and that nucleotides in the ISRE are required for repression. These experiments indicate that the repressor activity associated with the CAR site is mediated by IRF family members and suggest that IRF members also repress Ov in non-oviduct tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawne C Dougherty
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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45
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Avendaño C, Franchi A, Jones E, Oehninger S. Pregnancy-specific {beta}-1-glycoprotein 1 and human leukocyte antigen-E mRNA in human sperm: differential expression in fertile and infertile men and evidence of a possible functional role during early development. Hum Reprod 2009; 24:270-7. [PMID: 18987160 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/den381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mature spermatozoa contain thousands of mRNA transcripts. It has been recently shown that human sperm can deliver RNA into the oocyte, suggesting that mRNAs might have a role before or after fertilization. Human embryos express PSG1 (pregnancy-specific beta-1-glycoprotein 1) and HLA-E (human leukocyte antigen-E), molecules playing a role in implantation and early development. We compared PSG1 and HLA-E sperm mRNA levels in fertile and infertile men and we tested the hypothesis that these transcripts are selectively retained in the newly formed zygote. METHODS Real-time RT-PCR was used to analyze sperm mRNA levels (n = 11 fertile, n = 31 infertile patients) of PSG1, HLA-E and PRM2 (protamine 2). The presence of PSG1 and HLA-E proteins was evaluated by western blot in sperm protein extracts (n = 3). Using ICSI of human sperm into hamster oocytes we evaluated the permanence of these mRNAs at different time points (n = 10 for each time) after fertilization. RESULTS PSG1, HLA-E and PRM2 transcripts were demonstrated in ejaculated sperm. The fertile group showed significantly higher levels of PSG1 and HLA-E mRNA (both P < 0.05) than the infertile group, whereas PRM2 levels were not significantly different. However, PSG1 and HLA-E proteins were not found in ejaculated sperm. Following ICSI, PRM2 was undetectable after fertilization; conversely, PSG1 and HLA-E transcripts remained detectable for at least 24 h of zygotic development. CONCLUSIONS We provide new evidence that indicates that human sperm deliver transcripts that may have a role in early embryo development and decreased levels of these transcripts may be associated with infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Conrado Avendaño
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, 601 Colley Avenue, Norfolk, Virginia 23507, USA
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46
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Shen XY, Cui JZ, Gong QL, Liu YJ, Nagahama Y. Transcript expression profiles of Takifugu rubripes spermatozoa and eggs by expressed sequence tag analysis. FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2008; 34:235-243. [PMID: 18665461 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-007-9182-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2007] [Accepted: 08/13/2007] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Two cDNA libraries from Takifugu rubripes spermatozoa and eggs were constructed and a total of 620 expressed sequence tag (EST) clones were generated from the two libraries: 300 clones are from the spermatozoa library and 320 clones are from the eggs library. The most abundant cDNA clones in the two libraries were identified. A total of 207 'contigs' (or single) EST clones were found to share significant sequence identity with known sequences in the GenBank database, representing at least 51 different genes. In order to understand the two types of germ cells further, the expression profiles of the identified clones in these cDNA libraries were analyzed. Furthermore, the presence of specific messenger RNAs in the spermatozoa and eggs has been demonstrated with BLAST analysis; the spermatozoa and egg library can supply unique and novel cDNA sequences in the Takifugu rubripes EST project. Another aim of this study is to identify cDNA clones that can be used as molecular markers for the analysis of the spermatogenesis and oogenesis in Takifugu rubripes. Six potential clones (S1-3 from spermatozoa and E1-3 from eggs) were selected to analyze their expression patterns by reverse transcription (RT)-PCR analyses. Half of these showed a specific expression in the expected tissue. Two of the clones were found by RT-PCR and in situ hybridization to be expressed specifically in the testis or ovary, and they maybe suitable molecular markers for the analysis of spermatogenesis and oogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-Yan Shen
- Division of Life Science and Technology, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, PR China
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47
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Lalancette C, Miller D, Li Y, Krawetz SA. Paternal contributions: new functional insights for spermatozoal RNA. J Cell Biochem 2008; 104:1570-9. [PMID: 18393352 PMCID: PMC5358668 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.21756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Whereas the presence of RNA in mature ejaculate spermatozoa is now established, its functional significance, if any, is still a matter of debate. This reflects the accepted description that spermatozoa are highly differentiated, specialized cells of minimal cytoplasm and compacted nucleus that are transcriptionally inactive. A significant proportion of the RNA required for the later, haploid stages of terminal spermatogenic differentiation (spermiogenesis) is synthesized prior to transcriptional arrest then stably stored until its translation during spermiogenesis. Spermatozoal RNAs, including messenger RNAs (mRNAs) are therefore considered to be stored remnants. Any role in fertilization and early development has, until recently, seemed unlikely, since the oocyte contains large stores of maternal mRNAs known to be required for early embryonic development prior to zygotic genome activation. Although the spermatozoon can deliver its RNA to the oocyte at fertilization, it has been generally assumed that compared to the oocyte RNA reserve, the spermatozoan payload is too small to be functional in embryo development. However, the debate continues as recent studies suggest that in specific instances sperm RNA is functional. This review presents and discusses the functional significance of spermatozoal RNA in relation to some recent advances in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Lalancette
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine
| | - David Miller
- Leeds Institute of Genetics and Therapeutics, University of Leeds
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine
| | - Stephen A. Krawetz
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine
- Institute for Scientific Computing, Wayne State University
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48
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Sithanandam G, Anderson LM. The ERBB3 receptor in cancer and cancer gene therapy. Cancer Gene Ther 2008; 15:413-48. [PMID: 18404164 DOI: 10.1038/cgt.2008.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
ERBB3, a member of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) family, is unique in that its tyrosine kinase domain is functionally defective. It is activated by neuregulins, by other ERBB and nonERBB receptors as well as by other kinases, and by novel mechanisms. Downstream it interacts prominently with the phosphoinositol 3-kinase/AKT survival/mitogenic pathway, but also with GRB, SHC, SRC, ABL, rasGAP, SYK and the transcription regulator EBP1. There are likely important but poorly understood roles for nuclear localization and for secreted isoforms. Studies of ERBB3 expression in primary cancers and of its mechanistic contributions in cultured cells have implicated it, with varying degrees of certainty, with causation or sustenance of cancers of the breast, ovary, prostate, certain brain cells, retina, melanocytes, colon, pancreas, stomach, oral cavity and lung. Recent results link high ERBB3 activity with escape from therapy targeting other ERBBs in lung and breast cancers. Thus a wide and centrally important role for ERBB3 in cancer is becoming increasingly apparent. Several approaches for targeting ERBB3 in cancers have been tested or proposed. Small inhibitory RNA (siRNA) to ERBB3 or AKT is showing promise as a therapeutic approach to treatment of lung adenocarcinoma.
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49
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Lalancette C, Thibault C, Bachand I, Caron N, Bissonnette N. Transcriptome Analysis of Bull Semen with Extreme Nonreturn Rate: Use of Suppression-Subtractive Hybridization to Identify Functional Markers for Fertility1. Biol Reprod 2008; 78:618-35. [PMID: 18003951 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.106.059030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- C Lalancette
- Dairy and Swine Research and Development Center, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada J1M 1Z3
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50
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Galeraud-Denis I, Lambard S, Carreau S. Relationship between chromatin organization, mRNAs profile and human male gamete quality. Asian J Androl 2007; 9:587-92. [PMID: 17712475 DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7262.2007.00310.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermiogenesis is a complex process leading to the formation of motile spermatozoa characterized by a highly stable chromatin compaction that transfers the paternal genome into the oocyte. It is commonly held that these haploid cells are devoid of transcriptional and translational activities and that the transcripts represent remnants of stored mRNAs. Recently, the chromatin organization of mature spermatozoa has been revisited as a double nucleoprotamine-nucleohistone structure possessing less-condensed regions sensitive to nuclease activity, which could be implicated in the expression of genes involved in the early embryo development. The existence of a complex population of mRNAs in human sperm is well-documented, but their role is not yet elucidated. Evidence for a latent transcriptional capacity and/or a potential de novo translation in mature spermatozoa from fertile men are essential for understanding the last steps of sperm maturation, such as capacitation and acrosome reaction. As such, we have documented the relationship between sperm quality and the distribution of sperm RNAs by showing divergent levels of transcripts encoding for proteins involved in either nuclear condensation (protamines 1 and 2) or in capacitation (eNOS and nNOS, c-myc) or in motility and sperm survival (aromatase) between low and high motile sperm issued from the same sample. Therefore, analyzing the profile of mRNAs could be helpful either as a diagnostic tool for evaluating male fertility after spermatogenesis or for prognosis use for fertilization.
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