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Sánchez-Jasso DE, López-Guzmán SF, Bermúdez-Cruz RM, Oviedo N. Novel Aspects of cAMP-Response Element Modulator (CREM) Role in Spermatogenesis and Male Fertility. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12558. [PMID: 37628737 PMCID: PMC10454534 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is a very complex process with an intricate transcriptional regulation. The transition from the diploid to the haploid state requires the involvement of specialized genes in meiosis, among other specific functions for the formation of the spermatozoon. The transcription factor cAMP-response element modulator (CREM) is a key modulator that triggers the differentiation of the germ cell into the spermatozoon through the modification of gene expression. CREM has multiple repressor and activator isoforms whose expression is tissue-cell-type specific and tightly regulated by various factors at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional and post-translational level. The activator isoform CREMτ controls the expression of several relevant genes in post-meiotic stages of spermatogenesis. In addition, exposure to xenobiotics negatively affects CREMτ expression, which is linked to male infertility. On the other hand, antioxidants could have a positive effect on CREMτ expression and improve sperm parameters in idiopathically infertile men. Therefore, CREM expression could be used as a biomarker to detect and even counteract male infertility. This review examines the importance of CREM as a transcription factor for sperm production and its relevance in male fertility, infertility and the response to environmental xenobiotics that may affect CREMτ expression and the downstream regulation that alters male fertility. Also, some health disorders in which CREM expression is altered are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Eduardo Sánchez-Jasso
- Departamento de Genética y Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (D.E.S.-J.); (S.F.L.-G.); (R.M.B.-C.)
| | - Sergio Federico López-Guzmán
- Departamento de Genética y Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (D.E.S.-J.); (S.F.L.-G.); (R.M.B.-C.)
| | - Rosa Maria Bermúdez-Cruz
- Departamento de Genética y Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico City 07360, Mexico; (D.E.S.-J.); (S.F.L.-G.); (R.M.B.-C.)
| | - Norma Oviedo
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Immunología e Infectología, Centro Médico Nacional La Raza, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), Mexico City 02990, Mexico
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Markantoni M, Sarafidou T, Kyrgiafini MA, Chatziparasidou A, Christoforidis N, Dafopoulos K, Mamuris Z. Replicating a GWAS: two novel candidate markers for oligospermia in Greek population. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:4967-4972. [PMID: 34097203 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06470-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies have paved the way for the discovery of new markers regarding many diseases, including male infertility. A previous study on Caucasians highlighted 172 polymorphisms for their putative association with male infertility and we attempted to replicate these findings on our dataset comprising of Greek male individuals (n = 360). We retrieved 59 out of 172 polymorphisms and tested for all association models on 278 normospermic men and 82 patients with an abnormal seminogram, later separated into oligozoospermic and asthenozoospermic groups. Our findings indicate that two SNPs (rs2296225 in KIF17, rs7224496 in SMYD4) are associated with male infertility in the Greek population and have not been recorded in literature as of yet. These novel markers need further validation via additional studies and an increased individual number. All in all, replication studies, possess the power to validate existing polymorphisms found across all population and thus increase both statistical significance as well as identify novel potentially diagnostic markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Markantoni
- Laboratory of Genetics, Comparative and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Theologia Sarafidou
- Laboratory of Genetics, Comparative and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Maria-Anna Kyrgiafini
- Laboratory of Genetics, Comparative and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | | | | | - Konstantinos Dafopoulos
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, Department of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Zissis Mamuris
- Laboratory of Genetics, Comparative and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece.
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A Systematic Analysis of Dysregulated Long Non-Coding RNAs/microRNAs/mRNAs in Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Am J Med Sci 2020; 360:701-710. [PMID: 33012486 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjms.2020.08.025] [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: 11/15/2019] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) accounts up for approximately 30% of all lung cancers with a high mortality. The study was aimed at finding genes critical in the diagnosis and prognosis of LUSC. MATERIALS AND METHODS The differentially expressed (DE) genes (DEGs) and DE lncRNAs (DELs) from 501 LUSC and 49 normal lung tissues, and DE miRNAs (DEMs) from 478 LUSC and 45 normal lung tissues were respectively obtained via the TCGA database. Gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway, and co-expression network analyses were performed. Survival analysis and receiver operating characteristic curve of hub mRNAs were also analyzed. Competitive endogenous RNA networks of lncRNAs, miRNAs and mRNAs were constructed. RESULTS A total of 5747 DEGs, 378 DEMs and 3141 DELs in LUSC were identified in LUSC. The DEGs including AUARK, CDK1, KIF11 and EXO1 were proven to be significant metastatic indicators in LUSC, and 2 DEGs were significantly associated with the survival in LUSC patients. Some genes might have connections with many other gene nodes through a co-expression network. Four lncRNAs, 2 mRNAs and 2 miRNAs were identified as the candidates for the competitive miRNA-mRNA-lncRNA network and might serve as prognostic markers in LUSC. CONCLUSIONS We identified the differentially expressed lncRNAs, miRNAs and mRNAs in LUSC, providing further insights into the molecular mechanism of LUSC tumorigenesis and the potential prognostic biomarkers or therapeutic targets for LUSC.
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Wang X, Wen Y, Dong J, Cao C, Yuan S. Systematic In-Depth Proteomic Analysis of Mitochondria-Associated Endoplasmic Reticulum Membranes in Mouse and Human Testes. Proteomics 2018; 18:e1700478. [DOI: 10.1002/pmic.201700478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Revised: 04/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Wang
- Family Planning Research Institute; Center of Reproductive Medicine; Tongji Medical College; Huazhong University of Science and Technology; 430030 Wuhan P.R. China
| | - Yujiao Wen
- Family Planning Research Institute; Center of Reproductive Medicine; Tongji Medical College; Huazhong University of Science and Technology; 430030 Wuhan P.R. China
| | - Juan Dong
- Family Planning Research Institute; Center of Reproductive Medicine; Tongji Medical College; Huazhong University of Science and Technology; 430030 Wuhan P.R. China
| | - Congcong Cao
- Family Planning Research Institute; Center of Reproductive Medicine; Tongji Medical College; Huazhong University of Science and Technology; 430030 Wuhan P.R. China
| | - Shuiqiao Yuan
- Family Planning Research Institute; Center of Reproductive Medicine; Tongji Medical College; Huazhong University of Science and Technology; 430030 Wuhan P.R. China
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Grozdanov PN, Amatullah A, Graber JH, MacDonald CC. TauCstF-64 Mediates Correct mRNA Polyadenylation and Splicing of Activator and Repressor Isoforms of the Cyclic AMP-Responsive Element Modulator (CREM) in Mouse Testis. Biol Reprod 2015; 94:34. [PMID: 26700942 PMCID: PMC4787626 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.134684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is coordinated by the spatial and temporal expression of many transcriptional and posttranscriptional factors. The cyclic AMP-responsive element modulator (CREM) gene encodes both activator and repressor isoforms that act as transcription factors to regulate spermiogenesis. We found that the testis-expressed paralog of CstF-64, tauCstF-64 (gene symbol Cstf2t), is involved in a polyadenylation site choice switch of Crem mRNA and leads to an overall decrease of the Crem mRNAs that are generated from internal promoters in Cstf2t(-/-) mice. More surprisingly, loss of tauCstF-64 also leads to alternative splicing of Crem exon 4, which contains an important activation domain. Thus, testis-specific CREMtau2 isoform protein levels are reduced in Cstf2t(-/-) mice. Consequently, expression of 15 CREM-regulated genes is decreased in testes of Cstf2t(-/-) mice at 25 days postpartum. These effects might further contribute to the infertility phenotype of these animals. This demonstrates that tauCstF-64 is an important stage-specific regulator of Crem mRNA processing that modulates the spatial and temporal expression of downstream stage-specific genes necessary for the proper development of sperm in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petar N Grozdanov
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Atia Amatullah
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
| | - Joel H Graber
- Center for Genome Dynamics, The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor, Maine
| | - Clinton C MacDonald
- Department of Cell Biology and Biochemistry, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas
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He XJ, Song B, Du WD, Cao YX, Zhang Y, Ruan J, Tian H, Zhou FS, Zuo XB, Wu H, Zha X, Xie XS, Wei ZL, Zhou P. CREM variants rs4934540 and rs2295415 conferred susceptibility to nonobstructive azoospermia risk in the Chinese population. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:52. [PMID: 24943041 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.120527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
To evaluate the association of variants related to spermatogenesis with susceptibility to Chinese idiopathic nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA), seventeen tag single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in CREM, ACT, KIF17b, and SPAG8 were analyzed in 361 NOA patients and 368 controls by Sequenom iplex technology. The results showed that two CREM SNPs, rs4934540 and rs22954152, were significantly associated with NOA and played protective roles against the disease (P value with Bonferroni correction = 0.00017, odds ratio [OR] = 0.624 and P = 0.012, OR = 0.686, respectively). Haplotype analysis of CREM gene variants suggested that haplotype CGTG of the SNPs, rs4934540, rs2295415, rs11592356, and rs1148247, exhibited significant protective effect against the occurrence of NOA (P = 0.001, OR = 0.659). The haplotype TATG conferred a significantly increased risk of NOA (P = 0.011, OR = 1.317). Furthermore, making use of quantitative RT-PCR, we demonstrated that relative mRNA expression of CREM in NOA patients with maturation arrest was only one-third of that in the controls with normal spermatogenesis (P < 0.0001). Our findings indicated that the polymorphisms of CREM gene were associated with NOA in the Chinese population and low CREM expression might be involved in the pathogenesis of spermatogenesis maturation arrest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Jin He
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Bing Song
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Wei-Dong Du
- Department of Biology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China State Key Laboratory Incubation Base of Dermatology, Ministry of National Science and Technology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yun-Xia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Biology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jian Ruan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Yijishan Hospital of Wannan Medical University, China
| | - Hui Tian
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Fu-Sheng Zhou
- State Key Laboratory Incubation Base of Dermatology, Ministry of National Science and Technology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xian-Bo Zuo
- State Key Laboratory Incubation Base of Dermatology, Ministry of National Science and Technology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Huan Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Xing Zha
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Xu-Shi Xie
- Department of Biology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zhao-Lian Wei
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
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Functional Analysis of KIF3A and KIF3B during Spermiogenesis of Chinese Mitten Crab Eriocheir sinensis. PLoS One 2014; 9:e97645. [PMID: 24870586 PMCID: PMC4037190 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0097645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spermatogenesis represents the transformation process at the level of cellular development. KIF3A and KIF3B are believed to play some roles in the assembly and maintenance of flagella, intracellular transport of materials including organelles and proteins, and other unknown functions during this process. During spermatogenesis in Eriocheir sinensis, if the sperm shaping machinery is dependent on KIF3A and KIF3B remains unknown. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS The cDNA of KIF3A and KIF3B were obtained by designing degenerate primers, 3'RACE, and 5'RACE. We detected the genetic presence of kif3a and kif3b in the heart, muscle, liver, gill, and testis of E. sinensis through RT-PCR. By western blot analysis, the protein presence of KIF3A and KIF3B in heart, muscle, gill, and testis reflected the content in protein level. Using in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence, we could track the dynamic location of KIF3A and KIF3B during different developmental phases of sperm. KIF3A and KIF3B were found surrounding the nucleus in early spermatids. In intermediate spermatids, these proteins expressed at high levels around the nucleus and extended to the final phase. During the nuclear shaping period, KIF3A and KIF3B reached their maximum in the late spermatids and were located around the nucleus and concentrated in the acrosome to some extent. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Our results revealed that KIF3A and KIF3B were involved in the nuclear and cellular morphogenesis at the levels of mRNA and protein. These proteins can potentially facilitate the intracellular transport of organelles, proteins, and other cargoes. The results represent the functions of KIF3A and KIF3B in the spermatogenesis of Crustacea and clarify phylogenetic relationships among the Decapoda.
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Ogorevc J, Dovc P, Kunej T. Comparative Genomics Approach to Identify Candidate Genetic Loci for Male Fertility. Reprod Domest Anim 2011; 46:229-39. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2010.01648.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Carrell DT, Aston KI. The search for SNPs, CNVs, and epigenetic variants associated with the complex disease of male infertility. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2011; 57:17-26. [PMID: 21208142 DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2010.521615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Understanding the genetic basis of idiopathic male infertility has long been the focus of many researchers. Numerous recent studies have attempted to identify relevant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) through medical re-sequencing studies in which candidate genes are sequenced in large numbers of cases and controls in the search for risk or causative polymorphisms. Two major characteristics have limited the utility of the re-sequencing studies. First, reported SNPs have only accounted for a small percentage of idiopathic male infertility. Second, SNPs reported to have an association with male infertility based on gene re-sequencing studies often fail validation in follow-up studies. Recent advances in the tools available for genetic studies have enabled interrogation of the entire genome in search of common, and more recently, rare variants. In this review, we discuss the progress of studies on genetic and epigenetic variants of male infertility as well as future directions that we predict will be the most productive in identifying the genetic basis for male factor infertility based on our current state of knowledge in this field as well as lessons learned about the genetic basis for complex diseases from other disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas T Carrell
- Andrology and IVF Laboratories, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108, USA.
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Hwang K, Yatsenko AN, Jorgez CJ, Mukherjee S, Nalam RL, Matzuk MM, Lamb DJ. Mendelian genetics of male infertility. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2010; 1214:E1-E17. [PMID: 21382200 PMCID: PMC3654696 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2010.05917.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Infertility is defined as the inability of a couple to conceive despite trying for a year, and it affects approximately 15% of the reproductive-age population. It is considered a genetically lethal factor, as the family lineage stops at that individual with no progeny produced. A genetic defect associated with an infertile individual cannot be transmitted to the offspring, ensuring the maintenance of reproductive fitness of the species. However, with the advent of assisted reproductive techniques (ART), we are now able to overcome sterility and bypass nature's protective mechanisms that developed through evolution to prevent fertilization by defective or deficient sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Hwang
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Tamowski S, Aston KI, Carrell DT. The use of transgenic mouse models in the study of male infertility. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2010; 56:260-73. [PMID: 20536325 DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2010.485244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Over the past few decades with the rapid advances in embryo and embryonic stem cell manipulation techniques, transgenic mouse models have emerged as a powerful tool for the study of gene function and complex diseases including male infertility. In this review we give a brief history of the development of tools for the production of transgenic mouse models. This spans the advances from early pronuclear injection to the use of targeted embryonic stem cells to produce gene targeted, conditional, and inducible knockout mouse models. Lastly we provide a few examples to illustrate the utility of mouse models in the study of male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Tamowski
- Transgenic and Gene Targeting Mouse Core, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108, USA
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Aston KI, Krausz C, Laface I, Ruiz-Castané E, Carrell DT. Evaluation of 172 candidate polymorphisms for association with oligozoospermia or azoospermia in a large cohort of men of European descent. Hum Reprod 2010; 25:1383-97. [PMID: 20378615 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deq081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In spite of tremendous efforts by a number of groups, the search for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) strongly associated with male factor infertility by means of gene re-sequencing studies has yielded few likely candidates. A recent pilot, genome-wide SNP association study (GWAS) identified a list of SNPs associated with oligozoospermia and azoospermia. This is an expanded follow-up study of the SNPs identified by the GWAS as well as other SNPs from previously published gene re-sequencing studies. METHODS On the basis of the pilot GWAS and SNPs with published associations with male infertility, 172 SNPs were genotyped in men with idiopathic azoospermia or oligozoospermia using the Illumina BeadXpress platform. RESULTS Several SNPs were identified or confirmed to be significantly associated with oligozoospermia and/or azoospermia. More importantly, this follow-up study indicates that, at least in Caucasian men, no single common SNP accounts for a significant proportion of spermatogenic failure cases. CONCLUSIONS The associations reported in this study are promising, but much larger genome-wide studies will be necessary to confidently validate these SNPs and identify novel SNPs associated with male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth I Aston
- Andrology and IVF Laboratories, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Lardenois A, Chalmel F, Demougin P, Kotaja N, Sassone-Corsi P, Primig M. Fhl5/Act, a CREM-binding transcriptional activator required for normal sperm maturation and morphology, is not essential for testicular gene expression. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2009; 7:133. [PMID: 19930692 PMCID: PMC2788571 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-7-133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2009] [Accepted: 11/24/2009] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The LIM domain protein Fhl5 was previously found to interact with CREM, a DNA binding transcriptional regulator necessary for spermiogenesis in mammals. Co-transfection experiments using heterologous promoter constructs indicated a role for Fhl5 in transcriptional up-regulation of CREM-dependent testicular genes. Male mice lacking Fhl5 were reported to be fertile but displayed partially abnormal sperm maturation and morphology. METHODS To identify Fhl5 testicular target genes we carried out two whole-genome expression profiling experiments using high-density oligonucleotide microarrays and total testis samples from Fhl5 wild-type versus homozygous mutant mice first in different and then in isogenic strain backgrounds. RESULTS Weak signal differences were detected in non-isogenic samples but no statistically significant expression changes were observed when isogenic Fhl5 mutant and wild-type samples were compared. CONCLUSION The outcome of these experiments suggests that testicular expression profiling is extremely sensitive to the genetic background and that Fhl5 is not essential for testicular gene expression to a level detected by microarray-based measurements. This might be due to redundant function of the related and similarly expressed protein Fhl4.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Frédéric Chalmel
- Inserm, U625, Université Rennes 1, IFR140, Rennes, F-35042, France
| | | | - Noora Kotaja
- University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, FIN-20520 Turku, Finland
| | | | - Michael Primig
- Inserm, U625, Université Rennes 1, IFR140, Rennes, F-35042, France
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Tüttelmann F, Rajpert-De Meyts E, Nieschlag E, Simoni M. Gene polymorphisms and male infertility--a meta-analysis and literature review. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 15:643-58. [PMID: 18062861 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60531-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Many genetic polymorphisms have been studied extensively to elucidate their role in the pathophysiology of male infertility. This article presents a review of the literature following a thorough search of PubMed, a compilation of meta-analyses of studies reporting an association with male fertility where the population(s) could be clearly identified as fertile and/or infertile, and a summary of all polymorphisms that have been investigated in single case-control studies to date. The meta-analyses revealed significant associations between polymorphism and male fertility only for AZF gr/gr deletions (OR 1.81, 1.46-2.24 CI, P<0.00001) and MTHFR 677C-->T (OR 1.39, 1.15-2.69 95% CI, P=0.0006) but not for POLG, DAZL, USP26 or FSHR. The influence of CAG repeat length in AR remains open and debated. Genes encoding nuclear proteins (PRM1/2, TNP1/2) and ER1 are possible candidates for further examination, while the role of TAF7L remains unclear. Polymorphisms in 16 other genes have been investigated in single studies, but the results remain doubtful due to often small and heterogeneous cohorts and in the absence of independent replications. The genetic studies performed so far emphasize the complexity of male infertility as a presumably polygenetic trait amended by environmental, lifestyle or occupational factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Tüttelmann
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine of the University, Domagkstrasse 11, D-48129 Münster, Germany
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15
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Abstract
The etiopathogenesis of testicular failure remains unknown in about half of the cases and is referred to as "idiopathic infertility". "Idiopathic" testicular failure is of probable genetic origin since the number of genes involved in human spermatogenesis is likely thousands and only a small proportion of them have been identified and screened in infertile men. In parallel with studies aimed to identify mutations with a clear cause-effect relationship in spermatogenesis candidate genes, there is an increasing interest towards genetic susceptibility factors to male infertility. Despite many efforts, only a few clinically relevant polymorphisms have been identified. This is mainly related to the multifactorial nature of male infertility and to the inappropriate study design of the majority of the studies. The most promising polymorphisms are in genes involved in the endocrine regulation of spermatogenesis and on the Y chromosome, the "gr/gr" deletions. Polymorphisms are generally considered as co-factors. Their final effect on testis function and fertility is probably modulated by the genetic background of each individual and/or by the presence of certain environmental factors. In this review, recent findings concerning some of the most widely studied polymorphisms and male infertility will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csilla Krausz
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Physiopathology, Viale Pieraccini, 6 Firenze, Italy.
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Tanaka H, Hirose M, Tokuhiro K, Tainaka H, Miyagawa Y, Tsujimura A, Okuyama A, Nishimune Y. Molecular biological features of male germ cell differentiation. Reprod Med Biol 2007; 6:1-9. [PMID: 29699260 DOI: 10.1111/j.1447-0578.2007.00158.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Somatic cell differentiation is required throughout the life of a multicellular organism to maintain homeostasis. In contrast, germ cells have only one specific function; to preserve the species by conveying the parental genes to the next generation. Recent studies of the development and molecular biology of the male germ cell have identified many genes, or isoforms, that are specifically expressed in the male germ cell. In the present review, we consider the unique features of male germ cell differentiation. (Reprod Med Biol 2007; 6: 1-9).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mika Hirose
- TANAKA Project, Center for Advanced Science and Innovation
| | - Keizo Tokuhiro
- TANAKA Project, Center for Advanced Science and Innovation
| | | | - Yasushi Miyagawa
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine and
| | - Akira Tsujimura
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine and
| | - Akihiko Okuyama
- Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine and
| | - Yoshitake Nishimune
- Research Collaboration Center on Emerging and Re-emerging Infections, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
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Carrell DT, Emery BR, Hammoud S. Altered protamine expression and diminished spermatogenesis: what is the link? Hum Reprod Update 2007; 13:313-27. [PMID: 17208950 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dml057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 220] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
During the elongating spermatid stage of spermiogenesis, human sperm chromatin undergoes a complex transition in which histones are extensively replaced by protamines in a carefully regulated transition including histone modifications and intermediate and temporary replacement of the histones by sperm-specific transition proteins. The replacement of most histones by protamines 1 and 2 facilitates a high order of chromatin packaging necessary for normal sperm function and may also be necessary for DNA silencing and imprinting changes within the sperm cell. Protamines 1 and 2 are usually expressed in nearly equal quantities, but elevated or diminished protamine 1/protamine 2 ratios are observed in some infertile men and is often associated with severe spermatogenesis defects. Human and animal studies demonstrate that expression of the protamine proteins is uniquely regulated by transcription/translation factors, including storage of the mRNA in ribonucleoprotein (RNP) particles composed of the mRNA, transcription factors and a kinesin molecule necessary for transport of the RNP to the cytoplasm and removal of transcriptional activators from the nucleus. Recent studies indicate that most patients with abnormal protamine protein levels have elevated levels of protamine transcript in the mature sperm cell, indicating a possible defect in transcription or translation. The regulation of protamine expression is unique and includes several possible mechanisms which may be responsible for dysregulation of protamine expression and concurrent broad spectrum defects in spermatogenesis. We suggest two hypotheses: (i) that abnormal protamine expression is indicative of a generalized defect in mRNA storage and/or translation which affects other mRNA transcripts or (ii) that protamines may act as a checkpoint of spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas T Carrell
- Andrology and IVF Laboratories, Department of Surgery, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA.
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